GPU Bottleneck?

[epiccgaming]

Hello I have a ZOTAC Nivdia GTX 970 4GB with a Intel Core2 Quad Q8300 CPU @ 2.5GHz and i feel as if im not getting the most out of my graphics card am i bottlenecked?

[niofalpha]

What does the GPU usage look like ingame?

[Wiflare]

I'd say it's about time to upgrade from an old core 2 quad, even if it is one of the better ones.

I recommend a 4690k with a gigabyte or asus z97 motherboard as a more than suitable upgrade; what would your budget be?

[Humbug]

Yes you are CPU bottlenecked. 2.5Ghz core2quad is not fast enough to keep a 970 busy.

In games you will probably notice your 970 running cooler than others and not at 100% utilization. I.e. It's not working hard because the CPU isn't sending draw calls fast enough

[epiccgaming]

I'd say it's about time to upgrade from an old core 2 quad, even if it is one of the better ones.

I recommend a 4690k with a gigabyte or asus z97 motherboard as a more than suitable upgrade; what would your budget be?

do motherboards have a say in frames in games i do have a asus motherboard could i still use it when i upgrade my cpu? also was looking into getting a i7 4970k

[Majestic]

Like a motherfucker. Return that card if you can, or upgrade.

[Humbug]

do motherboards have a say in frames in games i do have a asus motherboard could i still use it when i upgrade my cpu? also was looking into getting a i7 4970k

No. Your current motherboard has a different socket type in order to support core2 CPUs. The socket is the physical slot on the motherboard where you insert the CPU. A modern Intel CPU uses socket 1150, the pin layout is different. So unfortunately you need to buy a new motherboard. However it's a worthwhile investment and will easily be good enough for your next GPU upgrade. Check what kind of RAM your using; if it's DDR2 you need to replace that too in order to achieve compatibility with new motherboard.

Also an i5 is better value for gaming.

[david cassar]

Jesus..Yes your 970 is bottlenecked, A lot at that. I wouldn't put anything faster than an r9 270 on a core 2 quad. Save some money and get yourself an i5 4430 and an h81 motherboard for around 200$.