What’s the Best Budget Upgrade for My i7-6700?

Honestly, there aren’t many worthwhile upgrades for your current CPU that fit your situation. There are a few CPUs and motherboards that claim compatibility, but they usually aren't. Just make sure your RAM is DDR4 and follow what others have been saying for the best results.

Since you’re likely using DDR4, a budget AM4 build could work wonders. A Ryzen 5 3600 is a good option, or the 5600 if you want a bit more power for future GPU upgrades. You could also consider LGA1700, which supports DDR4, but it tends to be pricier and your RAM’s performance might hold you back a bit.

If you're looking to save some cash, check out a cheap AM4 motherboard paired with a Ryzen 5 5600X or better. You can often find used parts too. Upgrading this way will let you install Windows 11 right away, and you’d stick with DDR4 RAM, which is a solid choice.

You can probably keep your existing RAM, but you’ll definitely need a new motherboard and CPU. To run Windows 11, any Intel CPU from the 8th generation onward or any Ryzen 2000 series or later will fit the bill. Your ideal options will depend on your budget and availability where you are. Just remember, the more you invest, the better your gaming experience will be!