Best CPU for RX 6950 XT – Our top picks
Reviewed By: Kevin Pocock
Table of Contents
Selecting a CPU to go with a GPU and vice versa can be a challenging ordeal because there are so many options in different price ranges, and there are third-party variants to consider as well. So, whether it’s an RX 6950 XT or the Nvidia flagship GPU, the process remains the same, but cutting through the clutter can be draining.
That said, we took the liberty of doing the research and testing for you to present you with options that work the best with the RX 6950 XT. So, let's get right into it, shall we?
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Best CPU for RX 6950 XT overall
Intel Core i5-13600K
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Best gaming CPU for RX 6950 XT
AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D
- Cores: 8
- Threads: 16
- Boost clock speed: 5.2GHz
- Base clock speed: 4.7GHz
- L3 cache: 96MB
- TDP: 120W
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Best performance CPU for RX 6950 XT
Intel Core i9-13900K
- Cores: 24 (8P-16E)
- Threads: 32
- Boost speed : P-Core 5.8GHz / E-Core 4.3GHz
- Base speed: P-Core 3.0GHz / E-Core 2.2GHz
- L3 Cache: 36 MB
- TDP: 253 W
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Best budget CPU for RX 6950 XT
AMD Ryzen 5 5600X
- Cores: 6
- Threads : 12
- Boost speed : up to 4.6 GHz
- Base speed: 3.7 GHz
- L3 Cache: 32 MB
- TDP: 65W
How we picked
There are various aspects you need to consider while pairing any CPU with a GPU. As for the RTX 3070, it requires a CPU that complements its prowess as a mid-range card. We take the brand, architecture, cores, threads, base and boost frequencies, motherboard compatibility, and other important factors into account.
However, other than specifications that anyone can read, we take a more hands-on approach by thoroughly testing the CPUs for synthetic and real-world performance. If you're interested in learning more about that, we recommend you check out our Testing Lab guide, which takes you through the process in detail.
Best CPU for RX 6950 XT
- Cores: 14 (6P-8E)
- Threads: 20
- Boost speed : P-Core 5.1GHz / E-Core 3.5GHz
- Base speed: P-Core 3.5GHz / E-Core 2.6GHz
- L3 Cache: 24MB
- TDP: 181W
- Platform: Intel (LGA 1700)
- Excellent performance for a reasonable price
- Great for various levels of gaming
- Snappy processing speed for multi-threaded workloads
- Runs hot and most likely needs a good CPU cooler
- Has a high max TDP of 181W
- No CPU cooler included
The most powerful GPU of AMD's 6000 series GPU lineup deserves a CPU that is capable of complementing its performance and delivering the best results. That said, we chose the i5-13600K to pair with the RX 6950XT because, during our in-house testing of this processor, it performed stellarly in real-world and synthetic tests.
This processor sits comfortably on an LGA 1700 socket with 14 cores, divided between six performance (P-cores) and eight efficient (E-cores). On top of that, it features a maximum turbo frequency of 5.1GHz and a base frequency of 2.6GHz. However, since this CPU comes unlocked from the manufacturer, you have the option to overclock it and make it even faster.
These specifications aren't just for show, as during our testing, it managed to score 1,992 in single-core and 24,024 in multi-core. This shows its prowess in handling resource-intensive applications and gaming alike. In Cyberpunk 2077, it managed 179 FPS on average, and this title is demanding, to say the least.
It also supports up to 192GB of RAM and is compatible with PCIe 4.0 and 5.0. This means that you can use it with PCIe 4.0 and 5.0 components without running into compatibility issues. And the stackable memory should also give you enough headroom to enhance your system's performance according to your requirements.
The i5-13600K is evolutionary instead of revolutionary
PC Guide
It also uses the Intel Speed Shift Technology, which helps the CPU adjust its frequency and voltage to deliver the optimal balance between performance and power efficiency. This should keep low-effort tasks such as documenting or web browsing running smoothly without experiencing any lag.
The only downside to this CPU is that the AMD Ryzen 5 7600X offers similar performance but at a lower price. However, going for that also means you'll have to shift to the AM5 platform.
What users say
When it comes to the features that Amazon users found great about the i5-13600K, its performance, value, and quality for the price point were making a lot of waves. These features earned it titles like a “true powerhouse.” One reviewer stated, “The Intel Core i5-13600K is the ultimate processor that won’t disappoint.” and I guess that justifies its rating of 4.8 out of 5.0
- Cores: 8
- Threads: 16
- Boost clock speed: 5.2GHz
- Base clock speed: 4.7GHz
- L3 cache: 96MB
- TDP: 120W
- Platform: AM5
- Massive 96MB L3 cache
- Great performance
- Good for future-proofing
- No DDR4 support
- Only decent productivity performance
For the best gaming performance, we recommend you pair the RX 6950 XT with the Ryzen 7 9800X3D. The “X3D” processors are widely referred to as the best gaming CPUs. This CPU isn't an exception, especially when we look at what it’s packing under the hood. It features eight cores, 16 threads, a massive 96MB L3 cache, and the 3D V-cache technology. The 3D V-cache boosts performance by allowing more data to be stored, resulting in reduced calls to fetch data. This reduces access times and increases efficiency and performance.
In terms of gaming, this means better FPS, faster loading, and lower system latency—everything you need to win. As we saw in our 9800X3D review, the processor completely left all other CPUs we tested against in the dust. For example, in CS2, we got over 600 FPS with the 9800X3D, while the 7800X3D and others were struggling in the 300 to 350 range.
The 9800X3D has unlocked its potential and become the leading processor in the market. The 2nd generation V-Cache gives it the ability to run the CPU core faster and at higher voltages pushing its performance even further over the 7800X3D and on par with non-X3D chips in non-gaming tasks.
PC Guide
Furthermore, AMD has also improved the productivity performance of the 9800X3D. It is still not the best, as the Core Ultra 7 256K beat it in our tests, but it’s still a good jump from the 7800X3D. Apart from that, another good thing about the 9800X3D is its thermal efficiency. The CPU is relatively easy to cool, though we still recommend getting the best cooler for it to ensure no chance of thermal throttling.
Overall, if you want the best gaming CPU to pair with your RX 6950 XT, the Ryzen 7 9800X3D is the way to go. It only supports DDR5 RAM, so you’ll have to spend a bit more money, but it is more than worth it. Of course, you should also consider going for the best motherboard for 9800X3D for optimal performance.
- Excellent performance across the board
- It still uses the LGA 1700 socket
- Makes use of Intel technologies, such as Thermal Monitoring
- Not the more power-efficient option
- It can run hot and will need a hefty CPU cooler
- It comes with a premium price tag
For our performance pick, we went with the i9-13900K, the flagship CPU of Intel's 13th generation, and it is still a viable option in 2025. In our i9-13900K review, we weren't surprised to see it blow through the competition and deliver stellar results in gaming and synthetic tests.
You might be wondering why not go for the i9-14900K, but when we conducted in-house tests on the i9-14900K, we found that the performance difference was minimal, but the price increase was substantial. You can learn about it in detail in our i9-14900K review.
The i9-13900K boasts impressive hardware. It features 24 cores, 32 threads, a maximum turbo frequency of 5.8GHz, and a 36MB L3 cache. To put these specifications into perspective, let's see how it performed during our tests. In games like Cyberpunk 2077 and Resident Evil: Village, this CPU managed 342 and 351 FPS, respectively, on 1080p low settings.
The Intel Core i9-13900K is still more than competitive when it comes to powering today's games.
PC Guide
In Geekbench single- and multi-core tests, it churned out impressive 2,251 and 25,176 points, respectively. This shows that this CPU should be able to handle multi-threaded workloads without a hitch.
However, all this power does have a downside. Its maximum TDP is 253W, meaning that it will need a robust air or water cooler to keep it cool under heavy workloads. If you're interested in exploring options, check out the best CPU cooler for i9-13900K guide for the top picks available.
This CPU comes with Intel UHD Graphics 770, which should be in the same league as the R9 280X or the GT 770. While it won't get you 60 FPS at 1440p, it should handle basic graphical tasks and power your desktop should your GPU face an issue or if you're waiting for a replacement.
A nifty feature of this chip is that it uses Intel's Thermal Monitoring Technologies, which monitors the temperature via a sensor on the die and adjusts the power draw to keep it under control. That said, during our stress testing, it reached its maximum of 100°C even with a 360mm AIO installed. So, you'll also need to invest in a good thermal paste and consider the ambient temperature. If you're wondering which thermal paste to get, we recommend you give our best thermal paste guide a shot.
Overall, the combination of this CPU with the RX 6950 XT should leave little to the imagination, and you should experience serene visuals at whichever resolution you want to play without experiencing any lag or stuttering.
What users say
This CPU has a rating of 4.7 out of 5.0, and the reviews praise it for its exceptional performance, hybrid design, and how it handles gaming and professional tasks without breaking a sweat. It does run hot, as stated in many reviews, so a water look or a heavy-duty AIO cooler is recommended. According to one review, this CPU is a “beast of a CPU that caters to power users, gamers, and professionals who require top-tier performance,” which, we believe, perfectly sums up what this CPU is about.
- Cores: 6
- Threads : 12
- Boost speed : up to 4.6 GHz
- Base speed: 3.7 GHz
- L3 Cache: 32 MB
- TDP: 65W
- Platform: AMD (AM4)
- Very affordable with above-average performance
- It can be overclocked for better results
- Comes with a Wraith Stealth cooler
- It doesn't have any integrated graphics.
The last CPU pick for the RX 6950 XT is the Ryzen 5 5600X, as it offers great performance without breaking the bank. Regarding specifications, there isn't much difference between the 5600X and 5600, and the gap can be reduced by overclocking the base model. However, the 5600X is $10 cheaper, so going for an option with even slightly better hardware makes sense.
Featuring six cores, 12 threads, a max boost clock of 4.6 GHz, and a 32MB L3 cache, this CPU has enough power to push more than decent frames at 1080p and 1440p with a high preset. 4K gaming might be possible with this setup as ultra-resolution is more GPU-dependent, but even then, you might not get the best framerates.
Regarding its power draw, it has a decent TDP of 65W, which should keep temperatures under control, and with a good CPU cooler, you should be able to comfortably overclock it without running into throttling issues.
The 5600X comes bundled with a Wraith Stealth cooler, which should be more than enough to tame it. However, if it starts to reach its cap of 95°C, we recommend using the best AIO cooler paired with the best thermal paste so you have as great thermal management as possible.
Overall, this is one of the best budget CPUs to pair with the RX 6950 XT. Its snappy performance should handle low-resolution gaming, and higher-resolution gaming shouldn't push the GPU’s limits.
What users say
We aren't the only ones who are happy with the Ryzen 5 5600X’s performance; its Amazon reviews have nothing but great things to say about it. One reviewer said: “This CPU has exceeded my expectations in delivering exceptional performance across various applications.” Another stated, “With its snappy processing speed and six cores, my PC now handles everything I throw at it with ease.” This shows the capabilities of this CPU and the value it provides for an affordable pick.
How to pick the best CPU for RX 6950 XT
There are a handful of factors that you need to consider before choosing a CPU. We've listed some of those factors below so you can make an informed decision on your next CPU, regardless of application.
Performance
First, consider the performance output you want from your rig. This is important as it should help you filter your options depending on whether you want to game casually, in which a mid-range or budget CPU should work, or prefer 4K gaming while handling professional tasks as well. In the latter case, a high-end CPU should work better as it would have more processing power and should be able to multitask effortlessly.
Budget
The second thing you need to consider is your budget and how much you can spend on a CPU. Pairing a high-end CPU with your GPU should most likely get you better in-game performance at low resolutions, but realistically speaking, nowadays, 1440p is the minimum resolution that most people play games on.
That said, filter your options based on your budget and select an option that can handle gaming at various resolutions and other tasks while keeping the graphical load on the GPU rather than the CPU.
Thermal output
This is an important aspect to consider because powerful CPUs have a high power draw, meaning they'll run hot and need a high-end air or water cooler to keep the temperature under control.
However, the CPU temperature also depends on the ambient temperature. For example, if you're living in a hot region, the base temperature for all your components will be higher than that of a cold region. On top of that, when you start gaming, that temperature will go even higher.
So, consider the ambient temperature, power draw, and CPU’s overclocking potential and then decide. Also, remember that you will most likely have to invest in a good CPU cooler.
Platform
Another important factor to consider is the platform you currently have and whether you want to make the jump to the next generation. If you're on the AM4 platform and are considering getting a Ryzen 7000 series processor, you'll have to purchase a new AM5 motherboard as well as DDR5 memory.
The same goes for Intel. 12th-generation onward, Intel started using LGA1700 sockets for their CPUs, and if you're moving up from the 10th or 11th gen, you'll have to get your hands on a new motherboard.
So, consider whether you want to completely shift to a new platform, which will be quite expensive, or stick to the current platform and upgrade or purchase a new CPU.
Is the RX 6950 XT good for ray-tracing?
The RX 6950 XT has good ray tracing benchmarks, which help to boost gaming performance. However, the general consensus is that its capabilities are lacking compared to other cards like the RTX 4070.
Are AMD GPUs good in 2025?
AMD GPUs are some of the best in the business, boasting system performance that delivers clear and smooth graphics without putting too much pressure on the fans and cooling systems of your PC.
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