FAQ
TL;DR: PLN 4,000 build with 16GB DDR4 and GTX 1060 6GB; “don’t drop the GPU—add an SSD later.” [Elektroda, atomic99, post #16724361]
Why it matters: This FAQ helps creators and gamers validate parts, RAM speeds, cooling, and timing before buying.
Quick Facts
- MSI B350 Tomahawk supports DDR4 1866–3200 MHz (OC), aiding Ryzen performance. [Elektroda, atomic99, post #16727814]
- Practical Ryzen RAM target: 2667–2800 MHz; higher clocks give modest gains. [Elektroda, Zenek1988, post #16727973]
- Cooler picks: Fortis 3 (~PLN 130–150) or Grandis 2 (~PLN 160–180). [Elektroda, atomic99, post #16724361]
- Branded 500W PSU is sufficient for this class of build. [Elektroda, sokar78, post #16727371]
- Intel Coffee Lake reveal flagged for October 5; short wait suggested. [Elektroda, Ationx, post #16726067]
Is the Ryzen 5 1600 + GTX 1060 6GB build balanced for Adobe and gaming?
Yes. The thread confirms a well-matched setup for Adobe apps and comfortable gaming at this budget. The poster finalized purchase without issues. Prioritize the GTX 1060 6GB now and add an SSD later for snappier workflows. “Don’t give up on the graphics.” [Elektroda, atomic99, post #16724361]
Do I need an SSD on day one, or can I add it later?
Add it later. Keep the stronger GPU now to protect gaming and GPU-accelerated workloads. An SSD upgrade improves boot, app launches, and cache scratch speeds. This staged approach fits a hard 4K PLN cap and was the recommended path in-thread. [Elektroda, atomic99, post #16724361]
Which CPU cooler should I choose if I plan to overclock?
Pick SilentiumPC Fortis 3 for quiet stock or light OC. Choose Grandis 2 for heavier OC headroom. Both were recommended with price bands around PLN 130–180, delivering better thermals and acoustics than stock cooling. [Elektroda, atomic99, post #16724361]
Will MSI B350 Tomahawk run 3000 MHz DDR4 reliably?
The board supports DDR4 up to 3200 MHz (OC). Many users achieve 2933–3000 MHz, but Ryzen benefits level off near 2667–2800 MHz. Treat 2933–3000 MHz as an optimization goal, not a guarantee. [Elektroda, atomic99, post #16727814]
What’s the safe RAM speed target for first‑gen Ryzen?
Aim for 2667–2800 MHz for stability and value. Gains above that shrink unless using particularly capable memory ICs. One user noted Hynix-based kits often top out near 2800 MHz, while Samsung ICs fare better. [Elektroda, Zenek1988, post #16727973]
How do I check if my memory kit is compatible with the motherboard?
Verify the vendor QVL on MSI’s product page and cross-check part numbers. If unsupported, the system may default to 2133 MHz or fail to boot, requiring manual tuning. This is a common first‑gen Ryzen edge case. [Elektroda, sokar78, post #16727371]
Quick how-to: set RAM to advertised speed on MSI B350 Tomahawk
- Update BIOS, then enter UEFI and enable the memory profile (A-XMP).
- Set target speed (e.g., 2933 MHz) and DRAM voltage per kit spec.
- Save, boot, and stress-test; if unstable, drop one step (e.g., 2800 MHz).
[Elektroda, sokar78, post #16727371]
Is a 500–600W power supply enough for this build?
Yes. A quality 500W unit covers a Ryzen 5 1600 and GTX 1060 6GB comfortably. The thread explicitly states 500W branded is enough, giving thermal and transient margin. [Elektroda, sokar78, post #16727371]
Should I wait for Intel Coffee Lake before buying?
A short wait was advised because Intel’s Coffee Lake announcement was slated for October 5. This could influence CPU choices or value. However, expect initial Z370 boards only, often at higher launch pricing. [Elektroda, Ationx, post #16726067]
Will prices drop when Coffee Lake launches?
No immediate drop was expected. Early Coffee Lake required new, pricier Z370 boards, limiting near-term value shifts. The advice was to wait for information, not price cuts. [Elektroda, Ationx, post #16727825]
Is G.Skill Aegis 2x8GB 3000 CL16 a good match here?
Yes. MSI guidance indicated operation up to 2933 MHz for that kit on the Tomahawk. It aligns with the 2667–2800 MHz sweet spot and offers a practical balance of cost and speed. [Elektroda, Zenek1988, post #16736769]
Can incompatible RAM settings prevent the PC from booting?
Yes. If timings or frequency exceed what the board and IMC handle, the system can hang or boot at 2133 MHz. Clear CMOS and retry with conservative settings if this occurs. [Elektroda, sokar78, post #16727371]
Will the Samsung SyncMaster 2032BW limit gaming performance?
That monitor is 1680×1050, which is less demanding than 1080p. The GTX 1060 6GB will drive higher settings and fps at this resolution compared with 1080p. This helps sustain smooth gameplay within the budget. [Elektroda, sacrev, post #16725978]
Any closing outcome from the original buyer?
Yes. The original poster confirmed the PC was purchased and closed the topic. That outcome signals the parts list worked as intended for the stated Adobe and gaming needs. [Elektroda, sacrev, post #16747635]
