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)

  • @CataclysmZAEnglish
    2•1 year ago

    Seeing as you also built your system in 2016, here are some other pointers.

    1. 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.
    2. 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.
    3. 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.
    4. Front-panel USB-C for cases is not a requirement, but you will get at least 15W charging from them.
    5. 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.
    6. 1440P 144Hz monitors are quite cheap these days. Most of them work just fine too.
    7. You can use Windows without paying for a license. Having a license gives you access to all the customisation options.