i3-2120 Upgrade - What To Go For?

[HarryBizzle]

At the moment my system is a bit lopsided. I've got an i3-2120 running alongside an R9 280X, and am starting to get frustrated by the CPU bottleneck.

I don't really want the hassle or extra cost of a motherboard upgrade, so am wondering what to go for in the Socket 1155 category.


The two CPUs I'm considering at the moment are the 3570K and the i5-3330. There's about a £60 difference between the two and I'm wondering which to go for.

I should mention that I have very little interest in overclocking, but am willing to pay the extra if going for the 3330 will mean I'm still CPU bottlenecked.

I'm also open to other solutions if they seem more sensible.

 

[pastymuncher]

I would go for a second hand 3570k. There's no way i would pay top whack for one brand new now that they are two releases old. Second hand you should be able to pick one up on the bay for £100-120. What motherboard do you have?

 

[Stuen4y]

Absolutely agree, 3570K second had with moderate overclock (say 4.1-4.2GHz with the box) is going to be more than enough for pretty much everything.

 

[HarryBizzle]

Thanks for your replies. I've got an Asus P8H77-I Motherboard.

The i3 and P8H77 were bought when I was on a budget and in between having little interest in overclocking, the i3 not allowing it anyway, and the mobo being significantly cheaper, I didn't go for the ones which lets you overclock (Z77?).

I think I'll follow your advice and stick a 3570 in there, with or without the K, depending on what's cheaper.

In a couple of years I'll splurge, but I don't see a mobo change and new CPU bringing me significantly better performance than a 3570K relative to the added expense.

 

[McstylisT]

Agree here , 3570k seems best option. Though chipset limitations stop overclocking you might be able to find a non k 3470 or 3570 for cheeeeaaap instant drop in upgrade.

Best of luck in your searches.