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Best GPUs for Ryzen 5 3600 and 3600X in 2024 – Our top picks

The Ryzen 5 platform is well-suited for gaming and content creation tasks, but you'll need an apt GPU to compliment it
Last Updated on April 15, 2024
Best GPU for Ryzen 5 3600X and 3600
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Looking for the best GPUs for Ryzen 5 3600 and 3600X? You came to the right place. Selecting the best graphics card to complement your AMD Ryzen 5 3600 or 3600x is pivotal in harnessing the full potential of your gaming or work setup. This article delves into the best GPU for the Ryzen 5 3600 and 3600x, ensuring a balanced and efficient system without any bottlenecks.

How we picked the best GPUs for Ryzen 5 3600 and 3600X

The selection process for the best GPU to pair with Ryzen 5 3600 and 3600x isn’t arbitrary; it’s grounded in rigorous testing and research. Performance benchmarks play a crucial role. By analyzing real-world performance across various games and applications, it’s possible to gauge how different GPU options hold up when combined with these CPUs.

Additionally, user feedback and reviews contribute invaluable insights. By understanding the experiences of others who have paired these specific CPUs with various GPUs, potential issues or advantages come to light, which might not be evident from benchmarks alone. Factors such as noise levels, heat output, and driver stability all come into play.

But what if the Ryzen 5 platform just isn’t what you’re looking for? Luckily, you can find the best GPU for Ryzen 9 5900X and 5950X if you’re hunting for a bit more power in your rig. Or, maybe you need a GPU entirely tailored toward video editing? Our best GPU for 4K rendering and editing will set you in the right direction.

Best GPU for Ryzen 5 3600X and 3600
The RTX 4060 Ti, one of the best GPUs for Ryzen 5 3600X and 3600 – Image © BGFG

Best GPUs for Ryzen 5 3600 and 3600X in 2024 – Our top picks

Best GPU for Ryzen 5 3600 and 3600X
01
  • RTX 4060 Ti graphics card displayed against a backdrop of colorful computer hardware boxes.
  • A limited edition Spider-Man-themed RTX 4060 Ti graphics card in front of its original packaging.
  • Nvidia RTX 4060 Ti graphics card with its box on a desk featuring gaming-themed decor.
  • A Zotac gaming Nvidia RTX 4060 Ti graphics card lying on its side.
  • Zotac RTX 4060 Ti
Highly Recommended
Specifications
  • GPU: AD106
  • CUDA cores: 4,352
  • VRAM: 8GB GDDR6
  • Bandwidth: 288.0 GB/s
  • Memory bus width: 128-bit
  • Bast clock speed: 2310 MHz
  • Boost clock speed: 2550 MHz
Reasons to Buy
  • Solid GPU for 1080p gaming
  •  Impressive ray tracing and AI technology
  •  Huge 16GB of VRAM meaning more possibilities
Reasons to Avoid
  •  Price may not be equivalent to level of performance
  •  16GB of VRAM is overkill in most cases
  •  128-bit bus is limited

The RTX 4060 Ti and Ryzen 7 5700X combine to create a powerful PC build without demanding a top-tier price tag – making it our number one choice here. This pairing strikes a great balance. The Ryzen 7 5700X boasts 8 cores and 16 threads, ensuring it can keep up with the graphical prowess of the RTX 4060 Ti. This means you’ll experience smooth gameplay without one component holding the other back, especially at resolutions like 1080p and 1440p.

This combination isn’t just powerful, it’s also built to last. The RTX 4060 Ti supports cutting-edge features like ray tracing and DLSS 3, which enhance visuals and boost frame rates. The Ryzen 7 5700X complements this with features like PCI-e 4.0 compatibility, ensuring seamless operation of these technologies. With strong specs, this duo should be able to handle most modern games at high settings for years to come. Interested in more? We have a full RTX 4060 Ti review available.

Best GPU for Ryzen 5 3600 and 3600X for most users
02
  • rtx 4070 ti vs rtx 4070 ti super
  • Asus TUF gaming RTX 4070 Super graphics card with triple fans.
  • Best GPU for 1440p 144Hz - RTX 4070 Super with PC Guide logo
  • ASUS TUF RTX 4070 SUPER
  • Best RTX 4070 Super
  • RTX 4070 Super vs AMD RX 7700 XT
Specifications
  • 12GB GDDR6X VRAM
  • PCIe 4.0
  • AD104 GPU
  • 7168 CUDA cores
  • 192-bit memory bus
Reasons to Buy
  • 4K gaming is possible with DLSS
  •  Ray tracing and DLSS features really improve model
  •  The ultimate 1440p gaming card
Reasons to Avoid
  •  Price is not quite budget friendly
  •  16-pin connector
  •  Increased power consumption of the RTX 4070

The RTX 4070 paired with a Ryzen 7 5700X offers a tempting combination for gamers seeking high-performance experiences. The RTX 4070 is a powerhouse, capable of smooth gameplay at high settings and even higher resolutions like 1440p and potentially even 4K. Additionally, features like ray tracing and DLSS 3 will enhance visuals and improve frame rates, pushing the boundaries of your gaming experience. The Ryzen 7 5700X complements this with its 8 cores and 16 threads, ensuring it can handle the demands of the RTX 4070 without bottlenecking performance.

However, there are some considerations before jumping in. The RTX 4070 is priced at a premium compared to the RTX 4060 Ti. While the performance boost is undeniable, the price difference may not be justifiable for everyone, especially for those primarily focused on 1080p gaming. Additionally, the increased power consumption of the RTX 4070 might necessitate a stronger power supply unit, adding to the overall cost. For a full product breakdown, check out our RTX 4070 review.

Best GPU for Ryzen 5 3600 and 3600X for 1440P
03
  • Close-up of an AMD Radeon RX 6800 XT graphics card with dual fans.
  • An AMD Radeon RX 6800 XT graphics card in front of assorted computer hardware boxes on a shelf.
  • Amd Radeon RX 7700 XT graphics card with triple-fan design.
  • A triple-fan RX 7700 XT Radeon graphics card on a wooden surface.
Reasons to Buy
  •  Excellent for 1440p gaming
  •  High VRAM benefits multitasking
  •  Strong content creation performance
Reasons to Avoid
  •  Premium price point
  •  Can be overkill for casual users
  •  Limited ray tracing capabilities

The AMD Radeon RX 6800 XT, boasting a whopping 16 GB of GDDR6 VRAM, is a testament to what modern GPUs can achieve, especially when targeting the 1440p domain. With this beast in your arsenal paired with the Ryzen 5 3600 or 3600x, you’re looking at buttery smooth frame rates in 1440p across the board.

It’s the gamer’s dream, especially those with a penchant for competitive gaming where high, stable frame rates can make all the difference. But it’s not just for the gamers. If you’re into heavy-duty content creation, 3D rendering, or video editing, the RX 6800 XT, combined with the multitasking prowess of the Ryzen 5, will ensure your tasks are completed without a hitch.

04
  • A RTX 3070 Ti graphics card with a single fan and heatsink.
Specifications
  • GPU: GA104
  • CUDA cores: 6,144
  • VRAM: 8GB GDDR5X
  • Bandwidth: 608.3 GB/s
  • Memory bus width: 256-bit
  • Base clock speed: 1575 MHz
  • Boost clock speed: 1770 MHz
Reasons to Buy
  •  Stellar performance across the board
  •  Ray tracing and DLSS support
  •  Ideal for intensive workloads
Reasons to Avoid
  • A significant investment
  •  Potential overkill for 1080p gaming
  •  Demands a robust cooling solution

Stepping into the high-end realm, the Nvidia RTX 3070 Ti with its 8 GB GDDR6X memory is a luxury choice for those looking to push their Ryzen 5 3600 or 3600x to its limits. Offering a taste of the premium Nvidia experience without the ultra-premium price tag, it brings raw power and the finesse of ray tracing together.

For the discerning gamer or professional who demands nothing but the best from their setup, the 3070 Ti is a match made in heaven for the Ryzen 5 CPUs. Whether it’s intensive gaming sessions, 3D rendering, or crunching through video edits, this GPU ensures you’re operating at peak efficiency and fluidity.


Considerations for a GPU and Ryzen 5 3600 and 3600X

Complimenting GPU

When pairing a graphics card with the Ryzen 5 3600 or 3600x, it’s vital to consider a GPU that complements rather than overshadows or underutilizes the capabilities of these CPUs. These mid-range processors are well-suited for both gaming and multitasking, thus demanding a GPU that can keep up without causing unnecessary strain

Resolution and refresh rate

Resolution and refresh rate aspirations also play a role in your decision-making. If you’re aiming for 1080p gaming at high refresh rates or venturing into 1440p territory, it’s essential to opt for a GPU that can comfortably manage these requirements without compromising on settings. Furthermore, the GPU’s VRAM, which affects texture loading and multitasking potential, and compatibility with software or games you regularly use should also be at the forefront of your considerations when building a PC around these parts.

Smart Access Memory

Additionally, when paired with an AMD GPU, the Ryzen 5 3600 and 3600X will both gain access to Smart Access Memory. This feature, which is only available on AMD paired tech, allows your components faster access to memory, streamlining workflows and making your PC a powerful rig.

Price

Don’t let the ever-changing prices of GPUs and CPUs overwhelm you. Set a budget upfront to keep things under control. Then, prioritize the features that are most important for your uses. The good news is that there are fantastic graphics cards available at a wide range of price points. By setting realistic expectations based on your budget, you’ll land the perfect card that meets your needs without going over budget.

To snag a GPU at the ideal price, track its history using a tool like Camelcamelcamel. This website shows you price fluctuations over time, allowing you to jump on a deal when the price dips. Additionally, consider buying during seasonal sales like Amazon Spring Sale or Black Friday to maximize your savings.

Camilo is a contributor for PC Guide. He's been into tech since he was a teen, surfing through the web and local stores trying to find the cheapest way to play the latest Half-Life on his old Windows