So, you’ve got an Intel i5-8400 and need a GPU to match. Good news! This processor is still solid for gaming, but pairing it with the right graphics card makes all the difference.
Things to Consider
- Performance Balance – You don’t want a GPU that’s too powerful and ends up bottlenecked by your CPU.
- Budget – Get the best performance for your money.
- Power Requirements – Make sure your power supply can handle the new GPU.
Best GPU Choices for i5-8400
Here are some great GPU options that complement your i5-8400.
1. NVIDIA GTX 1660 Super
This is a fantastic mid-range choice. It can handle 1080p gaming like a champ.
- 6GB GDDR6 VRAM – Enough for modern games.
- Low Power Consumption – Works well with mid-tier power supplies.
- Great for High FPS Gaming – Runs eSports titles smoothly.
If you want smooth gameplay without overspending, this card is a great pick.
2. AMD Radeon RX 6600
If you prefer AMD, this is a fantastic option. It performs slightly better than the 1660 Super.
- 8GB GDDR6 VRAM – Future-proof for 1080p gaming.
- Great Power Efficiency – Doesn’t require a huge PSU.
- Ray Tracing Support – Although not as strong as NVIDIA, it’s there!
Perfect for both casual and competitive gaming at 1080p.
3. NVIDIA RTX 2060
If you want to try ray tracing without spending too much, this is a great GPU.
- 6GB GDDR6 VRAM – Enough for high-quality textures.
- Decent Ray Tracing – Not the best, but not bad!
- Better 1440p Performance – If you plan on upgrading your monitor.
It pairs well with the i5-8400, offering good performance without major bottlenecks.
4. AMD Radeon RX 5700
For those wanting a bit more power without overspending, the RX 5700 is a great choice.
- 8GB GDDR6 VRAM – Enough for modern and future games.
- Strong 1440p Performance – If you want higher resolution gaming.
- No Ray Tracing – But excellent raw power.
If you can find one at a good price, it’s a great upgrade.
Which One Should You Get?
If you primarily play 1080p games and want good performance without spending too much, go for the GTX 1660 Super or RX 6600.
Need ray tracing? The RTX 2060 is the best choice.
Want some extra power for future games? The RX 5700 is your best bet.
Final Thoughts
The i5-8400 is still a capable gaming CPU. Pick a GPU that matches its power so you don’t waste performance. Choose based on your budget and preferred features, and enjoy smooth gaming!
