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Thinking of a new build (sh.itjust.works)

submitted 6 months ago by [email protected] to c/buildapc

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Hello! I have chosen some parts for a PC based around a monitor I currently have. I have a 4k monitor and the games I'd like to play on it and the current PC I have isn't cutting it anymore unfortunately.

https://uk.pcpartpicker.com/list/3Vc2cH

These are the parts I've chosen, I already have 24GB of RAM, just wondering if there's anything cheaper I can get to lower the price and get similar performance. I don't have much experience in building PCs but I've done a bit of research

Currently would like to play Helldivers 2 and Baldur's Gate 3 on the 4k monitor with no issue.

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[–] [email protected] 8 points 6 months ago (2 children)

I already have 24GB of RAM...

24? Not 16 or 32? You have three sticks of 8GB?

I'm a little out of the loop on current gen stuff, but your RAM needs to be in identical pairs or quads (e.g. 2x8, 2x16, 4x8, etc.) to maximize throughput. With odd-numbered configurations, your RAM will run in single channel mode, meaning diminished performance. In identical pairs, it runs in dual channel mode, meaning better performance.

I would take out a stick or add one to your build, or buy a 2x16GB kit.

To save money, you could swap out the Samsung SSD for a Crucial P5, but wait until Christmas when those parts typically go on sale.

[–] [email protected] 3 points 6 months ago (1 children)

Just checked, turns out I have 2 4gb and 2 8gb in there. Think I just kept the extra 8gb after putting in the 16gb

[–] [email protected] 5 points 6 months ago* (last edited 6 months ago) (1 children)

Still a mismatch. You either want 2x8 or 4x8 (all running at identical speeds). I know it's tempting to use what you have to give yourself more RAM, but the "more is better" only holds true if all sticks are functionally identical. Your computer will run them in single channel mode and it will lower the speed of whichever kit is faster to match the slower one, so you are getting hit with a double performance drop.

Pick up a 2x8 kit of the same kind of RAM (same capacity, same timings), or get a faster kit to replace your current ones.

[–] pivot_root 2 points 6 months ago (1 children)

Crucial has 12 GB SO-DIMM sticks, apparently. Not that OP's motherboard uses that form factor or anything.

[–] [email protected] 3 points 6 months ago

I have a vague memory of someone on Reddit saying some time ago that they had 6GB sticks in theirs, but it's certainly nonstandard.

[–] Diplomjodler3 3 points 6 months ago (1 children)

The CPU seems like overkill. You could go with a 5800X and save about $100. And you could take a Radeon 7800XT which can be had for about $500. That should handle most stuff at 4k and would come out considerably cheaper.

[–] pivot_root 3 points 6 months ago (1 children)

AM4 is an EoL socket. If OP ever plans to* upgrade the processor, an AM5 CPU + motherboard is a better choice.

* Not "just in case," but will actually do it at some point before buying a whole new computer.

[–] Diplomjodler3 1 points 6 months ago

Good point.

[–] Varven 2 points 6 months ago

24? Go with 32 and get a CPU and GPU combo that is capable of 4k gaming such as a rtx 3080 and i7-9700k

[–] [email protected] 2 points 6 months ago* (last edited 6 months ago)

If you parameterize your selections, it will help you find parts that are currently the cheapest, like so: https://uk.pcpartpicker.com/list/4mhPpB

Remove the cooler if you stick with a CPU like the Ryzen 7700 which comes bundled with one (and you don't mind some noise). If you get a cooler anyway, then you might as well take the bump up to the 7800X3D.

Remove the AMD GPUs from the filter if you care about DLSS/RTX. AMD historically has better Linux compatibility though.

Case is subjective so swap however you fancy, as long as the front is mesh.

Take off the RAM if your existing kit is 6000+ (or you want to save some cash despite the small performance hit). 16GB+ is already enough for the vast majority of games, as long as you stick to a single pair of sticks for stability.

Edit: It just dawned on me that the existing 24GB you have is probably not DDR5, even though the build you posted requires it. You can't use old DDR4 on newer platforms, so plan on ditching it with the old board. Alternatively, you could skip the whole build and just get the best GPU that your power supply can handle, if your current CPU is not too old. You will get better suggestions if you can post your old specs first.