AMD A-10-7850k Vs Dedicated Graphics

[stuperstrong]

First, I'd like to state that this is both a GPU and CPU related question, so keep that in mind...

I normally go with Intel all the way, I love their I5/I7 processors, but I'm giving AMD a try this time... I am not building a system for high end gaming, maybe some light gaming, Skyrim, FF14, etc... And I don't have to blaze through them on high/ultra settings, but I might want to upgrade one day to do so...

So the question is, should I go with an AMD FX-8320/8350 and a low end dedicated for now, or just get the AMD A-10-7850K and just upgrade to dedicated GPU later when I get tired of the integrated? Also, considering getting a R7 250 sometime to boost is a little bit with crossfire.

 

[rolli59]

Well CPU wise the A10 is worse but nothing wrong with building on it as you plan an FX with mediocre card like HD7750 or R7 250X would outperform it. Basically has to be your decision.

 

[stuperstrong]

Well CPU wise the A10 is worse but nothing wrong with building on it as you plan an FX with mediocre card like HD7750 or R7 250X would outperform it. Basically has to be your decision.

Thanks for the reply. My biggest concern is keeping this cheap mostly, it's for my fiance, and she doesn't game. I'm considering upgrading it to game eventually though, and would want to put a R9 270/280 in it, and the A10 doesn't seem bad though, but still it support high end gaming? I plan to get the black edition, so I can overclock in the future.

 

[rolli59]

That is really where the APU's come in, CPU and acceptable graphics in one. It is week for the strongest GPU's but upper mainstream cards like R9 270 would do fine with it.

 

[Shehriazad]

THe CPU portion of the Kaveris seem fine performance wise....only thing you're lacking is the L3 cache...but then again...how much does that really hit your gaming performance? (I cant actually tell).

All I know is that my 7850K can run Skyrim maxed out just fine. Warframe and LoL also run maxed out without giving me any trouble.

The only real upside with the 7850K without extra card is that you can build a mini itx system that draws absolutely next to no power.
The entire system can suck as low as 110 Watt under stress testing, depending on how many optical drives you plan on using.
And while yes, there is some Intel with integrated graphics that suck far less power...none of them will be giving you playable framerates in Full HD...it's just not gonna happen.

But yea...if you want to build a shoebox PC (girls like small things...at least as long as it's electronics) then go with the Kaveri.
If you want to have something that can be turned into a gaming powerhouse and you dont care about power consumption...just get an FX CPU

 

[rolli59]

L3 cache specifically benefits gaming, which can be seen in every comparison between Phenom II X4 and Athlon II X4 at same clocks.

 

[stuperstrong]

Ended up getting the 8320 and a r7 260x and saved about 30$... Though I'm probably taking the 260x back in a week when the r7 265 his t