Can an Intel i7-4790 Non-K CPU Bottleneck an RTX 2060/2070 Super at 1080p60 Gaming?

When it comes to gaming with an Intel Core i7-4790 non-K CPU and an RTX 2060 or 2070 Super graphics card at 1080p60 resolution, the question of whether the CPU will become a bottleneck can be complex. Several factors, such as game optimization, resolution, and system configuration, play a crucial role in determining the overall performance. This article dives into these considerations and offers insights based on real-world experiences and performance metrics.

General Considerations

Game Optimization

Some games are inherently CPU-intensive, which may highlight limitations with an older CPU like the i7-4790. For instance, titles that rely more heavily on CPU performance may show clearer signs of bottlenecks. However, many modern games are optimized for multi-core processors, and the i7-4790, with its 4 cores and 8 threads, is capable of handling many games at least adequately.

Resolution and Settings

At 1080p resolution, the CPU is usually more of a limiting factor compared to higher resolutions like 1440p or 4K, where the GPU becomes the primary bottleneck. When playing games at high settings, the GPU is often the component that gets more stressed. Consequently, the impact of the CPU on performance may not be as pronounced.

Performance Metrics

In many scenarios, the i7-4790 can effectively keep up with the RTX 2060 or 2070 Super at 1080p, frequently delivering frame rates well above 60 FPS in less demanding titles. However, in more demanding games, you might see frame rates drop below 60 FPS, especially in CPU-heavy scenarios, particularly if the game is poorly optimized for older CPUs.

Conclusion

RTX 2060

The i7-4790 should work well with the RTX 2060 in most scenarios, resulting in minimal bottlenecking. Performance is generally good, ensuring smooth gameplay at 1080p60.

RTX 2070 Super

You may experience some bottlenecking in very demanding titles, but overall, performance should still be quite good. If you play a lot of CPU-intensive games, you might face occasional drops in frame rates below 60 FPS in highly demanding scenarios.

Recommendations

To maximize performance, consider upgrading to a more modern CPU and motherboard in the future, especially if you plan to play more CPU-intensive games. Ensuring that your system has adequate cooling and a powerful power supply is essential for optimal performance.

While the i7-4790 may not fully unleash the potential of the RTX 2060 or 2070 Super, it can still provide a good gaming experience at 1080p60. Locking your frame rate to 60 FPS in demanding games can help maintain frame-time stability and improve overall gaming experience. If you find yourself bottlenecked, consider adjusting game settings or upgrading hardware for a smoother gaming experience.