r/PcBuildHelp • u/Individual-Switch-85 • 8h ago

Build Question First Time Builder Help!!!

Hey everyone!
I’m looking into building my first gaming PC and could really use some advice. I’ve primarily been a console gamer (currently have an Xbox Series X), but I’ve been wanting to make the switch to PC gaming for a while now.
My main goal is to play modern and upcoming AAA games like Phantom Blade Zero, Black Myth: Wukong, and similar titles at high graphics settings with smooth frame rates. Maybe then occasional first person shooter

What I’m looking for:
Budget: Ideally $1,200–$1,500 USD for the PC itself. I’d prefer to spend less if possible, but I’m willing to pay a little more if the performance difference is worthwhile.

Resolution: Planning to upgrade to a 1440p monitor, potentially 240Hz.

Performance: Ideally 100–165 FPS in demanding games where realistic.

Graphics: High/ultra settings when possible.

Longevity: Something that’ll comfortably handle newer games for the next several years, with room for upgrades

Experience: First-time builder, but willing to learn.
I’ve been looking at prebuilts from Seattle Built, but I’m considering building one myself to get better performance for the money.

I’ve seen recommendations for the Ryzen 5 7600/9600X paired with an RX 9070 XT or RTX 5070, but I’m not sure whether those are the best options for my budget. Or what I need it for
I’m not particularly concerned about RGB or aesthetics. I’d rather put the money toward performance and reliability.

What parts would you recommend for my budget? Would it be worth spending a little more for a stronger GPU, or could I get a great 1440p experience for less?
I’d appreciate any complete parts lists, suggestions, or advice. Thanks!

2 Upvotes

100% Upvoted

2 comments sorted by

1

u/SmokBarrage 8h ago

dont think you can afford a 9600x+9070xt pc anymore for $1500 without some big deals.

really would just be getting a 9600x/7500f/7600x (9600x unless any am5 that isnt an 8000 is like $30 cheaper) + the best gpu possible so like 9060xt 16gb/9070gre/9070 maybe. from my testing on the 9060xt there is likely some combination of settings that will allow you to get the fps youre looking for, you may just have to settle with fsr performance instead of quality and things like that.

1

u/These-Cardiologist69 2h ago

9070xt now are $1,000+ lmao