Well, it’s getting to that time where I should seriously consider upgrading my PC. It always feels like this comes around much faster each upgrade cycle despite the fact this rig has been going since 2017. In fact, this machine has just passed its actual fifth birthday the other day. So let’s hear your ideas!
Firstly, some info on the machine I’m currently running. While there are other bits and pieces involved, here are the three key components I’ve been using to run the latest and greatest games:
- CPU: AMD Ryzen 7 1700X Eight-Core Processor 3.40 GHz
- GPU: GTX 1080 Ti 11GB
- RAM: 32GB (4x 8GB) DDR4 3200MHz
The old 1080 Ti has done me so well. I almost feel bad having to upgrade it, as it still chugs along, pumping out decent frames even at 1440p. Even the Ryzen 7 has done an admirable job keeping me going. Now, I’m not sure what the thought is with RAM these days. I used to be under the impression that spreading it across as many channels as possible is a good idea, as is evident by the 4 sticks.
Going back over the parts I ordered five years ago, it looks like my PC is being powered by a 650W 80+ Gold PSU by Corsair. No doubt I’ll be aiming for something a bit greater.
I basically only need to upgrade six key components, with everything else remaining the same. Here’s what I’m looking at right now:
- CPU: Intel Core i7 12700K 12 Core LGA 1700 CPU Processor
- PSU: SilverStone 1000W Strider 80+ Platinum Power Supply (ST1000-PTS)
- GPU: Gigabyte GeForce RTX 3080 Vision OC 10G LHR Graphics Card Rev 2.0
- MOBO: Asus Prime Z690-P-CSM LGA 1700 ATX Motherboard
- RAM: Kingston 32GB (2x16GB) KF552C40BBK2-32 Fury Beast 5200MHz DDR5 RAM
- Heatsink: Cooler Master ML240L ARGB V2 CPU Cooler
So, brain trust, give me your hot recommendations and thoughts for new PC tech. Not looking for something that’s going to break the bank, but definitely want to get another 5 years out of a machine! Any and all input is greatly appreciated.
Image credit: Valentine Tanasovich & Athena.
