Are you in the market for a new CPU and also own an RTX 3070? If so, you might be wondering if it’s worth investing in one that has a dedicated graphics card. After all, with games like Fortnite and Apex Legends becoming more popular than ever, you’ll want to make sure your rig can handle the latest and greatest titles.
In this blog post, we will recommend three CPUs that are perfect for use with your RTX 3070. We’ll also provide some information on how well each CPU performs with graphics-intensive tasks. So, if you’re looking to get the most out of your RTX 3070, be sure to read on!
At a Glance:
7. AMD Ryzen 5 5600X 6-core
- Fantastic single-threaded performance
- Decent multi-threaded performance
- Very good value
- Works well with a variety of motherboards
5. AMD Ryzen 9 5900X 12-core
- Outstanding single-core and multi-core performance
- Excellent gaming performance
- Very low power consumption
- Best Value for Money
3. Intel Core i7-12700K Desktop Processor
- Very high single and multi-core performance
- Fantastic gaming performance
- Unlocked multiplier for easy overclocking
- Low power consumption
- Best CPUs for RTX 3070 in 2022
- 1. Intel Core i5-12600K Desktop Processor
- 2. Intel Core i9-12900K Desktop Processor
- 3. Intel Core i7-12700K Desktop Processor
- 4. Intel Core i5-10400F Desktop Processor
- 5. AMD Ryzen 9 5900X 12-core
- 6. AMD Ryzen 7 5800X 8-core
- 7. AMD Ryzen 5 5600X 6-core
- 8. AMD Ryzen 9 3900X 12-core
- Buying Guide
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Thoughts
Best CPUs for RTX 3070 in 2022
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1. Intel Core i5-12600K Desktop Processor
The Intel Core i5-12600K Desktop Processor is a powerful 10-core processor with a base clock speed of 3.8 GHz and a maximum turbo frequency of 4.9 GHz. It is compatible with the LGA1700 socket and has a 125W TDP. This processor is based on the Comet Lake microarchitecture and is manufactured on a 14nm process.
This Desktop Processor offers excellent performance for gaming and other demanding workloads. It has a high base clock speed and a maximum turbo frequency of 4.9 GHz. The processor also supports overclocking, which allows users to extract even more performance from the chip.
The Intel Core i5-12600K Desktop Processor is a great choice for gamers and power users who are looking for a powerful and unlocked 10-core processor. It offers excellent performance and is compatible with a wide range of motherboards.
This Processor is one of the best processors on the market because it has 10 (6P+4E) cores, a clock speed of up to 4.9 GHz, and an unlocked multiplier. It also has a 125W TDP, which means that it will generate less heat and use less power than other processors.
The Intel Core i5-12600K Desktop Processor also has a 600 series chipset, which is one of the most advanced chipsets on the market. This processor is also compatible with motherboards that have an LGA1700 socket.
Pros
- Unlocked multiplier for overclocking
- Very high base and boost clock speeds
- Good single and multi-threaded performance
- 10 cores/20 threads should future proof the processor
Cons
- 600 series chipset required for support
2. Intel Core i9-12900K Desktop Processor
The Intel Core i9-12900K Desktop Processor is a powerful 16-core processor that can handle demanding tasks easily. It has a maximum clock speed of 5.2 GHz and is compatible with the 600 Series Chipset. This processor has an unlocked multiplier, making it easy to overclock. It also comes with a 125W TDP, making it suitable for high-end gaming rigs.
The Intel Core i9-12900K Desktop Processor is a powerful 16-core processor that can reach speeds of up to 5.2 GHz. It is unlocked for easy overclocking and has a 125W thermal design power. This processor is compatible with the LGA1700 socket and 600 series chipsets.
The Intel Core i9-12900K Desktop Processor is one of the best processors on the market due to its 16 cores, 8 threads, up to 5.2 GHz clock speed, and 125W TDP. Additionally, this processor is unlocked, meaning that it can be overclocked to reach even higher speeds if desired.
Furthermore, it is compatible with the 600 series chipset, making it a great option for gamers and other power users. Finally, its high price tag reflects its quality and performance, making it a great option for those who are looking for the best possible processor for their needs.
The Intel Core i9-12900K Desktop Processor is a powerful processor that offers 16 (8P+8E) cores and up to 5.2 GHz of unlocked CPU power. It is also compatible with the 600 Series Chipset, which makes it a great choice for those who need a high-performing processor for their desktop computer. Additionally, the 125W TDP makes this processor a great option for those who need a high-powered processor that doesn’t require a lot of power to run.
Pros
- Incredible 16 (8P+8E) Cores processing power
- Unlocked for overclocking
- Compatible with 600 Series Chipset
- 125W TDP for high performance
Cons
- It May require a new motherboard to utilize all features
3. Intel Core i7-12700K Desktop Processor
Budget PickThe Intel Core i7-12700K Desktop Processor is a powerful 12-core processor that can handle even the most demanding tasks. It has a base clock speed of 3.8 GHz and can boost up to 5.0 GHz, making it one of the fastest processors on the market. The processor is also unlocked, so you can overclock it to get even more performance out of it. It comes with a 125W TDP and is compatible with the 600 Series Chipset.
The Intel Core i7-12700K Desktop Processor is a powerful CPU that can handle even the most demanding tasks. It has 12 cores and 8 threads, making it capable of handling heavy workloads. The base clock speed is 3.6 GHz, but it can be boosted up to 5.0 GHz when needed.
It also has a whopping 125W TDP, so it will need a beefy power supply to run at its full potential. The Core i7-12700K is compatible with the latest LGA1700 socket and 600 series chipset. It comes with a CPU cooler, but you may want to upgrade to a better one if you plan on overclocking this processor. The Intel Core i7-12700K Desktop Processor is one of the best processors on the market because it offers 12 (8P+4E) cores with a clock speed of up to 5.0 GHz.
It also has a 125W TDP, meaning that it will dissipate less heat and use less power than other processors. Finally, the Intel Core i7-12700K is compatible with the 600 Series Chipset, making it a great choice for a high-end gaming or workstation PC.
The Intel Core i7-12700K Desktop Processor is a great choice for anyone looking for a powerful processor. It has 12 (8P+4E) cores and can reach speeds of up to 5.0 GHz, making it one of the fastest processors on the market. Additionally, it is unlocked, meaning that it can be overclocked to reach even higher speeds. Finally, it has a 125W power rating, meaning that it will not consume too much power and will be able to run on most standard desktop computers.
Pros
- Very high single and multi-core performance
- Fantastic gaming performance
- Unlocked multiplier for easy overclocking
- Low power consumption
Cons
- No integrated graphics
4. Intel Core i5-10400F Desktop Processor
The Intel Core i5-10400F is a high-performance desktop processor with 6 cores and a maximum clock speed of 4.3 GHz. It is based on the Intel 400 series chipset and has a TDP of 65W. This processor does not have integrated graphics, so a separate graphics card will be required. The Core i5-10400F is compatible with the LGA1200 socket and supports DDR4-2666 memory.
The Core i5-10400F offers excellent performance for general-purpose computing, gaming, and video editing. It has a base clock speed of 2.9 GHz and can turbo boost up to 4.3 GHz when needed. The processor also has a large cache of 12 MB which helps to improve performance.
The Core i5-10400F has a TDP of 65W, which is average for a desktop processor. It is important to note that this processor does not have integrated graphics, so a separate graphics card will be required. The Intel Core i5-10400F is priced at around $200, which is very reasonable for a high-performance desktop processor.
The Intel Core i5-10400F is an excellent choice for a high-performance desktop processor. It offers great performance for general-purpose computing, gaming, and video editing. The 65W TDP is average for a desktop processor, and the price is very reasonable. However, keep in mind that this processor does not have integrated graphics, so a separate graphics card will be required.
The Intel Core i5-10400F is a great option for those who are looking for a powerful but affordable desktop processor. It has 6 cores and can reach speeds of up to 4.3 GHz, making it a great choice for demanding tasks such as gaming or video editing. Additionally, the lack of integrated graphics means that you’ll need to add a dedicated graphics card to your system, which can add to the overall cost.
Pros
- Inexpensive
- 6 physical cores
- Good single and multi-threaded performance
- Great Performance
Cons
- No integrated graphics
5. AMD Ryzen 9 5900X 12-core
Staff PickThe Ryzen 9 5900X is AMD’s top-of-the-line, 12-core, 24-thread unlocked desktop processor. It offers incredible performance for gaming, productivity, and content creation. The Ryzen 9 5900X is based on AMD’s Zen 3 architecture and is fabricated on a TSMC 7nm process. It has a base clock of 3.7 GHz and a boost clock of 4.8 GHz.
It features 128 MB of L3 cache and a TDP of 105W. The Ryzen 9 5900X is compatible with AMD’s AM4 socket and will work with existing AM4 motherboards. The Ryzen 9 5900X is an excellent choice for a high-end gaming PC or a workstation. It offers superb single-core and multi-core performance.
The high clock speeds and large cache make it ideal for gaming and productivity tasks. The low TDP makes it power efficient, and the AM4 compatibility means that you can upgrade to the Ryzen 9 5900X without having to replace your motherboard.
If you’re looking for the best possible gaming and productivity experience, the Ryzen 9 5900X is the processor for you. It offers unmatched performance and is the perfect choice for a high-end gaming PC or workstation.
The AMD Ryzen 9 5900X is a powerful 12-core, 24-thread unlocked desktop processor. It is built with Zen 3 architecture and offers excellent single-threaded and multi-threaded performance. The Ryzen 9 5900X also comes with a generous 105W TDP and includes a Wraith Prism cooler with RGB LED lighting.
Pros
- Outstanding single-core and multi-core performance
- Excellent gaming performance
- Very low power consumption
- Best Value for Money
Cons
- None that we can think of!
6. AMD Ryzen 7 5800X 8-core
The AMD Ryzen 7 5800X is an 8-core, 16-thread unlocked desktop processor. It features a base clock of 3.8 GHz and a maximum boost clock of 4.7 GHz. The processor also comes with 32 MB of L3 cache. It is compatible with the AM4 socket and requires a 65 W TDP.
The AMD Ryzen 7 5800X is a great option for those looking for a powerful desktop processor. It has a high base clock and a very high maximum boost clock. The processor also comes with a large L3 cache. It is compatible with the AM4 socket and requires only a 65 W TDP.
This is an excellent choice for gamers and power users alike. It has great performance and comes with a large L3 cache. It is compatible with the AM4 socket and requires only a 65 W TDP. If you are looking for a powerful and versatile desktop processor, the AMD Ryzen 7 5800X is a great option.
The AMD Ryzen 7 5800X is a powerful 8-core, 16-thread unlocked desktop processor. It features a boost clock of up to 4.7 GHz and comes with a Wraith Prism cooler with RGB LED lighting. The 5800X also supports DDR4-3200+ memory and PCIe 4.0 for outstanding gaming and productivity performance.
With a TDP of only 105W, it’s one of the most power-efficient CPUs in its class. So if you’re looking for a high-performance processor that won’t break the bank, the AMD Ryzen 7 5800X is a great option.
Pros
- Best in class single-threaded performance
- Very high gaming performance
- Good value
- Great Product
Cons
- Not as good multi-threaded performance as some of the competition
7. AMD Ryzen 5 5600X 6-core
Best PickThe AMD Ryzen 5 5600X is a 6-core, 12-thread unlocked desktop processor with a Wraith Stealth cooler. This processor features the latest Zen 3 architecture and delivers incredible performance. The 5600X also offers amazing gaming and multitasking capabilities.
With a base clock of 3.7 GHz and a boost clock of 4.6 GHz, this processor can handle the most demanding tasks. It also comes with a 65W TDP and 32MB of L3 cache. The 5600X is compatible with AM4 socket motherboards and uses DDR4-3200 memory.
The AMD Ryzen 5 5600X is the best 6-core, 12-thread unlocked desktop processor with Wraith Stealth Cooler. It has excellent single-threaded performance and great multi-threaded performance thanks to its 6 cores and 12 threads. It also comes with a Wraith Stealth cooler which keeps it cool and quiet.
The AMD Ryzen 5 5600X is a great choice for a budget-friendly, mid-range CPU. It offers excellent performance for the price and comes with a Wraith Stealth cooler included. It’s unlocked for easy overclocking and comes with 6 cores and 12 threads. It’s a great choice for gaming, productivity, and general use.
The Ryzen 5 5600X is a powerful and efficient 6-core, 12-thread unlocked desktop processor with a Wraith Stealth cooler. It is ideal for gaming, streaming, and productivity. The 5600X has a base clock of 3.7 GHz and a boost clock of 4.6 GHz. It also features 32 MB of total cache and a TDP of 65 W.
Pros
- Fantastic single-threaded performance
- Decent multi-threaded performance
- Very good value
- Works well with a variety of motherboards
Cons
- Not as fast as the Intel Core i7 10700K in games
8. AMD Ryzen 9 3900X 12-core
The AMD Ryzen 9 3900X is a 12-core, 24-thread unlocked desktop processor with Wraith Prism LED Cooler. It features a base clock of 3.8 GHz and a boost clock of 4.6 GHz. The 3900X supports DDR4-3200+ memory and comes with a 65 W TDP.
It is compatible with the AMD 300 and 400 series chipsets. The Ryzen 9 3900X is a great choice for gaming, video editing, and other demanding tasks. AMD Ryzen 9 3900X 12-core, 24-thread unlocked desktop processor with Wraith Prism LED Cooler
The AMD Ryzen 9 3900X is a great choice for gaming, video editing, and other demanding tasks. It features a high base clock and boost clock speed, as well as support for DDR4-3200+ memory. The processor also has a low 65 W TDP, making it energy efficient. Lastly, the 3900X is compatible with the AMD 300 and 400 series chipsets.
The Ryzen 9 3900X is a 12-core, 24-thread unlocked desktop processor with Wraith Prism LED Cooler. It has a base clock of 3.8 GHz and a boost clock of 4.6 GHz. The Ryzen 9 3900X is the best choice for gamers and creators who want the most powerful processor. It has the fastest single-thread speed and the most powerful multi-threading capabilities of any Ryzen processor. The Wraith Prism LED Cooler keeps your system cool and quiet while gaming or working.
It is a powerful option for anyone looking for a fast and reliable CPU. It comes with a Wraith Prism LED cooler, which helps keep the temperature down and provides excellent cooling performance. Additionally, the AMD Ryzen 9 3900X is compatible with a wide range of motherboards and supports a variety of different overclocking options, making it a great choice for gamers and power users alike.
Pros
- Incredible processing power for gaming, streaming, and content creation
- Unlocked for overclocking
- Cooler included
- Reasonably priced
Cons
- It May require a powerful cooling solution for overclocking
Buying Guide
Overclocking:
When you overclock your processor, you force it to operate at a higher frequency than its default frequency (the one the manufacturer designed it to run at). A correctly overclocked system will perform better. However, such settings always involve risk and it is possible for the system to stop working correctly.
Bottleneck:
Bottlenecks in systems are restricted components, particularly those that cost more to upgrade. A GPU like RTX 3080 or 3070 will be the bottleneck if you buy a CPU like a CPU. It also means you should wait until Nvidia releases a new model that takes advantage of high-performance CPUs before investing in a high-end processor.
Cooling:
In addition to creating a lot of heat, overclocking high-end processors can reduce their lifespans. Overclocking requires an adequate cooling solution, so you should also consider purchasing an AIO water cooled kit. Moreover, this also applies to ALL components (including GPUs), since, as compared to previous generations, they generate huge amounts of heat.
Hyper-threading:
It is important to keep in mind that many games do not benefit from more than two cores (the current generation of consoles uses an eight-core CPU). As a result, gaming PCs that have more than 4 cores are useless. A high-end graphics card will also be needed (which the RTX series doesn’t currently support) if you’re editing heavy video and pictures.
Type of Socket:
AMD’s Ryzen processors use the AM4 socket while Intel uses LGA 1150 (1151, 1155 as well). There are differences between the two platforms in terms of how motherboards and other components are compatible; therefore, study both before investing in a high-end CPU.
Multi-Tasking:
Hyper-threading is a feature offered by specialized CPUs, which allows you to use some of your physical cores to create additional virtual ones. You will therefore finish your task faster if you have more threads! Simply put, it is better for your PC to have more threads if you’re going to run multithreaded applications (more than one task at a time).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best CPU for RTX 3070?
The RTX 3070 is a powerful graphics card and it requires a powerful CPU to get the most out of it. The best CPU for RTX 3070 is the Intel Core i7-9700K and the AMD Ryzen 7 2700X.
What are the minimum requirements for RTX 3070?
In order to get the most out of your RTX 3070, you will need a CPU that is at least as powerful as the Intel Core i7-9700K or the AMD Ryzen 7 2700X. However, if you are only looking to play games at 1080p, you can get away with a less powerful CPU.
What is the best motherboard for RTX 3070?
The best motherboard for RTX 3070 is the Asus ROG Maximus XI Hero and the MSI X299 Gaming Pro Carbon AC. These motherboards offer the best features and performance for the RTX 3070.
What is the best CPU cooler for RTX 3070?
The best CPU cooler for RTX 3070 is the Noctua NH-D15 and the Corsair H100i v2. These coolers will keep your CPU cool even when overclocking.
What is the best memory for RTX 3070?
The best memory for RTX 3070 is the Corsair Dominator Platinum RGB and the G.Skill Trident Z RGB. These memories offer the best performance and stability for the RTX 3070.
Final Thoughts
If you are looking for a powerful CPU that can handle the new RTX 3070, then we have a few recommendations for you. The AMD Ryzen 7 2700X and Intel Core i9-9900K both come highly recommended, and they should be able to handle most tasks with ease. If you are looking for something more affordable, the AMD Ryzen 5 2600 is also a great option. Let us know in the comments which of these CPUs you decided to go with, or if you have any other questions about choosing the right hardware for your needs. Thanks for reading!
