Nvidia rolled out the RTX 30-series last year and it took the whole gaming world by storm. They are powerful enough to run 8K games at high settings with ease. To give you an example, RTX 3000 series contains state-of-the-art HDMI 2.1 support that provides 2X more bandwidth than its predecessors i.e, HDMI 2.0. Achieving 4K resolution at 120 FPS is no biggy with these monsters.
Equipped with Nvidia’s 2nd-generation ray-tracing and innovative DLSS technology, RTX 3000 series have several notable GPUs but 3090 is Nvidia’s flagship model. These GPUs are twice as fast as the last RTX 2000 series boasting almost 10496 shaders.
With such massive upgrades and innovative features, you will definitely be needed to pay huge loads of money. And after investing so much, the last thing you want is to have a substandard CPU bottleneck the full capability of these monsters. If you are building your own PC and can’t find the best CPU for RTX 3070, 3080, 3090, we have got your back.
We have a list of the 8 best CPUs that will let you explore the full capabilities of RTX 3070, 3080 and 3090. If you are looking to save money or want something powerful, the CPUs on this list will tend to your every need.
Table of Contents
List of 8 Best CPU for RTX 3070, 3080, 3090
If you are wondering “what CPU to pair with 3080 or 3090, this post is where you belong. Following are a few best CPUs that will let you enjoy the RTX 3000 series to the fullest.
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 3990X
Best Premium CPU for RTX 3090
(image credit: Amazon)
Specs:
CPU Speed: 4.3 GHz | Ram: DDR4 | Memory Type: DDR SDRAM | Memory Speed: 3200MHz | Processor Count: 64 | Weight: 1.95 pounds | Dimensions: 3.07 x 2.2 x 0.3 inches
The 3rd Gen Ryzen Threadripper processor is one of the fastest desktop processors ever created, period! It has the highest bandwidth, making it an excellent option for creating visual effects and editing videos. The day-to-day usage will be noticeably smoother and faster than any other product in its class.
AMD Threadripper 3990X is the highest-end consumer desktop processor from AMD, featuring 64 cores and 128 threads. The quad cluster setup of 3990X also ensures that applications are working on concordant data sets without creating too many bottlenecks or cache thrashing. Extraordinarily fast at 4.3 GHz base frequency. The vast 288 MB cache ensures outstanding performance and eliminates stuttering. With this best AMD CPU for 3070 or even 3090, AMD has proved that they mean business. This processor may cost you an arm or leg, but it is worth every penny.
It will also enable much lower latencies when utilized in server setups for real-time transaction processing, where milliseconds could make a huge difference. There’s also quad-channel DDR4. Whether creating a new video project or loading up an existing one, you can expect exceptional responsiveness from this workstation juggernaut. The power under the hood will enable you to quickly and flawlessly complete any task you throw at it.
This best CPU for RTX 3080 is also best-suited for content creators who typically load up their systems with RAMs and buy high-end coolers to complete demanding workflows. With more performance, we anticipate users won’t need to invest in high-cost add-ons. Ryzen Threadripper processors, enabling them to get back to focusing on their creations instead of being bogged down by multi-tasking.
Pros:
- Made for content creators
- Automatic overclocking
- Most powerful CPU
- Beautiful design
Cons:
- Extremely expensive
Intel Core i9-10900K
Best Intel CPU for RTX 3080
(image credit: Amazon)
Specs:
CPU Speed: 3.7 GHz | Memory Type: DDR4 | Wattage: 125 watts | Processor Count: 10 | Weight: 15.2 ounces | Dimensions: 3.54 x 5.24 x 6.1 inches
The 10 Core Intel Core i9-10900K CPU is an unlocked processor that comes with 20 threads. Designed for workstations, servers, and DIY PC enthusiasts with desktop motherboards that use the LGA 1200 socket. The 10 cores are designed for intensive workloads. This power graphics editing and rendering tasks like video encoding, 3D rendering, and high-end gaming on multiple screens without lag or hiccups.
The maximum clock speeds of this CPU range from 4GHz to 5.3GHz, depending on how many cores are active during low resource performance states. In contrast, the average clocking speed ranges between 2.42 GHz to 5 GHz when all 10 Cores simultaneously operate at their peak capacity. That’s its best.
Whenever you need to relish every frame of the games, this best Intel CPU for RTX 3080 will be there for you. It comes with a suite of built-in media tools, so you will always be prepared to edit videos, photos, and animations too. Experience your favorite games in great detail with intelligent performance that adapts to you with no extra cost to battery life. This multi-tasking powerhouse lets you seamlessly switch between apps without freezing or slowing down, even when simultaneously running the most demanding programs.
The 10th Gen Intel Core i9-10900K Desktop Processor is a powerful processor with incredible gaming performance and other high loading tasks. This chip features Intel Turbo Boost Max Technology 3.0 for an additional increase in speed. This best CPU for RTX 3080 is equipped with overclocking capabilities to help you attain the maximum level of power possible from your system’s hardware configuration without any modifications needed. The 10th Gen Intel Core i9-10900K desktop processor can also accommodate 400 series chipset-based motherboards only, which offer improved memory support and robust connectivity for more speeds, bandwidth, and overclocking capabilities.
Pros:
- Allow flexible overclocking
- Best for gamers
- Incredible per core performance
- Easy to use
Cons:
- Thermal solution not included
AMD Ryzen 9 3950X
Best Budget CPU for RTX 3070, 3080, 3090
(image credit: Amazon)
Specs:
CPU Speed: 4.7 GHz | CPU Socket: Socket AM4 | Wattage: 105 watts | Processor Count: 16 | Weight: 6.1 ounces | Dimensions: 1.57 x 1.57 x 0.24 inches
AMD Ryzen 9 3950X is an unprecedented CPU that can deliver ultra-fast FPS. This CPU is ideal for gamers and enthusiasts who want to play the most popular games at 100+FPS and overclock it because this specific CPU has a lot of processing power with 16 cores and 32 threads. The AMD Ryzen 9 3950X also has excellent features like 4.7Hz max boost, unlocked for overclocking, 72MB of game cache, DDR-3200 support for the advanced socket AM4 platform, PCIe 4.0 on x570 motherboards, base clock 3.5GHz, 1 MB total L1 cache, total L2 cache 8MB.
The AMD Ryzen 9 3950X just has a single drawback. It does not come with a liquid cooler and instead, you have to use your own 280mm radiator or more extensive CPU liquid cooling system that can manage heat 95°C Max Temps. This best AMD CPU for 3070 has the most processing power you can get in mainstream desktop PCs. This CPU will be able to deliver ultra-fast performance in the world’s most popular games. Gamers or power-users can play the latest games and enjoy lag-free high-graphic games while multitasking with ease. This is one of the main reasons why this CPU is so famous among gamers and power users.
AMD is a company that has been making computer processors for decades. AMD has seen a resurgence in its popularity and success in the last few years as it innovates and competes with Intel. So if you were looking for a 16 Core CPU in 2023, this is the best one you can get in terms of performance, features and compatibility.
Pros:
- Ultra-fast performance
- Unlocked for overclocking
- Elite gaming performance
- Cool, quiet and efficient
Cons:
- Cooler not included
Intel Core i7-10700K
Best Mid-Range CPU for RTX 3070,3080, 3090
(image credit: Amazon)
Specs:
CPU Speed: 3.8 GHz | Wattage: 125 watts | Processor Count: 8 | Weight: 2.82 ounces | Dimensions: 7.09 x 6.3 x 3.94 inches
The Intel Core i7-10700K is a 10th generation desktop processor from Intel featuring their innovative Turbo Boost Max Technology 3.0. Unlocked 10th Gen Intel Core processors are capable of providing high levels of performance. It offers enthusiasts and content creators the opportunity to overclock for an added boost of speed. The power supply on your PC must also be capable of delivering 125W at 50 degrees C.
The Intel Core i7-10700K is a bag of awesomeness at an affordable price. It has 8 cores and 16 threads, which means that you can run your favorite heavy-duty applications on it with ease. An optimum bus speed of 8 GT/s coupled with Intel’s latest technology ensures you stay productive on this powerhouse machine! With this best processor for RTX 3070, in particular, every professional from developer to designer will get more done in less time than ever before without worrying about performance or power requirements.
Game engines such as Unity and Unreal Engine 4 could see a massive performance increase because of the added cores and threads. The Intel Core i7-10700K has an unlocked multiplier, so you can overclock it on almost any modern motherboard by manually increasing the frequency.
You can push your powerful core i7 up to 5.1 GHz by just increasing the frequency without worrying about voltage increase! It comes with Intel Optane Memory support, which boosts load times when booting up your PC, working on projects and launching applications. This powerful CPU is one of Intel’s latest range of CPUs which will be perfect for multiple processor-intensive tasks simultaneously.
Pros:
- Affordable price range
- New overclocking controls
- Best for gaming
- Great value as compared to others
Cons:
- High power consumption
AMD Ryzen 9 3900X
Best Efficient CPU for RTX 3080
(image credit: Amazon)
Specs:
CPU Speed: 4.6 GHz | Wattage: 105 watts | Processor Count: 12 | Weight: 1.6 ounces | Dimensions: 1.57 x 1.57 x 0.24 inches
AMD Ryzen 9 3900X is a 12-core, the 24-thread unlocked desktop processor with Wraith Prism LED cooler. The processor has been designed from the ground up to achieve new heights in dependability and power efficiency for pro users who work demanding applications like virtualization, modeling or data management.
The AMD Ryzen 9 3900X features the world’s most advanced processor in the desktop PC gaming segment and can deliver Ultra-fast 100+ FPS performance in the most heavy-weight games. It is equipped with AMD Wraith Prism cooler with color-controlled LED support, overclock to hit high speeds without worrying! The 4.6 GHz max Boost allows this CPU to be unlocked, enabling users of all experience levels and options for overclocking.
DDR 3200 support ensures the AMD Ryzen 9 3900X is an excellent choice of processor for anyone looking to assemble a system with high performance, fast speed, and low latency.
The Wraith Prism LED cooler features four direct contact heat pipes, which are more efficient than the standard heat pipes thanks to better heat transfer capabilities thanks to their lower contact resistance. Also, their flat shape allows them to have a larger surface area in comparison with cylindrical ones. This means that this best CPU for RTX 3080 can cool down faster.
AMD Ryzen 9 3900X offers intelligent processors that enable your PC to accelerate demanding tasks and save energy automatically. The AMD SenseMI technology continuously monitors critical functions such as the coolant temperature, lighting timing, electrostatic discharge protection and always sends alerts when events like fan failure happen. And these features at such a low price range are nothing less than a dream come true.
Pros:
- Ultra-fast speed
- RGB light control
- One-click overclocking
- Efficient cooler
Cons:
- You will need to handle it with sensitivity
Intel Core i5-10600K
Best AMD CPU for 3070, 3080, 3090
(image credit: Amazon)
Specs:
CPU Speed: 4.1 GHz | Wattage: 125 watts | Processor Count: 6 | Weight: 3.53 ounces | Dimensions: 1.73 x 4.09 x 4.65 inches
Spice up your workday and save time with the processor powered by Intel Core. With the power of 10th gen Intel Core, you can do more than just light workloads. You can edit videos or run heavy softwares like blender without lagging. You’ll be ready to handle anything that comes your way, whether it’s playing games for fun on downtime after long days at work or ambitious projects at work such as analyzing data and building graphs for presentations.
Intel Core i5-10600K is a powerful CPU with 6 Cores and 12 Threads for more demanding applications. It also has an increased frequency, achieved without overclocking, to handle heavier workloads with ease. A new socket type ensures compatibility with RTX 3000 series and supports Intel Optane Memory technology.
Intel Turbo Boost Technology 2.0 allows the processor to run above its base operating frequency when users demand more performance from their PC. 8th Gen Intel Core desktop processors have been optimized for gaming, video & web applications.
Intel Optane Memory is the intelligent way to increase your PC’s speed, responsiveness, and overall productivity. Get higher levels of performance by adding external memory. Your computer will have increased storage capacity using both the SSD and HDD. Allows you to resume from sleep 3x faster using the memory which was open when the system entered sleep mode. Higher capacity, more speed and lower power input are all this CPU is about.
Pros:
- For seamless gameplay
- Unlocked for overclocking
- Best price
- Beautiful design
Cons:
- Number of cores could have been increased
AMD Ryzen 7 3700X
Best High Speed CPU for RTX 3070
(image credit: Amazon)
Specs:
CPU Speed: 4.4 GHz | Wattage: 65 watts | Processor Count: 8 | Weight: 1.4 pounds | Dimensions: 1.57 x 1.57 x 0.24 inches
The Ryzen 7 3700X is a gaming CPU, right? And we should use it for games. Fair enough. But what if you don’t game at all and just do other things on your computer like work, browse social media, etc.? Or perhaps you’re someone who enjoys creative media projects, where powerful PC hardware can help boost efficiency and improve productivity over time. This would mean that you wouldn’t necessarily need an expensive 3rd Generation processor to complete these tasks. If you are looking for an alternative solution towards improving your PC hardware for general use without spending too much money, then this best AMD CPU for 30 series is what you are looking for.
The AMD Ryzen 7 3700X is the newest desktop CPU in the gaming industry, with an already impressive speed of 4.4 GHz. This special edition includes an all-new Wraith Prism cooler with color control to match your style and can pack a punch for FPS games by effectively beating previous models. This best processor for RTX 3070 eliminates performance dropouts due to core clogging or thermal throttling during long periods of gameplay.
This processor has 8 cores that are capable of being accelerated to 3.6GHz when given adequate cooling. 16 threads are also included which significantly increases productivity rates while reducing energy use efficiencies, making it one of the industry’s most efficient desktop CPUs. AMD Ryzen 7 3700X design ensures your gaming session will not be interrupted by overheating or throttling. Incredible multitasking performance with 8 cores and 16 threads. Hence, there’s never an issue with performance, even when performing demanding tasks.
Pros:
- High speed
- Fully unlocked
- Color control LED lighting
- Affordable price
Cons:
- Detaching the stock cooler could be hard
Intel Core i9-9900K
Best Gaming CPU for RTX 3000 series
(image credit: Amazon)
Specs:
CPU Speed: 5 GHz | Wattage: 95 watts | Processor Count: 8 | Weight: 11.9 ounces | Dimensions: 2.91 x 4.41 x 4.61 inches
The Intel Core i9-9900K helps you build a computer capable of performing complex computations and intensive multitasking with ease. With an 8-core 16 thread architecture, it can run multiple high-intensity workloads at the same time. This best intel CPU for RTX 3080 and 3090 has been rated as one of the highest speed CPUs ever created by Intel, running 5GHz when under boosting!
In addition to being highly powerful, this CPU is efficient in how it uses power. It runs on 95W and integrates seamlessly into any modern motherboard while retaining other vital features like overclocking capability and compatibility with “Intel Turbo Boost Technology!”. The socket is compatible only with motherboards based on the Intel 300 Series Chipsets, but that should not stop you from upgrading if it is compatible. This CPU also comes equipped with switchable graphics so that you can pick the power savings mode for your needs.
It has Intel Hyper-Threading technology which makes it capable of handling 16 different processes simultaneously without any glitch. You can run many applications at once without slowing down your system or experiencing issues like freezing. If you’re playing a game on Steam that uses 4 threads, you could also stream music from Spotify while rendering a video in the background and surfing the web.
In other words, this processor is an excellent option if you run resource-intensive programs and want to improve performance. It’s also well suited for gaming because it can handle many processes without slowing down your PC. Outclassing its predecessor in every way imaginable, the Intel Core i9-9900K is genuinely an exceptional CPU!
Pros:
- Best for multitasking
- Low power consumption
- Intel Optane Memory Support
- Intel Memory Protection
Cons:
- You might face heating problems
Buying Guide
Dual-threading: Hyperthreading is a technology that Intel introduced into their processors. AMD calls it SMT, which stands for Simultaneous Multitasking. Dual threading is not about processing twice as much work but rather allowing your computer to solve multiple problems at once. This is done by using two threads instead of just one when there are no other tasks available for execution or completion on its part.
Clock speed: What makes a CPU perfect for gaming? Clock speed and cores. A high-quality card requires fast processing to avoid lag or choppiness when playing games. The higher the frequency, the less time there will be between frames which will make your gameplay seamless. A rule of thumb is basic clock speeds should be 3 – 4 GHz with 5+GHz turbo boost overclockability. You can find plenty of options available above having the same or more than this speed.
Bottleneck: Bottlenecks happen when a system’s design limits the use and utilization of its resources. The CPU must handle mathematical calculations while providing rendering instructions for graphics processing in order to produce an output that is efficient enough to utilize the GPU’s full potential. If not processed at speeds comparable or faster than how quickly data can be logged into these systems then bottlenecks will occur on all levels such as slow loading times among many other things!
AMD vs. INTEL: Debating which processor is better between AMD or Intel can be a tough call. In terms of value, it’s obvious that you get more bang for your buck with the red team as their Ryzen series CPUs provide top performance in demanding games and have low power consumption rates while still being able to challenge any task put before them at an unbeatable price point. However there are some who believe otherwise due mostly thanks to content creation where INTEL reigns supreme. However, this argument could likely change anytime now thanks to new releases from both camps!
Conclusion
We have provided a list of the 8 best CPUs for RTX 3000 series. This will allow you to make an informed decision when purchasing one that is perfect for your needs and budget. If any questions arise, please feel free to reach out to us via email or social media channels. Our team would be glad to help!
FAQs
