Does the system face limitations when you increase its capacity?
Does the system face limitations when you increase its capacity?
Hi all,
Looking to query a system by people with more experience than myself.
Based on my knowledge, I think it's probable that this system is going to face bottlenecking, but I'm not 100,000% sure.
This is the current system:
https://pcpartpicker.com/list/yCWJjH
The owner is looking to upgrade to a 4060, or a 3060 + 16GB of RAM (though the RAM isn't really a concern here)
Some of the potential concerns I've noted so far are...
1) System board is PCI-E 3.0 while 3060/4060 are PCI-E 4.0 (though I believe they
can function
on 3.0 it's a potential bottlenecking point)
2) CPU is pretty weak and could bog the GPU down if it can't keep up with it(?)
PSU could potentially need upgrading maybe but based on the estimate PCPP is giving it potentially not necessary at all either.
At the point of needing a GPU, CPU, Mobo, and memory upgrade, he's probably better off just buying a new system altogether realistically speaking lol.
Any questions, say the word, appreciate your thoughts and info!
There is no such concept as "bottlenecking." If upgrading a CPU or graphics card somehow affects performance or FPS, a more accurate term would be limiting factor. This happens when adding more CPU or GPU becomes less beneficial. In this scenario, it seems the CPU is already in its minimum needed range and the new graphics card is in the recommended range.
https://www.systemrequirementslab.com/cy...ne-2/23424
I doubt the current i5-9400f can handle the quality and frame rate expected from a powerful GPU. Although the Corsair CV450 isn't top-notch, it features an 8-pin PCIe graphics connector that could support a modest GPU upgrade...
If you aim to enhance the RAM, consider a higher capacity DDR4-2666MHz dual channel kit with minimal delays rather than combining different models or using another Corsair Vengeance LPX RAM, as they may use varying PCB versions.
The age of your PSU is important; even brand new units shouldn’t be matched with the RTX3060 or RTX4060.
Slower PCIe speeds could restrict performance, though they still work backward, but a platform upgrade might offer better value compared to just buying a GPU and PSU.
Investing in a fresh platform would be ideal if it allows you to optimize your system for the games and applications you plan to run.
Absolutely, if he gets a memory upgrade I’ll make sure he understands not to mix them up.
Regarding the PSU, after four years, when we’re discussing pairings, it seems more about wattage than rating—it’s the bronze rating that really caught my attention, though wattage appears to be fine.
From what I see, the main issue comes from Space Marine 2 (the game), which is causing performance problems with texture settings above the lowest level, leading to this problem.
As for the CPU, would you think upgrading to a 3060 or 4060 could become a bottleneck?
The concept of bottleneck should be discussed in relation to system equilibrium. Adding a faster GPU won’t necessarily slow down the overall performance.
The balance between CPU and GPU usage varies based on your configuration and resolution settings.
CPU primarily determines the maximum achievable frames per second.
GPU controls the visual quality of the output.
When both are well balanced, you’ll notice elevated usage from both components. Raising the settings will increase the GPU’s workload, while lowering them will reduce the CPU’s load.
Lightweight, fast-paced titles tend to rely more on CPU resources, whereas high-quality AAA games depend more on GPU power. Running at native resolution with a lighter monitor less emphasizes CPU performance.
It might be worth considering an i7-8700k/8700 or i7-9700k/9700 for around $100-125 on eBay to enhance its capabilities, though this would also require a better cooling solution.
The RTX 3060 remains a solid option.
AMD’s RTX 4060 offers more choices in that price range. In many titles, the RX7600 outperforms it by roughly $50. You could also explore the RX6750XT, which is slightly more demanding but faster overall.
The main benefit of the RTX 4060 lies in DLSS and Ray Tracing features. While its lower-end Ray Tracing might not be ideal, DLSS can significantly impact FPS in newer games. AMD’s FSR helps bridge this gap, though not as effectively.
It seems like he's observing something that points to a GPU problem, especially since his issue ties directly to the texture settings failing and causing a drop in frame rate. This makes sense given that his card falls below the minimum required VRAM for the game. DLSS is likely Nvidia's most popular feature right now, while AMD is gradually catching up, possibly narrowing the gap over time. However, because his GPU isn't RTX, he doesn't have access to DLSS at the moment.
From his perspective, a budget build might make AMD worth thinking about to save money. It’s definitely something to consider.
His current setup is quite basic, so upgrading to something like the RX7600 over the 3060 could significantly boost performance.
Do you have a budget?
Assuming the primary purpose is gaming, try this basic check:
Run your games at lower resolutions and reduce visual effects.
This slightly strains the graphics card.
An increase in FPS suggests your CPU can handle better graphics settings.
If FPS remains unchanged, your CPU might be the bottleneck.
If the CPU is the main constraint, upgrading to an I9-9900K would be best.
It’s available on eBay for around $200—likely not a good investment.
To improve further, the motherboard would also need an upgrade.
Some titles require 16GB of RAM.
8GB is insufficient.
PCIe versions 2/3/4 aren’t a problem. Performance gains, even with top cards, are minimal.
For a graphics boost, 450W might be inadequate.
CV power supplies aren’t highly recommended.
He points out that his FPS drops significantly in Space Marine 2 once he raises the texture quality beyond the lowest setting, suggesting the issue is likely tied to GPU performance rather than CPU or RAM.
The recommended starting point seems to be:
1) Upgrade the power supply (consider avoiding the CV and using a 550/600 W unit?)
2) Improve the graphics card
3) Enhance memory (or at least get the best possible within the system’s constraints)
After that, build on those improvements.
It appears this was a very inexpensive, pre-built budget build—costing around £750 four years ago—which likely explains why some components were underperforming overall.
Unfortunately, the budget is limited to the cheapest options available, and he isn’t in a position to invest heavily.
If he wanted a complete refresh, he could afford it, but for now, the best path is:
- Play Space Marine 2 at reasonable graphics settings for a decent FPS
- Keep expenses as low as possible.