I currently have a Intel Core i7-6700 3.4 GHz Quad-Core Processor in my main build (built in 2016) and I’m ready for an upgrade.
Can someone recommend me a new cpu? I’d like something a little beefier and hopefully not have to get a new motherboard (GIGABYTE GA-B150M-DS3H LGA-1151 socket)
2 points
Seeing as you also built your system in 2016, here are some other pointers.
- Stock CPU heatsinks are perfectly fine. Don’t buy a third-party cooler unless you’re sure you need it for performance reasons. Many people pick one up for aesthetics.
- High CPU temperatures are here to stay. That’s just how they’re managed now. Don’t worry too much about it unless you’re reaching over 96 degrees with regular use.
- M.2 PCIe Gen 3 drives are perfectly fine to pick up if your budget is limited. Don’t skimp here, pick a 1TB drive to start with. Games are huge.
- Front-panel USB-C for cases is not a requirement, but you will get at least 15W charging from them.
- You can skimp with an F-series CPU that has the iGPU disabled, but a lot of effort is put into optimising video playback and general browser/OS use by leveraging the integrated graphics.
- 1440P 144Hz monitors are quite cheap these days. Most of them work just fine too.
- You can use Windows without paying for a license. Having a license gives you access to all the customisation options.
