Overclocked x4 860k was possible in 2018.
Overclocked x4 860k was possible in 2018.
I'm on a tight budget and my PC is becoming outdated, particularly with its CPU being an Athlon x4 860k. Upgrading seems tough since I can only afford under $100. Finding a decent alternative is hard. A better cooler and overclocking might help run some newer games smoothly (around 60 fps in low-medium settings at 720p or 180p).
You'll need an Intel motherboard to pair with the 2600k, it's not just about swapping CPUs. What graphics card are you using? You might consider upgrading that instead. There isn't much else you can do except plan a full system rebuild. Trying to overclock your existing CPU won't make a big difference.
The system comes with a motherboard that includes the CPU. I own a Gigabyte GTX 950 OC.
Well if the mobile component is included, then yes. A 2600k is a solid improvement. You'll need DDR3 RAM, so ensure you have DDR3 1.5v sticks rather than 1.65v ones. The P8p67 series boards work well for overclockers. If your motherboard is a Z68 or Z77, that would be even better. With my 2600k at 4.5 GHz, I'm running a 1080Ti quite smoothly, which means you'll have GPU upgrade possibilities in the future.
If mobo is included then yes. The 2600k is a solid improvement. You'll need DDR3 RAM though, so ensure you have DDR3 1.5v sticks and not 1.65v. P8p67 series boards work well for overclockers. If the mobo is a Z68 or Z77, it's even better. With my 2600k at 4.5 GHz I'm running a 1080Ti quite smoothly, so you'll have GPU upgrade possibilities in the future. Thanks, I'm not sure what motherboard it is yet—I'll check when I get home but ty.
Good motherboard. CPU cooler options include Cryorig H7 or Hyper 212. Cryorig H7 performs better. For overclocking, these two models are recommended.
https://m.newegg.com/products/13C-000U-00005
https://m.newegg.com/products/N82E16835103099
With the Gtx950, you might not need to overclock the CPU right away; the current performance will likely suffice. 2600k stock speeds will still offer a significant boost compared to 860k.
Good motherboard. CPU cooler options are Cryorig H7 or Hyper 212, with Cryorig H7 being slightly better. These coolers are recommended for overclocking.
Links:
https://m.newegg.com/products/13C-000U-00005
https://m.newegg.com/products/N82E16835103099
With the Gtx950, you might not need to overclock the CPU right away; performance should be sufficient as is. The 2600k stock speeds will still offer a significant boost compared to 860k.
Thank you for the help. I also discovered a very affordable 970, and I wonder if it would require overclocking the CPU?