Description

CPU

At this budget, we're running the Intel Core i5-13600K. The 13600K features 6 Performance-cores with Hyperthreading, 8 Efficient-cores, and will perform exceptionally well with all your gaming needs. It is overclockable and does not come with a stock cooler so we have added the Thermalright Phantom Spirit 120 SE to the build for efficient cooling and to reduce the noise level.

Note: If you'd prefer to consider a similar build, but instead using an AMD Ryzen processor, be sure to check out our Enthusiast AMD Gaming Build Guide.

Motherboard

We're using a parametric filter to constantly select the best-priced motherboard while meeting selected criteria. In this case, we are filtering for ATX Z790 motherboards with DDR5 memory slots. The compatibility engine will filter out anything not compatible with the build and include at least one front panel USB-C header.

Memory

We are filtering for a 2x16GB kit of DDR5 RAM with a speed of at least DDR5-6000 and maximum Cas latency of 30 to target the sweet spot for the 13600K.

Since the parametric filter picks the lowest priced option available (regardless of color/design), click the "From parametric filter" link to view other options that might better suit your aesthetic preference.

Storage

We're using parametric filters to incorporate a PCIe Gen 4.0 x4 NVME M.2 SSD with at least 2TB of space. Everyone's storage needs differ so feel free to add or remove capacity as needed.

GPU

Our GPU is the AMD Radeon RX 9070. Consider pairing it with a high refresh rate and/or high resolution monitor to take full advantage of the card's capabilities. For those interested in VR, the Radeon RX 9070 will have no problem playing any and and all applications currently on the market.

Case

All of our components are housed in the Fractal Design Pop Air RGB case. This case features an all black design with a tempered glass side panel and mesh front panel. It includes two front panel Type-A USB 3 ports, one optional USB3 Type-C port, hidden PSU mount, and a number of cable management holes and tie-offs to help your build look tidy. The case can also comfortably fit full-sized video cards and large CPU coolers.

If you'd like to connect the USB Type-C port you can get the cable here: https://www.fractal-design.com/products/accessories/connectivity/usb-c-10gbps-cable-model-d/

PSU

For our power supply, we're using a parametric selection of well-reviewed fully modular units, all of which are 80+ Gold certified or above and can provide plenty of power for this build.

Operating System

For the best performance and fewest issues you will want to use Windows 11. The i5-13600K has a combination of Performance-cores and Efficient-cores that Windows 11 is designed to handle and will send specific tasks to the appropriate types of cores. Windows 10 does not have this functionality and may cause issues with system stability and operation.

Windows 10 can be upgraded for free to Windows 11 if you own it already or you can purchase it directly here: https://pcpartpicker.com/product/dKkWGX/microsoft-windows-11-home-oem-64-bit-kw9-00633

AMD Version

Here is the AMD version of our Enthusiast Gaming Guide..

Customizing

Ready to make this build you own? Click the "Customize This Part List" button to start making this build match your specific needs!