Is it worth it to upgrade with my CPU?

[winste]

I have a Intel Core 2 Quad Q6600 Kentsfield 2.4GHz that is of course several years old.

Currently have a Radeon HD 4800 GPU.

I am thinking of upgrading to a 6850, 6870 or even a 7850.

If I don't replace MOBO and CPU, is there any point?

I aready have good 700W PSU that I got a good deal on when my previous PSU died.

I normally play Diablo 2, Crysis 2 and some MW3.

Thanks

 

[edogawa]

Yes! Something like a 2500k or 3570k is a good option for modern games. Upgrading for Diablo 2 or MW3 isn't really worth it, but Crysis 2, Battlefield, Borderlands, any new game is a good option.

 

[winste]

Okay. But what I really want to know is it worth it to upgrade graphics card without CPU. I'd rather avoid that if possible.

Thanks

 

[italiasian]

Your cpu is still quite strong, so i would say upgrade gpu and overclock your cpu.

 

[Herr_Koos]

The Q6600 was a pretty decent chip in its day, but many modern games will be held back by the low clock speed. Having said that, you will definitely notice an improvement with a newer GPU. I would start thinking about a replacement CPU/mobo as well though, or at least overclock the 6600 a bit.

 

[simon12]

If you are only looking at getting a 7850 at best then I see no reason to upgrade the CPU. Overclocking to 3GHz would help but there is no need to it will not hold back a 7850 except in the most CPU hungry games.

 

[Herr_Koos]

I did some digging for benchmark numbers. Your CPU will not hold back any of the games you listed, so you are good to go.

 

[winste]

Thanks for the replies everyone. I will try to get a little more time out of the Q6600. I don't game a ton but am beginning to see some strain.

 

[Kiowa789]

You are stuck in a bottleneck upgrade situation.
Upgrade to a 6850, then to an i5
OR
Splurge and screw the longer expensive process, buy an i5 3570k, and a 7850.