When we reviewed the RX 7700 XT, we found it delivered solid value for 1440p gaming, alongside having relatively tame power consumption, too. Even with the RX 9070 XT and 9070 replacing the card, it’s still a quality graphics card well worth your time.

Selecting the perfect CPU to accompany the RX 7700 XT is essential to unlocking its full potential in both gaming and productivity tasks. This 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. Of course, the Ryzen 9 9950X3D and 9 9900X3D are worth considering, as they are now available. But since we have yet to review them, they won’t feature on our list, so you might look to those reviews to see if it’s for you.

Products at a glance

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.

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.

Our top picks

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AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D

Hands-on Review

5 /5

Editor’s Rating

How We Review

Specifications

• Cores: 8
• Threads: 16
• Boost clock speed: 5.2GHz
• Base clock speed: 4.7GHz
• L3 cache: 96MB
• TDP: 120W
• Platform: AM5

Reasons to Buy

• Excellent gaming performance
• It can be overclocked
• Much better multi-core performance compared to previous X3D CPUs

Reasons to Avoid

• Priced nearly as much as Ryzen 9 CPU
• Still falls behind in some multi-core tasks

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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 it 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.

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.

Ryzen 7 9800X3D Blender temperatures graph, Image by PC Guide

Ryzen 7 9800X3D CS2 Power graph, Image by PC Guide

Ryzen 7 9800X3D Cyberpunk 2077 FPS graph, Image by PC Guide

Ryzen 7 9800X3D Blender scores graph, Image by PC Guide

Ryzen 7 9800X3D CS2 temperatures graph, Image by PC Guide

Ryzen 7 9800X3D multi core synthetics graph, Image by PC Guide

Ryzen 7 9800X3D CS2 FPS graph, Image by PC Guide

Ryzen 7 9800X3D Blender power graph, Image by PC Guide

Ryzen 7 9800X3D Cyberpunk 2077 power graph, Image by PC Guide

Ryzen 7 9800X3D synthetics single core graph, Image by PC Guide

Ryzen 7 9800X3D Cyberpunk 2077 temperatures graph, Image by PC Guide

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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.

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.

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.

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Intel Core i7-13700K

Hands-on Review

4 /5

Editor’s Rating

How We Review

Specifications

• 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

Reasons to Buy

• Supports either DDR4 or DDR5
• Overclockable
• Strong performance in productivity apps

Reasons to Avoid

• Higher power consumption
• Runs hot

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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.

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.

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Intel Core Ultra 9 285K

Hands-on Review

4 /5

Editor’s Rating

How We Review

Reasons to Buy

• Plenty of cores and threads with a good split into performance and efficiency
• Great temperatures even under full loads
• Impressive multi-core performance

Reasons to Avoid

• Falls behind the 14900K in plenty of scenarios
• No longer supports DDR4 like its predecessors
• Not the best gaming performance

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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.

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 settings 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. Additionally, opting for a flagship processor has the benefit of allowing you to upgrade to high-end GPUs, such as the RTX 4090 or RX 7900 XTX, without worrying about potential 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.

Intel Core Ultra 9 285K Blender, Image by PC Guide

Intel Core Ultra 9 285K temperatures, Image by PC Guide

Intel Core Ultra 9 285K Average package power, Image by PC Guide

Intel Core Ultra 9 285K Cyberpunk 2077 FPS, Image by PC Guide

Intel Core Ultra 9 285K Synthetics multi core scores, Image by PC Guide

Intel Core Ultra 9 285K Synthetics single core scores, Image by PC Guide

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AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D

Hands-on Review

4.5 /5

Editor’s Rating

How We Review

Specifications

• Cores: 8
• Threads: 16
• Boost speed : up to 5 GHz
• Base speed: 4.2 GHz
• L3 Cache: 96 MB
• TDP: 120 W
• Platform: AMD (AM5)

Reasons to Buy

• Fantastic gaming performance
• Affordable thanks to age
• Less limited than the previous generation

Reasons to Avoid

• Still limited by cache outside of gaming workloads
• No included cooler
• Upgrade to AM5 can be expensive if you don’t already have the parts.
• Still on older architecture design that looks boost potential

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If you’re someone who prefers sticking with hardware that’s a generation or two old, where support is more mature and early issues have been ironed out, the Ryzen 7 7800X3D is still well worth your attention. Although it was dethroned as the top gaming CPU by the Ryzen 7 9800X3D, the 7800X3D remains a powerhouse and can be confidently paired with the RX 7700 XT.

In our review of the Ryzen 7 7800X3D, we paired it with an RTX 4070 Ti Super and ran it through a variety of benchmarks across gaming and general workloads. The results were impressive. While earlier X3D chips weren't ideal for productivity tasks, the latest generation of X3D processors has significantly improved in that area.

That said, if your primary focus is productivity, like content creation or multitasking-heavy workloads, you might be better served by a different processor. But for gaming, the 7800X3D remains one of the best options currently available.

In Cinebench R23, the CPU delivered 1,665 points in single-core and 17,581 points in multi-core tests. The single-core score is particularly relevant for gaming, as most titles rely more on individual core performance rather than utilizing many cores simultaneously.

For comparison, the Ryzen 7 7700X scored 1,995 in single-core and 19,650 in multi-core tests. While the 7700X outperforms in both categories, it lacks the 3D V-Cache technology that sets the 7800X3D apart in real-world gaming scenarios.

In actual gameplay, the 7800X3D delivered 255 FPS in Days Gone and 296 FPS in Cyberpunk 2077. The 3D V-Cache, a vertically stacked cache layer, allows the processor to store more data on-chip, minimizing latency and improving performance in cache-sensitive workloads like gaming.

So, while it might not be the most efficient CPU for heavy multitasking or workstation-level productivity, the Ryzen 7 7800X3D remains a top-tier choice for gamers who want high frame rates and smooth gameplay.

Why you can trust us

Our team at PC Guide believes in testing the products ourselves before recommending them to our readers. This allows us to showcase its full potential as well as give a breakdown of its pros and cons, so our readers can make an informed decision. When it comes to processors, we divide the testing into synthetic and gaming performance, power usage, thermals, and pricing.

These are all the factors we look at when we have to get a processor for ourselves, and we aim to deliver the same standards.

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 and motherboards 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. The likes of AM5 and LGA 1851 platforms are the way forward for the current generation and support.

FAQs

What processor is in the RX 7700 XT?

Inside the RX 7700 XT, you can find the Navi 32 XL GPU processor. Created with the 5 and 6nm TSMC process in an MCM split design, it comes in a die size of 346mm². Featuring 28.1 billion transistors, it comprises numerous cores and onboard components that operate at a relatively high clock speed.

What is the best CPU for RX 7700 XT?

If you’re looking for the best CPU for the RX 7700 XT, there are plenty of options to choose from, including our range of suggestions that feature the Ryzen 7 9800X3D, Ryzen 5 9600X, i7-13700K, Core i9-285 K, and Ryzen 7 7800X3D. These options offer a wide range of usability, platforms, features, and pricing, allowing you to find the right fit for your needs.

What CPU do you need for the RX 7700 XT?

There is no minimum requirement for a processor you need for an RX 7700 XT. Any modern CPU will be able to handle the GP, U, but of course, the better the chip, the better the performance you can expect. You also want one that supports the platform you need, since the 7700 XT uses a PCIe 4 interface, a motherboard and CPU combo with that is ideal.

Final word

The Ryzen 7 9800X3D is the best CPU for the RX 7700 XT, as this pairing should deliver great performance at 1080p and 1440p, and the 9800X3D should also be able to pull heavy workflows such as video editing, multitasking while gaming, and more. Another benefit of this combination is that it shouldn’t cost you a lot.

About the Author

Marla Broadway

Marla writes across a wide range of topics across PC Guide, including AI, PC hardware, and news on the latest tech releases. She's a passionate writer that's interested in the future of technology.