Best CPUs for RX 7900 XT in 2025 – top picks from Intel and AMD
Table of Contents
We can't deny that AMD has a lot of gamers who love their products. And the RX 7900 series may even win over Nvidia fans with its performance-per-watt and lower cost. And if you're picking up the smaller sibling, you'll want one of the best CPUs for RX 7900 XT in your system.
If you're thinking about or already have an RX 7900 XT GPU, then matching it with the best CPU in the market should be your priority right now. That's why we've made a list of the best CPUs for RX 7900 XT.
🚀 Save Up to $1,200 on the Samsung Galaxy S25!
Pre-order now and save big with trade-in and Samsung credit. Limited time only!
*Includes trade-in value + $300 Samsung credit.
The 7900 XT is a 20GB GDDR6 graphics card built on the Navi 31 version of the RDNA 3 architecture. This GPU, according to AMD, achieves a 50% generational improvement in performance-per-watt, with Team Red using a TSMC 5nm node to give life to this card. To sum up, this state-of-the-art GPU needs an equally powerful CPU to deliver every bit of power it has to give.
Here at PCGuide, we’ve reviewed a good number of GPUs and have tested each one to analyze their real-life performance. So, we’ve selected a few cards that we think are the right choice for the 7900XT.
Products at a glance
- Best CPU for RX 7900 XT
AMD Ryzen 9 9900X
- Cores: 12
- Threads: 24
- Boost clock speed: 5.6 GHz
- Base clock speed: 4.4 GHz
- L3 Cache: 64 MB
- TDP: 120 W
- Best Intel CPU for RX 7900 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 AM4 CPU for RX 7900 XT
AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3D
- Cores: 8
- Threads: 16
- Boost speed : Up to 4.5 GHz
- Base speed: 3.4 GHz
- L3 Cache: 96 MB
- TDP: 105W
- Best budget CPU for RX 7900 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 performance CPU for RX 7900 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
- Best gaming CPU for RX 7900 XT
AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D
- Cores: 8
- Threads: 16
- Boost clock speed: 5.2GHz
- Base clock speed: 4.7GHz
- L3 cache: 96MB
- TDP: 120W
How we picked
We do as we say. We've considered a vast list of features in the candidates before we select them as a top pick. Among the features we use to pick the best chipset for the RX 7900 XT are: power consumption, clock speed, cache memory, price, socket type, compatibility, and cores.
You certainly won't want a CPU that's too old. But, you needn't necessarily pick an AMD CPU to go with your 7900 XT either. We've considered Intel and AMD CPUs, to pick the best options for you.
If you're interested in more RX 7900 XT articles, then head over to our RX 7900XT review, or our RTX 4070 vs RX 7900 XT comparison guide. Looking for more desktop processor recommendations? Then, check out our best budget CPUs article.
Our top picks
- Cores: 12
- Threads: 24
- Boost clock speed: 5.6 GHz
- Base clock speed: 4.4 GHz
- L3 Cache: 64 MB
- TDP: 120 W
- Platform: AMD Socket AM5
- Latest Zen 5 architecture
- 12 cores and 24 threads
- Low TDP
- Mediocre multi-core performance
If you want a high-end processor to pair with the 7900 XT, then we’d recommend the Ryzen 9 9900X. This is one of the top models in the latest 9000 series processors, and it comes with the all-new Zen 5 architecture. In our 9 9900X review, the CPU delivered much better performance than its predecessor, the 7900X.
To start with, the processor comes with 12 cores and 24 threads, which translates into effortless multitasking as well as exceptional performance for single-core tasks such as gaming.
Further, it has a base clock speed of 4.4 GHz, which can be taken to 5.6 GHz. These clock speeds are really fast, and you shouldn't feel your system or processes lagging or experience any in-game disruptions due to bottleneck issues. However, it does come unlocked for overclocking, and you should be able to take it beyond the maximum frequency for even better performance.
As far as its power draw is concerned, you know what they say: with great power comes a high TDP. However, this is not the case with the 9900X, as it has a default TDP of 120W. While this doesn't mean that it'll always be drawing in 120W, it could go above that, depending on how much load it's under. Another factor in this equation is its temperature. The more power it draws, the more heat it will generate, and it will need a better cooling solution. It is also recommended by AMD that you use a liquid cooler with this CPU, and to that end, we've got you covered with our best AIO water cooler guide, which has the top picks.
The 9900X does far better than the other CPUs in the 9000 series lineup.
PC Guide
In our tests, the 9900X hit 867 points in the CPU Z single-core test and 12,773 points in the multi-core test. For comparison, the 7600X scored 778 and 11,614 points. On the other hand, in Cinebench R23 tests, the 9900X was above to achieve 2,205 and 31,502 points, plenty more than 7600X’s 2,017 and 28,006 points.
Overall, this CPU is a powerhouse that should deliver exceptional performance without any bottleneck issues while future-proofing your build. You should easily be able to game in 4K with this pairing, but it comes at a premium and is definitely an enthusiast pick.
What users say
Based on the Amazon reviews, customers were pleased with the performance and mentioned that the CPU was easy to install. One of the reviews sums it up perfectly – ”While it’s not an i9-14900KS CPU, it’s still a great processor for high-end video editing, training artificial intelligence models, or even gaming.” However, some people think that the processor runs a little hot. Overall, users seem to be satisfied with the Ryzen 9 7900X processor as it has a 4.7-star rating.
- 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)
If you prefer Intel CPUs, then we think that the Intel Core i5-13600K is a good choice. It is a fairly new chipset that has overclocking abilities. Plus, you can dodge bottlenecks and futureproof your system.
- High core count (6 Performance cores and 8 Efficient cores)
- “K” processor unlocked for overclocking
- Uses the new LGA 1700 socket
- Can heat up during intense workloads, needs a good cooling solution
- Slightly power hungry
If you prefer Intel CPUs for your build, then we think that the Intel Core i5-13600K is a good processor to pair with the RX 7900 XT.
To start with, this CPU comes with 14 cores (6 Performance cores and 8 Efficient cores) and 20 threads, which means you can expect smooth multitasking and great performance with single-threaded tasks. In our Intel Core i5-13600K review, we saw that this processor has a high multi-core score (16,989), which makes it suitable for multitasking (gaming and productivity).
Further, the Intel processor packs a base clock of 3.5 GHz and a max turbo frequency reaching an impressive 5.1 GHz, the i5-13600K, which helps deliver exceptional responsiveness and reduce lags and stutters. As this is a “K” processor, it is unlocked by the manufacturer, so you can push the clock speeds.
If you prefer Intel CPUs for your build, then we think that the Intel Core i5-13600K is a good processor to pair with the RX 7900 XT.
PC Guide
Much like most powerful CPUs, the i5-13600K is also a bit power-hungry. It has a base TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 125W, but it can reach higher levels under heavy workloads. So if you are planning to push its performance, you will need an air or a liquid cooler.
The i5-13600K utilizes the LGA 1700 socket, which is compatible with the latest PCIe 5.0 technology. This ensures compatibility with next-generation components like DDR5 memory for a future-proof system.
Overall, the Intel Core i5-13600K is a solution for gamers and users who need to future-proof their system and avoid bottlenecking. Plus, the overclocking abilities add a good touch – you just need to ensure proper cooling.
What users say
Most Amazon users were happy with the quality, speed, and performance of the Intel Core i5-13600K processor. One of the user reviews says, “I have had no issues with this processor. The temps are low even when heavily gaming. This PC is gonna last a really long time.” However, a few users mentioned that the CPU can run hot while gaming and performing other demanding tasks – “Can run hot under heavy load, requiring beefy cooling solutions to maintain optimal performance and prevent thermal throttling.” Overall, the i5-13600K has 4.8/5.0 stars.
- Cores: 8
- Threads: 16
- Boost speed : Up to 4.5 GHz
- Base speed: 3.4 GHz
- L3 Cache: 96 MB
- TDP: 105W
- Platform: AMD (AM4)
If you want good gaming performance and don't mind getting last-gen components, then the Ryzen 5 5800X3D can be a good choice. The CPU comes with AMD's special 3D V-Cache technology, good core count, decent speeds, and relatively low power consumption.
- Comes with AMD’s 3D V-Cache tech (massive L3 cache)
- Good core count (8 cores, 16 threads)
- Decent base and boost speeds
- Relatively low power consumption (105Watts)
- AM4 socket may keep you from using advanced tech (like DDR5 RAM)
If are on a budget and don't mind getting last-gen components, then we think that the Ryzen 5 5800X3D is a good choice. This processor is specifically designed for gaming. In our in-depth 5800X3D review, we weren’t disappointed with its performance.
To start with, the Ryzen 5 5800X3D is from the “X3D” lineup of AMD's CPUs. These processors come with 3D V-Cache technology, which aims to improve performance. To be more specific, with this cache, the processor can stack a massive 96 MB of L3 cache on the CPU, which enhances data access speeds while gaming.
Further, this CPU has 8 cores and 16 threads, which might not be as high of a count as some other rival processors. However, the focus here is the 3D V-Cache that powers up your frame rates and overall performance.
This CPU has 8 cores and 16 threads, which might not be as high of a count as some other rival processors. However, the focus here is the 3D V-Cache that powers up your frame rates and overall performance.
PC Guide
Coming to clock speeds, the processor gives you a base clock of 3.4 GHz and can reach up to 4.5 GHz with AMD’s Precision Boost technology. If you combine these speeds with the massive cache, you can see why this processor is good for gaming and demanding tasks. In our tests, we found that while the processor isn’t ideal for productivity, it performed as well as CPU generations above it in gaming.
Despite being fairly powerful, the CPU has a TDP of 105W, which we think strikes a good balance between power and power efficiency. Also, low power consumption usually means less heat and quieter operation, so you don't have to worry about advanced thermal management.
Now, as mentioned above, the AMD Ryzen 5 5800X3D is compatible with the AM4 socket. This means it is compatible with last gen components like DDR4 RAM. If you don't really want the latest and the most advanced tech, then this CPU is certainly a bang for your buck.
What users say
If you look at the Amazon reviews for AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3D, over 5,000 people have reviewed it, and it has a 4.8-star rating. Reviewers mention that the processor delivers great performance and offers good value. A user review says that “this CPU is an incredible value for anyone that is enthusiastic about gaming performance.” Meanwhile, a few reviews said that the processor runs a little hot.
- 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
- Amazing performance-per-watt ratio, with a TDP of 65 W
- You get this impressive performance for a competitive price
- Its 6 cores and 12 threads go a long way
- Fewer cores than Intel alternatives
- These fewer cores means it doesn’t excel in heavy workstation tasks
If you want the best budget CPU for your RX 7900 XT graphics card, then we think that the AMD Ryzen 5 9600X is a strong contender here. It offers the latest Zen 5 architecture, which offers major improvements over the Zen 4. In our 9600X review, we found it to be a great budget option.
To begin with, the CPU comes loaded with 6 cores and 12 threads, which may not sound like a lot if you compare it to some of the more expensive models. However, this core count is enough for multitasking – so you can expect good performance while gaming as well as everyday productivity. However, don’t expect it to handle heavy workloads.
Further, the processor delivers a base clock of 3.9 GHz with a boost clock reaching up to 5.4 GHz. We recommend pairing it with one of the best CPU coolers for the Ryzen 5 9600X in case you want to constantly run it at high speeds and keep the temperatures within safe limits.
Much like other AMD CPUs we have seen so far, this chipset also has AMD’s Precision Boost technology, which boosts speeds, delivers smooth responsiveness, and reduces lag. Plus, the CPU has 32 MB of L3 cache, which helps store frequently accessed data for quicker retrieval, which should further speed up the processor.
In our tests, the CPU scored decent points in every benchmark tool we put it through. We got 827 and 6,345 points in CPU Z tests and 2,149 and 16,315 points in the Cinebench R23 test. In comparison, its predecessor, the 7600X scored 766 and 6,192 points in CPU Z and 1,923 and 13,729 points in Cinebench.
Interestingly, even though the processor packs decent power, it has a TDP of 65W, which makes it one of the most power-efficient processors on this list. You can also check out our top picks for the best PSU for 9600X if you’re currently struggling with finding a suitable one for it.
Overall, the Ryzen 5 9600X offers good core performance, high clock speeds, and power efficiency, which make it an excellent budget choice for the 7900XT.
If you prefer Intel chipsets and want the very best, then we think that the Intel Core i9-13900K is a really good option. You get advanced tech, futureproofing possibilities, and uncompromised performance. The only drawback here might be high power consumption and price.
- Really high core count (24 cores and 32 threads)
- 36MB Intel Smart Cache + large L2 cache for better performance
- High clock speed and ability to overclock
- May seem pricey compared to other options
- Relatively high power consumption (125 Watts)
If you're looking for the best Intel CPU to pair with your RX 7900 XT, we recommend the i9-13900K. Before we get into the technical details, let's address an important question – now that the Intel 14th-generation CPUs are out, should you be investing in a 13th-generation processor?
Well, according to our hands-on review of the i9-14900K, we found the difference to be minimal, but you can check it out yourself and make a decision that best suits your budget and requirements.
For starters, the i9-13900K boasts a total of 24 cores and 32 threads, meaning that its multi-core performance should be able to handle parallel processing without a hitch. However, that doesn't mean its single-core performance is lacking, as it should be able to handle any level of gaming you throw at it.
Regarding its cores, those are divided into eight performance cores and 16 efficient cores. How this division works is that the performance cores do the heavy lifting and process resource-intensive tasks while the efficient cores handle minor and background tasks that don't require a lot of muscle. What this does is provide a balance between performance and efficiency and also help keep the power draw and temperatures under control.
The Intel Core i9-13900K is suitable for people who work with complex workloads and gamers who don't want to compromise on performance.
PC Guide
Moving on, the processor has a maximum clock speed of 5.80 GHz, which should be more than enough to handle any real-world tasks. However, if you're a PC enthusiast who likes to push your setup to the limit, this CPU comes unlocked for easy overclocking. This means you can squeeze out even more performance from this CPU.
Coming to the cache performance, the CPU comes with a massive 36 MB Intel Smart Cache, which helps quicken data access speeds. This, combined with the larger total L2 cache, minimizes delays and ensures smooth operation even under heavy loads.
Again, a powerful CPU like the i9-13900K consumes a lot of power. To be more specific, the CPU has a base TDP of 125W, and it will increase as you boost the performance. To combat heating issues, you will have to arrange an efficient cooling system.
Overall, the Intel Core i9-13900K is suitable for people who work with complex workloads and gamers who don't want to compromise on performance. Plus, as this CPU is loaded with next-gen components like DDR5 memory and PCIe 5.0, you should be able to futureproof your build. And as we saw in our Intel Core i9-13900K review, this CPU remains a powerful chip when paired with either Z690 or Z790 motherboards and should be a decent upgrade from Alder Lake.
What users say
On Amazon, the Intel Core i9-13900K processor has been reviewed by over 1,300 people and has a rating of 4.7 stars. Most user reviews say that they were happy with speed, performance, and thermal management. A review says that “the Intel Core i9-13900K Gaming Desktop Processor has exceeded my expectations in terms of performance, gaming prowess, multitasking capabilities, technology integration, and thermal management.” However, a few users commented that the processor was power-hungry and costly.
- Cores: 8
- Threads: 16
- Boost clock speed: 5.2GHz
- Base clock speed: 4.7GHz
- L3 cache: 96MB
- TDP: 120W
- Platform: AM5
If you want to level up your build with one of the latest AMD gaming CPUs, then we think that the AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D is a good option. The processor comes with AMD's V-Cache technology, good core count, and future-proofing possibilities.
- Comes with AMD’s V-Cache tech for quick cache access
- It can be overclocked
- Excellent energy efficiency and temperature
- Still falls behind in some multi-core tasks
For those who want the best gaming performance, we recommend the Ryzen 7 9800X3D. This is the best gaming CPU money can buy, and unlike the previous X3D processors, it has also made significant improvements in productivity performance as we saw during our Ryzen 7 9800X3D review. That said, this isn’t the only new aspect of this processor.
The 9800X3D can be overclocked, which wasn’t possible with the previous X3D processor. This means that you can take its already amazing performance to the next level. In addition, the 3D V-Cache is placed beneath the CCD instead of on top of it, which keeps this CPU running cool as the IHS has direct access to the CPU cooler. So, even with its 120W TDP, you should be able to easily keep it from overheating whether you’ve overclocked it or enabled PBO.
That said, if you’re interested in overclocking this processor to maximize its performance, we recommend using the best motherboard for Ryzen 9800X3D and pairing it with the best CPU cooler.
The 9800X3D has also come a long way in terms of handling multi-threaded tasks. During our testing, it was neck and neck with the Ryzen 7 9700X, which is nothing short of amazing. Previously, the “X” processors made quick work of X3D CPUs when it came to productivity, but it seems like the tide is changing. In the CPU-Z multi-core test, the 9800X3D managed 8523 points and 8689 with PBO enabled. The 9700X managed 8794, and this isn’t much of a difference, and in Geekbench 6, the 9800X3D outperformed 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
The output was similar to that of single-core tests, but when it came to raw gaming performance, the 9800X3D left nothing on the table. We paired it with the RTX 4070 Ti and ran Cyberpunk 2077 and CS2 at 1080p low resolution. It delivered 334 and 604 FPS, respectively. With PBO enabled, the FPS in CS2 went up to 669, which is a massive increase. It managed this performance without consuming a lot of power or overheating. The maximum temperature and power draw we recorded was 65°C and 99W in CS2 with PBO enabled during gaming.
So, not only does it have excellent gaming and productive performance, but it does so without generating a lot of heat, which means that you don’t need to invest in a high-end CPU cooler and can make do with an air cooler. Also, with the debut of this processor, “X” processors aren’t the only viable options for productive workflows.
How to pick the best CPU for RX 7900 XT
The RX 7900 XTX is a powerhouse with impressive features and specifications. To ensure all of these features work as best as possible, you need to pair it with a strong CPU, and for that, you need to keep a couple of things in mind so you can make an informed decision. We've listed some of these factors below.
Compatibility
The first thing you need to consider is compatibility, specifically whether the CPU you're leaning towards will work well with the GPU. Since the RX 7900 XTX is the top AMD card, choosing a less powerful CPU will hinder its ability to perform at its best. Another thing to look out for is the express configuration the CPU supports. If it works with 4.0, you can use it on an older build and call a day. However, if it works with the latest 5.0 version, you might have to purchase a new motherboard and RAM as well if you don't have them already. A workaround for this is to go for the 13th-generation Intel processors, as they're compatible with PCIe 4.0 and 5.0.
Clock speed and cores
This is another important aspect to keep in mind, as a higher clock speed generally means that the CPU can process instructions faster, which can improve your computer's overall performance. Additionally, you'll need to look at the cache and cores. If you're mainly using the rig for gaming, core count shouldn't be a priority. On the other hand, if you are using it for productivity, then you want a good number of cores ready to take the workload.
Cache
The cache goes down the same line. This is a small amount of very fast memory that is built into the CPU and is used to store frequently accessed data. A larger cache can improve the performance of the CPU, as it allows it to access data more quickly. This means that you should be able to get better load times, reduced access time, and better in-game performance.
Temperature and cooling solutions
The temperature of the processor can have an impact on its performance. If it gets too hot, it'll start to thermal throttle, leading to decreased performance. As this is a powerful GPU, you're most likely looking at a powerful CPU for that. However, the more decked out they are, the more power they consume, which will generate more heat. So, consider your ambient temperature, check out reviews for the CPU, and see whether an air cooler could keep the temperature under control or if you will need an AIO or a custom water loop cooling solution.