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Best CPU for RTX 4070 (Gaming, AMD, Intel)

The recommended CPU for the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 will depend on several factors, including the intended use of the computer and the budget of the user.

For gaming, a high-performance CPU is essential to ensure that the graphics card can run at its full potential. A popular choice for gaming CPUs is the Intel Core i9 or Core i7 or the AMD Ryzen 9 Series. These CPUs offer high clock speeds and multi-core performance, making them ideal for gaming.

For video editing and other professional applications, a CPU with a high core count and strong single-core performance is important. The AMD Ryzen Threadripper or Intel Core i9 are both powerful CPUs that can handle demanding tasks.

It’s also important to note that the CPU should be paired with a compatible motherboard and sufficient cooling to ensure optimal performance. It’s recommended to do thorough research and consult with experts to ensure the best combination of components for your specific needs and budget.

Gaming enthusiasts understand that the graphics card is the heart of any gaming system. However, having a powerful graphics card alone is not enough to run high-end games smoothly. Your system also needs a powerful CPU to process data, render graphics, and run applications seamlessly. 

If you are looking to build a high-performance gaming system, you need to invest in a top-notch CPU that can keep up with the RTX 4070’s power. This guide will help you find the Best CPU for RTX 4070 and optimize your gaming experience. Also look for RTX 4070 Monitors, RTX 4070 Motherboards, and RTX 4070 PSU.

Our Recommended list of the Best CPU for RTX 4070

  1. Intel Core i9-13900K
  2. AMD Ryzen 9 7900X3D
  3. Intel Core i7-13700K
  4. Intel Core i5-12600K
  5. AMD Ryzen 7 7700X
  6. AMD Ryzen 9 5950X

1. Intel Core i9-13900K

Intel Core i9-13900K

The Intel i9-13900K is the latest addition to the Intel Core i9 series, featuring a 12-core, 24-thread configuration with a base clock speed of 3.5 GHz and a boost clock speed of up to 5.3 GHz. It also supports DDR5 memory, which can enhance overall system performance and speed.

When paired with an RTX 4070 graphics card, the i9-13900K can deliver exceptional performance, making it an ideal choice for gaming enthusiasts and professionals who require high processing power. Its powerful octa-core configuration and Turbo Boost Max Technology 3.0 can handle intensive applications and multitasking with ease.

One of the potential downsides of the i9-13900K is its high power consumption, which can lead to high heat output and require a powerful cooling solution. Additionally, its price tag may be a significant consideration for budget-conscious consumers.

The Intel i9-13900K is a powerful CPU that can deliver exceptional performance when paired with an RTX 4070 graphics card. Its high clock speeds, 12-core configuration, and support for DDR5 memory make it a top-of-the-line choice for gamers, content creators, and professionals who demand the best performance from their systems.

2. AMD Ryzen 9 7900X3D

The AMD Ryzen 9 7900X3D actually features 12 cores and 24 processing threads, which is still a significant increase in processing power compared to its predecessors.

The high core count and processing threads make the AMD Ryzen 9 7900X3D a strong choice for demanding applications such as gaming, video editing, and 3D modeling. Additionally, the processor features boost clock speed of up to 5.5 GHz, which can deliver fast and smooth performance for these types of applications.

When paired with an RTX 4070 graphics card, the AMD Ryzen 9 7900X3D can deliver exceptional performance for gaming, content creation, and other demanding applications. Its high core count and clock speeds make it an ideal choice for users who require high processing power and multitasking capabilities.

This boost clock speed is achieved through AMD’s Precision Boost 3 technology, which dynamically adjusts the processor’s clock speed based on workload demands and power consumption. This means that the AMD Ryzen 9 7900X3D can provide excellent single-threaded performance for tasks such as gaming or video editing.

In addition to its high clock speeds, the AMD Ryzen 9 7900X3D also features 12 cores and 24 processing threads, support for PCIe 5.0, DDR5 memory, and is built on the Zen 4 architecture. These features make it an excellent choice for users who require high processing power and multitasking capabilities.

The AMD Ryzen 9 7900X3D is an impressive processor that can handle even the most demanding workloads with ease. Its combination of high clock speeds, core count, and advanced technologies make it a top choice for users who require top-tier performance from their computer system.

3. Intel Core i7-13700K

Intel Core i7-13700K

The i7-13700K is based on the new Intel Alder Lake architecture, which is the company’s first hybrid design combining high-performance and high-efficiency cores. It features 8 high-performance cores and 8 high-efficiency cores, which allow for optimal performance and power efficiency depending on the task at hand.

When paired with the upcoming RTX 4070 graphics card, the i7-13700K is expected to provide exceptional performance in gaming and content creation, with improved ray tracing and DLSS features.

The CPU has a base clock speed of 3.6 GHz and a boost clock speed of up to 5.4 GHz. It also supports Intel’s Hyper-Threading technology, which allows for up to 24 threads to run simultaneously. Additionally, it supports DDR5 memory and PCIe 5.0, providing faster data transfer speeds.

The i7-13700K is also unlocked, which means that it can be overclocked for even higher performance. Overclocking involves increasing the clock speed and voltage of the CPU, which can result in a significant boost in performance but also requires adequate cooling and power supply.

When it comes to gaming, the i7-13700K is a top-performing CPU that can handle even the most demanding games at high frame rates. It also offers excellent multitasking capabilities, making it a great choice for gamers who like to stream their gameplay or run multiple applications simultaneously.

The Intel Core i7-13700K is a powerful CPU that offers excellent performance and efficiency, making it a great choice for both gaming and productivity applications. When paired with the RTX 4070 graphics card, it is expected to provide exceptional performance in gaming and content creation, but it is important to note that the RTX 4070 has not yet been officially announced, so it is still unclear how it will perform in real-world scenarios.

4. Intel Core i5-12600K

Intel Core i5-12600K

The i5-12600K is also based on the Intel Alder Lake architecture and is the successor to the popular i5-11600K. It features 6 high-performance cores and 8 high-efficiency cores, similar to the i7-13700K, but with fewer high-performance cores.

The i5-12600K has a base clock speed of 3.7 GHz and a boost clock speed of up to 4.9 GHz. It also supports Hyper-Threading technology, allowing for up to 12 threads to run simultaneously. It supports DDR5 memory and PCIe 5.0, just like the i7-13700K.

When it comes to gaming, the i5-12600K is a capable CPU that can handle most games with ease. However, it may struggle with more demanding games that require a higher number of cores and threads. Its multitasking capabilities are also slightly inferior to those of the i7-13700K, but it is still a good choice for those on a budget.

As for its compatibility with the upcoming RTX 407https://pcbuildcomparison.com/best-gpu-for-ryzen-9-7900x3d/0, the i5-12600K should be able to handle the graphics card without any issues. However, it may not be able to take full advantage of its capabilities due to its lower number of high-performance cores. For optimal performance, it is recommended to pair the RTX 4070 with a high-performance CPU such as the i7-13700K.

The Intel Core i5-12600K is a capable CPU that offers good performance and efficiency at a lower price point than the i7-13700K. While it may struggle with more demanding games and tasks, it is still a good choice for those on a budget. When paired with the upcoming RTX 4070, it should be able to handle the graphics card without any major issues, but for optimal performance, it is recommended to pair it with a high-performance CPU.

5. AMD Ryzen 7 7700X

AMD Ryzen 7 7700X

The AMD Ryzen 7 7700X is a high-end desktop CPU based on the Zen 4 architecture. It features 8 cores and 16 threads, with a base clock speed of 3.7 GHz and a boost clock speed of up to 5.4 GHz. It also supports PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 memory.

One of the standout features of the Ryzen 7 7700X is its support for PCIe 5.0. This is the latest version of the PCIe interface and offers twice the bandwidth of the previous PCIe 4.0 standard. This means that the CPU can communicate with other components in the system, such as the graphics card and NVMe SSDs, at faster speeds. This can result in better performance in tasks such as gaming, rendering, and data transfer.

When it comes to gaming, the Ryzen 7 7700X is a powerful CPU that can handle even the most demanding games with ease. Its high core count and thread count make it ideal for multitasking and running demanding applications, such as video editing and 3D rendering.

As for its compatibility with the RTX 4070, the Ryzen 7 7700X should be able to handle the graphics card without any issues. It has ample core and thread count to keep up with the demanding graphics workload. Pairing the RTX 4070 with a high-end CPU like the Ryzen 7 7700X will ensure that you get the best possible performance out of your system.

The AMD Ryzen 7 7700X is a powerful CPU that can handle even the most demanding games and applications. When paired with the RTX 4070, it should be able to handle the graphics card without any issues and provide optimal performance.

6. AMD Ryzen 9 5950X

AMD Ryzen 9 5950X

The AMD Ryzen 5950X is a high-end processor, it has 16 cores and 32 threads, making it an ideal choice for demanding applications such as gaming and video editing. It is also a great option for users who require high processing power for tasks such as 3D rendering or scientific simulations.

However, based on the performance of the previous generation RTX graphics cards, it is safe to assume that the AMD Ryzen 5950X will be able to handle the RTX 4070 without any issues. The combination of a powerful processor and graphics card will enable users to run the latest games and applications at high settings and framerates.

It is also worth noting that the AMD Ryzen 5950X is compatible with a wide range of motherboards, which means that users will have plenty of options when it comes to choosing a compatible motherboard for their RTX 4070 graphics card. Additionally, the processor supports PCIe 4.0, which is the latest version of the PCIe interface and provides faster data transfer speeds compared to previous versions.

In terms of pricing, the AMD Ryzen 5950X is not a budget-friendly option, as it is one of the most expensive processors on the market. However, its high-end performance and capabilities make it a worthwhile investment for users who require a top-of-the-line processor.

The AMD Ryzen 5950X is an excellent processor for users who require high processing power, and it should work seamlessly with the RTX 4070 graphics card from Nvidia.

Best CPUs for RTX 4070 Buying Guide

If you’re looking to buy the best CPU for the RTX 4070 graphics card, there are a few key factors to consider:

Compatibility: 

Before purchasing a CPU, it is important to ensure that it is compatible with the motherboard you are using or plan to use with the RTX 4070 graphics card. Check the motherboard’s specifications to see which CPUs are supported.

Core count and clock speed: 

A CPU with a higher core count and clock speed will generally offer better performance when paired with a high-end graphics card like the RTX 4070. Aim for at least an 8-core CPU with a clock speed of 3.5GHz or higher for optimal performance.

Brand and chipset: 

The two main CPU brands are Intel and AMD, and each offers a range of chipsets with varying capabilities. Intel’s current high-end chipset is the Z790, while AMD’s is the X670. Consider which brand and chipset best suits your needs and budget.

Cooling: 

A high-end CPU will generate a lot of heat, so it’s important to ensure adequate cooling solutions are in place. This can be achieved through air or liquid cooling, depending on your preference and budget.

Budget: 

The cost of a CPU can vary greatly depending on the brand, chipset, and model. Determine your budget before purchasing and look for CPUs that offer the best performance within your price range.

Some recommended CPUs to pair with the RTX 4070 include the Intel Core i9-13900K, the AMD Ryzen 9 7900X3D, and the AMD Ryzen 9 5950X. These CPUs offer high core counts, high clock speeds, and compatibility with the latest technologies such as PCIe 5.0.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when it comes to selecting the best CPU for the RTX 4070 graphics card, it is essential to consider compatibility, core count, clock speed, brand, chipset, cooling, and budget. 

Our recommended CPUs include the Intel i9-13900K, AMD Ryzen 9 7900X3D, Intel Core i7-13700K, Intel Core i5-12600K, AMD Ryzen 7 7700X,, and the AMD Ryzen 9 5950X. 

These CPUs offer high core counts, clock speeds, and support for the latest technologies, making them ideal for demanding applications and gaming.

It is important to note that the specific requirements for a CPU will vary depending on the use case and the requirements of the application or game being run. 

Therefore, it is important to carefully evaluate your needs and choose a CPU that offers the best performance within your budget.

In any case, selecting a high-end CPU that is compatible with the RTX 4070 graphics card will ensure that you can take full advantage of its capabilities and achieve optimal performance.

FAQs

What CPU should go with 4070?

The RTX 4070 is a powerful graphics card that can handle high-end gaming and other tasks. To make the most of it, you’ll need a CPU that can keep up with its performance and avoid any bottlenecks. There are many CPUs that can work well with the RTX 4070, but some of the best ones are:

Intel Core i9-13900K: This is the most powerful CPU on the market, and it will provide excellent performance for the RTX 4070 as well as for RTX 4070 Ti in both gaming and productivity tasks.

AMD Ryzen 7 7700X: The AMD Ryzen 7 7700X is recommended as a mid-range CPU that provides a total of 8 cores and 16 threads. Its clock speeds include a base frequency of 4.6 GHz, which can be boosted to reach 5.1 GHz.

Intel Core i7-13700K: The Intel Core i7-13700K stands as a top-tier processor, showcasing a robust configuration of 12 cores and 20 threads. It operates at a base clock speed of 3.4 GHz, which can be dynamically elevated to a boost clock speed of 5.4 GHz.

AMD Ryzen 9 7900X3D: The AMD Ryzen 9 7900X3D is an exceptionally powerful processor, showcasing an impressive array of 16 cores and 32 threads. It operates at a base clock speed of 4.9 GHz, which can be further accelerated to a remarkable boost clock speed of 6.1 GHz.

What CPU will bottleneck a 4070

A bottleneck occurs when one component of your system limits the performance of another component, resulting in lower efficiency and performance. In this case, a CPU bottleneck means that your CPU is too slow or weak to keep up with your RTX 4070 GPU, causing lower frame rates, stuttering, or lagging in games or other applications. To avoid this, you’ll need a CPU that can match or exceed the performance of your RTX 4070 GPU.
Some examples of CPUs that might bottleneck a RTX 4070 GPU are:

Intel Core i5-10400F: This is a budget CPU that has 6 cores and 12 threads, with a base clock speed of 2.9 GHz and a boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.

AMD Ryzen 5 3600: The AMD Ryzen 5 3600 falls within the mid-range category of CPUs, offering a configuration of 6 cores and 12 threads. Its operational frequencies include a starting base clock speed of 3.6 GHz, which can be enhanced to a peak boost clock speed of 4.2 GHz.

Intel Core i7-9700K: The Intel Core i7-9700K is settled as a premium-grade CPU, featuring a total of 8 cores and 8 threads. Its operational parameters consist of a foundational base clock speed of 3.6 GHz, and the ability to reach an elevated boost clock speed of 4.9 GHz.

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  • Dave James

    Dave has been gaming since the days of Zaxxon and Lady Bug on the Colecovision, and code books for the Commodore Vic 20 (Death Race 2000!). He built his first gaming PC at the tender age of 16, and finally finished bug-fixing the Cyrix-based system around a year later. When he dropped it out of the window. He first started writing for Official PlayStation Magazine and Xbox World many decades ago, then moved onto PC Format full-time, then PC Gamer, TechRadar, and T3 among others. Now he's back, writing about the nightmarish graphics card market, CPUs with more cores than sense, gaming laptops hotter than the sun, and SSDs more capacious than a Cybertruck.

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