Which CPU and GPU combo for gaming?

[martin.carline]

Hey guys,

Within my budget I am looking to upgrade my very old PC for one of the following:

I5 8400
Z370
16gb 3000Mhz
GTX 1070/ti/80

Or

I5 8600k
GTX 1060 (already have)

Which would yield better FPS?
I am looking to upgrade your monitor to 1440p 144hz at some point next year so building up the power slowly.

Thoughts...?

 

[WildCard999]

8400 with a better GPU is the better choice.

 

[martin.carline]

8400 with a better GPU is the better choice.

I was hoping that would be the case. I know this may be a difficult question to answer, but what kind of difference would you see with having a better GPU for games rather than 8600k + 1060?

 

[WildCard999]

8400 with a better GPU is the better choice.

I was hoping that would be the case. I know this may be a difficult question to answer, but what kind of difference would you see with having a better GPU for games rather than 8600k + 1060?

Well TBH it really comes down to the game but with a larger resolution monitor a better GPU will give you better FPS over a stronger CPU as more of the game load offsets to the GPU. Even if you got the 1080 though you'd still have to lower some settings to get 1440P/144hz, probably around medium settings.

 

[WildCard999]

Oh and if you go with the 8400 save yourself some money and grab the B360 motherboard, put it towards that GTX 1080 .

 

[martin.carline]

Oh and if you go with the 8400 save yourself some money and grab the B360 motherboard, put it towards that GTX 1080 .

Thank you so much for taking the time to answer - really helpful
I am thinking of going with the Z370 rather than the B360 as that leaves it open for me to upgrade to the i5 8600k if I want too

 

[WildCard999]

Oh and if you go with the 8400 save yourself some money and grab the B360 motherboard, put it towards that GTX 1080 .

Thank you so much for taking the time to answer - really helpful
I am thinking of going with the Z370 rather than the B360 as that leaves it open for me to upgrade to the i5 8600k if I want too

I see although if you where to upgrade from the 8400 I'd go for the 8700K so you'll get the additional threads.