Methodology

Performance indexes

Each CPU carries a gaming index (0–100) and a multi-core index. Each GPU carries a 1440p index; the 1080p and 4K indexes are derived from it (1080p compresses the spread between cards because the CPU takes over; 4K widens it). The indexes are relative estimates that we assemble from published independent reviews and adjust by hand; they are not our own lab measurements, and they will drift as drivers and games change.

The bottleneck formula

For each resolution we estimate the gaming index a CPU needs to keep a given card fully busy: needed = a + b × GPU index, with a, b = 45, 0.62 at 1080p, 40, 0.60 at 1440p and 30, 0.50 at 4K. If the CPU's index is below needed, the CPU is the limit and the severity is 1 − CPU / needed. If it is above, the GPU is the limit and the severity is 1 − needed / CPU. Under 10% we call the pair balanced; 10–25% mild; 25–40% moderate; over 40% severe.

The constants were tuned so that pairings reviewers describe as well matched (for example a mid-range six-core with a mid-range card at 1440p, or a flagship X3D chip with a flagship card) land in the balanced band.

Power supply

Estimated load = CPU maximum turbo power + GPU board power + 100 W. Recommended PSU = the first common size (450, 550, 650, 750, 850, 1000, 1200, 1600 W) at or above 1.3× the estimated load.

Limits

Real frame rates depend on the game engine, settings, memory speed, background software and drivers. Treat the score as a planning aid, not a promise.