I'm currently using an Intel Core i7-2600, a GeForce GT 730, 16 GB of RAM, and a 500W power supply. I'd like to upgrade the GPU, but I'm also considering building a completely new PC soon. What graphics card would be a sensible upgrade for now, and what CPU/GPU combination should I eventually aim for if I want to play Cyberpunk 2077?
3 Answers
The i7-2600 is roughly 15 years old, so modern games will often be limited by the CPU before the graphics card reaches its full potential. For a temporary upgrade, a used GTX 1660, RX 6600, or possibly a GTX 1070 can make sense, depending on local prices and the condition of the card. I wouldn’t put a $300-plus GPU in this machine unless you’re moving it into a new build very soon.
For the current system, I’d stick to the used market and look for something like a GTX 1660 Super or RX 6600. Those cards are a major improvement over the GT 730 and are well suited to 1080p gaming. Spending much more would be wasteful because the i7-2600 will bottleneck newer, faster GPUs in many games.
I’m hoping to build a new PC soon, but I don’t know much about choosing compatible parts. I’d like the eventual system to run Cyberpunk 2077 well.
A 500W power supply should be enough for cards such as the RX 6600 or GTX 1660 Super, assuming it’s a decent-quality unit and has the required power connectors. Check the exact PSU model before upgrading, since an old or low-quality 500W unit may be less reliable than its rating suggests. For a new Cyberpunk-focused build, plan on replacing the CPU, motherboard, and likely the RAM as well, then choose the GPU based on your resolution, target frame rate, and budget.
The RX 6600 is probably the highest I’d recommend for this system if you’re spending around $80–$150 used. Anything faster is more likely to be held back by the processor.