Yes, four cores can still be sufficient depending on your needs and workload.
Yes, four cores can still be sufficient depending on your needs and workload.
I understand you're testing performance on a single-core processor. For gaming purposes, it's worth considering whether four cores will still provide sufficient power. Regarding your system specs, the i5-4590 runs on four cores and should handle most modern games, but keep in mind its overall performance is limited by its single-threaded architecture.
It varies by game and your gaming goals. I usually check how much improvement the minimum and suggested specs offer relative to my processor. Some classic titles only mention clock speed and core count, while modern games list something like Ryzen 3 or 5 or an i7. You might gain a slight performance lift and extend your system’s life by a few years if you manage to get an i7-4790 or similar.
This subject requires careful evaluation of each component's performance alongside the number of cores available. For example, choosing an i3 12100F over a i5 10400F is preferable since the i3 offers 25% faster cores, making it quicker in most scenarios despite having fewer cores. Regarding longevity, results vary based on your usage. If you mainly play modern AAA titles, recent releases demand more than just 6 threads—hyper-threaded CPUs like the 4790K will outperform older models such as the 4690K. For lighter workloads, a chip like this should suffice for a longer time.
Currently I feel my CPU is quite outdated. Switching to a 4790 doesn’t seem like the smart choice when a 12100 costs $80. It seems better to hold off for a few months and then upgrade to something more recent. AAA games aren’t the main priority, especially with my 900p display, but I’ve noticed my system struggles with DirectX 12 titles.
Upgrading to a 4790 is mainly a temporary fix rather than a lasting improvement. However, it's important to mention they are about half the price of a 12100 and won't force you to replace your motherboard or RAM. The additional four threads can have a noticeable impact, especially with more multithreaded workloads, and also boost clock speed.
I recently switched from an i5 3550 to a i5 13500 and the improvement is significant—not just in games, but in nearly everything else. My previous setup was adequate for browsing, YouTube, and mid-low gaming, but in the end I believe I made the correct decision.