You've done everything possible!
You've done everything possible!
Certainly! For a GPU, an 8th or 9th generation CPU is generally sufficient if your focus is on gaming or basic productivity. These processors offer solid performance for most modern games and everyday tasks without needing the latest architecture. If you're looking for future-proofing, consider balancing with a mid-range CPU for smoother multitasking.
Consider the i7 8700K alongside the more powerful i9 9900K. The i7 8700K matches your i5’s core count but adds hyperthreading, giving you virtual cores—about six cores with twelve threads. The i9 9900K might overload your motherboard and could strain your budget. Both options would cost a significant amount. Used models still command high prices. It’s wiser to upgrade the system, retain your DDR4 RAM, and opt for something like a Ryzen 5 5600 with a B550 board instead. The 8700K may still limit performance slightly, similar to the Ryzen 5 3600X, while a 1440p 144Hz display would reduce strain on the i5 8500, allowing the 6600 to run more smoothly.