When we reviewed the RX 7700 XT, we found it to be a great value GPU for 1440p gaming that also has relatively tame power consumption. Well, selecting the perfect CPU to accompany the RX 7700 XT is essential to unlocking its full potential in both gaming and productivity tasks. This next-gen GPU is powered by RDNA 3 architecture and features 54 powerful enhanced Compute Units in addition to 54 ray Accelerators. Essentially, it’s been designed to optimize frame rates and performance to provide unmatched 1440p gaming.
For those after an upgraded GPU experience for both gameplay and content creation, the 7700 XT is certainly a card to keep your eye on. However, such a GPU upgrade deserves a well-paired CPU to support it to its full potential.
We’ve reviewed several CPUs here at PCGuide and have tested each one using different benchmarking tools and games to get an idea of their real-life performance. Based on that, we’ve come up with a list of some processors that we think are a right fit for the 7700XT.
Products at a glance
- Best CPU for RX 7700 XT
Intel Core i5-13600K
- 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
- Best AMD CPU for RX 7700 XT
AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D
- Cores: 8
- Threads: 16
- Boost clock speed: 5.2GHz
- Base clock speed: 4.7GHz
- L3 cache: 96MB
- TDP: 120W
- Best budget CPU for RX 7700 XT
AMD Ryzen 5 9600X
- Cores: 6
- Threads: 12
- Boost clock speed: 5.4 GHz
- Base clock speed: 3.9 GHz
- L3 Cache: 32 MB
- TDP: 65 W
- Best mid-range CPU for RX 7700 XT
Intel Core i7-13700K
- Cores: 16
- Threads: 24
- Platform: Raptor Lake-S
- Base Clock Speed: 100 MHz
- Boost Clock Speed: 5.4 GHz
- L3 Cache: 30 MB (shared)
- Best high-end CPU for RX 7700 XT
Intel Core Ultra 9 285K
- Cores: 24
- Threads: 24
- Boost clock speed: 5.7GHz
- Base clock speed: 3.7GHz P-cores/3.2GHz E-cores
- L3 Cache: 36MB
- TDP: 125W base/250W max
How we picked the best CPU for RX 7700 XT
The selection process for the ideal CPU involves thorough research into performance reviews and feedback from the user community. Plus, our team at PC Guide has tested the CPUs in-house to give you a first-hand glimpse into the processors’ performance.
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By evaluating some of the CPUs on the market that are best matched for 1440p gaming and assessing the factors we found in our comprehensive review of the RX 7700 XT, we were able to have a look at what processors are up to the task of enhancing the performance of the GPU. Similarly, taking into account the best CPUs for the NVIDIA equivalent cards, such as the RTX 4060 Ti, provides a good basis to go off for finding the perfect processor for the 7700 XT.
Another important criterion revolves around future-proofing. The tech landscape evolves rapidly, and we emphasize recommending CPUs that not only perform excellently today but also have promising longevity. This takes into account factors like support for future software updates and compatibility with upcoming hardware.
- 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)
- Stellar 1440p gaming performance
- Great multitasking capabilities
- Overclocking headroom
- Requires robust cooling
- Not the most power-efficient
- Potential to be pricey
As we saw in our review, the Intel i5-13600K stands out as an excellent choice for those who want a great 1440p gaming experience. Part of the Raptor Lake family, it’s optimized to deliver performance that aligns perfectly with the RX 7700 XT’s capabilities.
This CPU isn’t just about gaming; its impressive core and thread count suggest it can handle multitasking and content creation tasks quite well, making it a versatile pick for both gamers and creators. Of its 14 total cores, 6 are performance cores and 8 are efficient cores, meaning its got versatile gaming performance. Additionally, it boasts a 24M cache and a boost clock speed of up to 5.10 GHz.
Thanks to these specs, it was able to score 830 and 9,846 points in our CPU Z single and multi-core tests, respectively. The performance was also excellent in Cinebench, where we saw the 13600K hitting 1,922 and 24,024 points.
The specifications of the 13600K speak for themselves, on paper, this CPU should be able to handle a great deal if paired with a decent GPU
PC Guide
However, while its performance credentials are certainly top-notch, the i5-13600K does ask for something in return: a reliable cooling solution. The high turbo power draw indicates that it can get toasty under heavy loads, especially when overclocking.
So, for those who plan to push this CPU to its limits, looking for the best CPU cooler is a must. Still, if you can look past the power demands and are equipped to handle it, the i5-13600K is a fantastic CPU that pairs wonderfully with the RX 7700 XT. To make sure you get the absolute top performance out of your gaming rig, pair this CPU/GPU combo with the best motherboard for Intel i5-13600K.
What users say
The Intel Core i5-13600K seems to be a favorite among Amazon users, with it averaging 4.7 out of 5 stars in the user ratings. Its appealing price range seems to be a large factor in what makes this processor so popular. Many users have taken to Amazon to express positive feedback about this product often mentioning its low price playing a major role in their satisfaction.
Potential heat issues don’t seem to be a problem for many users, with one stating, “With a good flowing case and a good cooler this CPU runs cool’ and another saying, “I’m using a 35-dollar air cooler on this, and under full load for over 10 min I never got above 68 degrees”.
- Cores: 8
- Threads: 16
- Boost clock speed: 5.2GHz
- Base clock speed: 4.7GHz
- L3 cache: 96MB
- TDP: 120W
- Platform: AM5
- Excellent gaming performance
- It can be overclocked
- Much better multi-core performance compared to previous X3D CPUs
- Priced nearly as much as Ryzen 9 CPU
- Still falls behind in some multi-core tasks
The RX 7700 XT is a solid mid-range GPU perfect for 1080p and 1440p gaming, as we found in our 7700 XT review. It can even push 4K in some titles. However, 2K is the sweet spot, and for gaming at lower resolutions, a fast CPU is required to avoid CPU bottlenecks. So, we recommend pairing it with the Ryzen 7 9800X3D as it had excellent gaming and synthetic performance when we tested in in-house to review it.
This is the first X3D processor in the Ryzen 9000 lineup and has taken the crown as the best gaming CPU, succeeding the Ryzen 7 7800X3D. That said, its gaming performance isn’t the only aspect that makes it so good as this processor has also improved its performance in productivity tasks. On top of that, it can be overclocked, meaning better overall performance without the processor overheating.
This is because the additional L3 cache is placed beneath the CCD instead of on top of it. This allows the IHS and the CPU cooler’s contact patch to be in direct contact, enabling efficient cooling even during intensive gaming or working sessions. If you’re interested in exploring some options, check out our best CPU cooler for 9800X3D guide for the top picks. We’ve also got you covered with the best motherboards for the 9800X3D that should help you to easily overclock it.
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
Regarding its gaming performance, it is no surprise that it is a league above its competition, predecessor, and even siblings. The Ryzen 7 9800X3D managed to deliver 334 and 604 FPS in Cyberpunk 2077 at 1080p low resolution paired with an RTX 4070 Ti. The 9700X and 265K managed 332 and 311 in Cyberpunk 2077 and 313 and 240 FPS in CS2, respectively. In addition, the 9800X3D delivered this gaming performance while consuming less than 100W of power, and its temperature went to a maximum of 65°C in CS2 with PBO enabled.
This is an excellent processor that covers all bases and has exceptional gaming performance. It should easily keep up with the RX 7700 XT in lower resolutions, avoiding any CPU bottlenecks. You can also increase the overall performance of your build by increasing the RAM. Since this CPU isn’t compatible with DDR4 RAM, we recommend pairing it with the best DDR5 RAM.
What users say
On Amazon, the reviews appear to be quite positive, with most buyers appreciating the 9800X3D’s exceptional gaming performance.
Some also highlight its productivity performance and overclocking potential, which are the two aspects that the 7800X3D lacked in. One user said, “Absolutely love this CPU. Removes any sort of CPU bottlenecking for games such as CS or Civilization. Super happy with the over clocking features, the more power efficient chip, and the cooler temps.”
- Cores: 6
- Threads: 12
- Boost clock speed: 5.4 GHz
- Base clock speed: 3.9 GHz
- L3 Cache: 32 MB
- TDP: 65 W
- Platform: AMD Socket AM5
- Excellent gaming capabilities
- Value for money
- Suitable for multitasking and light content creation
- Latest Zen 5 architecture
- AM5 platform is expensive
- Not ideal for demanding games
If you’re tight on a budget and are looking for a processor that delivers decent performance without breaking the bank, you’d want to check out the Ryzen 5 9600X. This is a part of the new 9000 series lineup and is great for budget-conscious builders. In our in-depth 9600X review, the processor managed to deliver better performance than its predecessor.
For starters, the 9600X offers the latest Zen 5 architecture, which is better than the previous Zen 4 in every way, including performance. On top of that, as the CPU utilizes the 4nm process technology, it packs more transistors on a single core, which results in better performance in multiple tasks.
We tested it in tools like CPU Z, Cinebench R23, and Geekbench. In all three tools, the CPU was able to deliver decent scores. In CPU Z, where the 7600X scored 766 and 6,192 points, the 9600X was able to hit 827 and 6,345 points. On the other hand, in Cinebench, while the 7600X had 1,923 and 13,729 points, the 9600X had a lead with 2,149 and 16,315 points.
The 9600X does better intergenerationally than it’s bigger brother, the 9700X.
PC Guide
As far as the specifications are concerned, the 9600X packs 6 cores and 12 threads. On top of that, it has a base clock speed of 3.9 GHz, which can be boosted up to 5.4 GHz. The CPU also offers an L3 Cache of 33 MB, so there’s enough space for the processor to store data that it needs to access frequently.
As it is a budget option, it is not a power-hungry CPU. It has a low TDP of 65W, and you should be more than fine with one of the best PSUs for the 9600X. On top of that, it won’t generate too much heat, but you’d still want to pair it with one of the best CPU coolers for the 9600X. This will not only help keep the CPU cool but also improve its lifespan.
Overall, the latest Zen 5 architecture, a boost frequency of 5.4 GHz, and low TDP make the 9600X a solid option for the 7700XT, especially for those who can’t afford a high-end processor.
What users say
According to Amazon reviews, this processor has good performance, consumes less power, and has good value. However, many reviewer stated that if you’ve got the 7600X, getting a 9600X wouldn’t make much of a difference. One reviewer said: “Straight to the point, unless you’re dependent on single core performance, get the 7600x. The performance jump from there to the 9600x isn’t worth the cost for most people.
But I have a use case where single core performance is important, so for me it was worth the price jump. The lower heat output is also nice, but isn’t a major priority.”
- Cores: 16
- Threads: 24
- Platform: Raptor Lake-S
- Base Clock Speed: 100 MHz
- Boost Clock Speed: 5.4 GHz
- L3 Cache: 30 MB (shared)
- TDP: 125 W
- Supports either DDR4 or DDR5
- Overclockable
- Strong performance in productivity apps
- Higher power consumption
- Runs hot
Our best mid-range option for the RX 7700 XT comes in the shape of the Intel Core i7-13700K. And our hands-on review backs it up with impressive benchmarks in both work and play.
This impressive processor supports 16 cores, 24 threads, and Intel’s 13th gen Raptor Lake architecture. With a base clock speed of 100 MHz, a boost clock speed of 5.4 GHz, and a 30 MB L3 Cache, this CPU provides a high performance that competes with our top pick. In our tests, the 13700K managed to hit 869 points in the CPU Z single-core test and 12,498 points in the multi-core tests. On the other hand, in Cinebench, the points were 2,095 and 30,108.
Our hands-on review backs the “high-end” label up with impressive benchmarks in both work and play.
PC Guide
For a mid-range GPU, like the RX 7700 XT, the Core i7-13700K is a great option. It’s certainly not the fastest mainstream chip and definitely not the cheapest. However, it is placed high up in the market and will work well with the RX 7700 XT if you’re looking for more in terms of performance.
The i7-13700K provides overclocking capabilities, allowing you to control its performance and stop it from overheating. Additionally, the inclusion of DDR4 support allows you to continue to use older memory sticks, meaning you won’t have to purchase extra memory on top of the already expensive price point.
To test how it performs in gaming, we ran Days Gone and Cyberpunk 2077 at low settings to make them more CPU intensive. We got 292 and 325 FPS, respectively, meaning it is an excellent processor for gaming and can handle more powerful GPUs than the RX 7700 XT, but it should also make a good pair for 2K gaming.
Overall, this is a solid processor for gaming and productivity that can still compete with the latest generation of Intel processors and if you can get one in a sale, it’ll ramp up its value even more.
What users say
Again, this processor receives great ratings from reviewers on Amazon. This product averages 4.8 stars out of 5, with many users expressing positive feedback. One such reviewer states, “This processor is absolutely incredible with no doubts”, and explains that they believe it is a solid option for anyone looking to upgrade.
- Cores: 24
- Threads: 24
- Boost clock speed: 5.7GHz
- Base clock speed: 3.7GHz P-cores/3.2GHz E-cores
- L3 Cache: 36MB
- TDP: 125W base/250W max
- Platform: LGA 1851 (Arrow Lake)
- Plenty of cores and threads with a good split into performance and efficiency
- Great temperatures even under full loads
- Impressive multi-core performance
- Falls behind the 14900K in plenty of scenarios
- No longer supports DDR4 like its predecessors
- Not the best gaming performance
If you’ve got the budget for a major upgrade, we recommend opting for the Core Ultra 9 285K. This is the flagship processor for the Arrow Lake series, meaning it offers the best performance out of the bunch. We tested and reviewed this processor in-house, and it has good performance, rivaling that of the Ryzen 9 9950X and the i9-14900K.
This CPU is powered by 24 cores and threads. Previously, we’ve seen that Intel processors had more threads than cores, meaning more cores were hyperthreaded. However, along with the branding change, Intel changed this and used smaller 3nm CPU processes to increase performance and efficiency.
That said, despite having fewer threads, its multi-core performance didn’t take a hit, as we saw during our review, and the thermal output was also much better than its predecessors, which are notorious for running extremely hot. This CPU reached a maximum temperature of 84°C during Furmark 2, which is pretty good for an enthusiast processor.
The Core Ultra 9 285K is a great processor there’s no doubt about it. Even as it cut back on the thread count and hyper-threading I was worried about its multi-core processing power, but that seems to not be the case as it leads in benchmarks for multi-core performance.
PC Guide
As far as its gaming performance is concerned, it isn’t leagues above other options, as Intel focused more on energy efficiency with these processors. However, that doesn’t mean it’s bad. The RX 7700 XT is a solid 1440p card, a resolution that this CPU should be able to handle easily.
We ran Cyberpunk 2077 at 1080p low setting paired with an RTX 4070 Ti Super, and it managed to deliver 216 FPS, which is pretty good. However, the 14900K managed 219 FPS and the 9950X decimated the competition with 319 FPS. So, while it can handle games, if you’re looking for the best gaming CPU, the 285K isn’t the best option.
However, it does have better multi-core performance, meaning it can better handle resource-intensive workflows like rendering, designing, modeling, etc, paired with a good GPU. Also, the benefit of opting for a flagship processor is that you can upgrade to high-end GPUs like the RTX 4090 or RX 7900 XTX without worrying about bottleneck issues.
This processor should also be good for the upcoming RTX 5000 series GPUs, meaning the path for upgrades is long. So, it will cost you a bit to upgrade to the 285K as you’ll also have to get a new motherboard, but it should last you a good while, making it a worthwhile investment.
What users say
There is no denying that the Core Ultra 9 285K lacks in terms of a generational performance upgrade from the i9-14900K. However, being the flagship of the Arrow Lake line-up, it still nails productivity benchmarks. One Amazon reviewer described the Ultra 9 285K as “incredible for productivity” and praised its capabilities, saying, “anyone into productivity, content creation, photo editing, etc the cpu is incredible”.
How to choose the best CPU for RX 7700 XT
Here are a few things to consider before you purchase a new CPU for your build –
Intended use
When matching a CPU with the RX 7700 XT, it’s crucial to consider the GPU’s capabilities and the intended usage. The AMD GPU here is a high-performing graphics card geared towards 1440p gaming and demanding workloads. Therefore, it requires a CPU that won’t bottleneck its performance.
Compatibility
Furthermore, platform compatibility plays an essential role. For instance, certain CPUs may offer PCIe 4.0 support, ensuring faster data transfer between the GPU and CPU. Additionally, thermal design power (TDP) and the power draw should be taken into account, as they directly impact the kind of cooling solutions required and the overall energy consumption of the setup.
Overclocking
If overclocking is something you’re interested in, consider the CPU’s overclocking capabilities. Not all CPUs can be overclocked – so look for the ones with unlocked multipliers that allow for a safe performance boost. Note that overclocking requires a compatible motherboard and a robust cooling solution.
Futureproofing
As with any PC component, consider how long you plan to use your system. If you go for a newer CPU with a higher core and thread count, it can provide some futureproofing, especially if you use demanding software or games.
