Target the monitor first
Start with your refresh rate and resolution, then size the GPU and CPU. A 1080p/144 Hz esports setup needs strong CPU single-core plus a mid GPU; a 4K/60 build needs GPU first and a balanced 8+ core CPU to feed it.
Recommended pairings (current-gen)
- 1080p 144 Hz (esports): RTX 4060 / RX 7600 with Intel i5-13400F or AMD Ryzen 5 5600. PSU: quality 550–650W.
- 1440p 144 Hz (AAA + esports): RTX 4070 Super or RX 7800 XT with i5-13600K / Ryzen 5 7600X. PSU: 650–750W Gold.
- 4K 60–120 Hz (AAA): RTX 4080 Super or RX 7900 XTX with i7-13700K / Ryzen 7 7800X3D. PSU: 850–1000W Gold/Platinum.
Avoid pairing entry CPUs (e.g., i3) with high-end GPUs; you’ll see CPU bottlenecks in CPU-heavy titles (strategy, MMOs, sim racers).
Frame pacing and VRAM
- VRAM: 8GB is fine for 1080p; 12GB+ is safer for 1440p; 16GB+ preferred at 4K for high textures.
- Frame pacing: X3D CPUs (e.g., 7800X3D) smooth 1% lows in CPU-bound titles; DLSS/FSR helps GPU-bound.
Power and thermals
- PSU headroom: Aim for 30–40% headroom above total board power. 12VHPWR connectors need quality ATX 3.0 units.
- Case airflow: Two intake + one exhaust minimum. GPUs over 300W benefit from an extra front intake.
- Cooling: 240mm AIO or strong air (e.g., dual-tower) for K/X3D CPUs; stock coolers are fine for non-K 65W parts at 1080p builds.
When to upgrade
Upgrade GPU if you’re GPU-bound (high GPU usage) and want higher settings/resolution. Upgrade CPU if CPU usage is pegged with low GPU usage in CPU-heavy games, or if 1% lows stutter despite a strong GPU.
Need a prebuilt instead? See our Best Gaming Computers guide for vetted configs matched to 1080p/1440p/4K use-cases.