Is Upgrading from an i5 7400 to Ryzen 5 3400G and GTX 1660 Super a Wise Choice?

When considering the upgrade from an i5 7400 to the combination of a Ryzen 5 3400G and a GTX 1660 Super, there are several factors to take into account. This article discusses the pros and cons of both the i5 7400 and the Ryzen 5 3400G, as well as the advantages of adding a GTX 1660 Super to the mix.

Pros and Cons of the i5 7400

Excellent for Gaming: The i5 7400 is undoubtedly strong in gaming performance. Excellent General Gaming Performance: It provides a solid performance in most gaming scenarios. Average Multi-Tasking Performance: While it excels in gaming, its multi-tasking performance is average compared to the competition. Low All-Core Base Speed: The i5 7400 has a lower all-core base speed, which can affect overall performance in multi-core tasks. Low All-Core Boost Speed: The boost speed is also relatively low, which further limits its multi-tasking capabilities. Relatively Old: The age of the i5 7400 means it may not keep up with the latest advancements in technology. Package Does Not Include a CPU Cooler: This adds a potential additional cost, with the price range between $25 to $90 depending on quality and performance.

Pros and Cons of the Ryzen 5 3400G

Relatively Cheap at $160: The Ryzen 5 3400G is a more budget-friendly option compared to the i5 7400. Excellent for Gaming: The Ryzen 5 3400G is designed for gaming and offers strong gaming performance. Superior All-Core Base Speed: It provides a higher base speed for all cores, which can improve performance in multi-core tasks. Very Power Efficient at 65W: The lower power consumption will help with energy efficiency and reduce electricity bills. Relatively New: The newer technology ensures better compatibility with the latest advancements in software and games. Excellent General Gaming Performance: It maintains excellent performance across various gaming scenarios. Includes a CPU Cooler: Unlike the i5 7400, the Ryzen 5 3400G package comes with a CPU cooler, reducing additional costs.

Should You Upgrade?

Considering the pros and cons, upgrading from an i5 7400 to the Ryzen 5 3400G and a GTX 1660 Super can be a wise choice, especially if you prioritize gaming performance and don't require extensive multi-tasking capabilities. The Ryzen 5 3400G's higher base and boost speeds, along with its power efficiency, will likely provide better performance for most users. Additionally, the integrated graphics of the Ryzen 5 3400G can handle basic tasks and games without the need for an additional graphics card, making the setup more efficient and cost-effective.

Before You Upgrade

Before making the upgrade, ensure that your motherboard socket is compatible with the Ryzen 5 3400G. If it is, the upgrade is a straightforward process that doesn't require changes to your RAM or Windows 10 license. The need to unmount the entire computer is also eliminated.

For the GTX 1660 Super, you'll find that the i5 7400 is likely sufficient for most gaming tasks, provided your budget stretches only for the card upgrade.

Conclusion

Overall, the combination of the Ryzen 5 3400G and a GTX 1660 Super provides a good balance of performance and budget, making it a compelling upgrade option for many users. If you choose to proceed, ensure that you have the necessary compatibility and that your budget aligns with the purchase.