cpus

Best CPUs for RTX 3090 in 2023

by Peter Samuel

Of course, it requires a compatible CPU for excellent performance. The processor is the brain of the computer that performs all data processing operations. To opt for the best CPU for RTX 3090, you should compare the clock rate, memory type, cores, threads, TDP, and socket type. Initially, processors were responsible for translating information into images with the help of frame buffers. But, now the latest processors have enough headroom for the discrete graphics card to enhance performance.

Below, we review the best CPUs with their pros and cons that help you to know which one to choose. This guide will help you to understand the basics of their operations and differences. We ended up with a wide selection of top gaming processors and productivity beasts.

At A Glance:

Best pick

Intel's Best CPU for RTX 3090

Intel Core i9-10900K

Intel Core i9-10900K

Relatively up-to-date

Admiring base clock speed

Compatible motherboard socket for existing models of coolers

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Staff Pick

Best Overall CPU for RTX 3090

AMD Ryzen 9 5900X

AMD Ryzen 9 5900X

Excellent base clock speed

Integrated cooler at no additional cost

Compatible with numerous motherboards

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Budget Pick

Best Budget CPU for RTX 3090

Intel Core i5-10600K

Intel Core i5-10600K

A multi-threading beast

Great thermal performance

Excellent boost clock speed for single-thread tasks

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It’s no surprise that the RTX 3090 is one of the most powerful graphics cards on the market. But in order to get all the benefits of it, you need a CPU that can keep up. The best CPUs for RTX 3090 can provide a high level of performance without bottlenecking the card. That means choosing a CPU with a high clock speed and plenty of cores. In addition, you’ll want to check that your CPU has a good aftermarket cooler.

We’ve rounded up the best CPUs for RTX 3090 gaming, so you can make sure your system can deliver the best possible gaming experience. From high-end Intel processors to budget-friendly AMD options, there’s a CPU on this list that will suit your needs. For the best performance from your RTX 3090, be sure to check out our list of the best CPUs for RTX 3090.

Below, we review the best CPUs with their pros and cons that help you to know which one to choose. This guide will help you to understand the basics of their operations and differences. We ended up with a wide selection of top gaming processors and productivity beasts.

Our Recommendations For Best CPU for RTX 3090

Award Modal Design Retailer
Intel's Best CPU for RTX 3090 Intel Core i9-10900K Intel Core i9-10900K View on amazon
AMD's Best CPU for RTX 3090 AMD Ryzen 7 5800X AMD Ryzen 7 5800X View on amazon
Best Mid-Range CPU for RTX 3090 Intel Core i7-10700K Intel Core i7-10700K View on amazon
Best Overall CPU for RTX 3090 AMD Ryzen 9 5900X AMD Ryzen 9 5900X View on amazon
Best Flagship CPU for RTX 3090 Intel Core i9-9900K Intel Core i9-9900K View on amazon
Best Enthusiast CPU for RTX 3090 AMD Ryzen 5 5600X AMD Ryzen 5 5600X View on amazon
Best Budget CPU for RTX 3090 Intel Core i5-10600K Intel Core i5-10600K View on amazon
Best Performance CPU for RTX 3090 AMD Ryzen 9 3900X AMD Ryzen 9 3900X View on amazon

Intel Core i9-10900K

Best pick Intel Core i9-10900K View on amazon

Brand: Intel | Model: Core i9 | Cores: 10 | Threads: 20 | Base clock: 3.70 GHz | Boost clock: 5.30 GHz | Memory Type: DDR4-2933 | Socket Type: LGA 1200 | TDP: 125 W

What recent buyers report?

The unlocked design with integrated graphics of Intel Core i9-10900K has ranked top in the market, and the users are delighted with it. Intel has been striving to meet the user’s requirements with better products. The passionate gamers prefer it due to its excellent frequency rate that assists in multitasking jobs. It is affordable for all users with dual features of work and gaming.

Why does it stand out to us?

Historically, Intel has launched its most potent CPU in its mainstream lineup to date. You can enjoy a base clock of 3.7GHz, and it goes up to 5.30GHz. The Intel Core i9-10900K available with 10-cores and 20 threads that render enough functionality for all hardcore tasks. The package has no cooler, so you will have to take it for better performance.

Who will use this the most?

If you need the best CPU for gaming with excellent single and multi-core performance, it has all these premium features. It’s not suitable for those who want to slot a new processor into your existing build and chipset with modest power consumption. Primarily, 10900K beats its competitors in the gaming segment with its enchanting frequency rate.

Bottom line

The Core i9-10900K delivers a comprehensive performance and struggles to hold center stage in the hardware sector. It is the fastest processor with ten cores and twenty threads and a boost clock that goes all the way up to 5.3GHz. The drawbacks of this product depend on how hard you are pushing your PC. It can hit its full potential with a compatible cooling system.

The Pros

Relatively up-to-date

Admiring base clock speed

Compatible motherboard socket for existing models of coolers

The Cons

Package lacks CPU cooler

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AMD Ryzen 7 5800X

AMD Ryzen 7 5800X View on amazon

Brand: AMD | Model: AMD Ryzen 7 | Cores: 8 | Threads: 16 | Base clock: 3.8 GHz | Boost clock: Up to 4.7 GHz | Memory Type: DDR4-3200 | Socket Type: Socket AM4 | TDP: 105 W

What recent buyers report?

The customers always prefer the product with its multitasking performance. AMD is famous for the manufacturing of performance-oriented products. The excellent point is that the buyers can get a processor, which helps both workstation and gaming purposes. It satisfies the user’s needs with an outstanding base clock rate. It has gained much appreciation in the market because of its socket AM4.

Why does it stand out to us?

AMD RYZEN 7 5800X stands out to us with its established position in the market. It handles the tasking jobs with 8-cores and 16-threads that is enough for a regular user. The fact is that it has a futuristic approach. Its support for PCIe 4.0 enough to manage upcoming expansion problems. It is the masterpiece of Zen 3 architecture with strict single-core performance and energy efficiency.

Who will use this the most?

It has an all-around performance, but it is perfect for a workstation because it manages 54FPS against intel 10700K’s 43fps. For the users who want to do video encoding and editing, then it’s excellent for them. Comparatively, the gaming performance is also good, with some impressive boosts over previous models. With a 7fps advantage against its competitor, it is good at 1080p.

Bottom line

Don’t let your PC get in the way of your success. With AMD Ryzen 7 5800X, you can achieve more than ever before. This powerful desktop processor gives you the speed and performance to crush deadlines and keep up with the competition.

It is the fastest 8 core processor for mainstream desktop computers. With a speed of 4.7 GHz and 16 processing threads, this processor can easily handle the most demanding tasks and games.

Plus, with support for DDR-3200 memory, you’ll be able to take your game or project to the next level. And for those who want to push the limits even further, the AMD Ryzen 7 5800X is unlocked for overclocking, giving you even more power at your fingertips.

Whether you’re playing the latest games, designing the next skyscraper, or crunching scientific data, AMD Ryzen always has your back. Plus, with effortless expansion options thanks to an AMD Ryzen Desktop Processor with Radeon™ Graphics, you can future-proof your system for years to come. So why wait? Get the AMD Ryzen 7 5800X today and see what you’ve been missing.

The Pros

Delivers elite 100+ FPS

Excellent single-core performance

Support memory speeds of up to DDR4+3200MHz

The Cons

Runs typically on 85 degree

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Intel Core i7-10700K

Intel Core i7-10700K View on amazon

Brand: Intel | Model: Core i7 | Cores: 8 | Threads: 16 | Base clock: 3.8 GHz | Boost clock: Up to 5.10 GHz | Memory Type: DDR4-2933 | Socket Type: LGA 1200 | TDP: 125 W

What recent buyers report?

The buyers report that it performs well with the new motherboard. It shows appreciative output at both single- and multi-core workloads. Its compact design occupies little space on the desk, giving users a chance to enrich its desk with other compatible devices. It does not support the PCIe 4.0 slot but has compatibility with the 3.0 version.

Why does it stand out to us?

It comes to serve users with an extraordinary compact design. Its factory-customization fulfills all desires with incredible performance-oriented components. The CPU renders the VR and 4K gaming experience with the help of RTX graphics. The liquid-cooling for CPU and GPU enhances its value for professional gamers. The blend of core-i9 and Nvidia card offers an immersive computing experience.

Who will use this the most?

It is a serious processor for content creators and gamers with rocking eight cores and sixteen threads. It is not entirely efficient, but still a super-good choice. If you want the perfect processor around for gaming, then it’s available at a considerable rate. It suits those who do not wish to PCIe 4.0 and chipset with modest power consumption.

Bottom line

The Intel Core i7-10700K and Core i9-10900K have the same performance level, but some other CPUs are available at lower price ranges. Intel’s benchmark feature is that it has superior performance for gaming, but AMD provides better productivity work at this price tag. The higher frequency rate makes it prominent in the market with reasonable cooling requirements.

The Pros

High boost frequencies

Latest BIOS with significant impacts

Exceptional gaming performance with 8-Core and 16-Threads

The Cons

No PCIe 4.0

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AMD Ryzen 9 5900X

Staff Pick AMD Ryzen 9 5900X View on amazon

Brand: AMD | Model: AMD Ryzen 9 | Cores: 12 | Threads: 24 | Base clock: 3.7 GHz | Boost clock: Up to 4.8 GHz | Memory Type: DDR4-3200 | Socket Type: Socket AM4 | TDP: 105 W

What recent buyers report?

According to recent buyer’s reports, this product of Ryzen provides an option for personalized performance. Its views advance output with integrated Radeon graphics and DDR4 memory. You can adjust and optimize the performance level for the active core and favorite applications. The users prefer it because it can encode fast, render fast, iterate quickly, and create something at the speed of light. It meets the customer’s requirements with 24-threads performance.

Why does it stand out to us?

AMD always strives to get center stage in hardware quality-production. It launches the AMD Ryzen 9 5900X with 12-cores and 24-threads perfect for computing’s contemporary realm. With sufficient cooling, it performs on peak overclocking frequency. This beast delivers a severe number of crunching for gaming, video encoding, and 3D effects.

Who will use this the most?

The advanced computer users buy because of its excellent performance for work and gaming. It performs well at the base-clock rate for gaming. You can take it as a long-term platform because it supports the PCIe 4.0 version with 20 lanes enough for the upcoming expansion. At proper cooling, it performs 30 percent faster than its intel competitor 10900K.

Bottom line

If you are looking for an absolute processor, then it is perfect with 12-cores, 24-threads at a high price tag. You can not find the best CPU for RTX 3090 like this because this card hits full potential with a compatible card. So, the AMD Ryzen 9 5900X is the masterpiece for desirous performance.

The Pros

Excellent base clock speed

Integrated cooler at no additional cost

Compatible with numerous motherboards

The Cons

Efficiency could be better

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Intel Core i9-9900K

Intel Core i9-9900K View on amazon

Brand: Intel | Model: Core i9 | Cores: 8 | Threads: 16 | Base clock: 3.60 GHz | Boost clock: Up to 5.00 GHz | Memory Type: DDR4-2666 | Socket Type: LGA 1151 | TDP: 95 W

What recent buyers report?

The buyers rate it on behalf of what you get for what you pay for something. Its performance urges gamers to buy it for a lot of fun. Its turbo clock-rate and low power consumption are as good as possible to deliver a good performance. It meets the gamer’s requirements of overclocking with 5.00GHz with 95 TDP that is an appreciative factor.

Why does it stand out to us?

The Intel Core i9 9900K is an inaugurating device at the forefront of making an excellent mainstream experience. It eliminates the latency effect with the advancement of high-quality cores and threads. Intel’s product has the advantage of futuristic customization with support for PCIe 3.0 version and 16 lanes. Traditionally, Intel offers the exclusive product to overcome gaming problems with an adequate clock rate.

Who will use this the most?

It is an absolute powerhouse for video encoding and editing. If you are a media professional, this is plump for you. This chip is overkill for a mid-range web browser and YouTube devotees. Intel claims that it is the world’s best gaming desktop processor with a boost clock speed of 5GHz and stonking eight cores and 16 threads.

Bottom line

Experience unrivalled efficiency and performance with the Intel Core i9-9900K. This 8-core, 16-thread CPU offers incredible speeds of up to 5 GHz, making it the perfect choice for gamers and power users who wish to get the very best from their computers. With support for Intel VT-d, TSX-NI, and 64-bit instruction sets, the Core i9-9900K is also highly versatile, offering unbeatable performance for a wide range of tasks.

And with Thermal Monitoring Technologies and Intel Identity Protection Technology built-in, you can be sure that your investment is protected. It also has 16 MB of smart cache, allowing it to handle large amounts of data quickly and efficiently.

In addition, the Intel Core i9-9900K has a thermal design power of 95W, making it able to handle even the most strenuous tasks without breaking a sweat. And with support for DDR4-2666 memory, this processor can keep up with even the most demanding applications.

Order the Intel Core i9-9900K today and experience unrivalled power and performance!

The Pros

Low energy consumption

The unique clock rate of 5.0 GHz

Flamethrower for multi-threaded applications

The Cons

Low gaming potential

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AMD Ryzen 5 5600X

AMD Ryzen 5 5600X View on amazon

Brand: AMD | Model: AMD Ryzen 5 | Cores: 6 | Threads: 12 | Base clock: 3.7 GHz | Boost clock: Up to 4.6 GHz | Memory Type: DDR4-3200 | Socket Type: Socket AM4 | TDP: 65 W

What recent buyers report?

First of all, the affordability of this product has gained much appreciation from the user’s community. AMD offers an exclusive package for moderate customers. Its hegemonic role in the market has been approved by compatible socket AM4 and support for PCIe 4.0 on X570 and B550 motherboards.

Why does it stand out to us?

AMD Ryzen 5 5600X is the best budget gaming and mixed-use CPU for RTX 3090. Comparatively, it offers excellent gaming performance in line with its contender and also a perfect productivity choice. A bit slower than the 8-core 3700x but considerably faster in games. The base frequency of 3.7 GHz rectifies it for the heavy graphics card to handle hardcore tasks with excellent performance.

Who will use this the most?

It is not the perfect choice for premium performance. But it is suitable for gaming purposes with room for upgrading in the future. You can get it with a Wraith Stealth cooler that balances its performance level. If you are a beginner, you can enjoy an impressive performance at a reasonable price. It is the latest processor in the desktop gaming segment.

Bottom line

It is one of the most balanced computer processors we have tested. We are astonished by what AMD managed to create and how vital the performance increase is from one generation to the next. Intel does not have a processor to beat it at a similar price-tag. The system can run for a long time without a heat factor because of its low-level power consumption.

The Pros

Customizable & quiet design

Highly power efficient at 65W

Metal reinforced PCI- Express slots

The Cons

No Wi-Fi

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Intel Core i5-10600K

Budget Pick Intel Core i5-10600K View on amazon

Brand: Intel | Model: Core i5 | Cores: 8 | Threads: 16 | Base clock: 4.10 GHz | Boost clock: Up to 4.80 GHz | Memory Type: DDR4-2666 | Socket Type: LGA 1200 | TDP: 125 W

What recent buyers report?

It’s suitable for current gaming performance for mid-range customers who are just looking for sufficient output for the money. Intel launches its pipe dream as an affordable mainstream processor with Hyper-Threading productivity. Buyers appreciate it due to its consumer compatibility. The lack of PCIe 4.0 creates confusion for those who want to use it for a long time.

Why does it stand out to us?

The price tag of this product is impressive to elucidate that we are compelled to accept its attributes. Comparatively, it has many superseding qualities at an affordable rate. Intel presents a thicker heat spreader to compensate for the 125W TDP level. There is a lot of overclocking headroom because the higher power consumption allows the increased clock speed. However, the turbo boost of 4.8GHz of Intel Core i5-10600K is much more tremendous than AMD Ryzen 5 3600X and 9600K.

Who will use this the most?

If you want to play esports that rely on high clock speeds, it’s the perfect choice for gamers. The K-series Core i5, with the help of hyper-threading, plays a vital role in gaming utility. For those who want to play the game in a motion-free environment with a tight budget, it’s good for them.

Bottom line

The Intel Core i5-10600K is a gigantic refinement over the 9600K in pretty much every way, especially if you’re looking to do more than just gaming. You will have to adjust without a PCIe 4.0 slot, which is a miserable for a pro gamer, as any system you build with this processor won’t be as future-proof as it would be with the AMD Ryzen 5 3600X. But, you’re getting some incredible performance for the money, and that will likely get even better if you overclock it.

The Pros

A multi-threading beast

Great thermal performance

Excellent boost clock speed for single-thread tasks

The Cons

The package does not include CPU Cooler

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AMD Ryzen 9 3900X

AMD Ryzen 9 3900X View on amazon

Brand: AMD | Model: AMD Ryzen 5 | Cores: 12 | Threads: 24 | Base clock: 3.8 GHz | Boost clock: Up to 4.6 GHz | Memory Type: DDR4-3200 | Socket Type: Socket AM4 | TDP: 105 W

What recent buyers report?

AMD put together an impressive piece of hardware that renders its gaming console well. It stands out to us with futuristic up-gradation. The clock rate and support for the PCIe 4.0 slot enchant the users. It presents an improved functionality with low power consumption. Approximately, its peak level clock rate meets all requirements of gamers an immersive experience.

Why does it stand out to us?

The absolute features of AMD Ryzen 9 3900X can revolutionize mainstream desktop computing. It renders incredible performance with an appropriate frequency rate helps for the immersive gaming experience. You can get it at an affordable rate for its functionality. For gamers, it is the perfect choice with huge compatibility for motherboards and graphics. Its support for the PCIe slot enhances productivity for huge tasks.

Who will use this the most?

The passionate gamers should take it for immersive gaming results. There is a good option for a workstation because of its compatibility with RAM oriented boards that accommodate the motherboards with more PCIe slots for more GPU adjustment. It would help if you bought this absolute monster with the surprise of a 12-core, 24-threads processor with 4.6GHz boost clock performance. It beats Intel with the same price-tag.

Bottom line

The Ryzen 9 3900x is the perfect and high-performance processor with 12 cores and 24 threads. It is the best choice for those who want to build a video editing PC, a system for 3D rendering, or workstations for Adobe After Effects. It offers outstanding workstations and high-end gaming results with Base Frequency (3.8GHz) and Boosts frequency up to (4.6GHz).

The Pros

Stunning graphics performance

Comes with more cores and threads

High-quality material and architecture

The Cons

Low overclocking potential

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Summary For Best CPU for RTX 3090

Award Modal Design Retailer
Intel's Best CPU for RTX 3090 Intel Core i9-10900K Intel Core i9-10900K View on amazon
AMD's Best CPU for RTX 3090 AMD Ryzen 7 5800X AMD Ryzen 7 5800X View on amazon
Best Mid-Range CPU for RTX 3090 Intel Core i7-10700K Intel Core i7-10700K View on amazon
Best Overall CPU for RTX 3090 AMD Ryzen 9 5900X AMD Ryzen 9 5900X View on amazon
Best Flagship CPU for RTX 3090 Intel Core i9-9900K Intel Core i9-9900K View on amazon
Best Enthusiast CPU for RTX 3090 AMD Ryzen 5 5600X AMD Ryzen 5 5600X View on amazon
Best Budget CPU for RTX 3090 Intel Core i5-10600K Intel Core i5-10600K View on amazon
Best Performance CPU for RTX 3090 AMD Ryzen 9 3900X AMD Ryzen 9 3900X View on amazon

Conclusion

Finally, your decision-making process should be based on some parameters, such as your budget, usage, and interaction level with the device. Subjectively, the preference matter is the point of your personal choice. But this refine review elucidates eight specific items with their dos and don’ts. The manufacturing of Intel is unique for the gaming realm with an advanced boost clock.

But AMD is a solid choice for video encoding, video editing, Adobe after effects, and casual games. These processors are excellent devices in their performance. But if you want the best CPU for RTX 3090, Intel Core i9 10900K is special hardware. Its overclocking with low power consumption enhances graphics card results and plays high-end games with an immersive experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What CPU should I get for RTX 3090?

You should get Intel Core i9 10900K for RTX 3090 because of its better features in an average price range. Comparatively, it has a much more efficient boost clock rate 5.3GHz at the same price as; it is best for gaming purposes. But, if you get Ryzen 9 3900X, then your future up-gradation problems will be solved by its support for the PCIe 4.0 version.

Is Ryzen 9 3900X enough for 3090?

Yes, it is! It has perfect dualistic features for workloads and games. This processor supports PCIe 4.0 that is a definite factor for its futuristic design. AMD focuses on upcoming hurdles with its game-changer processors. It is the best choice for those who want to build a video editing PC, a system for 3D rendering, or workstations for Adobe After Effects. All these make AMD Ryzen 9 3900X enough for 3090.

Will the i9 9900k bottleneck The RTX 3090?

Sure, Intel Core i9-9900K will bottleneck the RTX 3090. It is the world’s fastest processor producing a 5.00GHz boost clock with all cores’ help. The potential for overclocking is admiring and perfect for this graphics card. It tackles all games and workload that need peak level performance.

What CPU is best for RTX 3090?

Intel Core i9-10900K is the best CPU for RTX 3090. It is the ultimate gaming machine. It kills the problems with hyper-threading technology and the latest overclocking controls. It offers incredible performance when you pair it with a powerful cooler and high-end motherboard. Intel presents 10cores in the affordable range with thermal velocity boost technology for high overclocking.

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