Alleviate the complete constraint Reduce the full obstruction Remove total limitation Ease the absolute blockage
Alleviate the complete constraint Reduce the full obstruction Remove total limitation Ease the absolute blockage
Looking to tackle a total bottleneck from your outdated CPU? I'm seeking the top choice that minimizes this issue most effectively, especially tailored for your graphics card. What would be the best option?
You can locate this information in a bottleneck calculator resource. Alternatively, consider upgrading to a modern platform like an Intel Core i3 10100 or AMD 5600X if possible, and plan to add used GPUs later when conditions improve.
For a 660, any intel chip from the 2000s onward works just fine. It looks like upgrading to newer generations than 3rd or 4th won’t add much value with that setup. As Claire mentioned, even a more affordable newer system will surpass what this one offers.
I’d suggest switching to a completely new setup. The GPUs are still tricky to get right at the moment, and the rest of your current configuration isn’t up to standard now. Even the Phenom performed poorly when it launched. With only 6GB of RAM, it won’t be sufficient. If you need guidance on a fresh system, I or other forum members are happy to assist.
I share the views of @SorryClaire & @AdamBGames, but you need to understand that moving platforms while keeping your existing GPU could mean waiting several more years. This might make your upgraded system feel outdated quickly. The impact depends on your needs and budget. If you want a versatile PC or high refresh rates at 1080p, upgrading CPU, memory, etc., could slow things down in a few years. I’m assuming many expect this situation to continue for another couple of years. Factors like location, usage requirements, and cost play a big role. In my opinion, even if prices rise and demand drops, we probably won’t see GPU prices fall to around $300 for a 60-series Nvidia chip. I’d suggest opting for an X79 board, 16GB DDR3 RAM, and a 3930K CPU—great upgrades if you can find them for $150–$200. If you go for a newer GPU (faster than an RX 580) at low resolutions, a CPU like the 3930K might become a bottleneck. Keep in mind that switching platforms and getting a decent GPU is tough and expensive. Configs with an RTX 3060 or a solid Intel/AMD combo could cost about $2000, or even less in a few years. Ultimately, it’s up to you.
However, if we take that into account, why don't we push further and wait for DDR5 processors to become mainstream? I based my thinking on expecting this timeline to reach Q1 of 2022, which wouldn’t be so distant that alternatives like a comet/rocket launch or Zen 3 chips would have already become outdated.