Introduction

When choosing a budget build, two popular configurations often come up: the Intel i3 9100F paired with a GTX 1660 Super, or the AMD Ryzen 3500 combined with a GTX 1650 Super. Let's dive into the pros and cons of each configuration to help you make an informed decision.

Intel i3 9100F GTX 1660 Super

The i3 9100F is a six-core, six-thread processor with a base clock of 3.6 GHz and a boost clock of 4.2 GHz. The GTX 1660 Super is a mid-tier graphics card that offers strong performance for gaming and light-to-medium workloads.

Pros

Compute Power: The i3 9100F offers robust performance, especially in single-threaded tasks and games that don't benefit much from multithreading.Future-Proof: The i3 9100F, while not upgradable, is still a solid performer that will remain relevant for several years.Power Consumption: Lower power consumption can lead to better cooling and less strain on your power supply.

Cons

Limitations with Multi-threading: Since the i3 9100F does not support Simultaneous Multithreading (SMT), its performance in multi-threaded tasks can be hindered.Cooler with GTX 1660 Super: The 1660 Super may require a stronger cooler to manage temperatures, which might be a downside for some users.

AMD Ryzen 3500 GTX 1650 Super

The Ryzen 3500 is a four-core, eight-thread processor with a base clock of 3.6 GHz and a boost clock of up to 4.1 GHz. The GTX 1650 Super is a budget-friendly graphics card that provides decent performance for gaming and basic workloads.

Pros

Improvement with SMT: The Ryzen 3500 supports SMT (Hyperthreading), which can offer better performance in multi-threaded applications and streaming. streaming.Future-Proof: The Ryzen 3500 is easily upgradable and can be paired with new, higher-generation Ryzen processors without changing your motherboard.Wider Compatibility: A motherboards that can support the Ryzen 3500 can also support newer Ryzen processors, making it a more flexible long-term investment.

Cons

Weaker in Single-Threaded Tasks: In games that are not optimized for multi-threading, the Ryzen 3500 might lag behind the i3 9100F.Lower Performance in Graphics Tasks: The GTX 1650 Super is generally less powerful than the GTX 1660 Super, which could be noticeable in more demanding games or high-resolution gaming.

Final Thoughts

Intel i3 9100F GTX 1660 Super:

Given its robust single-threaded performance and future-proofing, the i3 9100F is a solid choice, especially for users who prioritize compute power and gaming performance. This setup is ideal for users who want a reliable, long-lasting system without the need for frequent upgrades.

Ryzen 3500 GTX 1650 Super:

The Ryzen 3500 GTX 1650 Super is a more versatile option, especially for users who also do streaming or multi-threaded tasks. It offers better compatibility and upgrade potential, making it a better choice for users who want more flexibility in the future.

Ultimately, the choice depends on your specific needs and future plans. For best performance in gaming and single-threaded tasks, the i3 9100F is a good bet. For better multi-threading performance and future potential, the Ryzen 3500 is the way to go.

Conclusion

When deciding between the Intel i3 9100F GTX 1660 Super and the AMD Ryzen 3500 GTX 1650 Super, consider your priorities. If you prioritize performance in single-threaded tasks and future-proofing, the i3 9100F is a solid choice. If you need better multi-threading performance and flexibility, the Ryzen 3500 is a better option.