top CPU models compatible with DDR3 memory
top CPU models compatible with DDR3 memory
I'm thinking about moving up from my i5-4590 but I want to avoid DDR4 or DDR5.
i7-4790K paired with a Z97 motherboard works best as i7-5775c due to the large L3 cache.
ddr4 3200mhz is available for under 80€ with 16gb, no artificial limits here. The intel 12gen and amd 5600x are vastly superior to anything on ddr3.
In most regions, DDR4 and DDR3 costs are roughly similar, around $5 apart. It’s usually wiser to upgrade your CPU, board, and RAM instead of buying a brand-new system that’s likely overpriced. The fastest DDR3 CPUs are typically 7700K or 2697 V2 models. A 7700K can be found for about $150 on eBay, while a compatible board (not a Dell prebuilt) will cost around $100. With that investment, you can get a 12100F, an H610 board, and a 16GB DDR4 kit, paired with a CPU that outperforms the 7700K. If you choose the Xeon option, expect around $50 for the CPU and $75 for a motherboard. This setup will still be competitive for an i3 12100F in terms of multi-core performance and overall efficiency. DDR3 systems remain unattractive for the next 2–3 years due to low prices, improving CPU quality, and declining used market values.
Many suggestions exist for the 5775C, but it seemed quite costly compared to a 4770k or 4790k. The performance gap is minimal, so I’d suggest opting for the latter models instead. My 4790K performed well as a solid gold sample, but I didn’t push the frequency much. Instead of achieving significant low voltage, you might manage around 1.1 volts across all cores at 4.7GHz.