I'm currently using an i3 12100f and I'm considering whether I should upgrade to an i5 12600k (or 12600kf) or if I should skip straight to an i7. For context, my GPU is an RX 6600. Any advice on whether this upgrade would be worth it?
5 Answers
I think it all depends on your motherboard and whether you're willing to invest there too. If you're using a budget board, you may not see all the benefits. What motherboard do you have?
Honestly, unless you're experiencing issues with your current setup, it might not be worth the upgrade just yet. For most games, the performance difference won't be massive. But if you're itching to upgrade, the i7 might be better for future-proofing, especially if you're playing more demanding titles.
True, if nothing is wrong, I guess waiting for the next gen could be smart.
If you’re looking for something on sale, check out the i5 14600K. It's a big upgrade from the 12100 and currently available at a good price. But I totally get wanting to avoid the newer generations—some people stick with what they know works!
Yeah, and also less hassle with potential GPU bottlenecks if you stick with the RX 6600.
The i5 12600k should be a solid upgrade from your i3 12100f. It offers a lot more performance, especially if you're aiming for better gaming experiences. It won't bottleneck even higher-end GPUs like the 4090, so the i5 should work just fine with your RX 6600. Honestly, it’s a good choice for a balance between price and performance!
But is it really a noticeable upgrade in terms of FPS for most games?
Just a heads up, most of the time, my i5 1200k doesn't go above 40% usage in games. So if your i3 is handling everything okay now, maybe just wait it out unless you're finding specific performance issues.
I'm not planning to upgrade the motherboard, just the CPU. My motherboard is an ASUS Prime B660M-A D4.