i7-4790 is still a decent CPU and if you have this processor and want to play games on it or just want to upgrade your old PC. There are many different types of GPU on the market today. So, which one is the best for use with an Intel Core i7-4790 non-k version? We created a list of the best GPUs that are the latest in the current market and work without any issues in games, and we also added budget GPUs to the best-performing GPUs, which means you can select any GPU according to your budget or needs.
Related: Top 6 Best GPUs for i7-4790k
Best GPU For i7-4790
1. Nvidia GeForce GTX 1650
The Nvidia GeForce GTX 1650 is one of the best budget GPU choices for users with the Intel Core i7-4790 seeking to improve their gaming capabilities. It offers a significant upgrade in gaming performance at 1080p, ideal for those moving from older graphics cards. This GPU is especially suitable for a variety of popular games, providing a solid gaming experience without a substantial financial outlay. Importantly, the GTX 1650 pairs well with the i7-4790, with minimal bottlenecking issues, ensuring efficient utilization of the GPU’s capabilities.
GPU Key Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Memory Size (VRAM) | 4 GB |
| Clock Speed | 1485 MHz – 1665 MHz |
| Process Size | 12 nm |
| TDP | 75 W |
Gaming Benchmarks
| Game Title | Resolution | Graphics Settings | Average FPS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apex Legends | 1080p | High Settings | 72 |
| Fortnite | 1080p | Epic Settings | 77 |
| Shadow of the Tomb Raider | 1080p | Max Settings | 49 |
| Battlefield V | 1080p | Ultra Settings | 59 |
| Far Cry New Dawn | 1080p | Ultra Settings | 59 |
Positive and Negative Aspects
Positives:
- Substantial improvement in 1080p gaming performance for i7-4790 systems.
- Budget-friendly and energy-efficient, making it an attractive upgrade option.
- Low likelihood of bottlenecking with the i7-4790, allowing for efficient performance.
Negatives:
- The 4 GB VRAM limits capabilities in more recent, demanding games.
- Lacks support for newer features like ray tracing and DLSS.
Summary
I recommend the Nvidia GeForce GTX 1650 for i7-4790 users seeking an affordable way to upgrade their gaming experience. It offers a good balance between cost and gaming performance, with a low risk of bottlenecking. While it’s not the most powerful option for the latest high-end games, it’s an excellent choice for enhancing overall gaming performance in a variety of popular titles.
2. Nvidia GeForce RTX 2060
The Nvidia GeForce RTX 2060 is an excellent choice for Intel Core i7-4790 users who are aiming for a significant boost in gaming performance. This GPU is well-equipped to handle most modern games at high settings in 1080p, and it also performs decently at 1440p. It’s particularly known for bringing ray tracing technology to the table, which enhances game visuals with realistic lighting and reflections. While it’s a powerful GPU, pairing it with the i7-4790 may lead to limited bottlenecks in certain demanding games or applications, but generally, it delivers a solid gaming experience.
GPU Key Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Memory Size (VRAM) | 6 GB |
| Clock Speed | 1365 MHz – 1680 MHz |
| Process Size | 12 nm |
| TDP | 160 W |
Gaming Benchmarks
| Game Title | Resolution | Graphics Settings | Average FPS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fortnite | 1080p | Epic Settings | 125 |
| Apex Legends | 1080p | High Settings | 110 |
| Assassin’s Creed Odyssey | 1080p | Very High Settings | 77 |
| Control | 1080p | High Settings | 75 |
Positive and Negative Aspects
Positives:
- Excellent upgrade for 1080p gaming, providing a noticeable improvement over older or less powerful GPUs.
- Capable of handling some games at 1440p.
- Ray tracing technology adds to the gaming experience with better visual effects.
Negatives:
- Some bottlenecking may occur with the i7-4790 in CPU-intensive scenarios or extremely demanding games.
- The 6 GB VRAM might be limiting for future titles and higher game settings.
Summary
The Nvidia GeForce RTX 2060 is a strong recommendation for users with the i7-4790, especially for those who wish to experience enhanced gaming at 1080p and explore ray tracing in games. While it might not fully unleash its potential in every scenario due to slight bottlenecks with the i7-4790, it still stands as a significant upgrade for most gaming setups.
3. AMD Radeon RX 6600
The AMD Radeon RX 6600 is a valuable upgrade for those using the Intel Core i7-4790, particularly for mid-range gaming enthusiasts. It’s designed to provide a significant boost in playing modern games at 1080p and 1440p, offering a great balance between price and performance. This GPU is a practical choice for users who want to experience improved gaming quality without diving into the complexities of high-end graphics cards. While it pairs well with the i7-4790, it’s important to keep in mind that in some extremely demanding games or settings, the processor may limit its full potential.
GPU Key Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Memory Size (VRAM) | 8 GB |
| Clock Speed | 2044 MHz – 2491 MHz |
| Process Size | 7 nm |
| TDP | 132 W |
Gaming Benchmarks
| Game Title | Resolution | Graphics Settings | Average FPS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Call of Duty: Warzone | 1080p | High Settings | 80 |
| Fortnite | 1080p | Epic Settings | 100 |
| Red Dead Redemption 2 | 1080p | High Settings | 65 |
| Apex Legends | 1440p | Medium Settings | 75 |
Positive and Negative Aspects
Positives:
- Boosts gaming quality significantly at 1080p and respectable performance at 1440p.
- Good value for its price, especially for mid-range gaming setups.
- Compatible with the i7-4790, enhancing overall gaming experiences efficiently.
Negatives:
- In highly demanding games, the i7-4790 may hold back the GPU from reaching its full potential.
- Lacks some of the high-end features found in more expensive GPUs.
Summary
The AMD Radeon RX 6600 is a solid recommendation for i7-4790 users looking to upgrade their gaming experience without going overboard on spending. It’s well-suited for those who want a simple yet effective enhancement in gaming performance, particularly at 1080p and 1440p. While it’s not the top-of-the-line model, it strikes an excellent balance for the average gamer.
4. AMD Radeon RX 6650XT
The AMD Radeon RX 6650 XT represents a significant performance leap, ideal for those with an i7-4790 who are looking towards future PC upgrades. While this GPU is capable of delivering exceptional gaming experiences at both 1080p and 1440p, it’s important to note that its full potential is somewhat constrained when paired with the i7-4790 due to CPU bottlenecks. However, for users planning on upgrading their CPU in the future, this GPU offers a valuable path to high-end gaming performance.
GPU Key Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Memory Size (VRAM) | 8 GB |
| Clock Speed | Up to 2694 MHz |
| Process Size | 7 nm |
| TDP | 180 W |
Gaming Benchmarks
| Game Title | Resolution | Graphics Settings | Average FPS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Battlefield V | 1440p | High Settings | 75 |
| Fortnite | 1440p | Epic Settings | 100 |
| Red Dead Redemption 2 | 1440p | High Settings | 60 |
Positive and Negative Aspects
Positives:
- Offers superior gaming performance for modern titles at high resolutions.
- Suitable as a future-proofing investment for users planning a CPU upgrade.
- Capable of handling a wide range of gaming demands with its 8 GB VRAM.
Negatives:
- Significant bottlenecking with the i7-4790, limiting the GPU’s full performance capabilities.
- Advanced features like high-end ray tracing are not its strongest suit.
Summary
For i7-4790 users who are considering future upgrades to their gaming rig, I recommend the AMD Radeon RX 6650 XT as a strategic choice. Despite the current bottleneck with the i7-4790, this GPU stands as a forward-looking investment, ensuring that users can eventually unlock its full gaming prowess with a more powerful CPU. It’s an ideal option for those who want to gradually build towards a high-end gaming experience.
Conclusion
- Nvidia GeForce GTX 1650: This is the go-to choice for those on a tight budget. It offers a decent upgrade from older GPUs, suitable for casual gaming at 1080p. While it won’t push the boundaries of high-end gaming, it’s a cost-effective way to improve gaming performance.
- Nvidia GeForce RTX 2060: A more robust option, the RTX 2060 brings ray tracing and better performance at higher settings. It’s a good match for the i7-4790, but be mindful of potential bottlenecks in CPU-intensive scenarios. It’s ideal for users who want a balance between current gaming quality and some level of future-proofing.
- AMD Radeon RX 6600: Offering strong performance in 1080p and decent results in 1440p, this GPU is a solid mid-range choice. It’s a good upgrade for those wanting to enhance their gaming without encountering significant bottleneck issues.
- AMD Radeon RX 6650 XT: For users planning to eventually upgrade their entire system, the RX 6650 XT offers a path towards high-end gaming. While it faces bottlenecking with the i7-4790, it’s a future-proof investment for those looking to maximize gaming performance in the long run.
