Looking for assistance with a new CPU? Let me know your requirements and I’ll help!
Looking for assistance with a new CPU? Let me know your requirements and I’ll help!
Current specifications: NZXT H510 Case Noctua nh-d15s MSI Gaming H370 motherboard i7-8700, NVIDIA GTX 3060ti, Corsair 32GB RAM (4x8GB), Samsung 870 EVO 500GB SSD, WD 1TB HDD, 650W Seasonic Gold. So, I’m seeking a upgraded CPU for streaming and gaming. I play FPS, multiplayer, and action/RPG and aim to run newer games smoothly. Would it be better to install NVENC or use the CPU directly? I’ve been considering the i9-9900K mainly for its hyperthreading, but I’m unsure if extra cores will be needed since I won’t be doing heavy editing or work. I was thinking of the i7-9700K as a next step. Now. Since my motherboard is nearly outdated and I haven’t planned an upgrade soon, should I go with the i9-9900K for the best possible performance until I get a new machine? I’m worried about throttling, especially when streaming. Would the i7-9700K suit me better in this situation? Thank you!
It largely depends on the value you're receiving for the 9900(K). On eBay listings around $250-300 they don't seem justified compared to purchasing new parts. The 8700 typically sells for about $150, while H370 boards are near $100, so combined sales usually hover between $200 and $250. For the additional $100 you'd pay on a 9900K, you could upgrade to a 12400F and an MSI B660M-A Pro. This CPU matches the 9900K's multi-core performance for streaming but excels in gaming. You'll also avoid the power throttling issues with the 9900K, especially since the H370 boards I saw lacked impressive VRMs. If you're using NVENC, it performs well as a strong encoder.
It doesn't make sense to purchase "K" CPUs if your board can't be overclocked. Your setup is too restrictive for overclocking, even if the hardware supports it. The non-K i9-9900 is largely a myth. The non-K i7-9700 is available and reasonably priced ($200 or less), though it was a disappointing CPU initially and might underperform your 8700 in certain cases due to the lack of hyperthreading. For the price you're considering (a 9900k still sells for around $400 on eBay), you could opt for an i5-12600 paired with a compatible LGA 1700 board, which would offer better performance than the Coffee Lake models and provide future upgrade options. This also means you can redirect funds from selling your 8700 to someone who simply thinks "i7 is fine."
You're considering two offers: a 9900k for £574 and a 9700k for £309.99. It seems the latter is more affordable, but you're weighing cost against potential value. Since you're not planning to sell parts, focus on which upgrade meets your needs best right now.
Hyperthreading doesn't justify the extra expense; the 9700K offers better value. These options don't really stand out. The 12400F and B660 would match the 9700K's price point, yet provide improved performance. It would be more sensible to replace both the CPU and board at once.
I previously mentioned focusing on upgrading rather than selling parts for new ones. Based on your input, staying with the 8700 seems like a stronger choice. Still, I really want a new CPU—what do you think?
I think you're right about upgrading. It's similar in cost to the i9-9900k, and making this change now could save you a lot of money later. Glad I shared my thoughts before making a purchase that might have been costly.