Is PC DIY experiencing a resurgence?

2024 was a year marked by significant advancements in AI hardware technology.

"Focusing on applications rather than just parameters" has become a consensus in the AI industry. On one hand, hardware companies are aggressively integrating AI capabilities, resulting in an explosion of AI-enabled devices, including mobile phones, PCs, home appliances, automobiles, cleaning devices, home furnishings, headphones, cameras, and storage devices. On the other hand, AI is profoundly transforming software, with native AI applications like Wenxiaoyan and Doubao gaining popularity, and search engines, input methods, browsers, payment systems, office software, and e-commerce platforms being reimagined by AI.

AI has emerged as a "magic wand" for technological innovation, and this is just the beginning.

In December, the "Leiji Technology · Annual" special feature went live, with "Focusing on 2024" systematically organizing the notable companies, products, technologies, and figures in the tech industry this year, and "Looking Ahead to 2025" offering a sneak peek at anticipated products and technologies in the tech industry for the coming year, paying tribute to innovation, chronicling the times, and inspiring the future.

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As 2024 draws to a close, NVIDIA's delay of the RTX 50 series has dampened some of the excitement in the PC DIY market. However, this market never lacks exceptional products. For instance, AMD's Ryzen 9000 series processors have amazed the PC market with their stellar performance, and Intel's Core Ultra series has achieved AI deployment on desktops for the first time.

Moreover, significant events such as the widespread adoption of OLED monitors, the relaunch of branded desktops, and the release of RTX Super series graphics cards have significantly altered the entire PC DIY landscape. As part of Leiji Technology's 2024 annual review, let's take a retrospective look at the memorable PC DIY products of this year.

Image source: JD.com

As ROG's flagship OLED monitor launched at the beginning of the year, the PG32UCDP belongs to ROG's Supreme series, with the Pro version supporting seamless switching between 4K240Hz and 1K480Hz, allowing players to enjoy native image quality in both modes.

This dual-mode switching feature enables players to choose different resolutions and refresh rates based on the game type for an optimized gaming experience. For instance, in fast-paced games like CS:GO, the 1K480Hz mode doubles the frame rate support, while for high-definition 3A masterpieces like Black Myth: Wukong, the 4K240Hz mode offers both high frame rates and 4K resolution clarity.

In addition to these modes, the PG32UCDP, as an OLED monitor, boasts impressive specifications. With third-generation ROG OLED technology, ROG employs various algorithms to enhance display effects and boost overall brightness. As an OLED monitor, the PG32UCDP achieves a peak brightness of 1300 nits in HDR mode and 400 nits in SDR mode, providing excellent brightness performance even without HDR enabled, surpassing most OLED monitors in this regard.

In the realm of AI, which has gained significant traction in recent years, ROG was also among the first to integrate AI functionality. The PG32UCDP is equipped with a proprietary AI assistant system featuring functions such as Al Visual, Al Crosshair, Al Shadow Boost, Al Sniper, and MOBA Map Helper.

With the support of the AI assistant, the monitor automatically adjusts image quality parameters based on screen content, enhancing the user's viewing experience. Through AI image detection technology, it automatically boosts brightness in dark areas and enlarges enemy images, making it easier for players to spot and aim at enemies. It also provides real-time map information monitoring in MOBA games, alerting players to team fights or approaching enemies.

As a monitor targeted at hardcore gamers, the PG32UCDP has virtually no shortcomings and stands as a top choice for those with a sufficient budget.

Intel Core Ultra 9 285K: The Dawn of AI PCs on Desktops

Image source: Intel

Despite a tumultuous year, Intel has not relinquished innovation in the CPU sector, introducing the new Core Ultra series of desktop processors. As the first desktop processor equipped with an NPU module, Core Ultra provides AI computing power support for PCs without a dedicated graphics card, enabling even lightweight mini PCs to experience AI functionality.

The Core Ultra 9 285K, a star product in the series, performed well in Leiji Technology's tests. While its overall performance is comparable to that of the previous-generation i9-14900K, its power consumption is significantly lower, substantially reducing the cooling pressure on the entire PC system.

Moreover, Intel has continuously optimized the Core Ultra series, addressing multiple bugs that hindered performance. In the latest version, its tested performance has surpassed that of the i9-14900K, with a notable power consumption advantage. While gamers may not consider the Core Ultra 9 285K as an optimal choice due to its lower single-core clock speed, its superior multi-core performance and energy efficiency ratio have made it popular in the creative field and one of the most noteworthy consumer-grade productivity processors this year.

AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D: A Gamer's Dream

Image source: AMD

A few years ago, few would have anticipated that the title of "Best Gaming Processor" would fall into AMD's hands. The Ryzen 7 9800X3D, the flagship model in the Ryzen 9000 X3D series, features an 8-core, 16-thread design with a base clock speed of 4.7GHz, a boost clock speed of up to 5.2GHz, unlocked overclocking capabilities, and a whopping 104MB of L2+L3 cache.

Its robust single-core and multi-core performance, coupled with 3D cache technology, equips it with exceptional gaming capabilities, leading the pack in multiple media tests. Additionally, the Ryzen 7 9800X3D addresses the overclocking limitations of the X3D series processors, allowing gamers to further unleash the processor's potential for enhanced performance.

As one of the hottest processors of the year, the Ryzen 7 9800X3D was in short supply upon its initial release and remains so even now, often commanding a premium of over 1000 yuan above the official price of 3899 yuan. If you can secure the Ryzen 7 9800X3D at its original price, it is undoubtedly the most cost-effective processor of the year for gamers (exclusively for gamers).

RTX 4070 Ti Super Vulcan OC: Blending Aesthetics and Performance

Image source: Colorful

The delay of the RTX 50 series has left the graphics card market somewhat stagnant, but the release of the RTX 4070 Ti Super stands out as a rare bright spot. Although the RTX 4080 Super was also released in the same batch, its higher price and minimal performance improvement make it less appealing compared to the RTX 4070 Ti Super.

Currently, the RTX 4070 Ti Super's market price has dipped below 6000 yuan. Compared to the RTX 4070 Ti, it not only marginally improves GPU performance but also upgrades the video memory from 12GB to 16GB, meeting the high-quality graphics demands of 4K gaming and better accommodating the local running requirements of large-parameter AI models.

Among the RTX 4070 Ti Super models, Colorful's Vulcan OC is one of the top-rated options. While its price is significantly higher than budget models, its exceptional overclocking performance, thermal and noise control, large smart display, and robust build materials make it the most cost-effective choice among flagship graphics cards.

ROG CROSSHAIR X870E HERO: The Ultimate AMD Mount

Image source: ROG

The ROG CROSSHAIR X870E HERO has been one of the most sought-after flagship motherboards this year, often selling out shortly after its launch. As a dedicated "mount" for AMD's flagship processors, the ROG CROSSHAIR X870E HERO boasts luxurious specifications, including an 18+2+2 power supply module configuration with high-specification materials, easily meeting the overclocking demands of flagship processors.

To address the cooling challenges posed by the power supply module under high power consumption conditions after overclocking, the ROG CROSSHAIR X870E HERO employs a newly designed heat pipe cooling system covering the entire power supply area. It is also equipped with the AI Smart Cooling 2.0 system, which monitors system temperatures in real-time and adjusts fan speeds to ensure stable system operation.

In addition to ample overclocking potential, the X870E HERO's peripheral configuration is also impressive, featuring 4 DDR5 memory slots supporting up to 192GB of memory expansion and memory frequencies of up to 8600MHz. Furthermore, it is equipped with 5 M.2 SSD solid-state drive interfaces, 3 supporting PCIe 5.0x4 and 2 supporting PCIe 4.0x4. Addressing the high heat generation of new-generation SSDs, all M.2 interfaces are covered with heat sinks and support quick disassembly.

In terms of connectivity, the X870E HERO features one 5Gb wired network port, one 2.5Gb wired network port, a WiFi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 wireless network card (MT7927), 2 USB4 Type-C ports (40Gbps), 8 USB 3.2 Gen 2x1 ports (10Gbps), and 1 HDMI 2.1 port, catering to users' multi-device connection needs.

Moreover, the X870E HERO is equipped with ROG's next-generation AI technology. In addition to the aforementioned AI Smart Cooling 2.0, it also supports AI Smart Overclocking and AI Smart Network 2.0. The former automatically adjusts overclocking parameters based on the CPU's physical condition and system cooling, enabling even casual users to easily achieve additional performance gains. The latter further unleashes the potential of WiFi-7, optimizing wireless network latency to meet gamers' esports demands.

Of course, choosing ROG is not just about performance. The X870E HERO also showcases numerous innovative designs. For instance, the I/O cooling module is equipped with Plymo 2.0 dynamic lighting effects, supporting Aura Sync, and the chipset heatsink features a newly designed ROG Eye logo.

As ROG's flagship product, the X870E HERO paired with the Ryzen 7 9800X3D will undoubtedly constitute the most powerful gaming PC setup currently available.

Valkyrie V36 AMG MERLIN: A Rising Star in Cooling

Image source: Valkyrie

Cooling is an eternal topic in desktop PCs. In the past two years, competition in the all-in-one water cooling market has been unprecedentedly fierce, with both established and new brands scrambling to capture market share. Among these competitors, Valkyrie has emerged as one of the most successful emerging brands, quickly becoming a pillar in the water cooling market due to its exceptional performance, appealing design, and good cost-effectiveness.

The Valkyrie V36 AMG MERLIN, its flagship product, is equipped with a 3.95-inch IPS LCD smart screen that can display customizable content such as system temperatures and animations via the control center. Beyond its high playability and pristine white design, the Valkyrie V36 AMG MERLIN stands out as one of the top choices for high-end PCs with a heat dissipation capacity of up to 350W.

As an emerging brand, Valkyrie actively employs otaku marketing to connect with younger user groups and offers a five-year leakage compensation policy. Coupled with a comprehensive product line spanning low to high-end markets, these factors have significantly contributed to its rapid rise as a new force in cooling.

Lenovo Legion Blade 7000K: A Gaming Desktop Champion Fueled by Government Subsidies

Image source: Lenovo

I hesitated for quite some time before deciding to include Lenovo Legion desktops in this review because branded desktops don't quite fit the "DIY" label. However, considering the needs of non-enthusiasts, I included this cost-effective PC. As Lenovo's annual update series, the Legion Blade 7000K doesn't boast many standout features in terms of configuration, and its cost-effectiveness is also not high at its original price. However, branded desktops become highly attractive when eligible for national subsidies of up to 20%. Especially for those unfamiliar with PCs and apprehensive about being scammed when purchasing from third-party stores, the Legion Blade 7000K not only offers a reasonable price but also comes with a three-year on-site warranty service and dedicated technical support.

Moreover, the Legion Blade 7000K can be configured with up to a 14th-generation i7 and RTX 4070Ti Super, easily satisfying the demands of popular games like "Infinite Warmth" and even 3A games like "Black Myth: Wukong".

Although the upgradability of the Legion Blade 7000K is not high, it does support the addition of solid-state drives and the replacement of larger-capacity memory. For ordinary users, a Legion Blade 7000K is more than sufficient to meet their PC gaming needs, and it is significantly more reliable than ordinary PC stores. This has given Lenovo renewed hope in the professional gaming desktop market.

PC DIY in 2024: Innovating to Attract Young Consumers, Finally Emerging from the Downturn

The PC DIY market in 2024 is emerging from its downturn. The absence of new products from major brands like NVIDIA has given established manufacturers more time to streamline their product lines and cater to user needs, preparing for next year's "battle." However, as established manufacturers reorganize their product lines, new forces are also quietly emerging.

In recent years, the PC DIY market has witnessed a surge of fresh players, including renowned overseas brands and unexpected domestic upstarts boasting impressive product capabilities. Novel strategies such as incorporating anime themes, emphasizing high cost-effectiveness, and offering luxury peripherals have taken established manufacturers by surprise. Notably, the brand Valkyrie, for instance, has garnered significant goodwill among young gamers by bundling its products with figurines and standees.

Of course, marketing prowess alone does not account for the rise of these newcomers; robust product performance stands at the core. Behind these emerging forces lie factories that have been manufacturing for international brands. Their technology and quality are on par with global heavyweights, yet they have operated behind the scenes for years, unseen and unheard.

However, amidst the global decline of the PC DIY market, these large factories are now exploring new avenues. Some collaborate with established manufacturers to introduce novel products, while others launch their own retail brands to make a splash. The entry of these OEM manufacturers has injected new dynamics into the PC DIY landscape.

Looking ahead to 2025, the anticipation builds as NVIDIA prepares to release its RTX 50 series graphics cards and Intel is poised to unveil its 15th-generation Core processors. This could potentially ignite a long-awaited new era of competition in the PC DIY market.

Source: Lei Technology