I7 4790k or r5 2600

Nov 7, 2018
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So I'm pretty set on upgrading to a r5 2600 from my i5 4570 oem computer.
Which will cost me about $350 for the ram(16gb) CPU and Mobo unless I find a better Black Friday deal. However, I found a used i7 4790k building for $300 with an ASRock z97 Mobo and 32 gb of RAM. Not sure which would be better or not. Obviously, the ryzen is newer and could be updated in the future but all I really us it for is gaming, maybe multiple trans and discord open too. Any advice or opinions would be helpful
 
Solution
If you aren't just replacing your old CPU with a better one, then go Ryzen for sure. Newer tech with a mobo than can take upgrades in the future. This versus an older gen CPU that is as good as it gets, and as soon as it starts showing its age you know you have to fully buy a whole new PC core yet again.

cpmackenzi

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Jul 11, 2014
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If you aren't just replacing your old CPU with a better one, then go Ryzen for sure. Newer tech with a mobo than can take upgrades in the future. This versus an older gen CPU that is as good as it gets, and as soon as it starts showing its age you know you have to fully buy a whole new PC core yet again.
 
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cpmackenzi

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Jul 11, 2014
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I still look to the future. That CPU is basically the best you can get for its generation. I have a 4690 myself, have debated going to a 4790k. But spending $250+ on it when I can invest in a new core for just a little more doesn't make sense to me. In my case, it's because I didn't want to change my mobo to avoid new Windows install and new Word license. But again, if you can choose between new and old for relatively small money difference, go new. And SSD prices have come down so much in last 6 months, may drop even more. Getting a SSD if you don't have one is definitely good. But I wouldn't say it makes it worth it to take the older PC core.
 
Nov 7, 2018
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Nov 7, 2018
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Okay, well I was leaning that way anyway. Just wasn't sure if it would be a good deal. Mostly looking for 1080p gaming with high frames and such to last a while. Current rig is starting to struggle with my 980
 

cpmackenzi

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Jul 11, 2014
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For just 1080p and high fps, single core performance may be more helpful, and technically the 4790k is as good or slightly better. But that CPU runs HOT, especially if you overclock, so you need a strong aftermarket cooler. And again, I would still go with futureproof mobo of Ryzen.
 
The 4790 wasn't a bad CPU, but it's outdated now. A Ryzen 2600 or 2600x is current and very good bang-for-buck. Advantage to the 2600x is the auto-overclocking XFR2 will do FOR you with upgraded cooling.

But if you don't mind learning and putting the effort into tuning, you can get similar results with a 2600. You just have to do it manually.