Is i7 4790K GTX 1660 Ti Still a Good Combo, or Are Better, More Affordable Options Available?
Introduction
When considering a gaming PC, especially for budget-conscious enthusiasts, the Intel Core i7-4790K paired with the NVIDIA GTX 1660 Ti has often been a popular choice. However, as technology advances, it's important to evaluate if this combination still holds up. This article will explore the performance, alternatives, and cost-effectiveness of the i7 4790K and GTX 1660 Ti, helping you make an informed decision.
Performance Overview
The Intel Core i7-4790K, based on the Haswell architecture, is a high-performance quad-core processor released in 2014. It has 8 threads and is capable of running many applications smoothly, including games, but it may struggle with more demanding titles that benefit from higher core counts.
The NVIDIA GTX 1660 Ti, though still a capable GPU for 1080p gaming, may not handle newer titles at higher settings or resolutions effectively, especially at 1440p. It's an excellent card, but its performance might not be as robust in the latest games.
Alternatives
CPU Options
AMD Ryzen 5 560 - A 6-core 12-thread processor that provides much better performance in modern games and applications, often at a reasonable price point. Intel Core i5-12400F - A solid 6-core 12-thread CPU that offers excellent performance for both gaming and productivity tasks, typically at a competitive price.GPU Options
NVIDIA RTX 3050 or RTX 3060 - These GPUs offer better performance compared to the GTX 1660 Ti, supporting modern features like ray tracing and DLSS. AMD Radeon RX 6600 - A solid alternative that performs well in 1080p gaming and often comes at a competitive price.Conclusion: Is Upgrading Worth It?
While the i7 4790K and GTX 1660 Ti can still handle many games, upgrading to a newer CPU and GPU combo can provide significantly better performance efficiency and future-proofing for a similar or slightly higher cost. If you are looking for a more budget-friendly upgrade path, consider the Ryzen 5 560 with an RTX 3050 or RX 6600, which offers a balanced system capable of handling modern gaming demands.
Regarding cost, it's crucial to gauge the value you get for your money. If you find that maintaining the i7 4790K and GTX 1660 Ti is still cost-effective and you like the performance it provides, it's a good gaming machine. However, the balance between budget and performance often dictates what makes the most sense for individual needs.
For those not interested in adding another zero to Amazon's bank balance (or any other big corporation), it's great to support other PC owners or small businesses by recycling parts. Just ensure that you consider the full lifecycle cost and benefits of your purchase.
Ultimately, the decision to upgrade depends on your specific needs and budget. Both approaches have their merits, and it's important to weigh the pros and cons carefully.