Hey everyone! I'm venturing into building my first PC and I'm torn between using a dedicated GPU or opting for a better CPU that includes integrated graphics. The options I'm considering are: 1. AMD Ryzen 7 7700 with no GPU, or 2. AMD Ryzen 5 5600 paired with an Nvidia GTX 1660 Super. The second option is a bit cheaper in my country. My main use will be programming in Linux (Wayland), with the occasional gaming session. I'm curious about how much of a difference a dedicated GPU really makes in practical terms.
5 Answers
It really depends. For gaming, a dedicated GPU is essential, especially if you want good frame rates. I once tried gaming on an iGPU and it was pretty awful. But for coding, I’d prioritize the stronger CPU for sure.
I'd suggest going for the Ryzen 7 7700 and just picking up a used GPU later. The integrated graphics can handle day-to-day tasks without a hitch.
For gaming, the difference is huge—like, some games won't even run on integrated graphics (iGPU). But for basic tasks like productivity or watching videos, you won’t see much difference at all.
The GTX 1660 has significantly better performance compared to the Ryzen 7's iGPU. Keep in mind that integrated graphics use system RAM for video memory, which is a lot slower than dedicated video RAM.
A dedicated GPU makes a massive difference. That GTX 1660 is a bit outdated, but it's still way better than any iGPU. My advice? Go with the Ryzen 7 and get a dedicated GPU later. Building on AM4 might not be the best choice though; it could limit your upgrade options down the line.
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