Need Advice on Existing Computer

[Renzusss]

Hi, All.

I just need some advice if my existing computer parts, particularly my PSU, are still okay, or if an upgrade is already due. I use my computer for primarily for gaming, and sometimes for watching movies. My resolution is at 1440p, 144hz.

Here are my existing computer parts (which I can remember):

PSU: Cougar GX 1050w (purchased in January 2011)
CPU: Core i7 4790k
MB: Asus Z970 Pro Gamer
RAM: 16gb, 1600 (I think its G. Skills, Aries)

I am not yet experiencing PSU issues (that I know), though I am concerned about its age.

As brief background, I intend to build a second PC, and was thinking of buying budget parts. But then, I realized my existing computer might need an upgrade. Hence, I am thinking of upgrading my existing computer instead, and use the replaced parts to form my second PC. Not sure if I am making any sense.

Anyway, any input on this matter will be very much appreciated. Please let me know if additional information is required.

Thanks!

 

[VirtualLarry]

If you need a new PC, then buy new, and buy as top-end as you can reasonably afford, if you intend to keep the PC for a few years and don't consider it "disposable", like a budget PC would be.

I would personally say, that an i7-4790K is likely still viable for gaming (being an i7, with 8 threads) for the next 2-3 years, although you won't get as high a frame-rate as new kit at the top end. (For the newest AAA games that will show up in the next 2-3 years.)

That being said, I see that you're a 1440P / 144Hz gamer, that does require slightly more top-end kit to maintain framerate.

Let me ask you this, do you have a FreeSync (2), or G-Sync monitor? (You didn't mention your dGPU model or brand, I assume that you're not using the iGPU for 144Hz gaming.)

If not, then strongly consider it, and consider a dGPU upgrade.

 

[whm1974]

Unless you are overclocking and using multiple high end dGPUs, your PSU is way overkill for your build. Maybe replace with a SeaSonic 550w Gold PSU? However I do agree with Larry that CPU wise you are fine and most likely just need to upgrade the dGPU more then anything else unless you are still using a HDD instead of an SSD.

 

[VirtualLarry]

https://forums.anandtech.com/thread...rade-either-cpu-or-gpu.2550513/#post-39494721

See this thread. After upgrading this fellows' 2600K rig, with an RX 580 GPU, now he's pulling 144FPS in several popular FPS online games.

OP, if the 2600K can do it, certainly your 4790K can do it, too.

 

[Shmee]

Only upgrade really worth it would be a new GPU depending on what you are using now, or an SSD if you don't have one or need more space.

 

[Renzusss]

Thank you for the replies, everyone.

Looking at my post, I did forget to indicate my gpu, though I do not have any plans on replacing it. I currently have a Palit Jetstream GTX 1080 ti on my existing PC. My monitor is Acer XB271HU, a g-sync monitor.

Considering future upgrades of my GPU to the next-generation variants (assuming I can sustain it, financially), what is a safe wattage for a new, long-term PSU? 650w, or maybe 750w?

I previously had 2 GTX 580s (back in early 2011), which was why I currently have, and still use the 2011 Cougar GX 1050w. After experiencing sli issues, I do not think I will use sli again, until the issues are resolved.

I usually just overclock using motherboard functions, and I just have a soundcard (Asus Xonar Essence STX, if I remember correctly) as an additional component, apart from the usual parts.

Again, thank you for the comments, everyone.

My priority now is replacing my aging PSU. If my financial capacity permits, I'm leaning towards purchasing higher-end components to make a new PC (rather than spend on a budget yet easily disposable one), and use my existing PC as my secondary unit.

 

[Triloby]

Not so sure if you still intend to build a second PC, but your primary PC is still very good for the next few years to come (especially with the 1080 Ti that you have). The only sticking point is your PSU as you've mentioned, but from what you're saying, it sounds like it hasn't caused you any major issues like random shutdowns, reboots, or whatever.

That said, if you are going to replace your PSU, a nice 80+ Gold rated unit at 750W would be more than good enough for your needs. 750W might be a little overkill for your system, but it doesn't hurt to have some extra breathing room; especially if you decide to overhaul your entire system in the future. Also helps to have the extra wattage if you choose to OC your entire system. An EVGA SuperNOVA G3 750W is a nice PSU you can get for $100, if your budget permits it. It's fully modular, has a nice build quality, good efficiency, a quiet fan, and EVGA has good warranties.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005BE058W/?tag=pcpapi-20

There are probably better PSU options out there, but this is one recommendation I usually keep seeing.

EDIT: Also, SLI is virtually worthless now. I wouldn't even consider it an option for gaming nowadays. Better to stick with one very good GPU for the future IMO.

 

[BurnItDwn]

Your CPU is plenty fast for gaming, you don't need more ram.
Share when you figure out which GPU you have but, given that you have high end components, I suspect you have an older but highish end card, so it may or may not make sense to replace the GPU if you are gaming at 1440p.
And if you don't already have your OS on an SSD, it will make a huge difference.


As far as second system goes,
It's perfectly fine to go midrange or lowwer end on the CPU.
Today's quad core I3 or Ryzen 3 are quite capable machines which should provide ample power for the next 5-10 years, though I wouldn't go any lower end.

DDR4 RAM prices are insane, you can get by with 8, especially if your GPU has abundant ram which will keep things like graphics textures out of system ram. Though 16GB is recommended.

 

[Renzusss]

Hey, All.

Sorry for the late reply. Just wanted to thank you for all the advice. I ended up purchasing Intel Core i5 8600k for my second unit, after selling some stuff here and there. I did not want to upgrade again after 2-3 years, so I just went with something more long term. My second unit is for my home away from home. Though, I think it may be more powerful than my main unit now.

Anyway, the main point of my original post was to ask if my power supply unit for my main unit needs replacing. Turns out, I think it does. My computer suddenly shutdown after powering on several times recently. My motherboard then notified me that surge-protect (?) activated. This was a random occurrence, and there appears to be no cause for it. Plus, I also now hear random clicking noise from my computer now and then.

So, looks like I will be replacing my almost 8-year old power supply unit for my main unit. I considered EVGA SuperNOVA G3 750W as recommended, though it is not available here, unfortunately. After considering other options, I am now looking to purchase Seasonic Focus+ Platinum 750PX, unless there are objections? If there are none, I will be purchasing it soon.

Things about my main unit, as indicated previously:

CPU: Core i7 4790k
MB: Asus Z97 Pro Gamer
RAM: 16GB, DDR3 1600, G. Skill, Aries
GPU: Palit GTX 1080 ti
Sound: Asus XonarEssence STX
SSD: Crucial BX... something
HD: 2010 Seagate 1.5TB

Other considerations (not sure if relevant):

Monitor: Acer XB271HU (1440p, g-sync, etc)

Again, thank you for all the advice. A majority of my computer purchases were made based on the advice I have received here, so, thanks!

 

[UsandThem]

After considering other options, I am now looking to purchase Seasonic Focus+ Platinum 750PX, unless there are objections? If there are none, I will be purchasing it soon.

That's a very good (and highly rated) PSU, so nothing to worry about in that regard. I own the 550w version of it, and it's quiet and reliable.