Recommended Posts

It's time to upgrade my 2019 PC, I can probably sell it for a good price still, which will go towards the cost of a new build:

  • Be quiet! Pure Base 600 ATX (black) with tinted glass and optional metal side panel
  • Be quiet! Straight Power 11 550W, 80 Plus Gold (in hindsight this should have been 650W minimum)
  • Gigabyte Z390 AORUS PRO WIFI (with Gigabyte TPM Module 2.0)
  • Intel Core i9-9900K
  • Cryorig H7 CPU cooler
  • 64 GB G.Skill DDR4 Ripjaws-V 3200Mhz (4 x 16 GB)
  • KFA2 RTX 2070 SUPER (8 GB DDR6)
  • C:\ Samsung 980 1 TB PCIe 3.0
  • D:\ Intel 660P 1 TB PCIe 3.0
  • E:\ Samsung 870 Qvo 2TB SSD
  • F:\ LG BH10LS38 (CD/DVD/BluRay writer)

The 2019 build wasn't done in one go, I initially had a i5-9600K and 32GB memory, which was perfectly fine with 550W 80 Plus Gold PSU.

I want to avoid spending more money later on parts that I initially cheaped out on back in 2019.

20230525_174218.jpg

Here is the proposed new build:

image.png

Part picker https://pcpartpicker.com/list/MNWC3y

Drives being moved to new PC

  • Lexar NM710 2 TB (PCIe 4.0)
  • Samsung 870 Qvo 4 TB SSD (SATA)

I am ordering in The Netherlands where the amount comes to €2,792.39. I can get a part tax write off by ordering it through my self-employed business.

The 4070Ti is already ordered and on the way, but all the other components are not ordered yet.

Things that are important to me:

I run multiple VMs, sometimes two or three at a time, Android emulation (bluestacks) video encoding, and possibility for decent gaming and future proofing (4-5 years).

May 31 update: https://pcpartpicker.com/list/ZVbY4s

image.png

  • Love 1

Very nice. PSU is overkill though; but if it doesn't cost much more than a 750w unit then the extra headroom is always nice.

 

Also, any options for ddr5-5200 but with lower latency than cl40 (that isn't far more expensive)?

On 30/05/2023 at 13:32, Haxzion said:

If you are aiming for gaming then i would trade 7900X3D for a 7800X3D which runs faster in 3d applications.

I doubt he's gaming with all those VM's..

  • Like 2
On 30/05/2023 at 23:21, hagjohn said:

WD Black NvME would be better. What you picked is pretty slow.

Thanks I just read some reviews about the WD_Black SN770 it's cheaper and is quicker with larger files, so I am switching to it 👍

In addition it says that write cache will only start dropping if the drive is about 600gb full https://linustechtips.com/topic/1438738-wd-black-sn770-or-crucial-p5-plus-1tb-or-something-else/ my C drive is 262GB used out of 1TB atm so I should be good (plus my Steam library is on D:\).

  • Like 1
On 30/05/2023 at 16:21, hagjohn said:

WD Black NvME would be better. What you picked is pretty slow.

Really?

Crucial's website only mentions (front page) that it has up to 6600/MB read speeds.. didn't see anything about write.

I'm using a WD Black, but the Gen 3 model.. and with 3300/MBs she boots in under 30 seconds, and reboots under 12. I could only imagine the time I'd save with a 7 second/ 7700/MB drive. :)

The list looks good... keep in mind that your horsepower requirements revolve more around the video encoding/game play than it will running four/five/six VMs. Those mostly take up system RAM... even if you assigned, say two CPU cores per VM.

If it's true, that an NVMe drive and your video card share the first PCI-E lanes (as it's no nevermind to me, mine only uses four lanes)... check to see the mobo specs to get the most out of that blazing fast drive, and the powerhouse vid card. ;)

On 31/05/2023 at 02:33, xMorpheousx416 said:

If it's true, that an NVMe drive and your video card share the first PCI-E lanes (as it's no nevermind to me, mine only uses four lanes)... check to see the mobo specs to get the most out of that blazing fast drive, and the powerhouse vid card. ;)

image.png

It doesn't share the first lane, more like the last unless I am seeing it wrong :) https://www.msi.com/Motherboard/MAG-X670E-TOMAHAWK-WIFI/Specification

  • Like 1

WD Black 850X https://azerty.nl/product/wd-black-sn850x-nvme-ssd-wds100t2x0e/4946474

Switched.

 

On 30/05/2023 at 23:31, Arceles said:

I would not go nvidia in this case... but I might be wrong and you might use some applications that use CUDA. I would actually go for a 7900xt for better performance.

Card is already locked in and arriving today.

I agree with the if it's mostly for gaming go with the 7800X3D, if it's not mostly for gaming then drop the 3D cache and go for the 7900X/7950X instead, the dual CCX designs seem to lose quite a bit of performance vs the 7800X3D. If it's an all out VM machine I have a 7950X machine at work and it absolutely flies for CAD/VMs compared to the Intel Core i9 9900k which was our previous machine spec for CAD applications.

Unless you're dead set on the motherboard the B650E boards offer all the real world performance at a hefty discount compared to the X670E boards, you still get a PCIe Gen 5 M.2 slot and GPU slot, currently Gen 5 NVME drives are hot and expensive and only win in benchmarking not real world performance. The boards actually use the same Chipset just the X670E gets a second chipset to offer more PCIe lanes for the additional M.2 slots.

On 31/05/2023 at 13:36, Ixion said:

Unless you're dead set on the motherboard the B650E boards offer all the real world performance at a hefty discount compared to the X670E boards, you still get a PCIe Gen 5 M.2 slot and GPU slot, currently Gen 5 NVME drives are hot and expensive and only win in benchmarking not real world performance. The boards actually use the same Chipset just the X670E gets a second chipset to offer more PCIe lanes for the additional M.2 slots.

Thanks, this https://azerty.nl/product/gigabyte-b650m-aorus-elite-ax-moederbord/5012317 is €47 cheaper and includes PCIe 5.0 support, so I've switched to it.

Other thing I am wondering is if I would lose any functionality at all by sticking with Windows 10 with the new build.

Certain apps can already trigger HDR for my screen in Windows 10 (Netflix, MPC-BE) so I do not really miss the Windows 11 AutoHDR function.

DLSS 3 can also be enabled in Windows 10 https://www.tomshardware.com/how-to/enable-frame-generation-windows-10

I updated the first post with the most recent build I intend to order.

  • Like 1
On 31/05/2023 at 17:46, Steven P. said:

Other thing I am wondering is if I would lose any functionality at all by sticking with Windows 10 with the new build.

Certain apps can already trigger HDR for my screen in Windows 10 (Netflix, MPC-BE) so I do not really miss the Windows 11 AutoHDR function.

DLSS 3 can also be enabled in Windows 10 https://www.tomshardware.com/how-to/enable-frame-generation-windows-10

If your stable build of 11 works fine, I'd say... anything you have to find deep within settings, and then restart the system to turn on/off the function...

is really all up to you. :)

If you're on 10, and plan to stick with it.. then just write down your list of tweaks before you get started. That way, just like your newest drivers on USB.. you're ready to go the moment you are on the Desktop and ready to start trimming the fat and turning up the heat.

On 01/06/2023 at 01:02, xMorpheousx416 said:

If you're on 10, and plan to stick with it.. then just write down your list of tweaks before you get started. 

There's so many 😛 This install is from 2019.. I rolled back the Windows 11 upgrade on this machine Lol.

Also, all my VMs were automatically encrypted thanks to the Windows 11 TPM fiasco, I already know I can't access the VMs in a different Windows installation, so I have to rebuild all those too.

  • Like 2

Build day, sounds like BBQ... maybe some cold beer (or whatever suits best), and start having some fun.

Hell, even after I've built a new PC.. it takes several weeks to get in all the little changes. The major ones have to do with how I use Explorer to sort media. I am not looking forward to MS releasing their so-called "new" Explorer here soon... as I'm sure, like any install, it's going to wreak bloody havoc on every folder and menu I have set up.

But the physical build is always something to look forward to... especially that giddy moment when you first press the power button and pray to whatever deity floating your boat, that it all hums to life without a single hiccup.

 

  • Like 2

Create an account or sign in to comment

You need to be a member in order to leave a comment

Create an account

Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!

Register a new account

Sign in

Already have an account? Sign in here.

Sign In Now
  • Recently Browsing   0 members

    • No registered users viewing this page.
  • Posts

    • Glad I uninstalled this incredibly buggy browser. Looking at that changelog, they clearly don't test their updates at all.
    • UniGetUI 2026.2.2 by Razvan Serea UniGetUI is an application whose main goal is to create an intuitive GUI for the most common CLI package managers for Windows 10 and Windows 11, such as Winget, Scoop and Chocolatey. With UniGetUI, you'll be able to download, install, update and uninstall any software that's published on the supported package managers — and so much more. UniGetUI features Install, update and remove software from your system easily at one click: UniGetUI combines the packages from the most used package managers for windows: WinGet, Chocolatey, Scoop, Pip, Npm and .NET Tool. Discover new packages and filter them to easily find the package you want. View detailed metadata about any package before installing it. Get the direct download URL or the name of the publisher, as well as the size of the download. Easily bulk-install, update or uninstall multiple packages at once selecting multiple packages before performing an operation Automatically update packages, or be notified when updates become available. Skip versions or completely ignore updates in a per-package basis. Manage your available updates at the touch of a button from the Widgets pane or from Dev Home pane with UniGetUI Widgets. The system tray icon will also show the available updates and installed package, to efficiently update a program or remove a package from your system. Easily customize how and where packages are installed. Select different installation options and switches for each package. Install an older version or force to install a 32bit architecture. [But don't worry, those options will be saved for future updates for this package] Share packages with your friends to show them off that program you found. Here is an example: Hey @friend, Check out this program! Export custom lists of packages to then import them to another machine and install those packages with previously-specified, custom installation parameters. Setting up machines or configuring a specific software setup has never been easier. Backup your packages to a local file to easily recover your setup in a matter of seconds when migrating to a new machine Devolutions UniGetUI 2026.2.2 changelog: This release marks the completion of UniGetUI's migration from WinUI to Avalonia. With the remaining WinUI components and dependencies now removed, UniGetUI is fully powered by Avalonia. This update also brings Windows 11 Snap Layouts support, refined styling throughout the application, improved log viewing, new illustrations, and significantly smaller release packages. Highlights Further refined the Avalonia user interface to better match WinUI styling and behavior across package lists, navigation elements, dialogs, and controls. Added support for Windows 11 Snap Layouts when hovering the maximize button, matching the behavior of native Windows applications. Added illustrations for empty and loading package list states, improving visual feedback throughout the application. Improved the operation log window so automatic scrolling no longer interrupts users when reviewing previous log entries. Reduced installer and application package sizes, resulting in smaller downloads and a significantly leaner Windows distribution. User Interface Improvements Improved package list styling, column headers, backgrounds, hover states, and selection indicators for a more polished and consistent experience. Refined sidebar navigation and segmented controls to better align with modern Windows design patterns. Improved package tag badges and icon presentation throughout the application. Updated several labels, placeholders, and interface elements for improved clarity and consistency. Removed the remaining WinUI-specific styling dependencies, further consolidating the application around Avalonia. Windows Improvements Added native Windows 11 Snap Layouts integration for the maximize button. Improved maximize button hover and pressed visual states to more closely match native Windows behavior. Performance & Reliability Reduced the size of Windows release packages by removing unnecessary runtime dependencies and optimizing published builds. Reduced installer size through improved compression settings. Simplified application dependencies and reduced overall maintenance complexity. Fixes Fixed log output auto-scrolling behavior when manually reviewing previous entries. Resolved various UI inconsistencies and styling issues across the Avalonia interface. Addressed several minor issues and edge cases throughout the application. Other Changes Dependency cleanup and project maintenance. Internal code refactoring and infrastructure improvements. Additional test coverage and build pipeline optimizations. Download: UniGetUI 64-bit | Portable | ~90.0 MB (Open Source) Download: UniGetUI ARM64 | Portable Links: UniGetUI Home Page | GitHub | Screenshot Get alerted to all of our Software updates on Twitter at @NeowinSoftware
    • The best controller for XBOX and PC is down to the lowest price by Taras Buria Image via Neowin The GameSir G7 Pro is a fantastic controller for XBOX and PC. Officially certified, it works with Microsoft's consoles, mobile devices, and PCs, giving you a universal controller for any kind of gaming machine. And right now, you can save 20% on it, thanks to the latest deal during Prime Day 2026 (purchase link below). The G7 Pro has the classic XBOX layout, complemented by a couple of extra elements, such as the M button for changing various settings and four additional remappable buttons. It also has trigger locks and TMR sticks that eliminate drifting issues, giving you a reliable, long-lasting gamepad. The controller is powered by a built-in battery, which charges via a USB Type-C cable or the bundled dock station. The G7 Pro supports wireless (XBOX Wireless, proprietary dongle, or Bluetooth) and wired connectivity. In addition to software customization (you can remap multiple buttons to different actions), it lets you personalize the look by swapping the faceplate or grips, enabling multiple design combinations. Other features include a 1,000Hz polling rate, an audio jack for your headphones, Hall Effect triggers, and a swappable D-pad (two extra are included). The controller is also available in four color variants, and all of them are now discounted. Thanks to quality materials, reliable components, rich customization, universal compatibility, and an affordable price tag, the G7 Pro received very high praise in our review. It is certainly among the best controllers you can buy. GameSir G7 Pro - $63.99 | 20% off with Prime Good to know This Amazon deal is U.S. specific, and not available in other regions unless specified. We only use first-party seller links (at the time of article publishing); ensure that you purchase from a first-party seller link only. Check out Today's Deals on Amazon | or our recent tech deals. Become a Prime member (for Students or SNAP) via Neowin Get Prime Access - Prime for half price (for qualifying Medicaid, EBT, SNAP) Subscribe to Prime Video, Audible Plus, Music Unlimited or Kindle Unlimited via Neowin As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
    • Microsoft further improving Windows 11 Taskbar with latest builds by Sayan Sen Microsoft has released new Windows 11 builds for users flighting the Experimental channels. The new builds are 26300.8758 for Windows 11 26H2, 28120.2374 for 26H1, and 29617.1000 for future platforms. There are improvements related to the Taskbar, File Explorer and more with the new update. The full changelogs are given below: First we have the build 26300.8758: Changes and improvements gradually being rolled out [Taskbar] Taskbar customization just got easier. As we continue to make improvements to the Taskbar experience mentioned last month, we've introduced a dedicated Taskbar Size setting, making it simpler to find, understand, and personalize your ideal taskbar experience. UI showing the new Taskbar Size setting in Settings. We've also made refinements to the transitions between taskbar sizes for a smoother overall experience. [File Explorer] We've improved the reliability of thumbnail previews for cloud files in the Details pane. The pane has also been reorganized so file properties are easier to find and review at a glance. Fixed an issue where the OneDrive shortcut in File Explorer stops working when File Explorer is run in administrative mode. Fixed an issue where the confirmation dialog might display an internal Recycle Bin file name instead of the original file name when permanently deleting a file. [Sounds] Improved system sounds when using Windows in dark mode. Up next we have build 28120.2374: Changes and improvements gradually being rolled out This update includes a small set of general improvements and fixes [Mobile Device Settings] You can add and manage your mobile devices in Settings under Bluetooth & Devices > Mobile Devices. On this page, you can manage features such as using your device as a connected camera or accessing your device's files in File Explorer. [Remote Recovery Management] Added a recovery remote management plug-in to extend WinRE management capabilities for MDM providers. [Input] The emoji panel (Windows key + period (.)) now uses GIPHY as the GIF provider, delivering a smoother GIF browsing and sharing experience following the deprecation of the Tenor API. Finally we have the changelog for Windows 11 build 29617.1000: Changes and improvements gradually being rolled out [Windows Update] As announced in the Windows Update announce blog, we are now bringing a new unified update experience to reduce the number of reboots you see per month. We are starting by coordinating driver, .NET, and firmware updates to align with the monthly quality update, reducing the update experience to a single monthly restart. See the blog for more information. [Windows Magnifier] Magnifier now gives you more control over how you zoom. You can type an exact zoom percentage directly in the magnifier toolbar to land on precisely the level you need. We've also added preset step increments (5%, 10%, 25%, 50%, 100%, 150%, 200%, and 400%) to the Settings dropdown, so you can jump to common levels in a single click. Whether you need a subtle boost or a dramatic close-up, Magnifier adapts to how you want to zoom. Enter an exact percentage or jump to preset steps —5% up to 400%. Feedback: Share your thoughts in Feedback Hub (WIN + F) under Accessibility > Magnifier. [Accessibility] We're introducing screen tint, a new accessibility setting that applies a color overlay across your entire display, softening its intensity so it's easier on your eyes throughout the day. If bright, saturated screens leave you with tired or sensitive eyes by the end of a long session, screen tint can help. Screenshot showing UI for screen tint in Accessibility, with color presets and a strength slider. To get started, open Settings > Accessibility (or press WIN + U) and look for screen tint under the Vision section. From there, you can: Pick from six preset colors or choose a custom color of your own. Adjust the tint strength slider from a subtle wash to full intensity. Night light warms your display to reduce blue light that can interfere with sleep. Screen tint reduces overall screen intensity to ease eye fatigue and light sensitivity during the day. They tackle different problems and you can use both at the same time, one working on warmth and the other on intensity. Note that turning on screen tint will disable color filters, and vice versa. If you currently rely on color filters, you might need to keep screen tint turned off. Feedback: Share your thoughts in Feedback Hub (WIN + F) under Accessibility > Narrator. [Voice Access] Voice Access now supports Portuguese (Portugal), Portuguese (Brazil), and Korean (South Korea). [Audio] Continuing our work on improving Sound Settings, we've made a few more updates in this build: We've adjusted the description text for the Allow option in properties for audio devices to include the current state of the device, to improve the clarity of the text and the purpose of the button actions. "Listen to this device" is now available in properties for audio devices, so you don't need to enter Control Panel for this functionality. [Multiple Desktops] Improved explorer reliability when switching between multiple desktops. [Storage] We've updated the dialog when creating a Dev Drive to now support specifying the size in GB instead of only MB. This has also been added when changing the size of volumes under Settings > System > Storage. [Personalization] This update improves color selection accuracy when adjusting your accent color to match your wallpaper when automatic accent color selection is enabled in Personalization settings. This update improves wallpaper persistence reliability across restarts and upgrades, including better support for large-resolution wallpapers and other scenarios to prevent solid color wallpaper fallback. [Display and Graphics] Improves the reliability and persistence of applying color profiles. You can view the official blog posts here (link1, link2, link3) on Microsoft's site.
  • Recent Achievements

    • One Year In
      bernmeister earned a badge
      One Year In
    • Week One Done
      Scoobystu earned a badge
      Week One Done
    • Week One Done
      tuben earned a badge
      Week One Done
    • First Post
      OffsetAbs earned a badge
      First Post
    • Reacting Well
      OffsetAbs earned a badge
      Reacting Well
  • Popular Contributors

    1. 1
      +primortal
      441
    2. 2
      +Edouard
      196
    3. 3
      PsYcHoKiLLa
      154
    4. 4
      FloatingFatMan
      71
    5. 5
      Steven P.
      67
  • Tell a friend

    Love Neowin? Tell a friend!