CPU and GPU

I did not include CPUs on dead platforms as this list is meant to be future proof. If you buy into a dead platform now, you will be unable to upgrade to a newer CPU in the future.

However, good older CPUs for an budget build include the Ryzen 5 5600, the Core i3-12100F or i5-12400F, and the Ryzen 7 5700X3D. A decent budget GPU would ideally be the B580, but if it is out of stock, the RX 7600 or the RTX 4060 are good alternatives

I did not include Intel’s 13th and 14th generation CPUs due to their microcode issues resulting in CPUs going dead. Also, they are on a dead platform.

Intel’s newest Arrow Lake CPUs actually had a performance regression in gaming compared to last gen and you have to get a new motherboard with the LGA 1851 socket, which is expensive.

AMD’s Zen 5 processors underperformed despite the higher price compared to equivalent Zen 4 processors.

  • RAM: 6000MT/s CL30 DDR5 (best option for AM5)

1080p / 1440p

  • CPU: Ryzen 5 7600 or 7600X
  • GPU: RX 6800 XT
  • power supply: at least 650W

The 7600 / 7600X can be cooled with their stock coolers

The RX 7700 XT underperforms in comparison to the RX 6800 XT. If you’re able to find the RX 7700 XT for a lot cheaper than it could be worth it

1440p / 4K

  • CPU: Ryzen 7 7700 or 7700X
  • GPU: RX 7800 XT / RTX 4070 Super
    • better: RX 7900 XT / RTX 4070 Ti Super
  • power supply: at least 750W

If ASRock Steel Legend is out of stock, the Gigabyte B650 Aorus Elite AX V2 is a good alternative

If you find the RTX 4070 for a lot cheaper than the Super model, then get that

The RX 7900 GRE sits in between RX 7800 XT and RX 7900 XT and is a very good value

Best for Gaming Battlestations

  • CPU: Ryzen 7 7800X3D (or 9800X3D if you find it in stock)
  • GPU: RX 7900 XT / RTX 4070 Ti Super
    • better: RX 7900 XTX / RTX 4080 Super
  • power supply: at least 850W

If you find the RTX 4080 for a lot cheaper than the Super model, then get that

Best for Productivity Workhorses

  • CPU: Ryzen 9 7900X or 7950X
  • GPU: RX 7900 XT / RTX 4070 Ti Super
    • better: RX 7900 XTX / RTX 4080 Super
  • power supply: at least 850W

If you find the RTX 4080 for a lot cheaper than the Super model, then get that