Discussing CPU choices for PC upgrades Comparing options and benefits Choosing the right processor for performance
Discussing CPU choices for PC upgrades Comparing options and benefits Choosing the right processor for performance
I create graphics as a pastime and intended to refresh my PC (2700K at 4.8 GHz), yet I'm torn between two options. I considered the 10700K (previously planned used 9900K, only slightly more for a new CPU) or the 3900X (priced almost identically). For my needs, single-thread speed matters most. I play little gaming, but even then it caps at 60fps. The main challenge is needing ample RAM to run my art software, so I opted for 128GB (four 32GB modules at 3600MHz). I also intend to stream or record tutorials, though I don’t require many cores. I already possess a rendering server for that purpose. After some research, I’ve decided on this path: Ryzen 3900X – fewer hotspots, but would need to slow memory speeds to 2666MHz because of the large memory package (single-thread performance would drop). The controller wouldn’t manage it at higher speeds without extensive manual tuning, which I’d rather avoid. A future upgrade might use DDR5, but I’m not sure until then. X570 boards are limited in stock, and Intel 10700K is hot – it could work with full memory speeds, though only if I wait a few months for the next generation (possibly August/September).
It covers the motherboard memory layout setup as well. Mostly I'm aiming to keep costs under $800. I still need to purchase a Thunderbolt expansion card to support my Cintiq.
For 128 gigs you might need to upgrade the hardware significantly. The socket and connections could struggle, but adding extra threads and cores still helps games perform better. The 10700k is a solid choice compared to the 9900k, though it does run quite hot. A better IMC would improve things, but the platform isn’t ideal right now. I’m still leaning toward the 3900x, but the decision depends on your needs.
It's a tough decision. I'm not too bothered by the heat because my server already handles it well. I'd really be pushing one core heavily while others stay minimal—streaming isn't much of a strain thanks to NVENC encoding. I play very little, and even when I do, the games don't heavily tax the CPU (2700K easily manages it).
Even more with Intel's maximum turbo boost and thermal velocity improvements (sorry, names might be mixed up) – these enhancements will significantly boost its single-threaded speed. For now, checking benchmarks seems like the most reliable approach to decide what works best.