There's more than one way to figure the value. Using CPU prices in isolation, the 3600 is by far the best value. Using total system cost plus expected lifetime energy usage, the higher core count CPUs like the 3700X are the clear winner. I don't know how long you plan to keep this system, but it might be worth doing the math and maybe spending the extra, afaik, some games are beginning to use all those cores, and that trend will only continue. Not to mention higher output for DC!
Re system cost & energy usage, I think you're getting mixed up here, whilst I'm sure the 3700X is more efficient (ppd/£), it is definitely going to use more energy over what ever time period is chosen. Plus the nearly £100 extra cost of the CPU.
I wasn't aware of any games using all 6 cores, but I've not looked into it for years as I pretty much only play Elite Dangerous these days (occasionally older games), but a quick bit of Googling found this here on AT
Games that recommend 6 cores ), if I play ED with VR that does run better with 6 cores (which I would like to do again if I can be sure motion sickness won't be a long term problem, I've had mixed results with a little bit of testing I did. And btw I was more GPU limited than CPU limited).
Anyway, 6 core CPUs has only fairly recently (~2.5 yrs) entered the mainstream segment, so I think it will be quite a long time before they become the bare minimum or even mid recommended amongst most games. And beyond then, if I need an octa-core CPU I can upgrade to one & it'll be much cheaper!
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The higher DC output is tempting
, but aside from the fact I've never spent more than ~£200 on a CPU (which I'd only done for my current CPU), I'm looking forwards to a big drop in energy usage with my PC by sticking with 6 cores & going from my Ivybridge to a Zen2. I plan to buy an M3 (e92) soon as a 'fair weather/weekend fun' car, cutting my energy bill will help to offset that a little bit
(I'm going to dial back my TV & broadband package too - now done! Thanks for 'reminding' me
gone from £91(!)/mth to £66).
Can't remember if I mentioned this, but the Zen2 CPU I get will be the 1st CPU I won't be overclocking since my Pentium 166MMX in my 1st rig 21 1/2 yrs ago!
Seems to be no point with the Zen 2s as far as I've seen
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