I'm not very experienced with PC hardware and my current system struggles with newer games unless they're especially well optimized. I'm using a GTX 1660 Super, an Intel i5-10400F, and 23 GB of RAM, which is an unusual amount because I added an extra stick several years ago. I'd like to upgrade the GPU on a budget so I can play modern titles such as Space Marine 2 and God of War Ragnarök at reasonable settings. I'm in the United States and would prefer to spend no more than $500. What graphics cards would be good choices, and is my processor or memory likely to limit the upgrade?
4 Answers
A used RTX 4070 or 4070 Super is worth checking locally, especially if you can find one between $450 and $500. It offers strong performance, modern features, good Windows support, and generally reliable drivers. That may provide better value than many new cards at the same price.
The 10400F should still be fine for a GPU upgrade, while the GTX 1660 Super is the part most likely holding you back in newer games. Your 23 GB of RAM is unusual, though, and mixed-capacity or mismatched sticks can sometimes affect performance. It would be worth checking the exact memory modules and considering a matched 32 GB kit if your system supports it.
For a new card, an RX 9060 XT with 16 GB of VRAM around the $450 range would be a strong choice for 1440p gaming. Your i5-10400F is still capable enough to pair with it, although the CPU could become a limitation in some CPU-heavy games.
If you want to spend less, an Intel B580 around $300 could make sense for 1080p gaming. For 1440p, the 16 GB RX 9060 XT is the more suitable option. Check actual game benchmarks before buying, since performance and upscaling support can vary between titles.
I’ve seen some 4070 Supers locally for roughly $450–$500, so I’ll keep looking at those options.