My 2022 PC Build - Component Choices and Reasoning

In 2022, I built my current workstation. Here's a detailed breakdown of each component I chose and why I made those decisions.

CPU: Intel Core i5-12600K

I went with the Intel Core i5-12600K for several reasons:

• Performance: The 10-core (6P + 4E) hybrid architecture provides excellent performance for both gaming and productivity tasks
• Value: At the time, it offered the best price-to-performance ratio in its class
• Future-proofing: The LGA1700 socket meant I could potentially upgrade to 13th or 14th gen Intel processors later
• Overclocking: The 'K' variant allows for overclocking if I want to squeeze out extra performance

If I were buying again, I would go for the i7-12700K because it has better value in 2025.

CPU Cooler: Noctua NH-U12S chromax.black

The Noctua NH-U12S was my choice because:

• Reliability: Noctua is known for exceptional build quality and longevity
• Performance: Excellent cooling performance for the 12600K
• Aesthetics: The chromax.black version fits my build's color scheme
• Noise: Noctua fans are among the quietest on the market
• Compatibility: Easy to install and fits well in most cases

I do not like the idea of All-in-One water coolers. Not only can they leak, but they are not as reliable as air coolers.

Motherboard: Asus PRIME Z690-P D4

I chose this motherboard for:

• Compatibility: Z690 chipset supports the 12600K and allows overclocking
• DDR4 Support: I went with DDR4 to save money while still getting good performance
• Features: Good VRM design, multiple M.2 slots, and decent I/O
• Reliability: Asus has a solid reputation for motherboard quality

I have had to reset CMOS multiple times with this motherboard, which has been frustrating.

Memory: Corsair Vengeance 32GB (2x16GB) DDR4-3600 CL18

My memory choice was based on:

• Capacity: 32GB is sufficient for development work and multitasking
• Speed: DDR4-3600 provides good performance without breaking the bank
• Timing: CL18 offers a good balance of speed and latency, and the difference from CL16 is minimal
• Dual Channel: 2x16GB configuration enables dual-channel memory access
• Reliability: Corsair has a good reputation for memory quality

Graphics Card: Zotac GAMING Twin Edge OC RTX 3060 Ti

The RTX 3060 Ti was selected because:

• Performance: Excellent 1440p gaming performance
• Ray Tracing: RTX features for future-proofing
• DLSS: AI-powered upscaling for better performance
• Size: The Twin Edge model is compact and fits well in my case
• Availability: At the time, it was one of the more available RTX 3000 series cards

If I were buying again, I would get a card with 8GB+ VRAM. However, the GPU market was fluctuating during 2022, and all I had was a 1650 Super that barely ran VRChat.

Case: NZXT H510 Flow

I chose the H510 Flow for:

• Airflow: The perforated front panel provides much better airflow than the original H510
• Aesthetics: Clean, minimalist design that I really like
• Build Quality: Solid construction and good cable management
• Size: Mid-tower size is perfect for my needs
• Price: Good value for the features and build quality

Power Supply: Corsair RM750x (2018)

The RM750x was selected for:

• Wattage: 750W provides plenty of headroom for my components
• Efficiency: 80+ Gold certification means good efficiency
• Modularity: Fully modular design makes cable management much easier
• Reliability: Corsair's RMx series has excellent reliability ratings, even on the safe PSU list many swear by
• Warranty: 10-year warranty provides peace of mind

Storage and Other Components

I also included:

• SSD: FireCuda 1TB for the boot drive and frequently used applications
• HDD: Seagate 4TB for bulk storage and backups
• Fans: Corsair RS120 fans (2 in front, 1 in back) for optimal airflow
• Cables: Custom sleeved cables for better aesthetics

Performance and Experience

This build has served me well for:

• Gaming: Handles modern games at 1440p with high settings
• Development: Compiles code quickly and handles multiple applications
• Content Creation: Good performance for video editing and 3D work
• Everyday Use: Fast boot times and responsive system

Lessons Learned

Building this PC taught me:

• Planning: Researching components thoroughly pays off
• Compatibility: Always double-check component compatibility
• Cable Management: Take your time with cable management
• Thermal Management: Good airflow is crucial for performance
• Future-Proofing: Consider upgrade paths when choosing components

Conclusion

This build has been excellent for my needs. The component choices have proven to be solid, and the system continues to perform well. The modular design means I can easily upgrade individual components as needed, and the overall build quality ensures reliability.

This build was completed in 2022, and prices mentioned are from that time period. Current prices and availability may vary significantly.