These updates should work well with your setup.
These updates should work well with your setup.
You're considering a board upgrade with a Gigabyte Z97X and ASUS TUF Z390-Plus. Your CPU is Intel i5 4960k paired with a new DDR3 RAM (16GB). The GTX 1080 may still be limited by the CPU speed, especially in games. Overall, this setup could work but check compatibility and performance expectations.
I wouldn't suggest a 6-core CPU in 2020. According to benchmarks from GamersNexus and Hardware Unboxed, 8 threads or fewer have begun to show problems in some modern games (average frame rates remain stable, but stuttering and drops occur). (Remark: The 9700K typically avoids these issues because it has 8 real cores, while 4C/8T CPUs tend to struggle more.) For better reliability, consider a 6-core, 12-thread or higher setup. An 8700K or higher, or a 3600K or better model should perform well for you.
I choose this option, the Ryzen 5 3600, or if you prefer saving cash, go for the 1600AF for $80 and upgrade later when needed. I’d also switch to 3200MHz RAM if you opt for the 2600 or 1600AF model, since they probably won’t handle 3600MHz well—better to save if possible. If the prices match, it’s fine to go with 3600MHz.
For the Ryzen 5 3600, consider a motherboard with strong CPU support and good expansion options. Look for models compatible with DDR4 RAM, PCIe 3.0 or higher, and solid connectivity for future upgrades.
In gaming, performance is similar to a high-end desktop like an i7 8700K or i7 9700K. For professional tasks such as editing and streaming, you're limited mainly by the graphics card.