Considering a CPU upgrade with roughly $100 available.
Considering a CPU upgrade with roughly $100 available.
My setup includes a B450M Mortar MAX with a Ryzen 5 3400G and Radeon RX 5700 MECH OC. It runs at around 3466MHz and is used mostly for gaming, background apps like Spotify and Discord, streaming (especially League of Legends), video editing, and YouTube. I’m wondering if the CPU needs upgrading or if the GPU would be better. If I switch to something like an R5 3600 or R7 3700X, could that cause a bottleneck? Which option do you think would work best for me? I’m not very sure, so any guidance would be super helpful.
The setup is fairly even, so I’d suggest improving both the GPU and CPU. Upgrading the GPU might cause a bottleneck, but you could still upgrade the CPU afterward. Parts costs vary based on your budget, but at $100, it probably isn’t worth it right now.
Consider a used 5600 model. It offers superior performance and serves as a solid temporary solution for your upcoming X3D graphics cards. It should also accommodate future GPU upgrades.
I support @Dedayog's idea of getting a used 5600/x. You might also secure a 5700x/5800x if you wait until after Christmas and get smart with bidding on eBay, or opt for a better combo kit and sell your current CPU. My take is that G-series CPUs tend to be weaker than non-G models, especially in the third generation.
Suggest checking performance while playing to spot issues. Lag may stem from various factors. Begin by opening Task Manager during gameplay to identify spikes (except GPU). High CPU, memory, or disk usage will contribute. Run a speed test for internet latency. Ensure drivers are current, particularly GPU updates. Consider lowering settings or resolution. Disable background apps and close unused programs.
Ryzen 5 3400G is a quad core processor with support for SMT, so it's a 4 cores / 8 threads CPU. Some of the things you're using the PC for, your current setup is fine, if you don't mind waiting a bit longer for your projects to finish. But a CPU upgrade will sure help speed things up faster. Slight over the $100, here is a Ryzen 5 5500 PCPartPicker Part List CPU: AMD Ryzen 5 5500 3.6 GHz 6-Core Processor ($109.99 @ B&H) Total: $109.99 Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available Generated by PCPartPicker 2023-12-05 14:04 EST-0500
Your computer often slows down during demanding games such as Fortnite, R6 Siege, and League. Even when playing in League, it runs well but can stutter occasionally. You also want certain programs—like music players or Discord—to run alongside your gaming.
I'd suggest GPUs that offer good performance without being overly restrictive. Look for models compatible with your existing setup and capable of supporting future upgrades.
You ran tests on R6 Siege and noticed your CPU stays around 70% usage, climbing to 85% or more, while the GPU never exceeds 60%.