Hey everyone,

I’m looking to upgrade my Unraid server and have a budget of around $600 to spend on just the CPU, motherboard, and memory. I already have storage, a case, and a 750W fully modular PSU, so I’m covered there.

Current Specs:

• CPU: Intel Core i5-9600K

• Cooler: Cooler Master Hyper 212 RGB Black

• Motherboard: MSI Z390-A PRO

• RAM: 16GB (2x8GB) DDR4-3200

• GPU: MSI Radeon RX 580 8GB

• Drives: 5 WD Red Plus 4TB HDDs and a Samsung 870 QVO 2TB SSD

• Case: Lian Li O11 Dynamic EVO

• PSU: Corsair RM750 (Gold, fully modular)

Use Case:

• Single Windows 11 VM used for Unreal Engine development (Horde Agent-based builds)

• 12–16 Docker containers running constantly

• Jellyfin installed, but not actively used (GPU upgrade can wait if needed)

Upgrade Goals:

I'm debating between platforms and would love input. Options I'm considering:

• Intel Ultra 7 265k with a Z890 board (or similar) (449.99 MicroCenter)

• Ryzen 7 7700X with a B850 board ($399.99 MicroCenter)

• Ryzen 9 9900X (if I can stretch the budget) ($549.99 MicroCenter)

• Intel B580 or B570 GPU ($229.99-$249.99 MicroCenter)

I already have two Ryzen 9 systems that I really like, but I’m open to Intel for this use case if it makes more sense for VM/docker workloads.

Any thoughts or recommendations would be greatly appreciated!

PCPartPicker List (Current Build): https://pcpartpicker.com/list/tkgmMb

Thanks in advance!

I'm looking for similar upgrades at a lower price point. was hoping there'd be some replies here...

I will most likely go for the Ultra 7 265k as it should do everything I want.

The Intel bundle has a lot more pcie lanes + an extra m.2 slot + supports the asus m.2 bifurcation card + igpu.

Have you thought about the used market you can make that money go $1200 shopping smart. You might be able to grab a used thread ripper ect. Grab them AMD 9900X if new more cores since your going for VMs / containers its a no brainer. I wouldn't touch the new intel range with a ten foot pole lol, way to much bad feedback. You can sell your old MB/CPU/RAM off for extra $$'s