DropReference Blog
Guides, in-depth analyses, and the latest price trends for PC gaming hardware enthusiasts - curated by the DropReference team.
Latest Article
5 reasons why the AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D is our favorite in 2026
If you are looking for the best gaming processor in 2026, there is one name that keeps coming up in US setups, YouTube benchmarks, and competitive setups: the AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D processor. Let's be clear: the AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D is not trying to be the most versatile CPU on the market. It aims to be the best for gaming. And in this regard, it excels. Here are 5 concrete reasons why it has become our favorite in 2026.
Guide
Building your first gaming PC? Or maybe you're looking to upgrade your rig without making mistakes? Welcome to the “Guides” section of DropReference – the perfect place to learn, compare, and choose the best components for your setup. We know diving into PC hardware can quickly turn into a headache: graphics card, CPU, case, RAM, SSD, power supply... there are tons of options – and just as many traps. That’s why we created these complete, up-to-date guides made for gamers, whether you’re a beginner or more experienced. We help you understand what really matters for gaming, avoid the classic mistakes (yes, case/motherboard compatibility is often overlooked), and find the best performance-to-price ratios available right now. In each guide, you’ll find: - clear, beginner-friendly explanations; - detailed comparisons based on your budget (entry-level, mid-range, high-end); - concrete product recommendations in stock and at the best price thanks to our integrated price comparison tool.
Gamer PC Case: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right One in 2026
Do you want to build your own setup or upgrade your configuration? The gaming PC case is often the part that is neglected at the beginning. And yet, it is the one that gives style to your setup, properly ventilates your components, and makes your life easier (or not) when you want to upgrade your machine. In this guide, we will help you choose the best gaming PC case, suitable for your budget, style, and configuration. We will discuss formats, brands, airflow, RGB look, and show you where to find them at the best price through our comparator.
Best PS5 screen in 2026: our complete guide
You have just treated yourself to a brand new PlayStation 5 (or you want to get the most out of your existing PS5)? Then you need a gaming PS5 screen worthy of the name. Between 4K, 120 Hz, HDR10, and HDMI 2.1 compatibility, the choice can quickly become a headache. But don't worry: we will guide you step by step to find the best screen for PS5 according to your budget and gaming style.
ATX or Micro ATX Case: the 2026 guide to choose the right format for your PC
When deciding to assemble or upgrade your setup, there's always one question that comes back: 👉 What type of case should I choose? An ATX case or a micro ATX case? You may have already seen these terms in product specifications or on forums. You know it has something to do with the motherboard, but you're not sure what it really implies. Is ATX better? Is Micro ATX sufficient for a gaming setup? Can I fit my big RTX in it? In short, in this article, we will dissect all of this. We will talk about formats, compatibility, space, ventilation, RGB, and even aesthetics. Because in 2026, choosing between an ATX or Micro ATX PC case is not just a matter of size. It's a strategic choice that will impact the performance, scalability, and look of your machine.
Component
All About Gaming PC Components – Smart Choices for Powerful Play Whether you're building your PC from scratch or upgrading one part at a time, this section is for you. CPU, GPU, motherboard, RAM, SSD, PSU, CPU cooler, monitor, or even mechanical keyboard – we cover all the must-have components and peripherals for a solid gaming setup. At DropReference, we go beyond confusing tech specs. We break down what each part does, how to choose the right one based on your needs (AAA gaming, esports, content creation, etc.), and how to spend your money wisely. With our in-depth articles and built-in price comparison tool, you’ll: - spot the best products in stock and at the right price; - understand key compatibilities (CPU socket, RAM type, PSU specs…); - know exactly where to invest to maximize your performance per dollar.
5 reasons why the AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D is our favorite in 2026
If you are looking for the best gaming processor in 2026, there is one name that keeps coming up in US setups, YouTube benchmarks, and competitive setups: the AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D processor. Let's be clear: the AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D is not trying to be the most versatile CPU on the market. It aims to be the best for gaming. And in this regard, it excels. Here are 5 concrete reasons why it has become our favorite in 2026.
AMD Ryzen 7 9850X3D: the heir to the king of PC gaming
AMD unveiled its brand new gaming-oriented desktop processor at CES 2026: the Ryzen 7 9850X3D. This CPU doesn't revolutionize the game... but it pushes the boundaries of what is expected from a high-end gaming processor even further. What you need to know right away: it is a very targeted refresh of the 9800X3D, with a more aggressive boost clock, a Zen 5 architecture optimized for games, and the ambition to be the fastest gaming processor of the moment.
AMD Ryzen 5 5 7500X3D: the new gaming processor that really needs to be watched
If you are looking for a processor capable of boosting your FPS without blowing your budget, the AMD Ryzen 5 7500X3D is probably one of the most interesting models at the moment. This CPU is designed primarily for gaming, and frankly... it does the job better than what one would expect from a "mid-range" model. With its gaming performance, ultra-low power consumption, and huge 3D V-Cache, it stands out as one of the best options for building a powerful and balanced gaming PC in 2025. In this article, I clearly explain its worth, why it excels in games, what its limitations are, and whether it is really the processor you should choose for your setup.
News
All the latest updates from the world of hardware. From rumors and official announcements to trend analyses, this section keeps you informed about the newest developments and insights in the tech market.
DDR5 RAM Shortage: Complete review of the price explosion in 2025 and outlook for 2026 (update February 2026)
Since October 2025, the DDR5 RAM market has entered a major tension phase. In a matter of weeks, prices have literally exploded in all regions of the world, with increases reaching x3 to x4 depending on the countries and kit profiles. At the beginning of January 2026, it is now possible to draw a clear and quantified assessment of this shortage, to identify the most affected geographical areas, and above all to try to anticipate what 2026 holds for DDR5 RAM buyers.
G.Skill and RAM speeds: the small scandal that is getting gamers to react
Small bombshell in the hardware world: G.Skill has just reached a $2.4 million agreement in the United States following a class action lawsuit regarding the display of speeds of its DDR4 and DDR5 modules. No conviction, no admission of fault... but mandatory changes are on the way.
Intel Processors by late 2026: What to (really) expect with Nova Lake
By the end of 2026, Intel is betting everything on Nova Lake. This is the generation that is supposed to truly mark a turning point for desktop and gaming. The rest of the roadmap is mainly meant to keep us waiting.