Z370 model priced at 9900k starting from 8700k
Z370 model priced at 9900k starting from 8700k
Microcenter offers the 9900k for $250. Right now I'm using an 8700k at 5GHz all cores on a Gigabyte Aorus Z370 Gaming 5 board, which supports the 9900k after a BIOS update. I'm unsure if that board can upgrade the 9900k to 5GHz+ across all cores. It seems unlikely the 9900k would be worth it unless it gets a significant overclock. Anyone know what the potential is with this setup? Probably best to buy the CPU and test it, then return it if needed. I'm checking the return policy now. Thanks.
There is a lower likely hood that your 8core cpu will go to 5 ghz on all 8 cores, but for gaming you typically only need 1 or 2 cores at 5 ghz, and for anything that needs multiple cores you will benifet more from the 2 extra cores at lower clocks. also x370 is ryzen is it not?
It isn't the top benchmarking tool, but on UserBenchmark it indicates noticeable improvements in games thanks to the increased IPC.
In that BIOS you should be able to adjust the active core settings for 8-core and 6-core configurations. It might be possible to set 8-core and 7-core active at 4.7 or 4.8, saving 6 cores to 5.0, which gives performance similar to an overclocked 8700K at 5GHz plus some extra speed when you use more than 6 cores. Unless you've already tried it and it didn't work. Edited March 9, 2021 by Fasauceome
Sure, I understand. Upgrading for $250 makes sense, though the actual impact is limited, particularly at that resolution.