Key Takeaways

• Solid performance: Throughout our testing, the Core i5-13600K managed to provide solid performance across the board thanks to its architectural overhaul.
• Increased core count: The Core i5-13600K benefits significantly from its increased core count. It comes with 6 P-cores and 8 E-cores.
• Support For DDR4 and DDR5: Much like its predecessor, the Core i5-13600K comes with support for both DDR4 and DDR5.

About i5-13600k Architecture

This gallery summarizes the key features of the new series.

Raptor Lake Architecture

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We are seeing a +200MHz boost for Core i5-13600K and a +400MHz boost for Core i7 13700k CPUs. Intel has introduced new performance cores dubbed “Raptor Cove” cores.

Intel boosted E-Core size on Raptor Lake CPUs, with the Core i5-13600K having 8 E-Cores compared to the Core i5-12600K’s 4. Core i9-13900K E-Cores hit 4.3GHz, while Core i5-13600K E-Cores top out at 3.9GHz, with doubled L2 cache shared within each cluster.

Raptor Lake CPUs now handle DDR5 speeds up to 5600MHz, and the compute fabric is also made faster by up to 900MHz. The L3 Cache size is now 24MB on the Core i5 CPU. Moreover, the new Dynamic INI (inclusive/non-inclusive) architecture in the Raptor Lake allows the sub-components to reserve portions of the L3 cache.

Intel has also worked on the software side to bring out balanced and enhanced performance from all perspectives.

This generation shares the LGA1700 socket with Alder Lake, compatible with 600 series chipsets. The Z790, an enthusiast-class chipset, is introduced while existing Alder Lake users can utilize 13th-gen CPUs on 600 series motherboards via a BIOS update due to matching I/O compatibility.

I’m currently testing the Core i5-13600K, featuring 6 P-Cores and 8 E-Cores with a thread count of 12 for P-Cores thanks to hyper-threading, bringing the total thread count to 20. P-Cores run at a 3.50GHz base clock, with E-Cores at 2.60GHz. Max Turbo Frequency is 5.1GHz for P-Cores and 3.9GHz for E-Cores. The CPU boasts a 20MB L2 cache, 24MB L3 cache, 125W power at base clocks, and 181W at max turbo frequency.

These are the specifications for the 13th-gen lineup.

Packing and Unboxing

The CPU is shipped inside the blue color-themed paperboard packing box.

Unboxing

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The above picture shows the CPU-Z run from the system. Our sample was boosted to 5.4GHz out of the box.

Testing

Following is the configuration of the test benches that have been used for this content.

Special Note To Thank Our Sponsors: AMD, ASUS, GIGABYTE, MSI, Sabrent, DeepCool, be quiet!, and ANTEC.

Methodology

The following was ensured for each test:

• Each test is done on the Auto and Stock settings.
• Default tweaking/performance enhancement options are disabled in the BIOS.
• XMP is loaded for each test. DRAM timings and Voltage are set manually.
• All other voltages are left at Auto.
• The pump and fans of the cooling solution are set to run at 100% during the testing.
• Games are benched on the stock clocks.
• The overclocking results of the processor under discussion are shown.
• The Graphics card is not overclocked.
• The motherboards’ BIOS is updated to their latest.
• Nvidia’s driver 517.48 is used.
• HWinfo64 is used to monitor the sensors.
• Each game was tested on maxed setting using the built-in benchmark utility where available, and the MSI After Burner was used to record the FPS from the actual gameplay.

Let’s start with the results. The testing was done on Microsoft Windows 11 x64 version 22H2.

General Tests

Let’s start with some general tests.

General Tests

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Rendering Tests

We have run multiple rendering tests for evaluation. The results of these tests are mostly the rendering time and frames per second unless stated otherwise. Lower time and higher FPS are what we are looking for.

Rendering Tests

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Transcoding

We have used X264 HD and X265 HD Benchmarks to measure the transcoding performance of the CPU.

Transcoding

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Web-based Benchmarks

Just to give an idea of how the CPUs impact general web browsing, we ran a few benchmarks.

Web-based Benchmarks

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Gaming Benchmarks

Let’s start with the synthetic benchmarks. For this purpose, We have used 3DMark Fire Strike and Time Spy benchmarks.

Gaming Benchmarks

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Frequency

The Intel i5-13600K features a base clock of 3.50GHz for P-Cores and 2.60GHz for E-Cores. Its turbo frequency reaches 5.1GHz for P-Cores and 3.9GHz for E-Cores, with variability based on load and other factors. For example, the thermal headroom, power limit, cooling solution, thermal paste application, how good a motherboard is, etc.

Our unit was boosting to 5.1GHz (P-Cores) and (3.9GHz E-Cores) out of the box. This is not it. The CPU actually maintained these clocks under multi-core and single-core loads using Blender, and Cinebench R23 runs.

Thermals And Power

We have tested the Intel i5-13600K on the GIGABYTE Z790 AORUS ELITE AX motherboard with the latest BIOS update. This is not a high-end motherboard, but it still packs enough juice for the i5 and i7 CPUs. From the cooling perspective, we have set up a custom loop on the test bench when the CPU arrives for testing. The setup consists of:

• AlphaCool Eisblock XPX AURORA PRO Digital RGB – Full Brass
• AlphaCool Eisbecher AURORA with Apex VPP Pump
• AlphaCool NexXxos XT45 Full Copper SuperNova 1260mm Radiator
• AlphaCool Black Tube 16/10mm
• AlphaCool Straight Compression Fittings 16/10
• AlphaCool 45/90° Rotary Adapters
• AlphaCool Quick-Disconnect Fittings
• AlphaCool Clear Coolant
• 9x be quiet! Silent Wings 4 140mm PWM High-Speed Fans

The thermal paste used is AlphaCool SubZero, with a thermal conductivity rating of 16W-mK. In that, we have covered three aspects:

• Adequate Motherboard
• Powerful Cooling
• A high-grade thermal paste

We left the system idle for like 30 minutes and used HWInfo64 to monitor the thermals and power usage.

As can be seen in the above picture, the minimum package temperature was 30°C at an ambient of 21.5°C, and the package power was 3.397W. The minimum frequency was 0.80GHz on any core during idling. The overall stats are good. Please keep in mind that this is a hybrid architecture. If you take the Core Temperature sensor into consideration, then the idling is at 23°C.

Next, we run a Cinebench R23 30-minute run on the CPU and monitor the stats using the HWInfo64.

The temperature under load was 76°C. The power draw on the CPU package was 179.449W. This is within the stated 181W for turbo frequency operation. All P-Cores were operating at 5.1GHz continuously, and all E-Cores were at 3.9GHz continuously. This is an impressive performance.

We also monitored the power usage on the single-core load using Cinebench R23. The CPU was drawing roughly 33.886W, which is very good when compared to the Intel i7 12700k and AMD Ryzen 7 7700X. Please note that single-core load does not use E-Cores on the Intel hybrid architecture (in Windows 11).

The above graph shows the power consumption on the single-threaded load from the Cinebench R23.

Contribution from E-Cores

We received an interesting query what is the contribution of E-Cores to the total performance? We decided to disable the E-Cores and run the Cinebench R23 to check the performance hit, if any. Here is the result:

We observed approximately 34% performance hit in the multi-core load and 0.8% performance hit in the single-core load. The single-core difference is highly marginal and can be ignored as such, but the 34% hit with disabled E-Cores is making a good point on how much these cores contribute.

Overclocking

We started with P-Cores at 5.2GHz and E-Cores at 4.0GHz. For each change, we have tested the Cinebench R23 to see if there is any performance hit or gain. This was then tested further using games and other loads for stability. We settled at P-Cores at 5.6GHz and E-Cores at 4.4GHz. This is a good overclock on this CPU. The Vcore was set at approximately 1.330V.

The above picture shows the performance gain from these overclocks in the Cinebench R23. We saw a performance gain of approximately 9.69%.

The CPU was drawing 192W package power approximately, and the temperature was 81°C. Please remember we are using a custom loop setup with a massive-size radiator. The results with the regular AIO or air cooler would be different, and you might actually go into thermal throttling with this overclock on a regular cooler. Any attempt to further increase the clocks was met with failures. Seems like we hit the silicon limit!

Should You Buy It?

We conducted multiple tests on the Core i5-13600K. The results have given us a fairly good idea about the processor’s use case.

Buy It If:

You are building a mid-high-end system: The core i5-13600K supersedes its predecessor when it comes to performance, making it a suitable processor to pair with high-end graphics cards.

You want a CPU for competitive titles: In our tests, the core i5-13600K performed well in single-core tasks while also keeping up in multi-threaded scenarios, making it perfect for competitive titles.

You want a cost-effective processor: Unlike the higher-end processors from Intel, the core i5-13600K is reasonably priced.

You want support for DDR4 and DDR5 memory: The Core i5-13600K supports both DDR4 and DDR5 memory kits.

Don’t Buy It If:

You want an efficient processor: During our tests, the i5-13600K remained efficient under single-threaded tasks; however, it proved to be slightly more power-hungry in multi-threaded scenarios, with its consumption spiking up to 180W.

My Thoughts

I tested the Core i5-13600K, Core i7-12700K, and Ryzen 7 7700X for energy efficiency. The Core i5-13600K outperformed the others with a score of 59.29, but in multi-threaded scenarios, both Intel CPUs consumed more power. The Core i5-13600K scored 136.27 in energy efficiency, the Core i7-12700K scored 115.56, and the Ryzen 7 7700X scored 143.40, surprising me as the Ryzen was more energy-efficient.

Gaming performance varied, with the Core i5-13600K excelling in some titles. Thermals were better, but using an AIO is still recommended. I managed to overclock it to 5.6GHz on P-Cores and 4.4GHz on E-Cores, with temperatures reaching 81°C in my DIY setup.

Intel’s advantage is platform compatibility; 13th gen CPUs work on the 12th gen platform with a BIOS update, saving users money. You can also use DDR4 RAM on the new 700 series platform, which supports both DDR5 and DDR4. The Core i5-13600K offers great performance at a competitive price, making it a cost-effective choice.

Awards Received By Core i5-13600K

1. Best Overall CPU For Gaming
2. Best Budget CPU For Video Editing
3. Best CPU for Streaming 1080p
4. Best Budget CPU for RTX 4090
5. Best Budget CPU for RTX 4080
6. Best Intel CPU for RTX 4060 Ti
7. Best High-End CPU for RTX 4060
8. Best Intel CPU For RX 7700 XT
9. Best Overall Gaming CPU For RTX 4070 Ti
10. Best Overall Gaming CPU For RX 7800 XT
11. Best Budget CPU For RX 7900 XTX & RX 7900 XT

Recent Updates

Nauman Siddique

[Hardware Reviewer & Editor]

Meet Nauman Siddique, a highly experienced computer science graduate with more than 15 years of knowledge in technology. Nauman is an expert in the field known for his deep understanding of computer hardware.

As a tech tester, insightful reviewer, and skilled hardware editor, Nauman carefully breaks down important parts like motherboards, graphics cards, processors, PC cases, CPU coolers, and more.

• 15+ years of PC Building Experience
• 10+ years of first-hand knowledge of technology
• 7+ years of doing in-depth testing of PC Hardware
• A motivated individual with a keen interest in tech testing from multiple angles.
• I majored in Computer Science with a Masters in Marketing
• Previously worked at eXputer, EnosTech, and Appuals.

Get In Touch: nauman@tech4gamers.com

Intel Core i5-13600K Review: Is It Worth It? is a post from Tech4Gamers - All About Technology And Gaming News

Here’s a quick look at our selected CPUs for RX 7700 XT and a brief comparison of their specs:

CPU

AMD Ryzen 5 7600X

Intel Core i5 13600K

AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3D

Intel Core i5 13400F

AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D

AMD Ryzen 5 5600

Looks

Award

Best AMD CPU For RX 7700 XT

Best Intel CPU For RX 7700 XT

Best Overall Gaming CPU For RX 7700 XT

Best Budget CPU For RX 7700 XT

Best High-End CPU For RX 7700 XT

Best Value CPU For RX 7700 XT

What We Liked

Performance, Efficiency, Unlocked, Value for money

Overclocking potential, Solid performance, DDR4 and DDR5 support

Affordable platform, Good performance, Value for money

Affordable, Included cooler, Good performance

Power Consumption, L3 Cache, Performance,

Value for money, Decent performmance, Good power draw

What We Disliked

Only DDR5, Pricey motherboards

Slightly higher power draw

No overclocking support

No overclocking support, No iGPU

Locked Multiplier, Pricey

No DDR5 support

Socket

AMD AM5

FCLGA1700

AMD AM4

FCLGA1700

AMD AM5

AMD AM4

Cores

6

14 (6P + 8E)

8

10 (6P + 4E)

8

6

Threads

12

20

16

16

16

12

Base Clock

4.7 GHz

2.6 GHz

3.4 GHz

1.8 GHz

4.2 GHz

3.5 GHz

Boost Clock

Up to 5.3 GHz

Up to 5.1 GHz

Up to 4.5 GHz

Up to 5.4 Up to 4.6 GHz

Up to 5.0 GHz

Up to 4.4 GHz

TDP

105W

125W

105W

65W

120W

65W

Unlocked

Amazon

Buy on Amazon

Buy on Amazon

Buy on Amazon

Buy on Amazon

Buy on Amazon

Buy on Amazon

CPU

AMD Ryzen 5 7600X

Looks

Award

Best AMD CPU For RX 7700 XT

What We Liked

Performance, Efficiency, Unlocked, Value for money

What We Disliked

Only DDR5, Pricey motherboards

Socket

AMD AM5

Cores

6

Threads

12

Base Clock

4.7 GHz

Boost Clock

Up to 5.3 GHz

TDP

105W

Unlocked

Amazon

Buy on Amazon

CPU

Intel Core i5 13600K

Looks

Award

Best Intel CPU For RX 7700 XT

What We Liked

Overclocking potential, Solid performance, DDR4 and DDR5 support

What We Disliked

Slightly higher power draw

Socket

FCLGA1700

Cores

14 (6P + 8E)

Threads

20

Base Clock

2.6 GHz

Boost Clock

Up to 5.1 GHz

TDP

125W

Unlocked

Amazon

Buy on Amazon

CPU

AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3D

Looks

Award

Best Overall Gaming CPU For RX 7700 XT

What We Liked

Affordable platform, Good performance, Value for money

What We Disliked

No overclocking support

Socket

AMD AM4

Cores

8

Threads

16

Base Clock

3.4 GHz

Boost Clock

Up to 4.5 GHz

TDP

105W

Unlocked

Amazon

Buy on Amazon

CPU

Intel Core i5 13400F

Looks

Award

Best Budget CPU For RX 7700 XT

What We Liked

Affordable, Included cooler, Good performance

What We Disliked

No overclocking support, No iGPU

Socket

FCLGA1700

Cores

10 (6P + 4E)

Threads

16

Base Clock

1.8 GHz

Boost Clock

Up to 5.4 Up to 4.6 GHz

TDP

65W

Unlocked

Amazon

Buy on Amazon

CPU

AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D

Looks

Award

Best High-End CPU For RX 7700 XT

What We Liked

Power Consumption, L3 Cache, Performance,

What We Disliked

Locked Multiplier, Pricey

Socket

AMD AM5

Cores

8

Threads

16

Base Clock

4.2 GHz

Boost Clock

Up to 5.0 GHz

TDP

120W

Unlocked

Amazon

Buy on Amazon

CPU

AMD Ryzen 5 5600

Looks

Award

Best Value CPU For RX 7700 XT

What We Liked

Value for money, Decent performmance, Good power draw

What We Disliked

No DDR5 support

Socket

AMD AM4

Cores

6

Threads

12

Base Clock

3.5 GHz

Boost Clock

Up to 4.4 GHz

TDP

65W

Unlocked

Amazon

Buy on Amazon

Last update on 2023-12-14

Getting the RX 7800 XT? Make sure to check:

• Best CPU For RX 7800 XT

Best CPU For RX 7700 XT

Here is a selection of the best CPUs for RX 7700 XT that you can buy right now:

1. AMD Ryzen 5 7600X
2. Intel Core i5 13600K
3. AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3D
4. Intel Core i5-13400F
5. AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D
6. AMD Ryzen 5 5600

AMD Ryzen 5 7600X

Best AMD CPU For RX 7700 XT

Socket: AMD AM5 | Cores: 6 | Threads: 12 | L2 Cache: 6MB | Base Clock: 4.7 GHz | Boost Clock: Up to 5.3 GHz | TDP: 105W | Unlocked: Yes

Dominating the mid-range market segment, the AMD Ryzen 5 CPUs have blossomed in popularity over the past few years, and for good reason. The AMD Ryzen 5 7600X brings substantial architectural improvements over its predecessor, making it a potent gaming CPU and a perfect AMD partner for the Radeon RX 7700 XT.

Performance: The AMD Zen 4 architecture brought monumental improvements in both instructions per clock (IPC) and performance-per-watt metrics, resulting in superior single-threaded performance across the board. With 6 cores and 12 threads boosting up to 5.3 GHz, the mid-range AMD Ryzen 5 7600X proves to be a commendable gaming partner for the Radeon RX 7700 XT, thanks to its excellent overall gaming performance.

Cooling: Although AMD specifies a rated TDP of 105W for the AMD Ryzen 5 7600X, it proves to be quite an efficient performer in actual operation. In my testing with the Noctua NH-U12S, the Ryzen 5 7600X peaked at a comfortable 72C during gaming and a manageable 82C during an all-core stress test. One should look to pair the Ryzen 5 7600X with a 240mm AiO or a decent aftermarket AM5 air cooler to strike the optimal balance.

Overclocking Potential: AMD’s advantage shines through once again as the Ryzen 5 7600X comes with an unlocked multiplier for overclocking. In my testing, I managed to achieve an all-core overclock of 5.3GHz at 1.29V, which yielded noticeable performance improvements across the board. You may want to invest in a premium aftermarket cooler to handle the added thermal strain if you want to venture into manual overclocking.

Power Consumption: The mid-range AMD AM5 CPUs are often lauded for their commendable efficiency, and the same trend holds true for the Ryzen 5 7600X. Although AMD has rated the TDP at 105W, my sample of the Ryzen 5 7600X peaked at just 46W while gaming. The power consumption rose to a manageable 96W during an all-core stress test with 100% utilization, still in perfectly comfortable territory for a modern AMD Ryzen CPU.

Comparison: In order to get a better idea of the generational improvement offered by Zen 4, we can evaluate our AMD Ryzen 5 7600X vs. Ryzen 5 5600X comparison. According to our findings, the former holds a 16% advantage over the latter in 1080p gaming, while the advantage rises to 29% in productivity scenarios. Conclusively, the Zen 4 offering holds a substantial value advantage over its predecessor simply due to its superior performance.

Value For Money: The AMD Ryzen 5 CPUs have always been known for their value proposition, and the Ryzen 5 7600X stays true to that trend. Offering an exceptional price-to-performance ratio in a mid-range price segment, the Ryzen 5 7600X positions itself as the ideal AMD partner for the Radeon RX 7700 XT. Paired with an affordable B650 motherboard, the Ryzen 5 7600X offers an attractive value proposition that is hard to miss.

Buy It If:

You want the ideal AMD CPU for RX 7700 XT: Maximizing the potential performance of the Radeon RX 7700 XT at multiple resolutions, the Ryzen 5 7600X is the ideal AMD pairing for this GPU.

You don’t have a premium CPU cooler: With its efficient nature and manageable thermals, the Ryzen 5 7600X is easy to cool even with affordable CPU coolers.

Don’t Buy It If:

You don’t want to shift to DDR5 memory: Since the AMD Ryzen 7000 series CPUs are exclusive to DDR5 memory, you can’t use your current DDR4 memory kits with these CPUs.

What Makes It The Best AMD CPU For RX 7700 XT?

The AMD Ryzen 5 7600X maximizes the gaming performance of the Radeon RX 7700 XT across multiple resolutions without going overboard on pricing, making it the best AMD CPU for RX 7700 XT.

More for Ryzen 5 7600X:

• Best CPU Cooler for Ryzen 5 7600X
• Best Motherboard for Ryzen 5 7600X
• Best RAM for Ryzen 5 7600X
• Best GPU for Ryzen 5 7600X

Intel Core i5 13600K

Best Intel CPU For RX 7700 XT

Socket: FCLGA1700 | Cores: 14 (6P + 8E) | Threads: 20 | L2 Cache: 20MB | Base Clock: 2.6 GHz | Boost Clock: Up to 5.1 GHz | TDP: 125W | Unlocked: Yes

With superb single-threaded performance thanks to the excellent Raptor Lake architecture, the Core i5 13600K is often found at the top of gaming performance charts. Moreover, its versatile memory compatibility and unlocked multiplier broaden its appeal as the ideal Intel pairing for the Radeon RX 7700 XT.

Performance: Intel’s hold over the mid-range CPU market has strengthened over the past few years simply due to the superb gaming performance of its Core i5 CPUs. The Intel Core i5 13600K is another beneficiary of this trend, as it offers a total of 14 cores and 20 threads. With a high boost clock of 5.1 GHz on its 6 performance cores, the Core i5 13600K delivers admirable gaming performance at all resolutions with the Radeon RX 7700 XT.

Cooling: While it is marketed with a TDP rating of 125W, the Core i5 13600K can be slightly challenging to cool when it is operating at its maximum. My sample of the Core i5 13600K managed to peak at 76C during an all-core Cinebench R23 stress test, while under a custom loop liquid cooling solution. A 360mm AiO cooler or a premium dual-tower air cooler is a wise choice to pair with the Core i5 13600K if you plan to overclock.

Overclocking Potential: Bearing the special “K” suffix, the Core i5 13600K comes with an unlocked multiplier for overclocking. After a bit of tinkering, I settled on a P-Core frequency of 5.6GHz with an E-Core frequency of 4.4GHz at 1.330V on the VCore. This resulted in a substantial increase in temperature and power draw, which were recorded at 81C and 192W, respectively. One must invest in an appropriate cooling solution before overclocking.

Power Consumption: Harnessing the full power of Intel’s Turbo Boost Technology, the Core i5 13600K manages to sneak past its 125W TDP. My sample peaked at a power consumption of 179W during an all-core stress test, which still fits within the 181W turbo boost limit specified by Intel. The added power consumption can be explained by evaluating the aggressive boosting behavior of the Core i5 13600K, maximizing its single-threaded performance.

Comparison: As is clear from our Core i5 13600K vs. Core i9 12900K comparison piece, Intel Raptor Lake brought a tremendous leap in performance across the board. In my testing, the Core i5 13600K exchanges blows with the Core i9 12900K in gaming while being more efficient and substantially more affordable. This translates to a notable value advantage in favor of the Core i5 13600K when it comes to gaming performance and efficiency.

Value For Money: Continuing the subject of value, the Core i5 13600K excels in this category. With superb single-threaded performance translating into exceptional gaming results across the board, the Core i5 13600K holds a distinct advantage in price-to-performance metrics. It can also harness the power of last-gen Z690 motherboards and more affordable DDR4 memory to further increase its value proposition, allowing for a more reasonable cost of entry.

Buy It If:

You want the ideal Intel CPU for RX 7700 XT: Despite being in the mid-range price category, the Core i5 13600K allows the Radeon RX 7700 XT to fully flex its muscles.

You want to overclock: The Core i5 13600K comes with an unlocked multiplier and a respectable power budget for noticeable overclocking results.

Don’t Buy It If:

You don’t have a high-end CPU cooler: With a relatively high power consumption, the Core i5 13600K requires an excellent CPU cooler for comfortable operation.

What Makes It The Best Intel CPU For RX 7700 XT?

Providing more than enough gaming performance for the Radeon RX 7700 XT while being affordable and overclocking-friendly, the Intel Core i5 13600K is the best Intel CPU for RX 7700 XT.

More for Core i5 13600K:

• Intel Core i5-13600K Review
• Best Cooler for Intel Core i5-13600K
• Best Motherboard for Intel Core i5-13600K
• Best RAM for Intel Core i5-13600K
• Best GPU for Intel Core i5-13600K

AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3D

Best Overall Gaming CPU For RX 7700 XT

Socket: AMD AM4 | Cores: 8 | Threads: 16 | L2 Cache: 4MB | Base Clock: 3.4 GHz | Boost Clock: Up to 4.5 GHz | TDP: 105W | Unlocked: No

AMD’s implementation of the 3D V-Cache technology has brought about a revolution of sorts in the desktop CPU space. Rather than tinkering with the boost clock and IPC of the processors, AMD improved the gaming performance by substantially increasing the L3 cache. This promptly made the AMD Radeon RX 5800X3D the fastest gaming CPU at the time of its release.

Performance: With the bonus advantage of the amazing 3D V-Cache technology on top of the already amazing AMD Zen 3 architecture, the Ryzen 7 5800X3D delivers superb gaming performance across a multitude of modern titles. Featuring 8 cores and 16 threads with a boost clock of 4.5 GHz, the Ryzen 7 5800X3D is an exceptional performer in lightly threaded applications such as gaming, especially when paired with the Radeon RX 7700 XT.

Cooling: The AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3D might seem like a demanding CPU if you judge it by its 105W TDP, but in fact, it is quite reasonable in its thermal output. My sample of the Ryzen 7 5800X3D peaked at around 79C during a multi-core stress test while under a Noctua NH-U12S CPU cooler. Judging by this result, it may be wise to consider a high-end air cooler or a 240mm liquid cooler for your Ryzen 7 5800X3D for comfortable long-term operation.

Overclocking Potential: One of the key drawbacks of the AMD Ryzen X3D CPUs is the lack of an unlocked multiplier, restricting manual overclocking as a result. The AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3D also falls victim to the same trend and cannot be overclocked as a result. Unlike its Ryzen 7000 series siblings, you can’t even overclock the Ryzen 7 5800X3D using the Curve Optimizer (CO) or Precision Boost Overdrive (PBO) techniques, which is another minor annoyance. 

Power Consumption: The 105W advertised TDP of the AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3D looks like a mere suggestion when evaluating its power consumption. The processor regularly crosses that number thanks to its aggressive boosting behavior, peaking at around 171W of power draw in my testing. The additional power is harnessed by the AMD Zen 3 architecture to maximize the boost clocks of the Ryzen 7 5800X3D, thus vastly improving single-threaded performance.

Comparison: Pitting the AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3D against the last-gen Intel flagship can give us a good idea of the performance levels of both CPUs. As we evaluated in our Core i9 12900KS vs. Ryzen 7 5800X3D comparison piece, the AMD CPU only gives up a measly 1.8% lead to the Core i9 12900KS in 1080p gaming while being 8.3% more thermally efficient, 25.6% more power efficient, and even 27% more affordable than the Core i9 12900KS at launch.

Value For Money: Speaking of affordability, the AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3D is in a very favorable position thanks to its excellent gaming performance, superb price-to-performance ratio, and inexpensive platform. While the CPU itself is priced in the mid-range category, you can lower the cost of building your PC by using an affordable X570 or B550 motherboard along with inexpensive DDR4 memory to further improve the value proposition of your build.

Buy It If:

You want more affordable motherboards: The Ryzen 7 5800X3D provides superb gaming performance while being compatible with affordable AM4 motherboards, giving you the best of both worlds.

You want DDR4 compatibility: If you already have DDR4 memory lying around, the Ryzen 7 5800X3D will improve your value for money even further.

Don’t Buy It If:

You want a better future upgrade potential: Although the Ryzen 7 5800X3D itself is an excellent CPU choice, the AM4 platform has been retired as of the time of writing.

What Makes It The Best Overall Gaming CPU For RX 7700 XT?

With tremendous amounts of L3 cache to maximize its single-threaded performance, along with support for more affordable AM4 motherboards and DDR4 memory, the Ryzen 7 5800X3D is the best overall gaming CPU for RX 7700 XT.

More For Ryzen 7 5800X3D:

• Best Cooler for Ryzen 7 5800X3D
• Best Motherboard for Ryzen 7 5800X3D
• Best RAM for Ryzen 7 5800X3D

Intel Core i5 13400F

Best Budget CPU For RX 7700 XT

Socket: FCLGA1700 | Cores: 10 (6P + 4E) | Threads: 16 | L2 Cache: 9.5MB | Base Clock: 1.8 GHz | Boost Clock: Up to 4.6 GHz | TDP: 65W | Unlocked: No

The potent Core i5 13400F has cemented a unique spot in the gaming CPU market thanks to its respectable gaming performance and extremely efficient nature. Whether you’re building a gaming rig on a tight budget or you want the ideal pairing for the Radeon RX 7700 XT in a compact chassis, the Core i5 13400F has got you covered.

Performance: Although the Core i5 13400F is aimed at the budget segment of the CPU market, it still punches way above its weight when it comes to gaming performance. With 10 cores and 16 threads under the hood, the Core i5 13400F delivers admirable gaming performance with the Radeon RX 7700 XT without producing any significant bottlenecks. Its 4.6 GHz boost clock is respectable and helps the i5 13400F to deliver excellent single-threaded performance.

Cooling: One of the key advantages of the Core i5 13400F is its comfortable thermal performance since the CPU is incredibly efficient by design. Intel claims a reasonable 65W TDP for the Core i5 13400F, which is why my sample peaked at around 59C in an all-core stress test and 51C during gaming while being cooled by a Noctua NH-U14S. Moreover, Intel includes a reasonably competent stock cooler with the Core i5 13400F, which is surprisingly useable.

Overclocking Potential: Unfortunately, the Intel Core i5 13400F comes with a locked multiplier, which disables any manual overclocking by traditional means. You can try your hand at BCLK overclocking just like any other CPU, but that is a relatively risky method with minimal returns. Contrary to regular multiplier-based overclocking, BCLK overclocking disrupts the normal operation of other components attached to the CPU, leading to system instability.

Power Consumption: Continuing the theme of efficiency, the Core i5 13400F delivered excellent results in our power consumption testing. My sample of the Core i5 13400F peaked at around 63W of power draw when stressed with an all-core workload, which is right alongside the advertised power limit of the CPU. The power consumption settled at an even more reasonable 43W while gaming, highlighting the incredible efficiency of the Core i5 13400F.

Comparison: We can get a better idea of the performance levels and value proposition of the Core i5 13400F by comparing it against another value-oriented CPU. As we saw in our Core i5 13400 vs. Ryzen 5 5600X comparison, the Intel CPU holds a 7.6% lead over the Ryzen CPU in gaming scenarios while consuming 15.4% less power. This showcases the incredible efficiency advantage of the Core i5 13400F over competing Ryzen CPUs of this price class.

Value For Money: The Core i5 13400F stands out as a champion of value when it comes to the latest generation of desktop CPUs. It delivers excellent gaming performance while being extremely efficient and easy on the wallet. Moreover, it is compatible with both DDR4 and DDR5 memory, and you don’t need to purchase a premium Z-series motherboard to go along with it. You can even save a few more bucks by going with a last-gen 600-series motherboard.

Buy It If:

You want a value champion: Targeted at the entry-level desktop CPU market, the Core i5 13400F delivers great overall performance with the Radeon RX 7700 XT at a very reasonable price.

You want a useable stock cooler: While the included Intel stock cooler is not going to help you set any overclocking records, it is more than useable with the Core i5 13400F.

Don’t Buy It If:

You want to overclock: Since the Core i5 13400F has a locked multiplier, you cannot manually overclock this CPU by increasing the multiplier.

What Makes It The Best Budget CPU For RX 7700 XT?

At an entry-level price point, the Intel Core i5 13400F provides sufficient gaming performance and avoids any bottlenecks when paired with the Radeon RX 7700 XT, making it the best budget CPU for RX 7700 XT.

The Core i5-13400F has also won our awards for the following:

• Best CPU For RTX 4060
• Best CPU For RX 7600
• Best Budget CPUs

AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D

Best High-End CPU For RX 7700 XT

Socket: AMD AM5 | Cores: 8 | Threads: 16 | L2 Cache: 8MB | Base Clock: 4.2 GHz | Boost Clock: Up to 5.0 GHz | TDP: 120W | Unlocked: No

AMD pulled out all the stops when they implemented the superb 3D V-Cache design on the Ryzen 7000 lineup of CPUs. As a result, the Ryzen 7 7800X3D was propelled to the top of gaming charts at the time of its release, making it one of the fastest CPUs you can currently pair with the Radeon RX 7700 XT.

Performance: Combining the excellent AMD Zen 4 architecture with the revolutionary 3D V-Cache technology is a recipe for success, and that is what AMD did with the Ryzen 7 7800X3D. Featuring 96MB of L3 cache along with 8 cores and 16 threads, the Ryzen 7 7800X3D minimizes latency and maximizes single-threaded performance. Its respectable boost clock of 5.0GHz also plays a significant role in its superb performance in lightly-threaded applications.

Cooling: The AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D is a rather average performer in terms of thermals and does not raise any significant red flags. AMD labels the TDP as 120W for the Ryzen 7 7800X3D, which necessitates the use of a high-quality air cooler or 240mm AiO for regular operation. In my testing with the Noctua NH-U12S, the Ryzen 7 7800X3D peaked at 84C under an all-core stress test, while the maximum gaming temperature was recorded at 68C. 

Overclocking Potential: AMD does not allow an unlocked multiplier on its 3D V-Cache processors, and the same holds true for the Ryzen 7 7800X3D. Although you cannot overclock this CPU by increasing the multiplier normally, it still supports performance optimization through Precision Boost Overdrive (PBO) and Curve Optimizer (CO) methods. Keep in mind that these techniques do yield an increase in operating temperatures as well.

Power Consumption: Despite its aggressive boosting behavior and high boost clock, the Ryzen 7 7800X3D is quite a reasonable CPU in terms of power consumption. AMD advertises a 120W TDP for the Ryzen 7 7800X3D, but my sample peaked at around 81W when stressed with an all-core workload. This result showcases the tremendous performance-per-watt superiority of the Ryzen 7 7800X3D as compared to other CPUs in its price class.

Comparison: Speaking of comparisons, our Ryzen 7 7800X3D vs. Core i9 13900K comparison showcases the efficiency improvements of the Zen 4 architecture along with the 3D V-Cache design. Although the Core i9 13900K holds a 7.4% lead over the Ryzen counterpart in gaming performance, the latter is a whopping 78% more efficient than the premium Intel CPU. This further strengthens the value and efficiency position of the Ryzen 7 7800X3D.

Value For Money: All things considered, the AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D holds a strong position when it comes to the overall value proposition. It showcases excellent price-to-performance and performance-per-watt metrics at a reasonable price point in the high-end desktop space. For extra credit, you can even spring for more affordable B650 motherboards instead of X670E since the Ryzen 7 7800X3D does not allow manual overclocking anyway.

Buy It If:

You want the ultimate gaming performance: Featuring a 3D V-Cache design and tremendous gaming prowess, the Ryzen 7 7800X3D maximizes the performance of any modern GPU, including the Radeon RX 7700 XT.

You want a multi-purpose CPU: Thanks to its high core and thread count, along with impressive multi-core performance, the Ryzen 7 7800X3D can handle productivity tasks admirably as well.

Don’t Buy It If:

You have a limited budget: Even though its extremely impressive gaming performance justifies its price tag, the Ryzen 7 7800X3D is certain to leave a dent in your wallet.

What Makes It The Best High-End CPU For RX 7700 XT?

Per our testing, the AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D is one of the absolute fastest gaming CPUs available at the time of writing, thanks to its superb Zen 4 architecture and 96MB of L3 cache. Consequently, it is the best high-end CPU for RX 7700 XT.

More for the Ryzen 7 7800X3D:

• Best Cooler for Ryzen 7 7800X3D
• Best Motherboard for Ryzen 7 7800X3D
• Best RAM for Ryzen 7 7800X3D
• Best GPU for Ryzen 7 7800X3D

AMD Ryzen 5 5600

Best Value CPU For RX 7700 XT

Socket: AMD AM4 | Cores: 6 | Threads: 12 | L2 Cache: 3MB | Base Clock: 3.5 GHz | Boost Clock: Up to 4.4 GHz | TDP: 65W | Unlocked: Yes

The AMD Ryzen 5 5600 has been an extremely popular mid-range gaming CPU for a while now and for good reason. Its affordable nature, combined with impressive gaming performance and efficient architecture, has made it one of the more enticing CPU options in its price bracket. The inexpensive AM4 platform further improves its value proposition as a whole.

Performance: The AMD Ryzen 5 5600 is one of the finest options in the budget segment, thanks to its respectable gaming performance when paired with the Radeon RX 7700 XT. Featuring 6 cores and 12 threads boosting up to 4.4 GHz, the single-threaded performance of the Ryzen 5 5600 is admirable for the price point. The underlying Zen 3 architecture and redesigned CCX layout are also responsible for the excellent all-around performance of the Ryzen 5 5600.

Cooling: As is expected from Ryzen 5 CPUs from the Zen 3 lineup, the AMD Ryzen 5 5600 is supremely efficient in its operation with a comfortable thermal output. AMD labels the Ryzen 5 5600 with a 65W TDP, and that translates into its temperatures. In my testing with the Noctua NH-U14S, my sample of the Ryzen 5 5600 peaked at around 52C during an all-core stress test. This result gives us an idea of the excellent thermal management of this CPU.

Overclocking Potential: Despite being a budget CPU, the Ryzen 5 5600 comes with an unlocked multiplier for manual overclocking, which is a distinct advantage of AMD CPUs. After some experimentation, I settled on an all-core overclock of 4.6GHz at 1.35V on the VCore, which yielded a noticeable improvement in the gaming results of the CPU. It is nice to have the option of overclocking on a budget CPU to squeeze more performance out of your purchase.

Power Consumption: Staying true to its efficient nature, the Ryzen 5 5600 delivered excellent power consumption results in my testing. The CPU package peaked at 76W of power draw during an all-core benchmark with 100% CPU utilization. This is in line with the 65W TDP of the CPU, leaving room for its normal boosting behavior. The power consumption metrics make the Ryzen 5 5600 one of the most attractive options for compact PCs as well.

Comparison: In the budget market segment, the AMD Ryzen 5 5600 faces direct competition from Intel’s Core i3 and i5 CPUs. In our Core i3 13100 vs. Ryzen 5 5600 comparisons, it is clear that the Ryzen CPU leads the Core i3 part by 7.8% in gaming performance despite being similar in price. Although the Core i3 13100 is even more efficient, that is of little concern since both CPUs display remarkable thermal and power efficiency already.

Value For Money: When considering the value proposition of the Ryzen 5 5600, it is hard to find a fault in the price-to-performance ratio offered by the CPU. In an entry-level price bracket, the Ryzen 5 5600 offers respectable gaming performance with an unlocked multiplier, while being extremely efficient. Moreover, you can improve the value proposition even further thanks to the choice of affordable AM4 motherboards and inexpensive DDR4 memory.

Buy It If:

You want to maximize your bang for the buck: Delivering respectable gaming performance with the Radeon RX 7700 XT at a very affordable price point, the AMD Ryzen 5 5600 is the ultimate bargain buy.

You want affordable motherboards: The AMD AM4 platform is getting on in years, so the motherboards are resultantly getting cheaper and more accessible.

Don’t Buy It If:

You want a better upgrade path: Even though the AM4 platform is quite modern with support for many high-end CPUs, it has been replaced and has a limited upgrade path.

What Makes It The Best Value CPU For RX 7700 XT?

Since the Ryzen 5 5600 provides acceptable performance for the Radeon RX 7700 XT, along with being affordable and compatible with inexpensive motherboards and memory, it is the best value CPU for RX 7700 XT.

These components work well with the Ryzen 5 5600 too:

• Best Coolers for Ryzen 5 5600X
• Best Motherboards for Ryzen 5 5600X

AMD FidelityFX Super Resolution 3.0 (FSR)

AMD FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR) 3.0 marks the latest and most groundbreaking iteration of AMD’s upscaling technology. Positioned as a direct rival to Nvidia’s DLSS 3.0, FSR 3.0 takes a leap forward by incorporating cutting-edge machine learning techniques.

The most notable addition is the introduction of “Fluid Motion Frames”, which is AMD’s marketing term for AI-enabled frame generation technology. This is a machine learning-powered method that generates synthetic frames in addition to regular upscaling, resulting in a 2X to 3X increase in framerate.

One of the standout features of AMD FSR 3.0 is its remarkable compatibility. Unlike Nvidia’s DLSS 3.0, which is limited to the RTX 40 series GPUs and was deemed as “anti-consumer”, FSR 3.0 boasts a much broader range of supported hardware.

The full-featured FSR 3.0 experience can be enabled on Radeon RX 5700 and above GPUs on the AMD side, and RTX 20-series and above on the Nvidia side. Moreover, you can experience FSR 3.0 (upscaling only) on older GPUs including AMD RX 590 and above, as well as Nvidia GTX 10-series and above. This extensive compatibility ensures that a wider audience can benefit from the advantages of FSR 3.0, regardless of their hardware preferences or budget constraints.

Additionally, FSR 3.0 offers enhanced game compatibility through its proprietary software utility, named HYPR-RX. This technology enables AMD’s latest upscaling solution to work seamlessly with any DirectX 11 or DirectX 12 game, therefore enabling a much wider compatibility net than DLSS 3.0.

This removes the need for AMD to work directly with developers and publishers to incorporate FSR, thus removing unnecessary elements from the development chain. Moreover, AMD has confirmed that FSR 3.0 will be coming to Xbox as well in the near future.

While these claims sound exciting, one has to be careful when picking a side in the Nvidia DLSS vs. AMD FSR debate. Nvidia uses specialized hardware (Tensor Cores) in their GPUs to locally process the additional workload of DLSS, which is essentially the cause of its limited compatibility.

AMD is yet to showcase the performance gain from software-based FSR 3.0 in Nvidia, Intel, and older AMD GPUs at the time of writing. Moreover, game compatibility is up in the air despite AMD’s claims, and we are yet to see what a widespread FSR implementation looks like.

Important CPU Key Terms

When in the market for a new CPU, it is easy to get confused by marketing jargon. Here are some key terms to remember.

1. CPU (Central Processing Unit): The primary hardware component of a computer responsible for executing instructions and performing calculations for all software applications.
2. Clock Speed: The rate at which a CPU processes instructions, measured in gigahertz (GHz), indicating how many cycles it can complete per second.
3. Core: A processing unit within a CPU that can independently execute instructions, with modern CPUs having multiple cores for improved performance.
4. Cache Memory: High-speed, on-chip memory that stores frequently used data and instructions to reduce the CPU’s access time to this information, enhancing overall performance.
5. Overclocking: The practice of increasing a CPU’s clock speed beyond its manufacturer’s specifications to achieve higher performance, often at the risk of stability and overheating.
6. Hyper-Threading: A technology that allows a single CPU core to handle multiple threads simultaneously, improving multitasking performance by simulating additional cores.
7. Thermal Design Power (TDP): A measure of the maximum amount of heat a CPU is expected to generate under typical workloads, used for selecting appropriate cooling solutions.
8. Microarchitecture: The internal design and organization of a CPU, including its pipeline structure, cache hierarchy, and execution units, which affect its performance and efficiency.
9. Single-Threaded Performance: The measure of a CPU’s ability to execute a single thread or process efficiently, indicating how well it performs tasks that cannot be parallelized.
10. Multi-Core Performance: The capability of a CPU, especially in multi-core processors, to handle multiple tasks or threads simultaneously, enhancing overall system performance and multitasking capabilities.
11. Floating-Point Unit (FPU): A specialized CPU component dedicated to performing floating-point arithmetic operations, essential for tasks involving decimal numbers and complex calculations.
12. Die Size: The physical dimensions of a CPU’s silicon wafer, impacting manufacturing costs, power consumption, and heat dissipation.

How We Picked The Best CPU For RX 7700 XT

Choosing the best CPU for the Radeon RX 7700 XT can be tricky business, as one has to strike the perfect balance between price and performance to maximize the value aspect. Even experienced PC builders can get stumped in this process, so here are some key factors to keep in mind when picking the ideal CPU for RX 7700 XT.

Performance

When selecting the optimal CPU to pair with the Radeon RX 7700 XT, prioritizing gaming performance across different resolutions is crucial. Assess benchmarks for real-world gaming scenarios at 1080p, 1440p, and 4K to ensure a balanced CPU-GPU synergy. It’s imperative to avoid CPU bottlenecks, meaning the CPU should be powerful enough to keep pace with the RX 7700 XT’s capabilities, ensuring a smooth and lag-free gaming experience.

Overclocking Support

Checking for overclocking support is another key factor to consider when selecting the ideal CPU for RX 7700 XT. Look for CPUs with unlocked multipliers, as they enable support for manual overclocking. Examine overclocking results from reputable sources to gauge the CPU’s potential performance gains. Additionally, consider the thermal management and power consumption of an overclocked CPU to ensure system stability and longevity while pushing for higher clock speeds.

Also Read: Does Overclocking Reduce CPU Lifespan?

Power Draw

Considering the power draw and efficiency of the CPU is crucial before buying it. Pay attention to the CPU’s power consumption under load, as this can affect your system’s overall energy efficiency. Take into account the Thermal Design Power (TDP) rating as a guideline for heat dissipation and general efficiency. Evaluating the resulting temperatures and the type of cooling solution required is crucial to maintaining a stable and reliable system.

Future Upgrades

When making your CPU purchasing decision, it’s essential to take into account the compatibility of your chosen CPU with its respective platform. In today’s technology landscape, CPU platforms, often referred to as chipsets, typically have a limited ability to support only one or two generations of a specific CPU before becoming obsolete. Consequently, this may necessitate a motherboard replacement when upgrading in the future.

Price and Value

Ultimately, when choosing a CPU to pair with the Radeon RX 7700 XT, the price and overall value proposition should not be overlooked. Take into account your budget and compare the CPU’s performance relative to its cost. It’s essential to strike a balance between performance and price to ensure you’re getting the best value for your specific gaming needs. Consider factors like platform support, performance levels, and long-term usability to make an informed decision.

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Usman Saleem

[Reviews Specialist]

Usman Saleem brings 8+ years of comprehensive PC hardware expertise to the table. His journey in the tech world has involved in-depth tech analysis and insightful PC hardware reviews, perfecting over 6+ years of dedicated work. Usman’s commitment to staying authentic and relevant in the field is underscored by many professional certifications, including a recent one in Google IT Support Specialization.

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• 6+ years of in-depth PC hardware analysis and reviews
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Get In Touch: usman@tech4gamers.com

BEST CPU For RX 7700 XT In 2023 [Budget, High-End, Performance] is a post from Tech4Gamers - All About Technology And Gaming News

Here’s a quick look at our selected CPUs for RX 7800 XT and a brief comparison of their specs:

CPU

AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D

Intel Core i7 13700K

Intel Core i5 13600K

AMD Ryzen 5 7600X

AMD Ryzen 9 7950X3D

AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3D

Looks

Award

Best AMD CPU For RX 7800 XT

Best Intel CPU For RX 7800 XT

Best Overall Gaming CPU For RX 7800 XT

Best Budget CPU For RX 7800 XT

Best High-End CPU For RX 7800 XT

Best Value CPU For RX 7800 XT

What We Liked

L3 Cache, Performance, Power Consumption

Overclocking, DDR4 and DDR5, Performance

Affordable, DDR4 and DDR5, Overclocking

Budget-friendly, Overall performance, Efficient

Performance, L3 Cache, Versatile

Bang for the buck, DDR4 support, AM4 is affordable

What We Disliked

Locked Multiplier, Expensive

Power Draw, Price

No included cooler

Only DDR5, Pricey motherboards

Expensive, Power Consumption

Locked multiplier

Socket

AMD AM5

FCLGA1700

FCLGA1700

AMD AM5

AMD AM5

AMD AM4

Cores

8

16 (8P + 8E)

14 (6P + 8E)

6

16

8

Threads

16

24

20

12

32

16

Base Clock

4.2 GHz

2.5 GHz

2.6 GHz

4.7 GHz

4.2 GHz

3.4 GHz

Boost Clock

Up to 5.0 GHz

Up to 5.4 GHz

Up to 5.1 GHz

Up to 5.3 GHz

Up to 5.7 GHz

Up to 4.5 GHz

TDP

120W

125W

125W

105W

120W

105W

Unlocked

Amazon

Buy on Amazon

Buy on Amazon

Buy on Amazon

Buy on Amazon

Buy on Amazon

Buy on Amazon

CPU

AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D

Looks

Award

Best AMD CPU For RX 7800 XT

What We Liked

L3 Cache, Performance, Power Consumption

What We Disliked

Locked Multiplier, Expensive

Socket

AMD AM5

Cores

8

Threads

16

Base Clock

4.2 GHz

Boost Clock

Up to 5.0 GHz

TDP

120W

Unlocked

Amazon

Buy on Amazon

CPU

Intel Core i7 13700K

Looks

Award

Best Intel CPU For RX 7800 XT

What We Liked

Overclocking, DDR4 and DDR5, Performance

What We Disliked

Power Draw, Price

Socket

FCLGA1700

Cores

16 (8P + 8E)

Threads

24

Base Clock

2.5 GHz

Boost Clock

Up to 5.4 GHz

TDP

125W

Unlocked

Amazon

Buy on Amazon

CPU

Intel Core i5 13600K

Looks

Award

Best Overall Gaming CPU For RX 7800 XT

What We Liked

Affordable, DDR4 and DDR5, Overclocking

What We Disliked

No included cooler

Socket

FCLGA1700

Cores

14 (6P + 8E)

Threads

20

Base Clock

2.6 GHz

Boost Clock

Up to 5.1 GHz

TDP

125W

Unlocked

Amazon

Buy on Amazon

CPU

AMD Ryzen 5 7600X

Looks

Award

Best Budget CPU For RX 7800 XT

What We Liked

Budget-friendly, Overall performance, Efficient

What We Disliked

Only DDR5, Pricey motherboards

Socket

AMD AM5

Cores

6

Threads

12

Base Clock

4.7 GHz

Boost Clock

Up to 5.3 GHz

TDP

105W

Unlocked

Amazon

Buy on Amazon

CPU

AMD Ryzen 9 7950X3D

Looks

Award

Best High-End CPU For RX 7800 XT

What We Liked

Performance, L3 Cache, Versatile

What We Disliked

Expensive, Power Consumption

Socket

AMD AM5

Cores

16

Threads

32

Base Clock

4.2 GHz

Boost Clock

Up to 5.7 GHz

TDP

120W

Unlocked

Amazon

Buy on Amazon

CPU

AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3D

Looks

Award

Best Value CPU For RX 7800 XT

What We Liked

Bang for the buck, DDR4 support, AM4 is affordable

What We Disliked

Locked multiplier

Socket

AMD AM4

Cores

8

Threads

16

Base Clock

3.4 GHz

Boost Clock

Up to 4.5 GHz

TDP

105W

Unlocked

Amazon

Buy on Amazon

Last update on 2023-12-14

Best CPU For RX 7800 XT

Here is a selection of the best CPUs for RX 7800 XT that you can buy right now:

1. AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D
2. Intel Core i7 13700K
3. Intel Core i5 13600K
4. AMD Ryzen 5 7600X
5. AMD Ryzen 9 7950X3D
6. AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3D

AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D

Best AMD CPU For RX 7800 XT

Socket: AMD AM5 | Cores: 8 | Threads: 16 | L2 Cache: 8MB | Base Clock: 4.2 GHz | Boost Clock: Up to 5.0 GHz | TDP: 120W | Unlocked: No

AMD’s 3D V-Cache CPUs have always been a step ahead of their regular consumer processors when it comes to gaming performance, attributable to their superb single-threaded performance and low latency. The AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D is one of the absolute fastest gaming processors on the market right now.

Performance: AMD’s implementation of the 3D V-Cache technology has propelled the Red Team to the top of gaming performance charts for a while now, and the Ryzen 7 7800X3D is no different. Based on the new Zen 4 architecture, the Ryzen 7 7800X3D is packed with 8 cores and 16 threads, with a boost clock of up to 5.0 GHz. Coupled with the excessive amounts of L3 cache, the sky-high boost clock allows the Ryzen 7 7800X3D to deliver outstanding single-threaded performance when paired with the Radeon RX 7800 XT.

Cooling: With a reasonable TDP rating of 120W, AMD has positioned the Ryzen 7 7800X3D as a mid-range performer in terms of temperatures and power draw. During the course of my testing, my sample of the Ryzen 7 7800X3D peaked at around 84C during an all-core stress test while being cooled by a Noctua NH-U12S. While gaming, the cores are engaged in a variable manner, and the temperatures leveled out at around 68C. A high-quality tower cooler or a 240mm AiO liquid cooler should be the cooler of choice to be paired with this CPU, if not better.

Overclocking Potential: AMD’s X3D processors do not typically have an unlocked multiplier for overclocking, and the same holds true for the AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D. Although the new Ryzen 7000X3D processors are better than their predecessors in their flexibility, the multiplier is still locked. You can, however, practice overclocking using Precision Boost Overdrive (PBO) and Curve Optimizer (CO). Just be advised that the results may not be all that glamorous, and you may need a hefty aftermarket cooler to stabilize the temperatures.

Power Consumption: The Ryzen 7000 series processors do have a tendency to be quite power-hungry at times, but the 3D V-Cache CPUs do not necessarily conform to that trend. Despite its 120W TDP, the Ryzen 7 7800X3D is quite a well-behaved CPU when it comes to power consumption. During my testing, my sample of the Ryzen 7 7800X3D peaked at around 81W of power consumption during an all-core CPU stress test.

Comparison: In order to get a good idea of the performance level of the Ryzen 7 7800X3D, we can evaluate our Ryzen 7 7800X3D vs. Core i9 13900K comparison. While the Intel flagship leads the Ryzen counterpart in gaming performance by 7.4%, the Ryzen 7 7800X3D is actually 78% more efficient than the Intel flagship. This comparison highlights the excellent value proposition offered by the Ryzen 7 7800X3D in the high-end desktop CPU space.

Value For Money: On the subject of value, the Ryzen 7 7800X3D absolutely shines when it comes to the price-to-performance ratio. With superb gaming performance, solid productivity capabilities, and a reasonable price point, the AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D is one of the most competitive gaming CPUs in its performance class. While DDR5 memory is a bit expensive at the time of writing, the additional cost can be justified if we consider the future-proofing aspect.

Buy It If:

You want unparalleled gaming performance: With a unique 3D V-Cache design and exceptional single-threaded performance, the Ryzen 7 7800X3D is often seen at the top of gaming charts.

Don’t Buy It If:

You want to overclock: Being an X3D chip, the Ryzen 7 7800X3D does not have an unlocked multiplier.

What Makes It The Best AMD CPU For RX 7800 XT?

With 96MB of stacked L3 Cache and chart-leading single-threaded performance, the AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D is the best AMD CPU for RX 7800 XT.

More for the Ryzen 7 7800X3D:

• Best Cooler for Ryzen 7 7800X3D
• Best Motherboard for Ryzen 7 7800X3D
• Best RAM for Ryzen 7 7800X3D
• Best GPU for Ryzen 7 7800X3D

Intel Core i7 13700K

Best Intel CPU For RX 7800 XT

Socket: FCLGA1700 | Cores: 16 (8P + 8E) | Threads: 24 | L2 Cache: 24MB | Base Clock: 2.5 GHz | Boost Clock: Up to 5.4 GHz | TDP: 125W | Unlocked: Yes

Intel’s Alder Lake lineup brought forth massive improvements in IPC and performance-per-watt figures, which is why the Core i7 13700K is one of the strongest pairings for the Radeon RX 7800 XT. You can expect unmatched 1080p and 1440p gaming performance from this powerful combination.

Performance: The Core i7 13700K by Intel comes equipped with an impressive 16 cores in total, which are divided into 8 P-cores and 8 E-cores. This arrangement results in a combined count of 24 threads for the Core i7 13700K, establishing it as a high-performance solution suitable for both gaming and productivity tasks. Sporting an impressive boost clock of 5.4 GHz and exceptional IPC figures, the 13700K stands out as one of the fastest gaming processors currently available.

Cooling: Due to its increased power allocation and propensity for aggressive boosting, the Core i7 13700K does exhibit a tendency to generate notable heat. In my testing, the Core i7 13700K recorded a peak temperature of 75C during an all-core workload, even with the implementation of a custom liquid cooling system. Despite adhering to a 125W TDP, the latest version of Intel Turbo Boost leverages the entire power allotment to optimize performance, consequently leading to higher temperatures. It is clear that a robust 360mm AiO cooler will be imperative to effectively manage this specific CPU’s thermal demands.

Overclocking Potential: Being a K-series chip, the Core i7 13700K boasts a significant advantage in the form of its unlocked multiplier, granting the opportunity for manual overclocking. In my testing, using a VCore voltage of 1.350V, the sample I examined achieved a remarkable 5.7 GHz on the P-Cores, with the E-Cores stabilizing at 4.6 GHz. This achievement stands as an impressive feat, resulting in a notable 7% uplift in Cinebench R23 scores during the all-core testing.

Power Consumption: Overclocking also introduces an accompanying rise in power consumption. At its default clock speeds, the Core i7 13700K sample I tested reached a maximum power draw of 211W from the CPU package during an all-core stress test. However, this power consumption surged to 272W when the processor was overclocked to 5.7GHz with a VCore of 1.35V. Power consumption is a crucial factor to consider when selecting an appropriate cooler for your i7 13700K.

Comparison: As observed in our analysis pitting the Core i7 13700K vs. Ryzen 7 7700X, the Intel processor exhibits a prominent lead over its AMD counterpart in gaming scenarios. This makes it clear that in the contest among premium desktop CPUs, Intel has successfully recaptured the throne from AMD. Moreover, the i7 13700K maintains an upper hand in multi-core workloads due to its superior core and thread tally. It should also be noted that the Intel Core i7 13700K offers support for both DDR4 and DDR5 memory, enhancing its value proposition.

Value For Money: Addressing its value proposition, the Core i7 13700K undeniably delivers a very positive price-to-performance ratio, even though it occupies a relatively premium price tier. While it stands as a high-end CPU, its impressive performance metrics render it a worthwhile investment over time. Additionally, the 13700K accommodates the use of more economical DDR4 memory kits and previous-generation Z690 motherboards, resulting in potential cost savings for other components in your PC build.

Buy It If:

You want a high-performance Intel CPU pairing: In Intel’s Alder Lake product stack, the Core i7 13700K is the most ideal pairing for the Radeon RX 7800 XT in order to extract maximum gaming performance.

Don’t Buy It If:

You have a limited budget: Although it justifies its price tag with its immense gaming prowess, the Core i7 13700K can definitely deplete your savings.

What Makes It The Best Intel CPU For RX 7800 XT?

Maximizing the gaming performance of the Radeon RX 7800 XT, while providing superb overclocking potential, the Intel Core i7 13700K is the best Intel CPU for RX 7800 XT.

More for the Core i7 13700K:

• Intel Core i7-13700K Review
• Best Cooler for Intel Core i7-13700K
• Best Motherboard for Intel Core i7-13700K
• Best RAM for Intel Core i7-13700K 

Intel Core i5 13600K

Best Overall Gaming CPU For RX 7800 XT

Socket: FCLGA1700 | Cores: 14 (6P + 8E) | Threads: 20 | L2 Cache: 20MB | Base Clock: 2.6 GHz | Boost Clock: Up to 5.1 GHz | TDP: 125W | Unlocked: Yes

Intel’s hold over the mid-range had been weakening over the past few years due to the meteoric rise of AMD Ryzen CPUs, but Intel has managed to claw back the crown with the Alder Lake generation. The Core i5 13600K represents the sweet spot between price and performance when paired with the Radeon RX 7800 XT.

Performance: The standout feature of the Core i5 13600K lies in its exceptional single-threaded performance. This is attributed to Intel’s unique core arrangement that combines P-cores and E-cores, resulting in an impressive setup of 14 cores and 20 threads for the Core i5 13600K. This arrangement effectively balances both gaming and productivity needs. Boasting an impressive boost clock of 5.1 GHz, the i5 13600K consistently ranks at the pinnacle of gaming performance charts across numerous modern titles. It, therefore, establishes itself as a dependable partner for the RX 7800 XTX.

Cooling: Even though Intel has set the Core i5 13600K’s TDP at 125W, effectively cooling this processor can present a significant challenge. Based on my testing, my Core i5 13600K unit reached its highest temperature at 76°C while running an all-core Cinebench R23 benchmark under a custom loop cooling solution. To ensure optimal cooling for the Core i5 13600K, particularly if you’re planning on overclocking, it’s advisable to consider a robust dual-tower air cooler or a 360mm AiO liquid cooler. 

Overclocking Potential: Given the Core i5 13600K’s unlocked status, users have the option to extract additional performance from this CPU through manual overclocking. It’s important to note that engaging in overclocking requires a potent CPU cooler to manage the heat generated. After some experimentation, I settled on a P-Core frequency of 5.6GHz and an E-Core frequency of 4.4GHz, coupled with a VCore voltage of 1.330V. In our testing, our sample reached temperatures of 81°C and a power draw of 192W at peak utilization.

Power Consumption: In my evaluation, my Core i5 13600K unit exhibited a power consumption of 179W under full workload conditions while adhering to stock settings, fitting comfortably within the 181W threshold for turbo frequency operation. Although initially specified with a 125W TDP, the Core i5 13600K harnesses Intel’s Turbo Boost technology to access an expanded power allocation, facilitating elevated boost clocks. This elevated power draw empowers the Intel Core i5 13600K to offer superior single-threaded performance in modern games.

Comparison: The shift from Intel’s 12th to 13th generations marks a notable progression, introducing substantial enhancements such as a new core architecture and improvements in efficiency. Consequently, the gaming capability of a mid-range processor like the Core i5 13600K closely rivals that of the flagship Core i9 12900K, as evident from our Core i5 13600K vs. Core i9 12900K comparison. All things considered, the Core i5 13600K holds a notable value advantage in comparison, thanks to its relatively affordable price tag and superior efficiency.

Value For Money: In terms of its value proposition, the Core i5 13600K presents a compelling argument. The Core i5 13600K delivers excellent overall gaming performance, wide compatibility, an overclocking-friendly architecture, and competent productivity performance at a reasonable price. Furthermore, its compatibility with older Z690 motherboards and cost-effective DDR4 memory provides an extra advantage.

Buy It If:

You want to maximize your value for money: With strong gaming performance at a reasonable price point, the Core i5 13600K maximizes the bang for the buck factor.

Don’t Buy It If:

You don’t have a great CPU cooler: With a relatively higher power draw and the lack of an included box cooler, you’ll need a powerful aftermarket CPU cooler to handle the Core i5 13600K.

What Makes It The Best Overall Gaming CPU For RX 7800 XT?

Since it provides more than enough gaming performance for the Radeon RX 7800 XT, while having an unlocked multiplier and being quite affordable, the Intel Core i5 13600K is the best overall gaming CPU for RX 7800 XT.

More for Core i5 13600K:

• Intel Core i5-13600K Review
• Best Cooler for Intel Core i5-13600K
• Best Motherboard for Intel Core i5-13600K
• Best RAM for Intel Core i5-13600K
• Best GPU for Intel Core i5-13600K

AMD Ryzen 5 7600X

Best Budget CPU For RX 7800 XT

Socket: AMD AM5 | Cores: 6 | Threads: 12 | L2 Cache: 6MB | Base Clock: 4.7 GHz | Boost Clock: Up to 5.3 GHz | TDP: 105W | Unlocked: Yes

The AMD Ryzen 5 7600X represents the value-oriented offering in AMD’s AM5 lineup of CPUs based on the Zen 4 architecture. Paired with the Radeon RX 7800 XT, you have a combination that maximizes the bang-for-the-buck factor while providing commendable gaming performance.

Performance: AMD has outfitted the Ryzen 5 7600X with 6 cores and 12 threads, differing from the Intel competitors as all of its cores are designated as “performance” cores. The commendable boost clock of 5.3 GHz further fortifies the Ryzen 5 7600X’s capabilities, translating into exceptional single-threaded performance across many of the modern gaming titles. Built upon the fresh Zen 4 architecture, the Ryzen 5 7600X introduces notable enhancements in terms of instructions per clock (IPC) and efficiency in performance-per-watt metrics. 

Cooling: AMD specifies a TDP of 105W for the Ryzen 5 7600X, providing the CPU with a reasonable power allocation for boosting its performance. In my test results using the Noctua NH-U14S cooler, the Ryzen 5 7600X reached a peak temperature of around 72°C during gaming sessions. Therefore, the thermal requirements of the Ryzen 5 7600X are quite moderate, allowing for effective use with a decent AM5 air cooler or a 240mm AiO liquid cooler. However, when subjected to a multi-core stress test at stock clocks, the temperatures escalated to nearly 82°C.

Overclocking Potential: AMD holds a notable edge by offering unlocked multipliers across their entire lineup of mainstream desktop CPUs, a feature found in the Ryzen 5 7600X as well. While the overclocking capabilities of the CPU can differ from unit to unit, it’s possible to achieve worthwhile enhancements through some adjustments. Through my testing, I managed to attain an all-core overclock of 5.3 GHz at 1.29V, resulting in favorable improvements in both overall performance and gaming-related temperatures. Nevertheless, it’s important to keep in mind that you might need one of the best CPU coolers when venturing into manual overclocking.

Power Consumption: The Ryzen 5 7600X demonstrates commendable efficiency, particularly in gaming scenarios. Concerns regarding excessive power consumption are unwarranted when considering the Ryzen 5 7600X. Throughout my testing, the CPU’s power consumption reached a peak of approximately 46W when gaming with stock settings. Even in a demanding multi-core stress test, the power draw surged to a maximum of 96W under full 100% utilization, which remains well within reasonable bounds. 

Comparison: In our evaluation of the AMD Ryzen 5 7600X vs. Ryzen 5 5600X comparison, the former showcases a notable 16% advantage in gaming performance at 1080p. Additionally, the Ryzen 5 7600X exhibits an impressive 29% lead in tasks related to productivity compared to the Zen 3 CPU. These findings underscore the significant leap that AMD achieved with the introduction of the Zen 4 architecture, highlighting the substantial improvements over the last-gen platform.

Value For Money:  By delivering gaming performance that stands on par with top-tier gaming processors in the market, all within a mid-range price bracket, the Ryzen 5 7600X truly excels in delivering outstanding value. The Ryzen 5 7600X effectively meets the desired value criteria for the Radeon RX 7800 XT, presenting a fine equilibrium between performance and cost. Although the Ryzen 7000 series CPUs and DDR5 memory kits are relatively fresh and come with a certain price premium, the reasonably priced B650 motherboards contribute to the overall value offered by the Ryzen 5 7600X. 

Buy It If:

You want the ideal budget CPU: At an affordable price point, the Ryzen 5 7600X maximizes your value for money by providing superb overall gaming performance.

Don’t Buy It If:

You want DDR4 support: Alas, all AMD AM5 CPUs exclusively support DDR5 memory and have no physical or technical support for the DDR4 platform.

What Makes It The Best Budget CPU For RX 7800 XT?

The AMD Ryzen 5 7600X is the best budget CPU for RX 7800 XT due to its ability to maximize the gaming performance of the Radeon RX 7800XT while being efficient and affordable.

More for Ryzen 5 7600X:

• Best CPU Cooler for Ryzen 5 7600X
• Best Motherboard for Ryzen 5 7600X
• Best RAM for Ryzen 5 7600X
• Best GPU for Ryzen 5 7600X

AMD Ryzen 9 7950X3D

Best High-End CPU For RX 7800 XT

Socket: AMD AM5 | Cores: 16 | Threads: 32 | L2 Cache: 16MB | Base Clock: 4.2 GHz | Boost Clock: Up to 5.7 GHz | TDP: 120W | Unlocked: No

Armed with the added powers of the 3D V-Cache technology, the AMD Ryzen 9 7950X3D has established itself as the flagship offering from AMD’s Ryzen 7000 series lineup. This powerful CPU delivers the best of both worlds by combining extraordinary gaming performance with unparalleled multi-core capabilities.

Performance: The AMD Ryzen 9 7950X3D aims to deliver the best of both worlds by combining unparalleled productivity performance with industry-leading single-threaded performance. To achieve the latter, AMD has used the innovative 3D V-Cache technology to minimize latency and improve gaming performance. Along with a whopping 16 cores and 32 threads, the Ryzen 9 7950X3D can boost up to a sky-high 5.7 GHz, leaving no room for compromise. Delivering unmatched performance in both single-core and multi-core applications, the Ryzen 9 7950X3D is the ultimate high-end pairing for the RX 7800 XT.

Cooling: With extraordinary performance comes high thermal output, and the Ryzen 9 7950X3D succumbs to the same trend. Although AMD labels the Ryzen 9 7950X3D with a 120W TDP, it does have the tendency to output a lot of heat due to its aggressive boosting behavior. In my testing with a Noctua NH-U14S, my Ryzen 9 7950X3D sample peaked at around 88C when put under an all-core stress test, while the temperature stabilized at around 71C during a regular gaming benchmark. These numbers are relatively reasonable for a CPU as powerful as the Ryzen 9 7950X3D but necessitate the use of a high-end 360mm AiO liquid cooler.

Overclocking Potential: Once again, we hit the roadblock of a locked multiplier when discussing the overclocking potential of a Ryzen X3D chip. Although you can still play around with the frequency response using Precision Boost Overdrive (PBO) and Curve Optimizer (CO), the multiplier remains locked. This limits the mainstream overclocking potential of the Ryzen 9 7950X3D, but thankfully, the CPU remains extremely powerful even at stock settings.

Power Consumption: Being a premium flagship CPU, the Ryzen 9 7950X3D does lean towards the higher end when it comes to power consumption. It regularly tends to cross its 120W advertised TDP, thanks to its aggressive boosting behavior. In my testing, the Ryzen 9 7950X3D peaked at around 142W during an all-core benchmark run, while the power consumption settled at around 81W while gaming. Although not completely unreasonable, these power consumption figures point towards the need for a high-end aftermarket CPU cooler to keep the resulting temperatures in check.

Comparison: Pitting the flagship processors of both Intel and AMD against each other is always informative, and that is what we did in our Ryzen 9 7950X3D vs. Intel Core i9 13900K comparison. Consequently, the AMD Ryzen 9 7950X3D held a 2.53% lead in 1080p gaming over the Intel flagship while having a lower power consumption and better performance-per-watt figures. This puts the Ryzen 9 7950X3D in a favorable position when considering the value proposition of the AMD flagship against the best gaming CPUs from Intel.

Value For Money: Of course, being a high-performance desktop CPU, the Ryzen 9 7950X3D is not necessarily an inexpensive product. It leans towards the premium end of the desktop market, and for good reason. With its unparalleled productivity performance combined with superb gaming capabilities, the Ryzen 9 7950X3D justifies its price tag by holding a unique position in the market. When considering the bigger picture and long-term benefits, the Ryzen 9 7950X3D certainly holds a positive value proposition.

Buy It If:

You want the best of both worlds: With a whopping 16 cores and 32 threads, the Ryzen 9 7950X3D combines exceptional gaming performance with superb productivity performance.

Don’t Buy It If:

Your budget is limited: Despite its unique position in the market, the premium Ryzen 9 7950X3D will surely leave a dent in your wallet.

What Makes It The Best High-End CPU For RX 7800 XT?

Thanks to its high core count and 3D V-Cache technology, the AMD Ryzen 9 7950X3D is the ultimate gaming and productivity partner for the Radeon RX 7800 XT, making it the best high-end CPU for RX 7800 XT.

More for Ryzen 9 7950X3D:

• Best Motherboard for Ryzen 9 7950X3D
• Best RAM for Ryzen 9 7950X3D
• Best CPU Cooler for Ryzen 9 7950X3D
• Best GPU for Ryzen 9 7950X3D

AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3D

Best Value CPU For RX 7800 XT

Socket: AMD AM4 | Cores: 8 | Threads: 16 | L2 Cache: 4MB | Base Clock: 3.4 GHz | Boost Clock: Up to 4.5 GHz | TDP: 105W | Unlocked: No

The AMD AM4 platform still represents the pinnacle when it comes to value for money. Not only are the AM4 CPUs still astonishingly powerful, but the platform itself is quite affordable nowadays, making the AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3D an ideal value pairing for the RX 7800 XT.

Performance: The Zen 3 architecture brought forth massive improvements in core layout and reduced latency that propelled the Ryzen 5000 series CPUs to the top of gaming performance charts. The AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3D adds the twist of 3D V-Cache on an already well-established architecture, further improving its overall standing. With 8 cores and 16 threads boosting up to a respectable 4.5 GHz, the AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3D is still one of the fastest gaming processors on the market, thanks to its exceptional single-threaded performance.

Cooling: AMD labels the Ryzen 7 5800X3D as a mid-range CPU in terms of thermal output, as evidenced by its 105W TDP. In real-life scenarios, the Ryzen 7 5800X3D performs admirably in terms of temperatures and cooling demands. In my testing, the Ryzen 7 5800X3D peaked at around 79C under an all-core stress test while being cooled by a Noctua NH-U12S. This result showcases the reasonable thermal output of the Ryzen CPU in most scenarios. One should look for a high-end air cooler or a 240mm AiO water cooler at the least to keep the Ryzen 7 5800X3D’s temperatures under control.

Overclocking Potential: Alas, overclocking the Ryzen 7 5800X3D is not possible. AMD’s X3D processors have a locked multiplier, which is why they cannot be overclocked using traditional means. Unlike the aforementioned Ryzen 7000 series processors, however, the Ryzen 7 5800X3D also cannot be overclocked using Precision Boost Overdrive (PBO) or Curve Optimizer (CO) techniques. Luckily, the Ryzen 7 5800X3D delivers excellent gaming performance even at stock settings, minimizing the need for manual overclocking.

Power Consumption: The AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3D can be placed slightly higher than average in terms of power consumption. It does have a tendency to regularly cross its 105W advertised TDP due to its aggressive boosting behavior. In my testing, the Ryzen 7 5800X3D peaked at around 171W of power draw during an all-core stress test. This result necessitates the use of a premium aftermarket cooling solution in order to keep the consequent temperatures in check. In relation to other Ryzen 5000 series CPUs, however, the power consumption of the Ryzen 7 5800X3D is quite average.

Comparison: One can get a good idea of the performance levels of the AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3D by comparing it to the Intel flagship of that particular generation. In our Core i9 12900KS vs. Ryzen 7 5800X3D comparison, the Ryzen CPU only trails by a mere 1.8% in 1080p gaming performance. However, the Ryzen 7 5800X3D is 8.3% more thermally efficient and 25.6% more power efficient than the Intel flagship. On top of that, the Ryzen 7 5800X3D cements its value proposition by being a whopping 27% cheaper than the Core i9 12900KS at MSRP.

Value For Money: As we are already on the subject of value, let’s drive the point home further. The AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3D is one of the best-value purchases in the consumer desktop space at the time of writing. Delivering superb gaming performance at an affordable price point, the Ryzen 7 5800X3D is a perfect value pairing for the Radeon RX 7800 XT. Moreover, you can pair the Ryzen 7 5800X3D with affordable DDR4 memory and an X570 or B550 motherboard, further improving the value proposition of the CPU platform.

Buy It If:

You want to maximize your bang for the buck: With a relatively affordable price tag, inexpensive motherboards, and last-gen memory, the Ryzen 7 5800X3D definitely maximizes the potential of your investment.

Don’t Buy It If:

You want a better upgrade path: The AMD AM4 platform, while being superb from a value perspective, does not have an exciting upgrade path for the future.

What Makes It The Best Value CPU For RX 7800 XT?

The AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3D is the best value CPU for RX 7800 XT, since it provides tremendous value for money thanks to its affordable price point, inexpensive motherboard options, and support for DDR4 memory, along with respectable gaming performance.

More For Ryzen 7 5800X3D:

• Best Cooler for Ryzen 7 5800X3D
• Best Motherboard for Ryzen 7 5800X3D
• Best RAM for Ryzen 7 5800X3D

Does CPU Affect Gaming?

While the spotlight often shines on powerful graphics cards, the CPU plays an equally significant role in determining the overall gaming experience. The advancement of CPUs has ushered in a new era of multitasking prowess. This is of particular importance to gamers, as it allows for seamless gameplay while running background processes, such as streaming, voice chat, or other applications. Contemporary game developers are increasingly harnessing the potential of multi-core CPUs.

This shift has led to improved efficiency and performance, enabling more immersive gameplay and richer visuals. Tasks such as AI behavior, complex physics simulations, and population management in open-world games heavily rely on CPU processing power. Therefore, a capable CPU is paramount in delivering a smooth and engaging gaming experience. As a result, the overall performance of a game is determined by the harmonious collaboration between the CPU and GPU.

Moreover, the CPU’s performance is integral to maintaining a seamless gaming experience. It needs to keep up with the frames generated by the GPU to prevent bottlenecks that could lead to stuttering or frame drops. As games become increasingly demanding, especially with higher resolutions and frame rates, the CPU’s significance in this regard only amplifies. Its impact on AI, physics, and overall game performance makes it an indispensable component in creating a captivating and enjoyable gaming adventure.

Important CPU Key Terms

When shopping for a CPU in 2023, here are some terms to keep in mind.

• Clock Speed: The rate at which a CPU’s internal clock generates pulses, determining the number of instructions it can execute per second.
• Core: An independent processing unit within a CPU that can execute instructions, allowing for parallel processing and improved multitasking.
• Multithreading: A technique where a single CPU core can handle multiple threads simultaneously, improving overall performance and responsiveness.
• Cache: High-speed memory located close to the CPU that stores frequently accessed data, reducing the need to fetch data from slower main memory.
• Microarchitecture: The internal design and organization of a CPU, including how its components like registers, pipelines, and execution units are structured.
• Overclocking: The practice of increasing a CPU’s clock speed beyond its official specifications to achieve higher performance, often at the cost of increased heat and power consumption.
• TDP (Thermal Design Power): The maximum amount of heat generated by a CPU that the cooling system must dissipate under typical workloads.
• IPC (Instructions Per Cycle): A measure of a CPU’s efficiency, indicating the average number of instructions executed in a single clock cycle, reflecting its ability to process instructions quickly and effectively.

How We Picked The Best CPU For RX 7800 XT

When choosing the best CPU for RX 7800 XT, it is important to consider various factors that can impact your gaming and computing experience down the line. Following are some of the key points that I considered when making my selection of the best CPUs mentioned above.

Gaming Performance

The synergy between your chosen CPU and the RX 7800 XT is crucial for optimal gaming performance. Look for a CPU that can keep up with the graphics card’s capabilities, ensuring that your system doesn’t experience any bottlenecks that might hinder gaming experiences. It is important to purchase a CPU that lets you experience the full performance of the RX 7800 XT in the majority of modern gaming titles.

Efficiency

Processors that have a high power consumption can put stress on the system’s power delivery and generate substantial heat. Furthermore, elevated temperatures have the potential to influence the overall performance of the system and may lead to thermal throttling. Opting for CPUs that incorporate effective power management and possess lower thermal design power (TDP) ratings can be a smart choice in order to guarantee efficient power usage, decreased temperatures, and a dependable gaming experience.

Overclocking

If you’re interested in squeezing out extra performance from your CPU, opt for a model that offers overclocking support. Unlocked CPUs can be pushed beyond their stock clock speeds, potentially enhancing gaming experiences. However, keep in mind that this may also impact power consumption and heat output, so proper cooling solutions are necessary. Overclocking can be a great way to increase the performance-per-dollar figure of your chosen CPU and improve its overall value proposition.

Also Read: Does Overclocking Reduce CPU Lifespan?

Platform

One should also consider the platform of their preferred CPU before finalizing the purchase decision. Nowadays, CPU platforms (also known as chipsets) can only support one or two generations of a particular CPU before they are retired. This means that the motherboard may need to be changed with subsequent upgrades, which is a key point when planning for the future. It is important to carefully consider the CPU platform before making the decision.

Value For Money

Striking a balance between performance and cost is essential. While top-tier CPUs offer impressive performance, they might come at a premium. Consider your budget and the performance gains you’ll actually experience in real-world gaming scenarios. With the RX 7800 XT, there are several mid-range and budget CPUs that can also provide great gaming performance at an affordable price.

Why You Should Trust Us

Having a history that stretches across more than ten years, Tech4Gamers is made up of enthusiastic teams with vast knowledge in the field of technology reporting. Recognized by well-regarded tech firms like DeepCool, ASUS, and MSI, Tech4Gamers has reached noteworthy milestones in its extensive time in the industry.

Throughout its journey, Tech4Gamers has expanded its fields of specialty, now encompassing thorough testing of computer hardware in addition to a wider scope of news reporting. Along with these advancements, our commitment to authenticity remains unwavering. Every product is carefully evaluated under optimal circumstances, ensuring precise and dependable evaluations.

Sameed Hussain

[Hardware Expert]

With a major in Computer Science, Sameed is a tech enthusiast who puts his passion for gadgets into words and creates informative blogs. From comparing different hardware to reviewing the best RAMs, motherboards, and graphics cards for your next build, Sameed has covered a wide spectrum of topics that have given him a special insight into every nook and cranny of the tech world. Sameed is also a certified expert at Computer Hardware & Networking.

Get In Touch: sameed@tech4gamers.com

6 BEST CPU For RX 7800 XT In 2023 is a post from Tech4Gamers - All About Technology And Gaming News

CPU

AMD Ryzen 5 5600

Intel Core i5-12400F

Core i5-13400F

AMD Ryzen 5 5600G

Core i5-12600KF

Looks

Award

Best AMD Budget CPU

Best Budget Intel CPU

Budget CPU For Gaming And Streaming

Best Budget Gaming CPU

Best Budget CPU For Video Editing

What We Liked

Great Price-to-Performance ratio, Low power comsumption

Extremely competitive price, DDR5 Support

10 cores, Higher boost frequencies, Compatible with DDR5

Solid Overclocking Potential, Integrated Vega Graphics

Hybrid Architecture, Solid overclocking potential

What We Disliked

No DDR5 support, Lacks iGPU

Limited overclocking

Increased power consumption, No overclocking 

Lacks PCIE Gen 4.0 Compatibility

Higher power consumption

Socket

AMD AM4

LGA 1700

LGA 1700

AMD AM4

LGA 1700

Cores

6

6

10 (6P + 4E)

6

10 (6P + 4E)

Threads

12

12

16

12

16

Base Clock

3.5 GHz

2.5 GHz

2.5 GHz (P-cores)

3.9 GHz

3.7 GHz (P-cores)

Boost Clock

Up to 4.4 GHz

Up to 4.4 GHz

Up to 4.6 GHz (P-cores)

Up to 4.4 GHz

Up to 4.9 GHz (P-cores)

TDP

65W

65W

65W

65W

125W

Overclocking

Amazon

Buy on Amazon

Buy on Amazon

Buy on Amazon

Buy on Amazon

Buy on Amazon

CPU

AMD Ryzen 5 5600

Looks

Award

Best AMD Budget CPU

What We Liked

Great Price-to-Performance ratio, Low power comsumption

What We Disliked

No DDR5 support, Lacks iGPU

Socket

AMD AM4

Cores

6

Threads

12

Base Clock

3.5 GHz

Boost Clock

Up to 4.4 GHz

TDP

65W

Overclocking

Amazon

Buy on Amazon

CPU

Intel Core i5-12400F

Looks

Award

Best Budget Intel CPU

What We Liked

Extremely competitive price, DDR5 Support

What We Disliked

Limited overclocking

Socket

LGA 1700

Cores

6

Threads

12

Base Clock

2.5 GHz

Boost Clock

Up to 4.4 GHz

TDP

65W

Overclocking

Amazon

Buy on Amazon

CPU

Core i5-13400F

Looks

Award

Budget CPU For Gaming And Streaming

What We Liked

10 cores, Higher boost frequencies, Compatible with DDR5

What We Disliked

Increased power consumption, No overclocking 

Socket

LGA 1700

Cores

10 (6P + 4E)

Threads

16

Base Clock

2.5 GHz (P-cores)

Boost Clock

Up to 4.6 GHz (P-cores)

TDP

65W

Overclocking

Amazon

Buy on Amazon

CPU

AMD Ryzen 5 5600G

Looks

Award

Best Budget Gaming CPU

What We Liked

Solid Overclocking Potential, Integrated Vega Graphics

What We Disliked

Lacks PCIE Gen 4.0 Compatibility

Socket

AMD AM4

Cores

6

Threads

12

Base Clock

3.9 GHz

Boost Clock

Up to 4.4 GHz

TDP

65W

Overclocking

Amazon

Buy on Amazon

CPU

Core i5-12600KF

Looks

Award

Best Budget CPU For Video Editing

What We Liked

Hybrid Architecture, Solid overclocking potential

What We Disliked

Higher power consumption

Socket

LGA 1700

Cores

10 (6P + 4E)

Threads

16

Base Clock

3.7 GHz (P-cores)

Boost Clock

Up to 4.9 GHz (P-cores)

TDP

125W

Overclocking

Amazon

Buy on Amazon

Last update on 2023-12-13

Related Articles

• Best CPU For Gaming
• Best Budget CPU Coolers

Other Components To Go With The i5-12600KF:

• Best CPU Coolers for Core i5-12600K
• BEST Motherboards for i5-12600K

Best Budget CPUs

Here are my picks for the Best Budget CPUs In 2023.

1. AMD Ryzen 5 5600
2. Intel Core i5-12400F
3. Intel Core i5-13400F
4. AMD Ryzen 5 5600G
5. Intel Core i5-12600KF

AMD Ryzen 5 5600

Best AMD Budget CPU

Socket: AMD AM4 | Cores: 6 | Threads: 12 | L2 Cache: 3MB | Base Clock: 3.5 GHz | Boost Clock: Up to 4.4 GHz | TDP: 65W

While the debate between AM5 vs. AM4 is undoubtedly an interesting one, the AM4 chipset still seems to be thriving more than ever, courtesy of the legendary value provided by older 5000 series processors. The Ryzen 5 5600 sits within the same category of CPUs, boasting an incredible price-to-performance ratio that triumphs the majority of the budget chips in the market.

At its core, the Ryzen 5 5600 is a 6-core, 12-threaded chip with a modest base clock speed of 3.5 GHz. Based on the Zen 3 architecture, the Ryzen 5 5600 closely resembles the 5600x, with a few subtle changes inconspicuously added to reduce the price by a small margin. Of course, the price reduction is precisely why I have deemed it as the perfect budget AM4 CPU.

Naturally, the slight holdbacks do not detract from the actual performance of the Ryzen 5 5600. Packed with 32MB of L3 Cache and 2MB of L2 Cache, this rendition of the 5600 seems to closely match the Ryzen 5 5600x’s performance. On the other hand, the Ryzen 5 5600 can also go up to a boost clock speed of 4.4 GHz, which is relatively impressive for a budget chip.

Although the clock speeds have been dialed back compared to the 5600x, it maintains the same TDP of 65W, which was expected. Speaking of which, AMD has included a stock cooler with the Ryzen 5 5600, which is a firm departure from the latest 7000-series offerings from AMD.

Given that the Ryzen 5 5600 is compatible with the AM4 platform, anyone upgrading from older Ryzen processors, such as the Ryzen 5 3600, is bound to notice a substantial leap in performance. Combine that with its power-efficient operation, and you might not even need to upgrade your PSU when moving to the Ryzen 5 5600.

Since you’re building a budget AMD build, you might want to check Best CPU For RX 7600.

What We Liked

Lower TDP: With a TDP of 65W, the Ryzen 5 5600’s power consumption is definitely on the lower side.

Competitive Price tag: Despite being slightly older, the Ryzen 5 5600’s lower overall price tag allows it to hold its own against newer budget CPUs.

What We Disliked

No Integrated Graphics: Much like most other 5000 series CPUs, the Ryzen 5600 does not come with integrated graphics.

Might Not be Future Proof: AMD’s recent shift to the AM5 architecture does limit the upgrade path from Ryzen 5 5600, which can be a deal-breaker for some people. Furthermore, AM4 processors like the Ryzen 5 5600 are not compatible with DDR5 memory modules.

Who Is It For?

All in all, the Ryzen 5 5600 renders itself a capable chip for anyone looking to build a budget PC. Additionally, anyone upgrading from an older Ryzen processor will also be presented with remarkable performance gains.

What Makes It The Best AMD Budget CPU

The Ryzen 5 5600 is bundled with an attractive price tag and decent performance that makes it a standout budget product in all prospects. Furthermore, its lower TDP of 65W and impressive boost clock speed of 4.4 GHz also contribute to making it the Best AMD Budget CPU.

Intel Core i5-12400F

Best Budget Intel CPU

Socket: LGA 1700 | Cores: 6 | Threads: 12 | L2 Cache: 7.5MB | Base Clock: 2.5 GHz | Boost Clock: Up to 4.4 GHz | TDP: 65W

Intel’s i5 processors are often hailed as the best budget alternatives to the otherwise expensive flagship options. Each iteration in the i5 lineup constitutes newer changes for marginal performance gains. Fortunately, Intel has continued this trend over the years, bringing tremendous leaps in performance in the budget segment with the Core i5-12400F.

On top of bringing several upgrades over the 11th gen SKUs, the 12400F also serves as the first i5 processor to be based on the LGA 1700 socket. That also means it marked the debut of Intel’s Golden Cove CPU cores, drastically improving energy efficiency and performance. It is worth mentioning that E-cores are missing since they were reserved for the higher-end 12th-generation processors.

LGA 1700 also brought support for DDR5 RAM; however, that did result in an influx in motherboard prices. That said, affordable chipsets such as B660 and H610 should suffice for the i5-12400F. The Core i5-12400F arrives with a base clock speed of 2.5 GHz, which is not that different than last gen. Boost clock speeds also follow a similar trend, clocking in at 4.4 GHz.

The core i5-12400F follows in the footsteps of its predecessors, retaining a core count of 6 cores and 12 threads. On the other hand, single-threaded performance has seen a visible improvement over the last generation, giving the i5-12400 an edge in gaming compared to other budget processors.

Given the increased accessibility and reduced price of DDR5 RAM, pairing the Intel Core i5-12400F with a capable DDR5 RAM module is entirely possible thanks to the present compatibility. Its remarkable performance makes it a solid CPU for 1440p gaming; however, turning things down to 1080p should not detract from the experience either.

With the locked multiplier the Core i5-12400F comes with, traditional overclocking means will certainly not apply to this CPU. Some workarounds are still available. In my testing, the Core i5-13400F runs relatively cool even with the stock cooler, which is an added benefit for anyone not interested in going the extra mile to get a separate CPU cooler.

What We Liked

DDR5 Compatibility: Unlike the Ryzen 5000 series GPUs, the Core i5-12400 boasts compatibility with DDR5 memory modules, making it slightly more future-proof. 

Upgradeability to 13th Gen: The Core i5-12400F is compatible with the LGA 1700 socket, which means upgrading to 13th Gen is as easy as it gets.

What We Disliked

Limited Overclocking potential: As evident by the lack of the K-suffix on the Core i5-12400F, any kind of overclocking beyond will not be possible. 

Who Is It For?

Anyone looking for an Intel alternative for a Budget CPU is going to be pleased by the Core i5-12400F’s performance. It manages to achieve the perfect balance between price and performance, allowing it to cater to anyone on a strict budget.

What Makes It The Best Budget Intel CPU

Intel’s implementation of the Golden Cove architecture, in conjunction with the remarkable multi-core performance, gives the Core i5-12400F the lead it needs over most other budget processors in the market. That, combined with its competitive price tag, makes it the Best Budget Intel CPU.

• Best LGA 1700 CPU Coolers
• Best CPU For RTX 4060
• BEST CPU For RTX 4060 Ti

Intel Core i5-13400F

Budget CPU For Gaming And Streaming

Socket: LGA 1700 | Cores: 10 (6P + 4E) | Threads: 16 | L2 Cache: 9.5MB | Base Clock: 2.5 GHz (P-cores) | Boost Clock: Up to 4.6 GHz (P-cores) | TDP: 65W

If the i5-12400F’s performance was lackluster for your workload, then the added horsepower of the i5-13400F might be more in line with what you are looking for. The added performance allows it to handle demanding titles while also leaving enough headroom for streaming at a decent bit rate.

In addition to the already well-received performance cores, the Core i5-13400F also brings Gracemount-based E-cores to the table, which were previously only reserved for the higher-end variants in the 12th generation series of processors. Both types of cores work in conjunction to form a hybrid core architecture to enhance the CPU’s overall performance.

All of that adds up to a total of 10 cores and 16 threads, which is a substantial leap over the measly 6 cores found in the i5-12400F. It is worth mentioning that anyone interested in integrated graphics can also opt for the non-F variant of the i5-13400, which is priced slightly higher. Surprisingly, spending a bit more for the Core i5-13500 nets you four additional cores, resulting in an 11.1 percent performance increase, as shown in our comparison between the Core i5-13500 Vs 13400.

As far as clock speeds are concerned, the Core i5-13400F offers a moderate base frequency of 2.5 GHz on the performance cores and 1.8 GHz on the E-cores. Adding on to that, the max turbo frequency has been dialed up to 4.6 GHz on the performance cores, which is slightly beyond the realm of frequencies you would typically see on an i5. As expected, BLKC overclocking is not available with the Core i5-13400F due to the locked multiplier.

We also see a noteworthy increase in the Cache capacity, with the Core i5-13400F now offering an L3 Cache of 20MB as well as an L2 Cache of 9.5MB. Following the specification overhaul, a slight increase can be found in the CPU’s Maximum Turbo Power, which now sits at 148W. It is important to note that the rated TDP has stayed at 65W.

The Core i5-13400F showcases impressive performance against Zen 3 processors and the latest Ryzen 7000 series. On the other hand, while its performance may fall short when compared to the Ryzen 5 7600X from AMD, its slightly lower price also reflects that, accommodating the slightly lower performance in some instances.

Unsurprisingly, the performance difference further trickles down in gaming tests, with the Core i5-13400F going head to head with the Ryzen 5 7600X in most titles. In my testing, the Core i5-13400F stacks up exceptionally well against the competition, especially considering the narrow price gap between the Ryzen 5 7600 and the Core it-13400F.

What We Liked

Extra Cores: The i5-13400F is equipped with a total of 10 cores, which was previously unheard of in an i5 series processor.

Exceptional Performance: The Core i5-13400F truly showcases a generational leap in performance, toppling over the 12th generation i5 by a huge margin.

What We Disliked

Increased power consumption: All of that added performance has resulted in an inevitable increase in the CPU’s maximum power draw, which now comes in at 148W.

Who Is It For?

The i5-13400F proves to me more than capable of handling gaming and streaming, making for an excellent choice for anyone looking to dabble in that field. It guarantees a flawless streaming and gaming experience thanks to the additional core counts, efficiency cores, and increased boost frequencies.

What Makes It The Best Budget CPU For Gaming and Streaming

All in all, the Core i5-13400F surpasses its predecessors in every scenario possible. Between high boost frequencies to a hybrid core architecture comprising 10 cores, the Core i5-13400 prevails in every aspect, making it the Best Budget CPU For Gaming and Streaming.

• Best CPU For Streaming
• Best CPU For RTX 4080
• Best CPU For RTX 4070 Ti

AMD Ryzen 5 5600G

Best Budget Gaming CPU

Socket: AMD AM4 | Cores: 6 | Threads: 12 | L2 Cache: 3MB | Base Clock: 3.9 GHz | Boost Clock: Up to 4.4 GHz | TDP: 65W

When it comes to gaming, budget-friendly Ryzen processors fare extremely well; however, the lack of integrated graphics might be a deal-breaker for some people. The Ryzen 5 5600G tackles this very issue, effectively including Vega graphics to the already well-received attributes of the Ryzen 5000 family.

Based on the Zen 3 architecture, the Ryzen 5 5600G is built on a 7 nm production process. In a similar vein as its budget competitors, it comes with a total of 6 cores and 12 threads, which hold up well in most cases. While it falls slightly below the 5600X in terms of raw performance, I did not notice any significant differences in gaming.

The dial-downs become are accentuated when looking at the L3 cache of the 5600G. With only 16MB of L3 Cache present, the Ryzen 5 5600G effectively halves the L3 cache compared to the 5600, which can be seen as a major downgrade. Fortunately, the L2 cache has remained the same, coming in at 3MB.

Moreover, the Ryzen 5 5600G features a clock speed of 3.9 GHz along with a respectable boost clock speed of 4.4 GHz. While its base clock speed is an increase over the Ryzen 5 5600, the boost clock speed has remained the same. Thankfully, the Ryzen 5 5600G does come with an unlocked multiplier, providing users with decent overclocking headroom.

As mentioned previously, the Ryzen 5 5600G is equipped with integrated Vega graphics. With a clock speed of 1.9 GHz, six compute units, and a shader count of 448, the IGPU shows clear signs of antiquity. Despite appearing slightly dated on paper, the iGPU can still handle lighter titles at 720p, making it the Best Budget Integrated Graphics GPU.

Integrated graphics aside, pairing the Ryzen 5600G with an equally capable dedicated GPU paints an entirely different picture. In fact, it boasts enough dedicated CPU horsepower to even handle a GeForce RTX 4070 without running into CPU bottlenecks. Of course, that also demonstrates its capabilities to handle modern games without any major hiccups.

What We Liked

Integrated Vega Graphics: While the Vega graphics are by no means capable of rivaling high-end dedicated GPUs, they can hold their own in lighter titles, providing users with a plausible gaming experience.

Decent Overclocking Potential: Unlike most budget processors from Intel, AMD’s Ryzen 5000 series comes with an unlocked multiplier, allowing these CPUs to reach higher clock speeds. The same can also be said for the Ryzen 5 5600G, which can boost up to decent clock speeds as long it is accompanied by a capable cooling solution.

What We Disliked

Lacks PCIE Gen 4.0 Compatibility: The Ryzen 5600G utilizes a total of 24 PCIe 3.0 lanes, which is a bit disappointing compared to the 24 PCIe Gen 4.0 lanes found on the standard 5000 series processors.

Who Is It For?

Anyone looking for a capable CPU with integrated graphics is bound to be pleased by Ryzen 5600G’s performance. While the Vega graphics are going to struggle in modern titles, light 720p gaming is definitely possible.

What Makes It The Best Budget Gaming CPU?

Packing integrated graphics, compelling clock speeds, and remarkable overclocking potential under its belt, the 6 core 12 threaded Ryzen 5 5600G doesn’t disappoint in any category. It makes the Best Budget Gaming CPU for its incredible value and previously mentioned attributes.

• BEST CPU For RX 7900 XTX & RX 7900 XT
• BEST CPU For RTX 4090

Intel Core i5-12600KF

Best Budget CPU For Video Editing

Socket: LGA 1700 | Cores: 10 (6P + 4E) | Threads: 16 | L2 Cache: 9.5MB | Base Clock: 3.7 GHz (P-cores) | Boost Clock: Up to 4.9 GHz (P-cores) | TDP: 125W

Much like the previously mentioned Core i5-13400, the i5-12600KF mainly competes in the same budget market, garnering a tremendous win over the competition with its outstanding set of features. The i5-12600KF builds upon the features of its predecessors, ushering in the budget market with its architectural shift and modest price tag.

For comparison, the i5-12600KF comfortably sits a notch above the i5-12400F in the CPU hierarchy, and its upgrades reflect precisely that. You also receive an upgrade in the core count, with the Core i5-12600KF including four additional E-cores, for a total of 10 cores on the CPU.

Naturally, it also retains the six performance cores based on the Golden Cove architecture.  Of course, its price has received a slight increase, with the i5-12600KF treading the grounds as a mid-range CPU rather than an entry-level one, which is expected from an i5 processor of this caliber.

Base and boost clock speeds for the performance have been adjusted to 3.7 and 4.9 GHz, respectively. While its stock boost clock speeds might be a little under 5 GHz, the unlocked multiplier means pushing the Core i5-12600KF above that limit shouldn’t be a problem. In my testing, the Core i5-12600KF can be easily overclocked to reach 5 GHz on the performance cores without any stability issues.

Integrated Intel UHD graphics aren’t present with the Core i5-12600KF, which was a given, considering the F-prefix added to its name. Moving on, Intel has tweaked the L3 Cache to 20MB, which is shared between the performance and efficiency cores. Moreover, L2 Cache sits at 9.5MB, a decent improvement over the 12400F.

The Core i5-12600K demonstrated a considerable leap in performance when compared to the Ryzen 5 5600x, gaining a maximum lead of ~35% in productivity workloads. It also yielded impressive results when compared against the Ryzen 5 5800X, only trailing 0.7 percent behind in gaming

This benchmark further evidences its wins against its predecessors. The Core i5-12600KF not only takes the lead against the 11600K but also triumphs over the 11700k as well as the flagship 11900K, which is an astounding feat for an i5 CPU. Make sure to also check out our comparison on 12th Gen vs 11th Gen CPUs, which goes in-depth about the differences between the two generations.

What We Liked

Hybrid Architecture: The Core i5-12600KF combines combining Golden Cove cores and Gracemount-based cores to form a hybrid core architecture, which helps increase the overall performance.

Solid overclocking potential: The core i5-12600KF has been left with a lot of headroom for overclocking, allowing users to push it past its stock.

What We Disliked

Higher power consumption: Unlike the core i5-12400F, the i5-12600KF is rated at a slightly higher TDP of 125W, which was expected given the upgrades it comes with.

Who Is It For?

The Core i5-12600KF carefully intertwines both performance and efficient cores into one complete package, giving users a balanced overall experience. Not only does the CPU fare well in gaming tasks, but the added horsepower of E-cores also makes it an ideal option for Video Editors.

What Makes It The Best Budget CPU For Video Editing?

The Core i5-12600KF pushes the very limit of the amount of power one can pack inside an i5-based CPU. Its combination of performance and efficiency cores work in favor of delivering a moderate experience, making it the Best Budget CPU For Video Editing.

• Best CPUs For Video Editing

Gaming Benchmarks Of The Best Budget CPUs

Gaming Benchmarks of the Best Budget CPUs

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Important CPU Key Terms

1. Cores: A single CPU core represents a processing unit that is responsible for executing instructions at a particular speed. The number of CPU cores directly affects the processor’s performance and price.
2. Threads: Often referred to as virtual cores, threads are instructions assigned to a CPU core for execution. Modern CPUs make use of features such as multi-threading to properly utilize these threads in order to gain substantial performance.
3. Multi-Threading: Multi-threading refers to the process of using cores to execute two or more threads simultaneously. Intel and AMD use separate terms for this process: Hyper-threading for Intel and Simultaneous Multi-Threading for AMD. 
4. Cache: CPU Cache is high-speed storage that effectively reduces the time required to access data from the main memory. L1, L2, and L3 Cache are all variations of CPU Cache, each differing in speed. The access speed progressively decreases with each Cache level, resulting in lower speeds.
5. Clock Speed: The clock speed of your processor represents the number of executions it is capable of executing within a second. A processor’s boost clock speed refers to the maximum speed it is capable of reaching.
6. TDP: Measured in Watts, the TDP of your system is an accurate representation of the heat your CPU generates. The Thermal Design Power or TDP of your system allows users to gauge the type of cooler your processor needs to maintain adequate temperatures.
7. Overclocking: The process of giving more power to the CPU in order to achieve higher clock speeds is known as overclocking. Overclocking your CPU might increase performance; however, you need to have a compatible CPU and a cooler that can withstand the higher power draw.

Tips To Buy Best Budget CPUs

Here are some of the most important aspects I took into consideration when coming up with my list of the Best Budget CPUs In 2023.

Intel vs AMD

With the launch of the newer Zen 4 processors, both Intel and AMD have now started competing on equal terms, going head-to-head against each other with every generational leap. While Intel might have the upper hand with its hybrid architecture that comprises performance and efficiency cores, AMD’s 3D V-Cache processors flip the table on Intel, even gaining a lead in some cases.

Similarly, when choosing the Best Budget CPUs, both Intel and AMD prevail in their respective categories. AMD’s non-x 5000 series GPUs compete directly against the 12th-generation ones from Intel, which means choosing between the two will mostly come down to personal preference and availability in your region. 

Overclocking

The overclocking capabilities of your processor play a considerable part in influencing the overall buying decision. Processors that come with an unlocked multiplier allow users to go beyond the stock speeds of the processor, which results in a performance increase. Some of the budget CPUs in our list come with an unlocked multiplier, providing users with decent overclocking headroom.

Of course, as good as all of that sounds, overclocking is not without its qualms. While a hefty performance uplift on your CPU might be what you are looking for, you can run into the risk of reducing your CPU’s lifespan as a result.

Frequency

Simply put, your CPU’s clock speeds determine its capability to process instructions. Faster frequencies allow your processor to interpret instructions quickly, resulting in a faster overall experience as a result. Thankfully, all of the CPUs in my list boast adequate clock speeds that allow them to perform flawlessly in most cases.

Supported Chipsets

The chipset your processor utilizes depends on the type of socket it is compatible with. For instance, Intel’s latest 13th-generation processors utilize the LGA 1700 socket, meaning they are compatible with motherboards based on the 700-series and 600-series chipsets. When choosing the best Budget CPUs, it is important to ensure that the CPU you end up going with is compatible with your selected motherboard.

Why You Should Trust Us

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When finding the Best Budget CPUs for my list, I extensively researched each product to reach the optimal conclusion. I considered multiple factors, including but not limited to overclocking, clock speeds, accessibility, and price.

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Nauman Siddique

[Hardware Reviewer & Editor]

Meet Nauman Siddique, a highly experienced computer science graduate with more than 15 years of knowledge in technology. Nauman is an expert in the field known for his deep understanding of computer hardware.

As a tech tester, insightful reviewer, and skilled hardware editor, Nauman carefully breaks down important parts like motherboards, graphics cards, processors, PC cases, CPU coolers, and more.

• 15+ years of PC Building Experience
• 10+ years of first-hand knowledge of technology
• 7+ years of doing in-depth testing of PC Hardware
• A motivated individual with a keen interest in tech testing from multiple angles.
• I majored in Computer Science with a Masters in Marketing
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Get In Touch: nauman@tech4gamers.com

Best Budget CPUs In 2023 [Intel & AMD] is a post from Tech4Gamers - All About Technology And Gaming News

Here are the Best CPU For Video Editing in a processor comparison chart:

CPU

AMD Ryzen 9 7950X3D

Intel Core i9-13900K

Intel Core i5-13600K

AMD Ryzen 9 7950X

Looks

Award

Best CPU For Gaming and Video Editing

Best Intel CPU For Video Editing

Best Budget CPU For Video Editing

Best AMD CPU for Gaming and Streaming

What We Liked

Multi-Core and Gaming Performance, L3 Cache

24 Cores/32 Threads, Multi Core Perofmrnace, Support for DDR4 and DDR5

Value For Money, DDR4 and DDR5 Support, Low Blender Times

Great Multi-Core Performance, Superb Optimization

What We Disliked

Quite Expensive, Locked Multiplier

Expensive, High Power Draw, High Thermals

Nothing Significant

High Power Consumption, Expensive Platform

Socket

AMD AM5

LGA 1700

LGA 1700

AMD AM5

Cores

16

24 (8+16)

14 (6+8)

16

Threads

32

32

20

32

Base Clock

4.2 GHz

2.20 GHz

2.6

16MB

Boost Clock

Up to 5.7 GHz

Up to 5.8 GHz

Up to 5.1 GHz

4.5 GHz

L2 Cache

16MB

32MB

20MB

Up to 5.7 GHz

TDP

120W

125W

125W

170W

Amazon

Buy on Amazon

Buy on Amazon

Buy on Amazon

Buy on Amazon

CPU

AMD Ryzen 9 7950X3D

Looks

Award

Best CPU For Gaming and Video Editing

What We Liked

Multi-Core and Gaming Performance, L3 Cache

What We Disliked

Quite Expensive, Locked Multiplier

Socket

AMD AM5

Cores

16

Threads

32

Base Clock

4.2 GHz

Boost Clock

Up to 5.7 GHz

L2 Cache

16MB

TDP

120W

Amazon

Buy on Amazon

CPU

Intel Core i9-13900K

Looks

Award

Best Intel CPU For Video Editing

What We Liked

24 Cores/32 Threads, Multi Core Perofmrnace, Support for DDR4 and DDR5

What We Disliked

Expensive, High Power Draw, High Thermals

Socket

LGA 1700

Cores

24 (8+16)

Threads

32

Base Clock

2.20 GHz

Boost Clock

Up to 5.8 GHz

L2 Cache

32MB

TDP

125W

Amazon

Buy on Amazon

CPU

Intel Core i5-13600K

Looks

Award

Best Budget CPU For Video Editing

What We Liked

Value For Money, DDR4 and DDR5 Support, Low Blender Times

What We Disliked

Nothing Significant

Socket

LGA 1700

Cores

14 (6+8)

Threads

20

Base Clock

2.6

Boost Clock

Up to 5.1 GHz

L2 Cache

20MB

TDP

125W

Amazon

Buy on Amazon

CPU

AMD Ryzen 9 7950X

Looks

Award

Best AMD CPU for Gaming and Streaming

What We Liked

Great Multi-Core Performance, Superb Optimization

What We Disliked

High Power Consumption, Expensive Platform

Socket

AMD AM5

Cores

16

Threads

32

Base Clock

16MB

Boost Clock

4.5 GHz

L2 Cache

Up to 5.7 GHz

TDP

170W

Amazon

Buy on Amazon

Last update on 2023-12-13

Both Intel and AMD offer quite a few performance-packed processors to keep up with the demands of video editing professionals. These processors come with an impressive number of cores with high clock speeds. Furthermore, their architectures are designed to make the most out of their cores by running parallel tasks and nailing video encoding. In this guide, I have ranked the best CPU for video editing based on various factors. Therefore, whether you’re looking for a budget CPU or a high-end one capable of editing 8K videos, this guide has got it all.

Make Sure To Check:

• Best CPU For Streaming
• Best CPU For RTX 4080
• Best CPU For RTX 4090

Best CPU For Video Editing

The following are the Best CPU For Video Editing:

1. AMD Ryzen 9 7950X3D
2. Intel Core i9-13900K
3. Intel Core i5-13600k
4. AMD Ryzen 9 7950X

AMD Ryzen 9 7950X3D

Best CPU For Gaming and Video Editing

Socket: AMD AM5 | Cores: 16 | Threads: 32 | L2 Cache: 16MB | Base Clock: 4.2 GHz | Boost Clock: Up to 5.7 GHz | TDP: 120W

Let’s begin with the Ryzen 9 7950X3D. AMD’s 3D V-Cache implementation on the Ryzen 7000 processor is nothing short of an engineering marvel. The processors were already some of the best when it comes to video editing and gaming, but the extra L3 Cache has just taken them to another level.

First up, the Ryzen 9 7950X3D comes with 16 cores and 32 threads. Just the sheer core count and support for multi-threading alone make the processor a top-tier selection for video editing. However, that’s not it. The 16 cores are built to reach a maximum of 5.7 GHz while hovering at 4.2 GHz as their base frequency. Such insane clock speed guarantee world-class short rendering times. You can say goodbye to wasting time waiting for your PC to finish exporting a long video.

But, we have called the Ryzen 9 7950X3D the best CPU for gaming and video editing. This means that the processor must have a hidden trick up its sleeve to also nail gaming benchmarks. Well, that trick isn’t really hidden; it’s simply that AMD has stacked an additional L3 Cache onto the CPU die, increasing the overall L3 capacity to a whopping 128MB. With such a high L3 cache storage, along with lots of cores clocking at high frequencies, the processor will eat AAA titles for lunch.

While the additional L3 cache puts a tiny dent in the overall multi-core performance of the chip, especially when compared to the original Ryzen 9 7950X, the overall performance gains are totally worth it. Regardless of the video editing software you use, the combination of 16 cores that support multi-threading gives you enough performance to quickly apply effects and playback in real-time without any lags.

That’s not it. The Ryzen 9 7950X3D, despite being the ultimate powerhouse, is quite an efficient chip. The processor has a default TDP of 125W, which is one of the advantages of X3D processors over their non-X3D variants. In my testing, the Ryzen 9 7950X3D was not only giving better performance-per-watt figures, but it was also running significantly less hot than its competitors like the Core i9-13900K.

Apart from all the good things, there are two disadvantages to going for the Ryzen 9 7950X3D. Yes, the processor offers remarkable performance in both video editing and gaming, but it is a very expensive processor. You will have to really drain your bank to build a Ryzen 9 7950X3D build. In addition to that, the processor does not come with an unlocked multiplier. Therefore, if you’re a fan of overclocking and you were planning to push the chip to its limit, you can’t do that the traditional way. Of course, you can use AMD’s Precision Boost Overdrive to achieve the purpose. 

What We Liked

The Ryzen 9 7950X3D’s ability to truly be the best of both worlds; gaming and video editing, is what I liked the most about this processor. 

What We Disliked

As far as performance goes, I didn’t dislike anything about the Ryzen 9 7950X3D. However, its high price tag and locked multiplier are two major factors that might come your way from getting it for your video editing build.

Who Is It For?

If you are a video editor by profession but also love hardcore gaming, then the Ryzen 9 7950X3D is for you. It will never let you down during your work and will give you excellent framerates in all of your favorite games.

What Makes It The Best CPU For Video Editing and Gaming?

The combination of 16 cores with 32 threads along with a max frequency of 5.7 GHz is superb for video editing. However, the Ryzen 9 7950X3D also comes with an enormous 128MB L3 Cache, which is something most AAA titles will benefit from a lot. Therefore, the ability to offer the best of both worlds is what makes the Ryzen 9 7950X3D the Best CPU For Video Editing and Gaming.

Other Components To Go With The Ryzen 9 7950X3D:

• Best Motherboard for Ryzen 9 7950X3D
• Best RAM for Ryzen 9 7950X3D
• Best CPU Cooler for Ryzen 9 7950X3D

Intel Core i9-13900K

Best Intel CPU For Video Editing

Socket: LGA1700 | Cores: 24 (8P + 16E) | Threads: 32 | L2 Cache: 36MB | Base Clock: 2.2 GHz (E), 3.0 GHz (P) | Boost Clock: 4.3 GHz (E), 5.4 GHz (P) | TDP: 125W

Coming towards Team Blue, there is no better CPU for video editing than the ultimate Core i9-13900K. The processor utilized Intel’s Hybrid Technology to the fullest and manages to pack an astounding 24 cores. Here, 8 of these cores are Performance cores, while the other 16 are Efficient cores. 

When it comes to video editing, you need as many cores as possible that are also clocking at high frequencies to handle extremely CPU-intensive tasks like real-time video playback. In the case of the i9-13900K, all 8 performance cores have a base and boost clock speed of 3.0 GHz and 5.4 GHz, respectively. But that’s not it. The best of these performance cores can also clock at up to 5.8 GHz whenever possible, making the i9-13900K an excellent choice for high-end video editing.

These 8 P-cores also support multi-threading, so there are a total of 16 threads for the P cores and one thread each for every Efficient core, bringing the total thread count to 32. The Core i9-13900K offers more than enough single-core and multi-core performance to handle all CPU-intensive tasks, along with gaming. With this processor, your video rendering times will be some of the shortest, and you will face no lags in applying different effects to your multi-layered timelines.

Pair the processor with 32GB or 64GB of either DDR4 or DDR5 RAM (Raptor Lake processors are compatible with both), and you will have the best of the best video editing build. You can easily edit 4K or even 8K videos using Adobe Premiere Pro, and your PC will have no problems handling it.

Another great thing about the Core i9-13900K is that it is an unlocked chip. Therefore, you can overclock it to reach even higher clock speeds. For a video editing build, the default speeds are more than adequate, so you shouldn’t go down the overclocking route unless you’re a tech enthusiast. One downside of the i9-13900K is that while the processor is no doubt a beast in terms of single- and multi-core performance, it sucks power like no other CPU.

With a base and maximum turbo power rating of 125W and 253W, respectively. My testing revealed that the power consumption of the Core i9-13900K was off the charts. It is integral to use a very high-end CPU cooler to keep this processor tamed. Otherwise, the chip will suffer from thermal throttling in no time. Similarly, while you can overclock this processor, doing so will result in even higher power consumption and temperatures. Make sure you have a well-built top-of-the-line cooling system to take care of this CPU. Additionally, being the flagship of Intel’s Raptor Lake line-up, the Core i9-13900K will cost you an arm and a leg.

What We Liked

The best thing about the Core i9-13900K is its single- and multi-core performance from its whopping 24 cores. The CPU is built to handle professional-grade video editing.

What We Disliked

Given the high power consumption and the processor’s pricing, getting an expensive top-tier CPU cooler to go along with the i9-13900K will further drain your wallet.

Who Is It For?

If you are a Team Blue fan and want to build your next video editing rig on the Intel platform, then the Core i9-13900K is for you. It is backward compatible so that you can use the DDR4 RAM from your previous build, and it packs insane performance.

What Makes It The Best Intel CPU For Video Editing?

The number of cores and clock speeds of the Core i9-13900K are unparalleled. Being the Raptor Lake’s flagship product, the processor stands as the undefeated champion of single- and multi-core performance. Its sheer performance makes it the Best Intel CPU For Video Editing.

Other Components To Go With The i9-13900K:

• Best Motherboard for i9-13900K
• Best RAM for i9-13900K
• Best CPU Cooler for i9-13900K

Intel Core i5-13600K

Best Budget CPU For Video Editing

Socket: LGA1700 | Cores: 14 (6P + 8E) | Threads: 20 | L2 Cache: 20MB | Base Clock: 2.6 GHz (E), 3.5 GHz (P) | Boost Clock: 3.9 GHz (E), 5.1 GHz (P) | TDP: 125W

So far, both processors I have listed are undoubtedly the best CPUs for video editing. However, both of them have one thing in common: they are top-tier products of their respective line-ups, so they cost a ton. Unless you’re a professional video editor well-off in his/her career, it can be difficult to afford such high-end rigs. Therefore, if you are looking for a CPU that offers good value for money and is actually affordable, then the Core i5-13600K is for you. It is the best cheap CPU for editing that you can get.

Despite being aimed at the budget segment, the Core i5-13600K comes with 14 cores, a combination of 6 Performance and 8 Efficient cores. Just like the Core i9-13900K, the performance cores of the i5-13600K also support multi-threading to handle concurrent editing tasks without breaking a sweat. Furthermore, since the i5-13600K supports both DDR4 and DDR5 memory, you can pair it with high-capacity DDR4 RAM to cut costs and still get great performance. While the i5-13600K’s core count is truly impressive, that’s not all about it.

On paper, the Core i5-13600K claims to rock phenomenal base clock speeds of 2.6 GHz and 3.5 GHz for its Efficient and Performance cores, respectively. Similarly, the processor claims to boost its Performance cores at 5.1 GHz under heavy workload, and that is completely true. In my tests of the Core i5-13600K, both its Performance and Efficient cores lived up to their names and continuously clocked at 5.1 GHz and 3.9 GHz, respectively.

As a result, the processor left its competition in the dust in both single-core and multi-core tasks. When I tested the Core i5-13600K in Cinebench R23, the CPU scored the highest among its competitors. The same goes for Blender rendering times as well, with the i5-13600K rendering BMW 27 and Classroom at 131.503 seconds and 482.122 seconds, respectively. There are several other productivity benchmarks I ran to gauge the performance of the i5-13600K, I will share the rest of the results later in this guide.

In short, my benchmarks and tests made it very clear that when it comes to going for a budget CPU, there is no better option than the Core i5-13600K. Whether it is the core count or the clock speeds, it has everything a CPU must have to be the best CPU for video editing. I always kept track of the power consumption during my tests. The CPU was consuming around 180W during intensive workloads. Given its maximum turbo power of 181W, it is pretty much on point.

Being an unlocking chip, I had to overclock it to see how much juice I could get from the i5-13600K. The maximum stable clock speeds were 5.6 GHz for the Performance cores and 4.4 GHz for the Efficient cores, with the chip consuming 192W. These specs gave me a ~9.7% jump in the Cinebench R23 score. However, since I used a custom loop setup, my i5-13600K didn’t thermal throttle. You should lower your expectations if you’re going to use a regular CPU cooler.

Since you’re on a budget, you may also want to explore Best CPU For RTX 4060, Best CPU For RTX 4060 Ti, and Best CPU For RX 7600.

What We Liked

I was blown away by the value for money the Core i5-13600K. Considering its pricing, performance, and support for DDR4 and DDR5 RAM, the processor is the best bang for the buck chip out there.

What We Disliked

There isn’t much to complain about the i5-13600K. Yes, it is not the best-performance CPU. But it does not cost a ton, either. However, its power consumption is quite up there, making it necessary to use a good quality CPU cooler.

Who Is It For?

If you’re looking for the best cheap CPU for video editing, then the Core i5-13600K is for you. You won’t be breaking your wallet with it, and you will still get plenty of performance to render high-res videos easily.

What Makes It The Best Budget CPU For Video Editing?

First of all, the Core i5-13600K’s combined 14 cores with its 6 P-cores clocking at 5.1 GHz gives the processor a huge benefit in video editing. In addition to that, considering the chip’s pricing, the i5-13600K comes out to have one of the best price-to-performance ratios. That’s why we have picked the i5-13600K as the Best Budget CPU For Video Editing.

• Intel Core i5-13600K Review
• Best Budget CPUs

Other Components To Go With The i5-13600K:

• Best Motherboard for i5-13600K
• Best RAM for i5-13600K
• Best CPU Cooler for i5-13600K

AMD Ryzen 9 7950X

Best CPU For 4K And 8K Video Editing

Socket: AM5 | Cores: 16 | Threads: 32 | L2 Cache: 17MB | Base Clock: 4.5 GHz | Boost Clock: Up to 5.7 GHz | TDP: 170W

If you are after the most ultimate video editing CPU that can handle professional-grade 4K and 8K video edits, then the Ryzen 9 7950X should be your go-to choice. Now you might be wondering, why not go for the Ryzen 9 7950X3D? Can it not do the above-mentioned things? Well, the Ryzen 9 7950X3D can also edit 4K and 8K videos, but its show-stopper feature is the ability to be the best of both worlds, that is, editing and gaming. On the other hand, the Ryzen 9 7950X is more productivity-focused than the X3D variant, making it an even better choice for professional video editors.

How so? Both the Ryzen 9 7950X and the Ryzen 9 7950X3D have the same number of cores and threads, that is, 16 cores with support for multi-threading, giving the CPUs an edge in productivity. However, since the 7950X3D comes with an additional L3 cache, it has lower clock speeds, which is basically a gaming-productivity tradeoff. On the other hand, the Ryzen 9 7950X benefits from its high base clock speeds, making it the king of video editing processors.

The Ryzen 9 7950X has base and boost clock speeds of 4.5 GHz and 5.7 GHz, respectively. Therefore, compared to the X3D variant, the Ryzen 9 7950X has around 7% higher base speed. The result? You get lag-free real-time playback of both 4K and 8K videos. Plus, since there are 16 cores that are clocking at such high speeds, you get insanely low render times as well. In all of my productivity and render benchmarks, the Ryzen 9 7950X stayed at the top of the competition due to its remarkable mixture of raw core count and high clock speeds.

There is one downside to enjoying such top-tier performance, and that’s power consumption. With a rated TDP of 170W, the Ryzen 9 7950X theoretically generates around 40% more heat than its X3D variant, and even in my tests, the processor’s power draw was quite up there. Furthermore, a Ryzen 9 7950X video editing rig won’t come cheap. The processor only supports DDR5 RAM, and since your CPU packs such high performance, you will probably go for 32GB or 64GB DDR5 RAM. All in all, be ready to spend top dollar to get the best Ryzen CPU for video editing.

What We Liked

The high-end combination of 16 cores with a base and boost clock speed of 4.5 GHz and 5.7 GHz, respectively, give the Ryzen 9 7950X an unparalleled edge in video editing, and that’s what I like the most about this CPU.

What We Disliked

Apart from the massive price tag that follows the processor and the fact that its DDR5-only memory support will further drive up your rig’s total cost, the Ryzen 9 7950X also has high power consumption, making it integral to opt for a high-end cooler.

Who Is It For?

The Ryzen 9 7950X is perfect for professional video editors whose workload revolves around editing high-res 4K and 8K videos. With quick rendering, real-time playback, and handling multi-layered timelines, the Ryzen 9 7950X can nail it all.

What Makes It The Best CPU For 4K And 8K Video Editing?

With multi-threading support, the phenomenal single-core and multi-core performance backed by high-clock speeds make the Ryzen 9 7950X the Best CPU For 4K And 8K Video Editing.

Other Components To Go With The Ryzen 9 7950x:

• Best Motherboard for Ryzen 9 7950X
• Best RAM for Ryzen 9 7950X
• Best CPU Cooler for Ryzen 9 7950X

More 4K Options

• Best CPU For RX 7900 XTX & XT
• Best CPU For RTX 4070 Ti

Benchmarks of The Best CPU For Video Editing

To ensure that every CPU I recommend is indeed the best CPU for video editing, I tested them using different benchmarking software to determine their capabilities. From gaming to renders to other CPU-intensive productivity tasks, every CPU was tested using the same test bench for a fair comparison. Take a look at my results:

Benchmarks of the Best CPUs for Video Editing

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Important CPU Key Terms

Whenever you’re going through a CPU’s specifications, you will come across many terms that might make zero sense. However, it is important to understand the meaning of these terms to ensure that you make the right decision and buy the best CPU.

• Cores: A CPU contains a bunch of cores. These cores are responsible for executing instructions and processing tasks. The more cores a CPU has, the better it generally is.
• Threads: Threads are logical instructions given to CPU cores to perform by applications or programs. The more thread a CPU has, the better it is in multitasking. 
• Cache: It is a small memory (or storage) located inside the processor. Since it is physically very close to the CPU cores, the data from the cache can be fetched (or written) very quickly. The bigger the cache capacity, the more data can be fed to the processor quickly, and hence the less time the processor will have to stay idle for when waiting for instructions.
• Clock Speed: The clock speed refers to how many cycles of instructions a CPU can perform in a second. The higher the clock speed, the faster the CPU. 
• TDP: Thermal Design Power refers to the heat generated by the CPU. Whenever you’re buying a CPU cooler, make sure it can support your CPU’s TDP.
• Overclocking: Overclocking is the process of feeding your CPU with extra power to achieve higher clock speeds. Basically, when you overclock your CPU, you push it beyond its factory-set limits to get even more performance.

CPU Vs GPU For Video Editing

The CPU is by far the most important component in video editing. It deals with the most hardware-intensive tasks like video decoding/encoding, playback, and rendering. Therefore, whenever you’re building a PC dedicated to video editing, you should always prioritize the CPU first. The right CPU can make all the difference in the world in your workflow.

However, lately, video editing is benefitting a lot from graphics cards as well. For instance, Adobe Premier Pro and DaVinci Resolve supports GPU-accelerated encoding to shorten the render times and GPU-accelerated decoding to make the playback as smooth as possible. Furthermore, the tensor and RTX cores of NVIDIA graphics cards have also allowed video editing software to bring features like Auto Reframe and face recognition.

In short, gone are the days when video editing was all about the CPU. While you can get away with a fairly budget GPU today as well, having a performance-centric graphics card will surely help you out a ton. When it comes to graphics cards and video editing, NVIDIA is still an unparalleled champ. Apart from the AI bells and whistles that come with NVIDIA’s RTX graphics cards, most video editing software are better optimized to work with Team Green GPUs.

How We Picked The Best CPU For Video Editing

Video editing is a very CPU-intensive task, and a no-good processor can make it quite a headache. To have a lag-free, seamless editing experience, I scrutinized my recommendations of the best CPU for video editing over a series of factors. It is best to consider these factors whenever you’re buying a CPU to make sure you make the right choice.

Rendering and Overall Performance

First and foremost, I judged every CPU I reviewed over their render times. This includes running a series of rendering tests from Blender to Corona, Cinebench R23, and Geekbench 5. These tests helped me figure out which CPU offers the quickest real-world performance while keeping in mind the price tag.

Video editing benefits a lot from CPUs that support multi-threading, which allows one physical core to handle two logical threads simultaneously. With multi-threading enabled, a processor can have an edge over multitasking. Apart from that, having a high frequency of clock speed along with plenty of cores is also necessary for a CPU to deal with video editing. 

Value For Money

It might sound obvious, but when buying a CPU, understanding how much value you’re actually getting for your money is quite important. For every CPU I reviewed, I kept in mind its price-to-performance ratio. Therefore, I skipped those CPUs which could practically handle video editing but didn’t make sense from a financial point of view, especially for video editing alone.

Thermal Consumption and Power Efficiency

When building a high-end video editing rig, you should be prepared to go with a top-of-the-line AIO and PSU. That’s because most flagship processors, especially the ones from Intel, generate a ton of heat while also drawing lots of power. When I tested the best CPUs for video editing, I made sure to keep an eye on their power consumption and temperatures. Some of my recommendations are definitely quite power-hungry, but they make up for it with their ultimate performance.

Why You Should Trust Us

With over a decade of experience, Tech4Gamers has built a team of technical experts who are dedicated to testing and reviewing hardware products. Our tests are conducted based on specific guidelines to ensure authenticity and reliability. For instance, for every CPU we review, we test them on 25+ software to judge their performance over a variety of tasks, along with a plethora of 1080p and 1440p games. After thorough tests, we gain special insights into the performance, reliability, stability, durability, and efficiency of the product.

Apart from processors, we also test graphics cards, RAM, PC cases, CPU coolers (AIOs), storage, motherboards, and much more. As a result of our unbiased testings and reviews, hardware manufacturers such as Aerocool, ARCTIC, ASRock, ASUS, be quiet!, Cooler Master, Corsair, DeepCool, EKWB, Fractal, Gamdias, GIGABYTE, Kingston, MSI, Noctua, Orico, Razer, Sabrent, Thermaltake, and others have collaborated with Tech4Gamers.

These manufacturers send us their latest products, so our team of hardware experts can review them and bring authentic benchmarks and tests timely. With that said, you can go with any of the best CPUs for video editing that I have recommended above, as they have been tested thoroughly.

Sameed Hussain

[Hardware Expert]

With a major in Computer Science, Sameed is a tech enthusiast who puts his passion for gadgets into words and creates informative blogs. From comparing different hardware to reviewing the best RAMs, motherboards, and graphics cards for your next build, Sameed has covered a wide spectrum of topics that have given him a special insight into every nook and cranny of the tech world. Sameed is also a certified expert at Computer Hardware & Networking.

Get In Touch: sameed@tech4gamers.com

Best CPU For Video Editing In 2023 [Intel & AMD] is a post from Tech4Gamers - All About Technology And Gaming News

Here’s a quick outlook of all the Best CPU For RX 7600 we’ll be looking at:

CPU

AMD Ryzen 5 7600X

Intel Core i5 13400F

Intel Core i3 13100F

Intel Core i5 13600K

AMD Ryzen 5 5600G

Looks

Award

Best AMD CPU for RX 7600

Best Intel CPU for RX 7600

Best Budget CPU for RX 7600

Best High-End CPU for RX 7600

Best Value CPU for RX 7600

What We Liked

Performance, Performance-per-dollar ratio, Thermals, Overclocking potential

Good performance, DDR4 & DDR5, Affordable, Low power draw

Included cooler, Affordable, Low power draw, DDR4 & DDR5

Great overclocking potential, Excellent performance

Value for money, Low power draw, Overclockable, Integrated graphics

What We Disliked

No DDR4

No overclocking potential, No iGPU

No overclocking potential, No iGPU

High power draw, expensive

No DDR5 support

Socket

AMD AM5

FCLGA1700

FCLGA1700

FCLGA1700

AMD AM4

Cores

6

10 (6P + 4E)

4 (4P + 0E)

14 (6P + 8E)

6

Threads

12

16

8

20

12

Base Clock

4.7 GHz

1.8 GHz

3.4 GHz

2.6 GHz

3.9 GHz

Boost Clock

Up to 5.3 GHz

Up to 4.6 GHz

Up to 4.5 GHz

Up to 5.1 GHz

Up to 4.4 GHz

TDP

105W

65W

58W

125W

65W

Unlocked

Amazon

Buy on Amazon

Buy on Amazon

Buy on Amazon

Buy on Amazon

Buy on Amazon

CPU

AMD Ryzen 5 7600X

Looks

Award

Best AMD CPU for RX 7600

What We Liked

Performance, Performance-per-dollar ratio, Thermals, Overclocking potential

What We Disliked

No DDR4

Socket

AMD AM5

Cores

6

Threads

12

Base Clock

4.7 GHz

Boost Clock

Up to 5.3 GHz

TDP

105W

Unlocked

Amazon

Buy on Amazon

CPU

Intel Core i5 13400F

Looks

Award

Best Intel CPU for RX 7600

What We Liked

Good performance, DDR4 & DDR5, Affordable, Low power draw

What We Disliked

No overclocking potential, No iGPU

Socket

FCLGA1700

Cores

10 (6P + 4E)

Threads

16

Base Clock

1.8 GHz

Boost Clock

Up to 4.6 GHz

TDP

65W

Unlocked

Amazon

Buy on Amazon

CPU

Intel Core i3 13100F

Looks

Award

Best Budget CPU for RX 7600

What We Liked

Included cooler, Affordable, Low power draw, DDR4 & DDR5

What We Disliked

No overclocking potential, No iGPU

Socket

FCLGA1700

Cores

4 (4P + 0E)

Threads

8

Base Clock

3.4 GHz

Boost Clock

Up to 4.5 GHz

TDP

58W

Unlocked

Amazon

Buy on Amazon

CPU

Intel Core i5 13600K

Looks

Award

Best High-End CPU for RX 7600

What We Liked

Great overclocking potential, Excellent performance

What We Disliked

High power draw, expensive

Socket

FCLGA1700

Cores

14 (6P + 8E)

Threads

20

Base Clock

2.6 GHz

Boost Clock

Up to 5.1 GHz

TDP

125W

Unlocked

Amazon

Buy on Amazon

CPU

AMD Ryzen 5 5600G

Looks

Award

Best Value CPU for RX 7600

What We Liked

Value for money, Low power draw, Overclockable, Integrated graphics

What We Disliked

No DDR5 support

Socket

AMD AM4

Cores

6

Threads

12

Base Clock

3.9 GHz

Boost Clock

Up to 4.4 GHz

TDP

65W

Unlocked

Amazon

Buy on Amazon

Last update on 2023-12-13

Best CPU For RX 7600

Here’s a list of all the processors I shall be covering for the RX 7600 GPU:

1. Ryzen 5 7600X
2. Core i5 13400F
3. Core i3 13100F
4. Core i5 13600K
5. Ryzen 5 5600G

Ryzen 5 7600X

Best AMD CPU For The RX 7600

Specifications: Socket: AMD AM5 | Cores: 6 | Threads: 12 | L2 Cache: 6MB | L3 Cache: 32 MB | Base Clock: 4.7 GHz | Boost Clock: Up to 5.3 GHz | TDP: 105W | Unlocked: Yes

With AMD’s latest AM5 socket release, power efficiency and overall performance have increased unbelievably. The latest mid-range processor that pairs well with AMD’s mid-range graphics card lineup is the Ryzen 5 7600X. Not only is the processor easily overclockable, but you also get outstanding thermal efficiency.

Performance: If you’re looking for great gaming performance, you need processors with faster single-core speed. The Ryzen 5 7600X offers 6 cores and 12 threads, making it a decent processor for gaming and creative tasks. Moreover, with a base clock speed of 4.7GHz and a boost clock speed of 5.3GHz, you should find no problems playing CPU-intensive games.

Cooling: The Ryzen 5 7600X has an acceptable thermal efficiency, showing an average of 72°C in my tests with the Noctua NH-D15S air cooler. Because AMD’s AM5 platform is designed to utilize every drop of the advertised TDP, higher temperatures are common. For that reason, if you wish to lower your temperatures further, you should utilize at least a 240mm AIO cooler. It is also important to note if you wish to overclock the processor, a 240mm AIO becomes absolutely necessary. Even then, you should expect temperatures to hit the 80°C mark.

Overclocking Potential: Unlike its competition, almost all mainstream AMD processors offer manual overclocking opportunities. Similarly, the Ryzen 5 7600X is no exception. While the overclocking results vary from chip to chip based on the silicon lottery, the Ryzen 5 7600X has amazing overclocking potential. During my benchmarks with some of the best CPU coolers, I easily managed to overclock the processor without any problems. Moreover, with the opportunity to utilize AMD’s Smart Access Memory (SAM) and their automatic “rage mode” overclocking, the process became simpler. By tweaking the voltage slightly, you can get clock speeds up to 5.4GHz, increasing overall performance by ~5-10% based on the use case scenario.

Power Consumption: Regarding wattage efficiency, the Ryzen 5 7600X doesn’t require a lot of power. In my gaming benchmarks, the average power utilization was around 46W. If you overclock the processor, the processor becomes wattage hungry, but otherwise, you shouldn’t have any problems. If you’re not planning to overclock the Ryzen 5 7600X processor and the RX 7600 GPU, a 550W power supply should be more than enough to run your PC without problems. On the other hand, upgrading to a 700W power supply should be in your best interests if you want to overclock your PC components.

Comparison: In our testing of the Ryzen 5 7600X Vs Ryzen 5 5600X processors, we saw that the Ryzen 5 7600X displays 16% higher performance at 1080P resolution. With a slight gap in the pricing, the Ryzen 5 7600X is a solid choice for the RX 7600 graphics card if you can provide adequate cooling.

Value For Money: Considering the performance per dollar ratio of the Ryzen 5 7600X CPU, you get decent performance for the price you pay. For example, the Ryzen 5 7600X costs ~3.4% more than the Core i5-12600K but provides 14% greater performance. Furthermore, considering the overclocking capabilities, rage mode, Smart Access Memory, and faster DDR5 RAM possibilities, the Ryzen 5 7600X is a great value-for-money processor and might very well be the best AMD processor for the RX 7600 graphics card without causing any bottlenecks.

Buy It If

You want an ideal processor for the RX 7600: The Ryzen 5 7600X packs enough performance to perfectly complement the RX 7600, resulting in great compatibility without any bottleneck issues.

You want to overclock your processor: Aside from raw performance, you can easily overclock the AMD CPU and GPU combo using the rage mode option.

Don’t Buy It If

You want DDR4 support: If you don’t plan on upgrading your DDR4 RAM kit to a DDR5 kit, the Ryzen 5 7600X processor isn’t meant for you. The entire lineup only supports DDR5 RAM, so you must abandon the DDR4 generation.

What Makes It The Best AMD CPU For The RX 7600?

AMD Zen 4 processors and RDNA 3.0 graphics cards can access several technologies such as Smart Access Memory, AMD’s DDR5 RAM EXPO profiles, and rage mode for instant overclocking to provide greater performance. Add all that with the Ryzen 5 7600X CPU, and you get a zero bottlenecking processor with amazing performance and a low price. As such, the Ryzen 5 7600X is truly the Best AMD CPU For The RX 7600.

These work amazingly with the Ryzen 5 7600X processor as well:

• Best CPU Coolers For The Ryzen 5 7600X
• Best Motherboards For The Ryzen 5 7600X
• Best RAM For The Ryzen 5 7600X
• Best CPU For The RTX 4060 Ti

Core i5-13400F

Best Intel CPU For RX 7600

Specifications: Socket: LGA 1700 | Cores: 6P + 4E | Threads: 16 | L2 Cache: 9.5MB | L3 Cache: 20MB | Base Clock: 2.5 GHz | Boost Clock: Up to 4.6 GHz | TDP: 65W | Unlocked: No

The Core i5-13400F is an amazing value processor for mid-range graphics cards. You can run most CPU-intensive games and get amazing creative-task performance as well. While you can’t overclock the processor, it’s a great option for a mid-range graphics card such as the RX 7600.

Performance: The Core i5-13400F has 6 P-cores and 4 E-cores. Each P-core has a base clock speed of 2.5GHz and a boost clock speed of 4.6GHz. On the other hand, each E-core has a base clock speed of 1.8GHz and a boost clock speed of 3.3GHz. Moreover, each P-core is integrated with two threads, while each E-core is integrated with a single thread. Meaning the Core i5-13400F has a total of 16 threads and 10 cores. You get great performance in CPU-intensive games with a shared L3 cache of 20MB and faster single-core speed.

Cooling: Considering the performance provided, the Core i5-13400F has a modest TDP of 65W. The CPU also comes with an Intel stock cooler, but you should utilize a better air cooler or upgrade to an AIO for heavier workloads. An air cooler like the DeepCool AK-400 White should suffice for the Core i5-13400F. I used the same cooler to achieve average temperatures of 51°C at normal workloads and a maximum of 60°C under heavier workloads. You can utilize a 120mm or 240mm AIO to reduce the temperatures even more. All-in-all, the Core i5-13400F showcases amazing thermal efficiency with its performance. If you want great budget cooler options, check out our review of the best budget CPU coolers.

Overclocking Potential: Unfortunately, only the “K” series Intel processors can be overclocked. Meaning the Core i5-13400F is not overclockable and has a locked clock speed. However, it still proves to be an amazing processor for the RX 7600 graphics card. Moreover, it showcases amazing performance at 1080P, 1440P, and 4K resolutions. On that topic, you should also check out the best graphics card for 1080p, the best graphics card for 1440p, and the best graphics card for 4K.

Power Consumption: One of the strongest points about the Core i5-13400F is its low power draw. Even as advertised, the processor has a TDP of 65W. Moreover, the Core i5-13400F never consumed above 45W during my testing. However, if you conduct a complete stress test on the CPU, it goes up to 63W. In any case, if you’re looking for a power-efficient processor with great thermal and gaming performance, the Core i5-13400F should be on your bucket list. The processor adds great value to your build and complements the RX 7600 GPU.

Comparison: In terms of performance and price, few processors can compete with the Core i5-13400F. For example, we see peculiar results comparing the Core i5-13400 Vs Ryzen 5 5600X. To explain, the Core i5-13400 costs significantly less than the Ryzen 5 5600X. Furthermore, the former provides ~7.8% more FPS. Aside from the FPS, the Core i5-13400 also consumes ~15.4% less power and is also ~9.2% cooler. With a lower price, greater performance, and more efficiency, the Core i5-13400F is truly a great processor. 

Value For Money: Considering the value of the Core i5-13400F, you get a significant amount of performance, comparable with the Ryzen 5 7600X processor, while remaining on a short budget. While you don’t get access to overclocking or an integrated GPU, the performance and thermal efficiency cover all the shortcomings. If you don’t plan on stressing your CPU out, you can even cheap out on the cooler and live with the stock cooler the company provides. All-in-all, in terms of performance per dollar ratio, the Core i5-13400F is easily the best Intel CPU for the RX 7600 graphics card.

Buy It If

You want amazing performance within a reasonable budget: For its price, the performance the Core i5-13400F provides is phenomenal. While there are other value and budget options, the Core i5-13400F may cost a bit more but also provides more performance.

You don’t want to buy a new CPU cooler: Even without buying another CPU cooler, you can get great thermals with the stock cooler that comes with the processor.

Don’t Buy It If

You want to overclock your processor: If you want to overclock your processor, you’ll want to buy something else. The Core i5-13400F is completely locked, providing zero overclocking support.

You want an integrated graphics card: While iGPUs aren’t always favored, they can be great tools for troubleshooting. If you require an iGPU, you should purchase the Core i5-13400. The only difference between both processors is the addition of an integrated graphics card.

What Makes It The Best Intel CPU For The RX 7600?

Because we’re looking at a mid-range graphics card, the best mid-range processor in Intel’s arsenal is the Core i5-13400F. The CPU provides amazing single-core performance and works great for creative tasks. You should find minimal bottlenecking with this combo and save a lot of wattage.  If you’re using a Mini-ITX case without much room for thermal improvement, the processor is the perfect addition to the rig. Therefore, all these points make the Core i5-13400F the best Intel CPU for RX 7600 graphics card.

The Core i5-13400F has also won our awards for the following:

• Best CPU For the NVIDIA RTX 4060
• Best Budget CPUs In 2023

Core i3-13100F

Best Budget CPU For AMD RX 7600

Specifications: Socket: LGA 1700 | Cores: 4P + 0E | Threads: 8 | L2 Cache: 5MB | L3 Cache: 12MB | Base Clock: 3.4 GHz | Boost Clock: 4.5 GHz | TDP: 58W | Unlocked: No

If you are on a terribly tight budget after purchasing your RX 7600 GPU and want a processor that won’t bottleneck, the Core i3-13100F is Intel’s greatest budget option. With only four performance cores, the 13100F provides enough performance to run mid-range graphics cards without causing a significant bottleneck.

Performance: Unlike other 12th and 13th gen Intel processors, the Core i3-13100F comes only with performance cores. For that reason, the processor has 4 P-cores and 0 E-cores. That takes the number of threads to 8, double the number of older i3 processors. The base clock speed stands at 3.4GHz, and the boost clock speed goes up to 4.5GHz. While the on-paper specifications aren’t remarkable, the faster IPC speeds, better single-core performance, and the 12MB of L3 cache significantly improve the processor’s efficiency. Overall, during my testing, I saw that the Core i3-13100F provided reasonable performance for its low price.

Cooling: With its performance, the Core i3-13100F proves once again that Intel’s Raptor Lake architecture provides amazing thermal efficiency. While the company advertises a base TDP of 58W, the turbo peak power package shows up to 89W. Even so, the Core i3-13100F produces almost no heat. During my game testing, the Core i3-13100F showed average temperatures of 43°C and a maximum temperature of 49°C. If you don’t want to spend extra money on a good CPU cooler, you can still get amazing thermal efficiency even with Intel’s stock cooler. While the aesthetics aren’t remarkable, it does the job while staying within a small budget.

Overclocking Potential: Like the Core i3-13400F processor, the Core i3-13100F does not support overclocking either. However, you don’t need to worry about performance loss through bottlenecking, as the processor is fast enough to run the RX 7600 GPU.

Power Consumption: While being a thermal-efficient CPU, the Core i3-13100F is also supremely power efficient. With a peak wattage of 72W for my all-core stress test and an average of 51W for my gaming benchmarks, the processor is one of the least power-hungry parts I have tested. If you don’t plan on upgrading your PC again for a few years, you can either stick with your current power supply or get a 500W PSU, and you should be fine. Both the RX 7600 GPU and the Core i3-13100F processor consume less wattage, making them a commendable power-efficient duo.

Value For Money: First up, you can achieve remarkable performance targets without spending extra money on a DDR5 RAM kit or a high-end motherboard or CPU cooler. Moreover, because of the power efficiency of the CPU, you can keep using your old PSU, or if you’re building a computer from scratch, utilize a 500W PSU. In conclusion, if you’re on a tight budget and need a processor that can utilize maximum performance, the Core i3-13100F is the best budget Intel CPU for the RX 7600 GPU.

Also, check Best Budget PC Cases if you are looking for value-oriented PC cases.

Buy It If

You are on a limited budget: Being an entry-level gaming processor, the Core i3-13100F provides amazing performance for its price. Pairing the CPU with the RX 7600 GPU can help build a great-budget PC.

You don’t want to upgrade CPU coolers: Even without upgrading your CPU cooler, you can get amazing thermal performance with Intel’s stock cooler.

Don’t Buy It If

You want to overclock your CPU: If you plan on overclocking your CPU, it’s best to look at Intel’s “K” series processors or AMD processors. The “F” series processors are fully locked.

You require integrated graphics: If you’re picky about having an iGPU for troubleshooting purposes, the Core i3-13100F won’t cut it. The processor does not provide an iGPU, and you’ll have to look elsewhere.

What Makes It The Best Budget CPU For AMD RX 7600?

The performance per dollar ratio, power efficiency, and thermal efficiency are the strongest points that make the Core i3-13100F the best-budget CPU for the AMD RX 7600. During testing, I did not find any major bottlenecking issues either.

Core i5-13600K

Best High-End CPU For AMD RX 7600

Specifications: Socket: LGA 1700 | Cores: 6P + 8E | Threads: 20 | L2 Cache: 20MB | L3 Cache: 24MB | Base Clock: 3.5 GHz | Boost Clock: 5.1 GHz | TDP: 125W | Unlocked: Yes

Although it falls under the “mid-range” category, the Core i5-13600K is one of the market’s fastest and best gaming CPUs. If you plan on squeezing every last drop of performance from your RX 7600 GPU, the Core i5-13600K will be extremely helpful.

Performance: The on-paper specifications include the Core i5-13600K with 6 P-cores and 8 E-cores. That means the processor has a total of 20 threads. Each performance core has a base clock speed of 3.5GHz and a boost clock speed of 5.1GHz. In contrast, each efficiency core has a base clock speed of 2.6GHz and a boost clock speed of 3.9GHz. Add on the 20MB of L2 cache and 24MB of L3 cache, and we get a processor that can run almost any CPU-intensive game without problems. Moreover, the Core i5-13600K processor shows amazing single-core and multi-threaded performance, making it an ideal processor for gaming and productivity tasks.

Cooling: Despite the Core i5-13600K’s advertised 125W TDP, keeping the temperatures at a considerable level is challenging. While I was benchmarking the processor, I peaked at 70°C at Cinebench R23 while utilizing a 360mm AIO cooler. Therefore, considering the thermal performance of the Core i5-13600K, you’ll need a lot of cooling. If you try to overclock the processor, you should have decent airflow within the case and utilize a strong AIO cooler. Otherwise, you might thermal throttle your CPU, which may cause a performance decrease.

Overclocking Potential: In case you can provide adequate cooling for the processor, the Core i5-13600K has immense overclocking potential. Taking the core voltage to 1.330V, I managed to stabilize the boost clock speeds of the P-cores to 5.6GHz and E-cores to 4.4GHz. Although, the wattage consumption also increased to a peak of 195W. Of course, during the overclocking benchmark, the temperatures also hit an overwhelming 76°C. Therefore, if you can utilize the best water cooling kits, you may be able to reduce the temperatures of the CPU. However, even without overclocking, you shouldn’t find any bottlenecks with the RX 7600 GPU.

Power Consumption: As stated above, the Core i5-13600K isn’t the most power-efficient processor. Although, if you don’t overclock the CPU, the wattage consumption is reasonable. With an average of 104W power consumption, the Core i5-13600K is fairly power efficient and sits within the advertised TDP. Going with a higher-wattage power supply is the best option if you’re trying to future-proof your PC. As such, you may require a slightly higher wattage power supply with the 13600K, ranging from 600W to 750W.

Comparison: To truly test the Core i5-13600K processor, it’s best to compare it with the top last-gen processor. As such, the Core i5-13600K Vs Core i9-12900K comparison shows the power of the new-gen processor. Even though it’s a mid-range CPU, the Core i5-13600K is ~1.5% faster than the Core i9-12900K in gaming at 1080P resolution.

Value For Money: For the price, the Core i5-13600K is one of the best processors you can get. Although it’s slightly on the expensive side, the performance uplift makes the price worthful. Moreover, consumers have the ability to overclock the CPU for further performance uplift. Not to forget that the latest-gen Intel processors can work with last-gen motherboards, allowing consumers to upgrade easily. In conclusion, if you’re looking for the best high-end CPU to pair with the RX 7600 GPU, the Core i5-13600K fits the bill.

Buy It If

You want superior gaming performance: If you want to game at higher resolutions with a greater refresh rate, the Core i5-13600K can help achieve your target. With its single-core performance, you can hit higher FPS in CPU-intensive games.

You want to overclock your CPU: While overclocking can sometimes be dangerous, the Core i5-13600K is a stable processor if you want the most effective overclocks. I went from 5.1GHz to a stable 5.6GHz by slightly bumping up the core voltage.

Productivity tasks hold greater importance: Out of all the other processors in today’s list, the Core i5-13600K has the most cores and threads. Thus, making it an amazing processor for productivity tasks.

Don’t Buy It If

You’re on a small budget: The Core i5-13600K isn’t affordable for everyone. Many other budget options besides the 13600K from Intel and AMD also provide amazing performance.

What Makes It The Best High-End CPU For AMD RX 7600?

Along with remarkable single-core and multi-threaded performance, the Core i5-13600K is on par with Intel’s best processor from the previous generation. While falling under the same price range as the AMD graphics card, the Core i5-13600K is the best high-end CPU for the RX 7600.

The following products further increase the value of the Core i5-13600K when paired together:

• Best CPU Coolers For Core i5-13600K
• Best Motherboards For Core i5-13600K
• Best Graphics Card For Core i5-13600K
• Best RAM For Core i5-13600K

Ryzen 5 5600G

Best Value CPU For AMD RX 7600

Specifications: Socket: AM4 | Cores: 6 | Threads: 12 | L2 Cache: 3MB | L3 Cache: 16MB | Base Clock: 3.9 GHz | Boost Clock: 4.4 GHz | TDP: 65W | Unlocked: Yes

AMD’s AM4 platform is rich with amazing value processors. One such offering is the Ryzen 5 5600G. With a low price, the processor offers integrated Vega graphics and also supports overclocking.

Performance: Discussing the on-paper specifications, the Ryzen 5 5600G houses 6 cores and 12 threads. Each core has a base clock speed of 3.9GHz and a boost clock speed of 4.4GHz. Additionally, the processor has 16MB of L2 cache and 20MB of L3 cache, which improve gaming performance. The AMD EXPO and rage mode also help increase performance significantly. Because of the high-quality single CCX design, the processor has better single-core and multi-threaded performance. During my testing, I noticed no bottleneck in the numerous games I played. While the Ryzen 5 5600G doesn’t have as much L3 cache as its X3D variant, it offers Vega graphics that can even play light games at higher FPS.

Cooling: The Ryzen 5 5600G isn’t a power-hungry CPU with an advertised TDP of 65W. AMD provides a decent wraith stock cooler, enough to cool the processor if you don’t plan on overclocking. A budget CPU cooler with a heat output of at least 120W may be necessary if you plan to overclock. While I was testing the processor in multiple games, the temperatures never went over 50°C. However, they did peak at 57°C with the Cinebench R23 all-core test. Therefore, you don’t have to worry about thermal throttling with the Ryzen 5 5600G, as it is an incredibly efficient CPU.

Overclocking Potential: Almost all Ryzen processors are unlocked and can be manually overclocked. The same goes for the Ryzen 5 5600G processor. Keeping the core voltage at 1.35V, I achieved a slight, stable overclock of a constant 4.6GHz boost clock. Moreover, the temperature increase wasn’t significant enough to warrant an expensive CPU cooler. For that reason, the Ryzen 5 5600G has a good overclocking potential which neither consumes too much wattage nor increases the temperatures uncontrollably. The slight performance growth increases the value of the processor, making it truly worthy of being the best-value CPU for RX 7600.

Power Consumption: Considering it is a value processor, it wouldn’t be surprising if the Ryzen 5 5600G processor consumed less power. Even so, during my stress test, the CPU peaked at only 66W power. On the other hand, while I was gaming, the max peak wattage consumption was 54W, a reasonable 11W below the advertised TDP. Even while overclocking, the CPU’s power consumption never went above 75W. Therefore, you can easily run your PC with a 500W or 550W power supply. Unless you want to future-proof your build, buying a new power supply might be irrelevant for the Ryzen 5 5600G and RX 7600 GPU.

Comparison: To compare the performance of the 5600G, the Ryzen 5 5600X is slightly expensive but matches a similar price point. To showcase the differences between the Ryzen 5 5600G Vs Ryzen 5 5600X, the performance per dollar ratio was my main concern. Through testing both processors in multiple games, we realized there wasn’t a huge difference in the performance. Gauging the performance per dollar ratio, the Ryzen 5 5600G is only slightly slower in performance but is overall the better processor due to the Vega iGPU. Also, considering the power efficiency, the 5600G is ~30% more power efficient and has ~21% lower temperatures than the 5600X.

Value For Money: The Ryzen 5 5600G is one of the best value-for-money processors in the market, not only because of its performance but also because of the platform it utilizes. Take into account its thermal efficiency and power efficiency, and the processor basically requires nothing to run. You can easily utilize every ounce of performance of the Ryzen 5 5600G by using a B550 motherboard. Moreover, the CPU runs fine even with DDR4 RAM and 500W power. Along with great performance and overclocking capabilities, the Ryzen 5 5600G is truly the best value processor for the RX 7600 GPU.

Buy It If

You’re on a low budget: If you almost overdid it with the RX 7600 GPU, you can get an amazing combination with the Ryzen 5 5600G processor. It can be helpful for gaming and productive tasks.

You require the Vega graphics: The Vega iGPU can save users from many problems when they troubleshoot their PC. You can also play multiple games while using the iGPU itself.

Don’t Buy It If

You want DDR5 RAM: The AMD 5000 series processors aren’t compatible with DDR5 RAM, so you won’t be able to utilize the latest RAM technology.

What Makes It The Best Value CPU For AMD RX 7600?

Along with the performance per dollar ratio, the Ryzen 5 5600G allows users to overclock their processor while staying thermally efficient. Moreover, the CPU does not consume excessive power and has a strong iGPU which can run multiple games. All-in-all, for its price, the Ryzen 5 5600G is the best value CPU for RX 7600.

Gaming Benchmarks of The Best CPUs For RX 7600

Our hardware experts conducted a series of tests to assess the gaming performance of the Best CPUs For RX 7600. Here are the results:

Gaming Benchmarks of the Best CPU for RT 7600

1 of 5

Important CPU Key Terms

1. Cores: A CPU core is an independent processing unit within a CPU that can separately execute instructions. Modern-day CPUs have multiple cores for faster instructions.
2. Threads: Threads are the smallest units of a program that can be executed separately by a processor.
3. Cache: A CPU has three types of cache, L1, L2, and L3 cache. These are small amounts of fast-speed memory that save the location of directories that are opened repeatedly.
4. Clock Speed: The clock speed of a CPU refers to the number of data cycles it can complete in one second. Unlike popular opinion, faster clock speeds don’t generally mean better performance.
5. TDP: Also known as Thermal Design Power, TDP is the heat a processor emits. The term is used interchangeably with wattage consumption, but there’s a minor difference between both.
6. IPC: Short for Instructions Per Clock, the IPC showcases the number of instructions executed by a CPU in one second. Faster IPC means better productivity and gaming performance.
7. Overclocking: Overclocking is when you increase the clock speed of your CPU, GPU or RAM beyond the manufacturer’s certified speed. It is done by increasing the core voltage of the part you’re overclocking.

How We Picked The Best CPU For The RX 7600

There are various things you must consider before purchasing a processor. For example, the gaming performance, thermal and power efficiency, overclocking support, and value for money are important considerations. It can be tough to choose the best CPU, but here’s how I did it:

Performance

When choosing the best CPU for the RX 7600 GPU, the performance I received was my main concern. You can easily bottleneck the CPU and the GPU. Therefore, knowing which processor is best suited for a graphics card can only be possible through research.

For the most part, I opted for processors with more cores, threads, and faster clock speeds. Improved IPC speeds are a bonus. Of course, I had to remember that my processor should only be strong enough to run the GPU properly and not overshadow it.

Overclocking Support

Being able to overclock your processor is a bonus point to gain a little extra bit of performance. Therefore, while it doesn’t hold top priority, I looked for processors that can be overclocked.

Most processors I chose have good overclocking support, and AMD CPUs generally utilize “rage mode”, through which you can overclock your AMD CPU and GPU with one click.

Value For Money

Before making a purchase, you always want to check the processor’s performance per dollar ratio. You also want to check whether the CPU you wish to purchase is significantly stronger than your current CPU.

Even for the most affordable processor I selected, I ensured it provided more value than its price. That value can be in terms of performance, compatibility, or features.

Efficiency

A CPU’s power and thermal efficiency are extremely important after gaming performance. You don’t want to buy a CPU that requires a lot of power but provides less performance. Subsequently, you also don’t want to buy a processor that emits a lot of heat.

To explain, if you purchase a budget CPU but to cool it you need a more expensive CPU cooler, it’d be better to purchase a better CPU from the start. Therefore, all the processors I selected are extremely efficient regarding heat output and wattage consumption.

Why Trust Tech4Gamers?

Tech4Gamers has co-existed in the technology space for over 12 years, providing its readers with informative and unique content. With a professionally trained team of experts, we strive to deliver quality content without bias.

Moreover, Tech4Gamers is trusted by many brands, such as DeepCool, ASUS, EVGA, MSI, Corsair, Be Quiet, and more. Therefore, to keep the trust of such reputed brands, we take extreme measures while comparing and reviewing certain products to ensure the highest level of accuracy possible.

Awais Khan

[Hardware Reviewer]

Awais Khan is a Tech Geek, conscientious, reliable, and hardworking individual who pays attention to detail with excellent time management skills. Alongside that, he is an expert in PC Hardware; dealing with Benchmarks, Analysis, and testing before sharing information with readers. Whenever free, Awais occasionally shares Gaming Videos on his YouTube Channel.

Get In Touch: awais@tech4gamers.com

5 Best CPU For RX 7600 [Budget, Performance, Overclocking] is a post from Tech4Gamers - All About Technology And Gaming News

Here’s a quick look at our selected CPUs for RTX 4060 and a brief comparison of their specs:

CPU

AMD Ryzen 5 7600

Intel Core i5 13400F

Intel Core i3 13100F

Intel Core i5 13600K

AMD Ryzen 5 5600G

Looks

Award

Best AMD CPU for RTX 4060

Best Intel CPU for RTX 4060

Best Budget CPU for RTX 4060

Best High-End CPU for RTX 4060

Best Value CPU for RTX 4060

What We Liked

Excellent single-threaded performance, Unlocked multiplier, Has integrated graphics, Very efficient

Great gaming performance, Relatively affordable, Low power draw, Support for DDR4 and DDR5 memory

Low power draw, Very affordable, Decent box cooler

Exceptional gaming performance, High overclocking headroom, Superb multi-threaded performance

Excellent value for money, Low power draw, Integrated Vega graphics

What We Disliked

No DDR4 support, Weak box cooler

No overclocking support, No integrated graphics

Locked multiplier, No integrated graphics

Expensive, High power draw

No DDR5 support, No PCIe 4.0 support

Socket

AMD AM5

FCLGA1700

FCLGA1700

FCLGA1700

AMD AM4

Cores

6

10 (6P + 4E)

4 (4P + 0E)

14 (6P + 8E)

6

Threads

12

16

8

20

12

Base Clock

3.8 GHz

1.8 GHz

3.4 GHz

2.6 GHz

3.9 GHz

Boost Clock

Up to 5.1 GHz

Up to 4.6 GHz

Up to 4.5 GHz

Up to 5.1 GHz

Up to 4.4 GHz

TDP

65W

65W

58W

125W

65W

Unlocked

Amazon

Buy on Amazon

Buy on Amazon

Buy on Amazon

Buy on Amazon

Buy on Amazon

CPU

AMD Ryzen 5 7600

Looks

Award

Best AMD CPU for RTX 4060

What We Liked

Excellent single-threaded performance, Unlocked multiplier, Has integrated graphics, Very efficient

What We Disliked

No DDR4 support, Weak box cooler

Socket

AMD AM5

Cores

6

Threads

12

Base Clock

3.8 GHz

Boost Clock

Up to 5.1 GHz

TDP

65W

Unlocked

Amazon

Buy on Amazon

CPU

Intel Core i5 13400F

Looks

Award

Best Intel CPU for RTX 4060

What We Liked

Great gaming performance, Relatively affordable, Low power draw, Support for DDR4 and DDR5 memory

What We Disliked

No overclocking support, No integrated graphics

Socket

FCLGA1700

Cores

10 (6P + 4E)

Threads

16

Base Clock

1.8 GHz

Boost Clock

Up to 4.6 GHz

TDP

65W

Unlocked

Amazon

Buy on Amazon

CPU

Intel Core i3 13100F

Looks

Award

Best Budget CPU for RTX 4060

What We Liked

Low power draw, Very affordable, Decent box cooler

What We Disliked

Locked multiplier, No integrated graphics

Socket

FCLGA1700

Cores

4 (4P + 0E)

Threads

8

Base Clock

3.4 GHz

Boost Clock

Up to 4.5 GHz

TDP

58W

Unlocked

Amazon

Buy on Amazon

CPU

Intel Core i5 13600K

Looks

Award

Best High-End CPU for RTX 4060

What We Liked

Exceptional gaming performance, High overclocking headroom, Superb multi-threaded performance

What We Disliked

Expensive, High power draw

Socket

FCLGA1700

Cores

14 (6P + 8E)

Threads

20

Base Clock

2.6 GHz

Boost Clock

Up to 5.1 GHz

TDP

125W

Unlocked

Amazon

Buy on Amazon

CPU

AMD Ryzen 5 5600G

Looks

Award

Best Value CPU for RTX 4060

What We Liked

Excellent value for money, Low power draw, Integrated Vega graphics

What We Disliked

No DDR5 support, No PCIe 4.0 support

Socket

AMD AM4

Cores

6

Threads

12

Base Clock

3.9 GHz

Boost Clock

Up to 4.4 GHz

TDP

65W

Unlocked

Amazon

Buy on Amazon

Last update on 2023-12-13

If you have a higher budget, you can check out the best CPU for RTX 4060 Ti as well.

Best CPU For RTX 4060

Here is a selection of the best CPUs for RTX 4060 that you can buy right now:

1. AMD Ryzen 5 7600
2. Intel Core i5 13400F
3. Intel Core i3 13100F
4. Intel Core i5 13600K
5. AMD Ryzen 5 5600G

AMD Ryzen 5 7600

Best AMD CPU for RTX 4060

Socket: AMD AM5 | Cores: 6 | Threads: 12 | L2 Cache: 6MB | Base Clock: 3.8 GHz | Boost Clock: Up to 5.1 GHz | TDP: 65W | Unlocked: Yes

The AMD AM5 platform brought along some fantastic gaming CPUs based on the new Zen 4 architecture, and the gaming-focused Ryzen 5 7600 looks particularly enticing in the mid-range. A Zen 4 CPU was also selected in our roundup of the best CPUs for RTX 4090.

Performance: AMD has equipped the Ryzen 5 7600 with 6 cores and 12 threads, which is the standard for Ryzen 5 CPUs for a few generations now. This is not necessarily a bad thing, as the 6 cores can clock as high as 5.1 GHz in lightly-threaded applications like gaming. With the tremendous IPC (instructions per clock) improvements brought forth by the Zen 4 architecture, the Ryzen 5 7600 has excellent gaming performance and makes a perfect pairing for the RTX 4060.

Cooling: The AMD Ryzen 5 7600 is not the most unreasonable gaming CPU in terms of temperature, and that is evident by its 65W base TDP. In fact, you can certainly use the included Wraith Stealth cooler if you’re strapped for cash, but that may yield some uncomfortable thermal numbers. In my testing with the Noctua NH-U14S, the Ryzen 5 7600 peaked at around 70C at stock settings while under an all-core load. While it is not strictly necessary, I do recommend a decent tower cooler or a 240mm AiO liquid cooler for the Ryzen 5 7600 if you have room for upgrades.

Overclocking Potential: In keeping with the beloved AMD tradition, the Ryzen 5 7600 also has an unlocked multiplier. You can manually overclock this processor quite easily, but I do recommend you choose an aftermarket cooler if you are planning to do so. The overclocking headroom was also quite healthy on my particular sample, as I managed to hit an all-core overclock of 5.3GHz at a voltage of 1.35V. Be advised, however, that your mileage will certainly vary depending on the silicon quality and cooling solution that you provide.

Power Consumption: AMD’s Ryzen 5 CPUs are quite popular for their efficiency, and the Ryzen 5 7600 is no different. This CPU is actually quite tame in this department, as my sample hit a peak of 76W during a multi-core stress test. In gaming, the average power consumption was hovering right around 45W, which is very comfortable for a gaming CPU in this category. You should definitely keep an eye out for power consumption if you are overclocking, however, as the CPU crossed 105W on my all-core overclock under a multi-threaded stress test. This is in keeping with the expected behavior from this CPU.

Comparison: The Ryzen 5 7600 holds a firm command in the mid-range consumer desktop segment, as is obvious from our Ryzen 5 7600 vs. Core i5 13400 comparison. The AMD CPU holds a substantial 13.2% lead over the Intel counterpart in gaming scenarios, while the difference in MSRP is almost negligible. This places the Ryzen 5 7600 in a very favorable position when it comes to value for money, especially considering the fact that the Ryzen CPU can also be overclocked.

Value For Money: On the subject of value, the Ryzen 5 7600 delivers an excellent price-to-performance ratio in its category. It is an ideal purchase for value-hunters and PC gamers who want to maximize their bang for the buck. While DDR5 memory might be relatively pricey at the time of writing, the Ryzen 5 7600 can also be paired with affordable B650 motherboards without losing the ability to overclock. The Ryzen 7000 series processors also now come with integrated graphics, which is a change from the previous Ryzen generations.

Buy It If:

You want the ideal AMD CPU for RTX 4060: When you consider the whole package, the Ryzen 5 7600 is the best overall AMD CPU that you can pair with the RTX 4060.

Don’t Buy It If:

You want to use DDR4 memory: The AMD AM5 platform only supports DDR5 memory exclusively.

What Makes It The Best AMD CPU For RTX 4060?

With its superb gaming performance, efficient architecture, and excellent value, the AMD Ryzen 5 7600 is the best AMD CPU for RTX 4060.

These work great with the Ryzen 5 7600 as well:

• Best CPU Cooler for Ryzen 5 7600X
• Best Motherboard for Ryzen 5 7600X
• Best RAM for Ryzen 5 7600X

Intel Core i5 13400F

Best Intel CPU for RTX 4060

Socket: FCLGA1700 | Cores: 10 (6P + 4E) | Threads: 16 | L2 Cache: 9.5MB | Base Clock: 1.8 GHz | Boost Clock: Up to 4.6 GHz | TDP: 65W | Unlocked: No