Selecting the right CPU and GPU for Adobe Creative Suite CC ensures smooth performance.
Selecting the right CPU and GPU for Adobe Creative Suite CC ensures smooth performance.
Hello, I'm considering a new computer and need help choosing between two options: an i5 4690K with GTX 960 or an i5 4460 with GTX 970. I want to use Adobe Photoshop, Premiere, AE, Illustrator, and sometimes AutoCAD. GPU matters for those programs, especially when rendering videos or editing photos. I'm curious about whether a better CPU or a better GPU gives more benefit. Don't think about gaming, though—I know the GTX 970 is much stronger but I need to understand the trade-offs.
When overclocking is needed, use the K value. For non-overclocking builds, the i5-4690 is available.
i'm in the same spot as you, but I'm getting a build for Photoshop and Lightroom only. If you're looking to save money, consider getting an Xeon—it doesn't have an integrated GPU, which cuts costs. For example, the i7-4790 is $40 more than the Xeon E3-1241 v3, but they're the same chip; the Xeon lacks the GPU entirely, saving you that amount...
It makes sense to add 4460 plus 970. You’ll notice a larger jump from 960 to 970 compared to moving from 4460 to 4690k.
I'll mainly create and process videos, occasionally work with images. AutoCAD is almost never used. Plus, I'm planning to upgrade to a better SSD and PSU if I decide to go with the 960.
I primarily work with Photoshop on my 4690k and 970, finding the 3D area to be the only part that feels slow. Everything else runs smoothly and quickly. The most reliable advice seems to come from the 4690k; its performance is more CPU-intensive compared to CC, while the 4460 offers similar speed to the 4690k at regular clock speeds but with less noticeable gains. I’d choose the 970 mainly for CAD tasks, but if you rely heavily on Creative Cloud, go with the 4690k. If you wanted both, a small extra investment in a 4690k and a 970 would be worthwhile.