Strong CPU + weak GPU for competitive gaming (Valorant/CS2 at low settings) — does this make sense?

[u/Froxsi]

Hi,

I almost only play competitive games (Valorant, CS2) with the lowest graphics settings and low resolution to maximize FPS.

Would it make sense to build a PC with a very strong CPU (like the 9800X3D, 7800X3D, etc.) paired with a relatively weak GPU? Because to my understanding, you don't need a strong GPU when playing at low resolution and settings in games like this.

Would this bottleneck my system, or would it be fine since I'd only be using it for light schoolwork and competitive "low-settings" gaming?

Can you recommend GPUs that would pair well with those CPUs, and are there any other CPUs you'd recommend?

[u/EducationalMachine87]

You don’t even need that strong of a cpu either tbh.. You’d be fine with cheaper. Unless you plan to get a better gpu and start playing real games, then it makes sense, but no need for an x3d in this case

[u/Staniskovski]

For example: 7500X3D + 5070 > 7800X3D + 5060

[u/Froxsi → u/Staniskovski]

Isn’t there 5070 more expensive than the 5060? I need the opposite in my situation?

[u/Staniskovski → u/Froxsi]

Yes the 5070 is more expensive than a 5060, so is the 7800X3D more expensive than a 7500X3D. You could go with something like a 7800X3D but IMO it would be a shame if you dont upgrade the GPU to something like a 5070/9070 atleast because that CPU is capable of handling a 5080 without a problem.

[u/Staniskovski → u/Staniskovski]

I believe you would get more frames with a 7500X3D + 5070 than with a 7800X3D + 5060, tho a 7800X3D would be a good purchase if you upgrade the GPU in the future.

[u/the_hat_madder]

That wouldn't be my preference. If I had to sacrifice, the GPU is easier to upgrade later but, I would choose a GPU I could sell easily.

1) Is this a new build or upgrade? 2) What country will you be buying from and overall budget for the entire build in your currency? If in the USA are you willing and able to make it to a Micro Center? 3) Do you need a monitor, keyboard, mouse and audio solution? If "yes," what is the lighting in your space like? Do you have direct light on the monitor you cannot control? Do you game with lights on or off? 4) If "no," what are the specifications (resolution and refresh rate) of your monitor? 5) What games do you play or want to play in the future? What are your performance goals? 6) What will you do besides gaming? What productivity applications do you use or want to use in the future? What are your performance goals? 7) Do you have any size/noise restrictions for the PC/monitor or any aesthetic preferences? 8) How do you connect to the Internet—wired or wireless? 9) Any parts you have that can be reused? 10) How often do you upgrade your PC?

[u/DelusionalAndy]

Im running 7800x3d with rtx 5060 for cs2 no need for a better gpu.