Looking for potential upgrade paths/recommendations

[GhostieBoy]

Budget (including currency): ~500 USD

Country: USA

Other details:

 

So my current build is a i9-10850k, 64GB of 3200MHz RAM, a 3080ti, all held together with an Aorus Z490 Ultra. Cooling my CPU is a NZXT Kraken 280 AIO and all of it is housed in an NZXT710i 

 

I am going with my cousin to Microcenter in the next couple weeks and I know I want to upgrade SOMETHING about my PC, but I'm not sure what the best path is. So I guess I just need people to bounce ideas off of to see what path I should take. Also, sorry about the wall of text.

 

1) A new case:

• I initially wanted an EVO, but I custom made a stand to keep my PC off the carpet and it is about an inch too narrow for the O11 EVO, but I think I would have like a half an inch of clearance if I got the regular O11D. The specifications of my stand are 22inx11in in case anyone has any other recs for a case of similar style and performance. The H710 looks ok, but its just a beast and I get this feeling that airflow sucks due to the solid front panel (even though I show no signs of throttling)

 

2) New cooler + new fans

• My Kraken isn't exactly dying, but there's a couple "problems." First of all its going on 4 years of age. And I know AIO's aren't exactly known for their longevity (please correct me if I am wrong). It also is a 280mm, which doesnt allow me to fully fill my case with fans as I can only fit 2 in the front despite it fitting 3x120 fans (or a 360 AIO).
• I am also just using all NZXT stock fans, which are nice, but they don't look amazing and they arent the most AMAZING performers as they are kinda basic. I think I currently have 5x140mm (2 of which go through the AIO rad) and 1x120mm for exhaust. So I am tempted to shift to 120mm fans and get something that is a little bit "nicer" like some UNI fan's or something from Lian Li.
• SO, I am thinking of maybe getting a 360 AIO and new fans. Or, a tower cooler (i.e NH D15) and new fans. Thoughts? Recs?

 

3) CPU, Mobo, RAM upgrade

• I know Microcenter keeps promoting a deal for a 12900k, Z790 Mobo, and 32Gb of 6000MHz RAM for like $400. But I have heard that even my 280mm AIO wouldnt be able to keep the 12900k cool. How valid is that? Or should I consider some other upgrade path? I am not exactly noticing any issue with my CPU, but I do know if I want to upgrade in the future, I can't use my mobo anymore as the socket won't be compatible and 10th gen is getting a little old. Not that its obsolete, but it is old. 

 

4) 2nd Monitor and dual monitor arm

• I am currently rocking a 27in 2560x1440 Asus ROG PG27Q (I think) monitor. I keep running into issues where a 2nd monitor would be beneficial. I would ideally like the same size and look monitor. So I am thinking maybe like a 27in TUF as it tends to be cheaper (due to not having things like a g-sync module) but still looks almost identical to what I have.
• WITH a new monitor would come needing a dual monitor arm as I would want to hang my 2nd monitor off the left side of my desk or have it on the right of my main monitor, just angled in. My desk layout just doesn't really allow me to have 2 monitors and their stands on my desk. Too much wasted realestate and I can't sit in the middle of my desk (again due to the current configuration). So recommendations on a dual monitor arm that I can clamp to my desk would be AWESOME.

 

5) Custom cables

• this one is kinda self explanatory. Just get some custom CableMod Cables.

6) Any other ideas you might recommend?

• I am really open to anything. If you have any other ideas, lmk

 

7) Dude, you're in idiot. why are you gonna upgrade your PC just because you are going to a store?

• Basically, you think I am an idiot and shouldn't do anything to my current setup. As long as you say it nicely, I'll respect you outright saying I am an idiot lmaoooo

 

Thank you for any help you can offer, it is GREATLY appreciated! 

 

[PC HEROES]

9 minutes ago, GhostieBoy said:

Budget (including currency): ~500 USD

Country: USA

Other details:

 

So my current build is a i9-10850k, 64GB of 3200MHz RAM, a 3080ti, all held together with an Aorus Z490 Ultra. Cooling my CPU is a NZXT Kraken 280 AIO and all of it is housed in an NZXT710i 

 

I am going with my cousin to Microcenter in the next couple weeks and I know I want to upgrade SOMETHING about my PC, but I'm not sure what the best path is. So I guess I just need people to bounce ideas off of to see what path I should take. Also, sorry about the wall of text.

 

1) A new case:

• I initially wanted an EVO, but I custom made a stand to keep my PC off the carpet and it is about an inch too narrow for the O11 EVO, but I think I would have like a half an inch of clearance if I got the regular O11D. The specifications of my stand are 22inx11in in case anyone has any other recs for a case of similar style and performance. The H710 looks ok, but its just a beast and I get this feeling that airflow sucks due to the solid front panel (even though I show no signs of throttling)

 

2) New cooler + new fans

• My Kraken isn't exactly dying, but there's a couple "problems." First of all its going on 4 years of age. And I know AIO's aren't exactly known for their longevity (please correct me if I am wrong). It also is a 280mm, which doesnt allow me to fully fill my case with fans as I can only fit 2 in the front despite it fitting 3x120 fans (or a 360 AIO).
• I am also just using all NZXT stock fans, which are nice, but they don't look amazing and they arent the most AMAZING performers as they are kinda basic. I think I currently have 5x140mm (2 of which go through the AIO rad) and 1x120mm for exhaust. So I am tempted to shift to 120mm fans and get something that is a little bit "nicer" like some UNI fan's or something from Lian Li.
• SO, I am thinking of maybe getting a 360 AIO and new fans. Or, a tower cooler (i.e NH D15) and new fans. Thoughts? Recs?

 

3) CPU, Mobo, RAM upgrade

• I know Microcenter keeps promoting a deal for a 12900k, Z790 Mobo, and 32Gb of 6000MHz RAM for like $400. But I have heard that even my 280mm AIO wouldnt be able to keep the 12900k cool. How valid is that? Or should I consider some other upgrade path? I am not exactly noticing any issue with my CPU, but I do know if I want to upgrade in the future, I can't use my mobo anymore as the socket won't be compatible and 10th gen is getting a little old. Not that its obsolete, but it is old. 

 

4) 2nd Monitor and dual monitor arm

• I am currently rocking a 27in 2560x1440 Asus ROG PG27Q (I think) monitor. I keep running into issues where a 2nd monitor would be beneficial. I would ideally like the same size and look monitor. So I am thinking maybe like a 27in TUF as it tends to be cheaper (due to not having things like a g-sync module) but still looks almost identical to what I have.
• WITH a new monitor would come needing a dual monitor arm as I would want to hang my 2nd monitor off the left side of my desk or have it on the right of my main monitor, just angled in. My desk layout just doesn't really allow me to have 2 monitors and their stands on my desk. Too much wasted realestate and I can't sit in the middle of my desk (again due to the current configuration). So recommendations on a dual monitor arm that I can clamp to my desk would be AWESOME.

 

5) Custom cables

• this one is kinda self explanatory. Just get some custom CableMod Cables.

6) Any other ideas you might recommend?

• I am really open to anything. If you have any other ideas, lmk

 

7) Dude, you're in idiot. why are you gonna upgrade your PC just because you are going to a store?

• Basically, you think I am an idiot and shouldn't do anything to my current setup. As long as you say it nicely, I'll respect you outright saying I am an idiot lmaoooo

 

Thank you for any help you can offer, it is GREATLY appreciated! 

 

Hello... I would take a look at these current Deals from MicroCenter. They will offer the best Upgrade Paths for you and even have enough left over for a new Case and PSU. Just keep in mind that you want a Case with a Full Mesh Front Panel. I highly recommend the Montech Air 903 MAX or Montech King 95 PRO. The 903 comes with 4 140mm Fans, 3 are ARGB and the King comes with 6 ARGB Fans. For a PSU just look for one that is at least 850w and is ATX 3.0/PCIe 5.0 Ready. Corsair, MSI, and Thermaltake are great Brands for these.

 

If you have any questions please let me know.

 

I have been building PCs for over 30 years so if you have any questions please ask. For future communication I use Discord for much faster response times as I have it open 24/7. Here is my Discord: Wizardsnapper#2772 I am also available if you need help before, during, or after the Build process on Discord through Voice or Video Chat. I can be with you while you build your new PC if you need me to be.

 

MicroCenter Build & Save with Intel Bundle Combos!

 

 

[MadAnt250]

15 minutes ago, GhostieBoy said:

Budget (including currency): ~500 USD

Country: USA

Other details:

 

So my current build is a i9-10850k, 64GB of 3200MHz RAM, a 3080ti, all held together with an Aorus Z490 Ultra. Cooling my CPU is a NZXT Kraken 280 AIO and all of it is housed in an NZXT710i 

 

I am going with my cousin to Microcenter in the next couple weeks and I know I want to upgrade SOMETHING about my PC, but I'm not sure what the best path is. So I guess I just need people to bounce ideas off of to see what path I should take. Also, sorry about the wall of text.

 

1) A new case:

• I initially wanted an EVO, but I custom made a stand to keep my PC off the carpet and it is about an inch too narrow for the O11 EVO, but I think I would have like a half an inch of clearance if I got the regular O11D. The specifications of my stand are 22inx11in in case anyone has any other recs for a case of similar style and performance. The H710 looks ok, but its just a beast and I get this feeling that airflow sucks due to the solid front panel (even though I show no signs of throttling)

 

2) New cooler + new fans

• My Kraken isn't exactly dying, but there's a couple "problems." First of all its going on 4 years of age. And I know AIO's aren't exactly known for their longevity (please correct me if I am wrong). It also is a 280mm, which doesnt allow me to fully fill my case with fans as I can only fit 2 in the front despite it fitting 3x120 fans (or a 360 AIO).
• I am also just using all NZXT stock fans, which are nice, but they don't look amazing and they arent the most AMAZING performers as they are kinda basic. I think I currently have 5x140mm (2 of which go through the AIO rad) and 1x120mm for exhaust. So I am tempted to shift to 120mm fans and get something that is a little bit "nicer" like some UNI fan's or something from Lian Li.
• SO, I am thinking of maybe getting a 360 AIO and new fans. Or, a tower cooler (i.e NH D15) and new fans. Thoughts? Recs?

 

3) CPU, Mobo, RAM upgrade

• I know Microcenter keeps promoting a deal for a 12900k, Z790 Mobo, and 32Gb of 6000MHz RAM for like $400. But I have heard that even my 280mm AIO wouldnt be able to keep the 12900k cool. How valid is that? Or should I consider some other upgrade path? I am not exactly noticing any issue with my CPU, but I do know if I want to upgrade in the future, I can't use my mobo anymore as the socket won't be compatible and 10th gen is getting a little old. Not that its obsolete, but it is old. 

 

4) 2nd Monitor and dual monitor arm

• I am currently rocking a 27in 2560x1440 Asus ROG PG27Q (I think) monitor. I keep running into issues where a 2nd monitor would be beneficial. I would ideally like the same size and look monitor. So I am thinking maybe like a 27in TUF as it tends to be cheaper (due to not having things like a g-sync module) but still looks almost identical to what I have.
• WITH a new monitor would come needing a dual monitor arm as I would want to hang my 2nd monitor off the left side of my desk or have it on the right of my main monitor, just angled in. My desk layout just doesn't really allow me to have 2 monitors and their stands on my desk. Too much wasted realestate and I can't sit in the middle of my desk (again due to the current configuration). So recommendations on a dual monitor arm that I can clamp to my desk would be AWESOME.

 

5) Custom cables

• this one is kinda self explanatory. Just get some custom CableMod Cables.

6) Any other ideas you might recommend?

• I am really open to anything. If you have any other ideas, lmk

 

7) Dude, you're in idiot. why are you gonna upgrade your PC just because you are going to a store?

• Basically, you think I am an idiot and shouldn't do anything to my current setup. As long as you say it nicely, I'll respect you outright saying I am an idiot lmaoooo

 

Thank you for any help you can offer, it is GREATLY appreciated! 

 

I pick option 4 and 7. 

An extra monitor can be handy with work and multitasking, trust me I have dual monitor and never want to go back to a one monitor setup.

[GhostieBoy]

8 minutes ago, MadAnt250 said:

I pick option 4 and 7. 

An extra monitor can be handy with work and multitasking, trust me I have dual monitor and never want to go back to a one monitor setup.

Its weird. I thought a 27in monitor would be more than enough cause you can split the screen in half for productivity, but it somehow isn't enough. Especially when gaming cause you can only have one window open if you alt+tab

[MadAnt250]

7 minutes ago, GhostieBoy said:

Its weird. I thought a 27in monitor would be more than enough cause you can split the screen in half for productivity, but it somehow isn't enough. Especially when gaming cause you can only have one window open if you alt+tab

Other than the questionable front intake of your case, it sounds like going to dual monitors may be a worth it. Even a cheap extra display can help if you need to do more work more efficiently.