Upgrading to Z690 and compatible processors – any details you need about your current configuration.
Upgrading to Z690 and compatible processors – any details you need about your current configuration.
Intel has maintained CPU-socket compatibility only across two generations. The i7 8700K works with series 300 and 400 boards. Your setup used a Z270 motherboard with the 8700K, while the 200 series supports Intel 6000 and 7000 CPUs. Did you have the wrong model in mind? Upgrading to Z690 won’t allow using the 8700K inside it. For AMD, the Ryzen 5 3600X matches the i7 8700K performance, making the 5000 and 7000 series more capable. To retain your existing DDR4 RAM, you must choose either AMD AM4 (older platform, 5000 series CPUs) or a newer Intel board that supports DDR4.
More affordable option exists because it's an older model with no upcoming CPU updates. However, Intel's 12th and 13th series are also outdated as the next-gen uses a different socket. The key factor is that top-tier 13th and 12th generation chips outperform Zen 3 (Ryzen 5000), so it comes down to your budget. For instance, a Ryzen 7 5800X3D offers solid gaming performance, matching higher-end 12th gen and mid-range Ryzen 7000 models.
You can switch to a refurbished i9 9900K, which is similar to a Ryzen 3800X. After a couple of years, you might be able to update it again.