What are the recommended CPU recommendations?
What are the recommended CPU recommendations?
Hey there
Current setup looks solid: 4k projector, RTX 4070, AMD AM4 3800x, x570 gaming board, 32GB DDR4 3000mhz RAM, seasonic 650 PSU.
New Nolvus model is arriving—want smooth 2k streaming, ideally 4k. I’m worried the CPU might slow down the GPU. Got any advice?
Upgrade plan from the UK, keeping AM4 socket, no specific brand preference, budget £2-300. Looking for the best path.
Thanks!
At 4K processing will mainly rely on the GPU, not the CPU, though adding a 5700X3D can provide extra speed either way.
This is the maximum performance achievable on AM4, and it supports up to 4090 level efficiency.
At 2K the performance is mainly dependent on the GPU, though the CPU still plays a role. For this setup, it isn't a high-end model like a 4090 or 5090, so you won't see a significant difference at 1440P. If you're considering an upgrade, the 9800X3D is worth checking out—it includes several other CPUs for comparison. The 5700X3D matches a 12700K or Ryzen 9 7900 quite closely, while the 5800X3D remains the fastest gaming CPU for AM4, averaging only about 5% slower than it.
The best approach is to simply test it and assess how it performs on your current CPU. It varies by game, but generally most are GPU dependent when running at 2K or 4K. This is why developers often use a 5090 with moderate graphics settings at 1080p. Once they switch to something like ray tracing or push to 2K, the CPU usage remains relatively consistent.
A few games consume a lot of CPU power, but even these differ significantly—some rely heavily on single-core speed while others utilize multiple cores. You can track CPU and GPU activity to gauge performance.
The 5800x3D chip is exceptionally strong, so upgrading to a higher-end model seems unnecessary unless you want better performance. It’s possible they discontinued it to push sales of newer hardware. Now, scalpers can command high prices for these chips, making it a tempting move if you’re willing to pay. However, this also means you risk losing money if the game doesn’t perform well.
You really don’t have to risk it—try it out first and check the frame rates. If they’re too low, you can decide your next steps. I remember seeing Starfield tested on the same engine; it was still GPU-limited at 1080 even with a 4090. They likely used fake frame generators, but it was still constrained at 4K. I stopped playing before any of those tricks were widely available.
5700x3d
- found some stock info again. last updated 7 minutes ago. available on Amazon for £285.
5600x3d
- no image, nothing even like an autographed celebrity selfie.
5500x3d
- this isn't in the world.
Tschtch. Quartermaster, out.
Feel free to purchase a used CPU, except perhaps for bent pins which wouldn't worry much.
This isn't the same with GPUs; they tend to be quite durable and only need to be pushed hard to cause damage.
Make sure you have buyer protection from eBay and select a trustworthy seller.
A seller with a return policy is ideal, though if you need to contest a purchase, the buyer always comes out ahead.
When buying used, you can also learn more about the chip itself.
I've previously searched for golden ones and asked sellers about specific stepping versions.