I would like more performance, upgrade Cpu or Gpu?

[Austin159]

Hi i have a Amd fx 6300 processor and an R9 390 graphics card. I would like to know what i should upgrade to get more performance. I am willing to switch to intel processors, but i want to get a high end gpu like Gtx 980 or 970.

 

[Rafael Mestdag]

Generally speaking, if you want your system to be faster in general(loading times, games noticeably faster etc.), then you need a new CPU.

If you want your games to be a lot faster, you should invest in a better GPU.

 

[geofelt]

Do some testing.
Here is one approach:
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To help clarify your CPU/GPU options, run these two tests:

a) Run YOUR games, but lower your resolution and eye candy.
If your FPS increases, it indicates that your cpu is strong enough to drive a better graphics configuration.
If your FPS stays the same, you are likely more cpu limited.

b) Limit your cpu, either by reducing the OC, or, in windows power management, limit the maximum cpu% to something like 70%.
Go to control panel/power options/change plan settings/change advanced power settings/processor power management/maximum processor state/
This will simulate what a lack of cpu power will do.
Conversely what a 30% improvement in core speed might do.

You should also experiment with removing one core. You can do this in the windows msconfig boot advanced options option. You will need to reboot for the change to take effect. Set the number of processors to less than you have.
This will tell you how sensitive your games are to the benefits of many cores.

If your FPS drops significantly, it is an indicator that your cpu is the limiting factor, and a cpu upgrade is in order.

It is possible that both tests are positive, indicating that you have a well balanced system, and both cpu and gpu need to be upgraded to get better gaming FPS.
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[RoyalRope]

Your graphics card is fairly high end. Your cpu is kinda weak. An i5 would help a lot, especially with games that are very cpu intensive.