Hey r/buildapc — rising senior at Miami University studying Business Analytics with a minor in Information Systems. Finally pulling the trigger on my first build and would really appreciate some experienced eyes on this before I buy anything.
Use case: 1440p gaming, running local AI/ML models, Python/Jupyter/data analytics work, general student productivity. Needed something that handles both gaming and compute workloads well without being a one-trick pony.
Notable choices I'd love feedback on:
- Went 9700X over 9800X3D to save ~$145 — at 1440p with the 5070 figured the GPU bottlenecks first anyway. Am I leaving too much on the table?
- Stuck with the RTX 5070 over anything cheaper — felt like the GPU was the wrong place to cut given the AI/inference use case and DLSS 4. Worth it?
- RAM and storage are showing inflated prices on PCPartPicker right now due to the DDR5 shortage — expecting to pay closer to $120 for RAM and $160 for storage when I actually buy
- Fractal North for the case — wanted something that looks good on a desk without going full RGB gaming aesthetic
Total at real market prices: ~$1,880
First build so any compatibility catches, rookie mistakes, or better value alternatives are very much appreciated. Be brutal — I'd rather hear it here than after I've already ordered everything. https://pcpartpicker.com/user/JackHibb/saved/3d6gQ7