Which Processor and Storage Combo is Better for Gaming: i7 8th Gen with No SSD or i5 8th Gen with 128 GB SSD?

When it comes to gaming, the choice between an i7 8th generation processor with no SSD and an i5 8th generation processor with a 128 GB SSD often leads to a debate. Factors such as performance, load times, and overall gaming experience play significant roles in deciding the best setup. This article will break down the pros and cons of each configuration and provide a recommendation based on your gaming needs.

Understanding the Impact of SSD on Performance

First, let's discuss the impact of an SSD on overall performance. An SSD (Solid State Drive) is significantly faster than a traditional HDD (Hard Disk Drive) in terms of read and write speeds. This improved speed is due to the lack of moving parts in SSDs, which allows for faster data access and retrieval.

When paired with an i7 8th generation processor, the SSD can enhance the overall performance of the system, especially in tasks involving heavy processing. The faster read and write times mean that the OS, applications, and game files can load much more quickly, leading to improved system responsiveness and a smoother gaming experience.

The Case for the i5 8th Generation with 128 GB SSD

While the i7 definitely offers better performance in more demanding tasks, the i5 8th generation processor with a 128 GB SSD can still provide a near-identical experience for gaming. The 128 GB SSD, while smaller than a full 256 GB or more, is still sufficient to store essential data and applications on the C drive, and the rest of the storage can be handled by the HDD.

Here are some key points to consider:

Windows and Game Loading: The SSD can greatly improve the loading times for Windows and games. With an SSD, you can experience near-instantaneous bootups and rapid game loading times, which are crucial for a smooth gaming experience. Compatibility: Many games are large in size, and 128 GB is often enough to accommodate a selection of games. Updating and installing new games may require some disk space management, but this can still be handled without issues. No Need for Dual Storage: If you're not heavily into streaming and recording, a single SSD for the C drive and an HDD for storage is a practical and efficient setup. This avoids the complexity and potential conflicts of dual storage solutions.

Performance Considerations for Specific Scenarios

The choice between i7 and i5 depends on your specific gaming needs:

For General Gaming: The i5 8th generation with an 128 GB SSD can handle most common gaming scenarios, including 1080p and even 4K at moderate settings. If you're not pushing the limits of your hardware, the i5 should suffice. For Emulators and AAA Titles: If you're dealing with emulation of the latest AAA titles, the i7 might be necessary due to the higher processing demands. However, for most gamers, an i5 can handle a wide range of titles well.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the decision between an i7 8th generation with no SSD and an i5 8th generation with a 128 GB SSD comes down to your specific gaming needs and budget constraints. An i5 combined with an SSD can provide excellent performance without the need for a larger SSD, making it a cost-effective and practical choice for most gamers.

For an ideal setup, consider the following:

Invest in a Good i5 Processor: This provides reliable performance for most gaming scenarios. Allocate Storage Wisely: Use the SSD for the C drive (Windows and essential applications) and an HDD for additional storage. Ensure Proper RAM: At least 1600 MHz RAM is recommended for optimal performance, especially with an 8th generation i5.

By following these guidelines, you can achieve a balance between performance and cost, ensuring that your gaming setup meets your needs without overcomplicating things.