I'm currently using an i7 8700K with a mild overclock alongside a 2080 Ti. While this combo has served me well, I'm noticing it starting to lag a bit, especially with newer games. I suspect that the CPU might be the bottleneck in my system right now, which makes me hesitate to upgrade just the GPU. I'm considering eventually upgrading to a full setup with a 9800X3D and a 5070 Ti, but in the meantime, I'm curious about the potential performance boost I could get from just replacing the CPU, motherboard, and RAM while still using the 2080 Ti. Should I stick with what I have right now, do a partial upgrade, or just wait for a complete system rebuild? I'd love to hear from anyone who has made a similar move and can share real-world experiences. Google is great, but personal insights are always better!
4 Answers
The 2080 Ti still holds up really well thanks to DLSS and a decent amount of VRAM. You're in a good place with that GPU for now!
Upgrading from an 8700K to a 7800X3D was a game-changer for me! You're making a smart choice by moving to a newer platform, especially since you'll be using DDR5 with one of the best gaming CPUs around. I had an older GPU like the 6750 XT when I made the jump and absolutely loved it—especially when I later upgraded my GPU as well. If you're looking for stability and higher framerates, I think this upgrade could be fantastic for you!
Honestly, going for a 9600X might be the most cost-effective choice! They're super affordable right now, and you could plan on a full upgrade for your GPU a couple of years down the line. This approach will save you money and ensure you're not stuck with an outdated system. That’s pretty much how I set up my AM4 rig and I’m really happy with the results.
Don't underestimate the 2080 Ti! It's still a strong card, basically on par with the 9060 XT—just with 11GB of VRAM. It should handle most games decently even in the coming years.
That's encouraging! A stable framerate is definitely what I'm after, especially with how erratic newer games can be. If the CPU swap alone makes a significant difference, I might really consider waiting for the next GPU series as well.