My current hardware config is a little over two years old and was purchased before I knew that MSFS was coming back, and a midrange computer was fine (my first MSFS purchase was probably in around 1985 or so…). Currently have:
i5-9600
32GB RAM
Z390 Mobo
GTX 1060 6GB
2- HP Pavillion 27xw Monitors 1080p @ 60Hz
Which will give me a better bang for the buck - upgrading the CPU or GPU?
Or both??
Well…first, I would update GPU and, then, CPU - once the sim is not yet optimized for CPU utilization. But as much cores, better.
GPU is a better idea first for some reasons: 1 - having more VRAM is better and; 2 - you have 2 monitors, so you will need a more powerful GPU.
Ofcourse all of this kmprovements will depend on how much do you want to invest at your pc. But keep in mind that: a pc that runs msfs is a pc that runs all the games of this generation, and also an awesome “work pc”.
PS: if possible, how fast are your RAM? 3000 mHz would be a must
I’d start with GPU. The processor isn’t bad and will do ok. How does it perform currently? I believe you will get the most bang for your buck with a new GPU. They are very hard to find now…Im running a I7 9700k, 32 gig ram,GTX 1070. I’m most on Ultra at 1080p and does well. I will upgrade it if I find a rtx3060 or 3070. Keep us updated.
I generally get 25-35FPS when flying but that can slow down to 10-15 in dense areas when landing (i.e. KSAN RWY 27). So not terrible, but would be happy to bump up 10 FPS on those numbers.
Upgrading GPU is probably a moot point at present, unless you are willing to be ripped off.
Even 2xxx series GPU’s can be hard to source, never mind a 3xxx.
You may be well advised checking what CPU’s and the fastest/largest RAM you can install in your MOBO and post the info for comments.
Also check on the capacity of your PSU as a fast GPU can add quite an electrical load.
Don’t buy a GPU now. I just sold a used 1650 Super for $355 (CAD) and I only paid $245 for it.
IMHO I would go for z490 i7 10th gen or even better get z590 and i7 11th gen and wait for 30xx to be available in RRP. I would also suggest minimum 3600mhz memory in quad channel.
PS: if going for 11th gen, get yourself a nice cooler e.g. noctua d15 or 360mm AIO as them Rocket lake’s run really hot.
I haven’t got much experience with AMD but I’ve heard that they are pretty efficient and runs at lower power so it will be easier to cool. Surely AMD owners could advice here.
I would also recommend to overclock.
Overclock, in some GPU, are related to CTD in MSFS. Do it with caution
right now there’s not a single reason to pick Intel over AMD if you’re going to replace your motherboard anyways.
Ryzen 5 5600X or Ryzen 5800X will both outperform Intel, will overclock (without having to spend extra on a K version, and don’t need a fancy motherboard). The motherboards will be cheaper in general too. They also generally require less cooling (especially the 5600X, it’s a 65W part).
Now that the supply issues on these two chips seem to have been sorted, it’s all good to go.
Pick any B550 motherboard that has the connectors/features you like, couple it with fast RAM (3200MHz at minimum, 3600MHz suggested), and you’re good to go.
Intel will be releasing their 11th gen in about 2 weeks, but a store in germany has already been selling the 11700. It’s been reviewed by Anandtech, and it’s not looking promising.
Still, if you’re not in a hurry, it can’t hurt to await further independent benchmarks in a few weeks before you make up your mind. Especially the pricing on the new 11th gen will determine what will be the best buy.