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RTX 3090 Ti is an incredibly powerful GPU with improved power efficiency and more cores than the regular variant. Hence, you can’t pair it with a random CPU and expect it to perform well.
You need an efficient CPU that minimizes bottlenecks and enables multi-thread processing, overclocking, and balanced TDP levels. Finding such a CPU for your RTX 3090 Ti GPU might be tricky, especially when you’ve many choices.
This is when I purchased 12 CPUs compatible with RTX 3090 Ti and tested them in various activities like gaming, video editing, 3D animation, etc. I evaluated each for power efficiency, motherboard compatibility, and single-core performance.
Out of 12, I shortlisted 6 options that passed all my tests with considerable ease.
6 Best CPUs for RTX 3090 Ti in 2023
Based on technical requirements, dates, budget, and other aspects, the selected six processors are tried & tested picks that guarantee high performance. The list includes diverse choices from high-end to mid-range to budget.
Considering compatibility and performance, choosing processors released in 2022 or later is advisable.
1. Best Overall: AMD Ryzen 9 7950X
- CPU Base Speed: 4.5 GHz
- CPU Boosted Speed: 5.7 GHz
- Cores: 16
- Threads: 32
- Socket: AM5
Looking for a powerhouse of a processor that can take your gaming, rendering, and editing performances through your roof? You are better off investing in the AMD Ryzen 9 7950X. It will still leave much room for future GPU upgrades if you someday want to do better than the RTX 3090 Ti.
I even compared the performance of the AMD Ryzen 9 7950X with the Ryzen 9 5950X processor, only to find the former achieves better overclocking performances.
Hardware Performance
The Ryzen 9 7950X is a powerful processor with 16 cores and 32 threads for excellent multi-threaded performance.
Its 4.5 GHz base clock speed is sufficient for most games, while the 5.7 GHz boost speed ensures fast gaming and rendering.
With 81 MB of cache memory, data access is accelerated. The processor has a 20% bottleneck for GPU-specific tasks, meaning it remains underutilized. For processor-specific tasks, the CPU-GPU bottleneck is under 4.5%.
In my tests, I achieved consistent average frame rates of 150 FPS in Cyberpunk 2077 at 1080p medium settings, and nearly 100 FPS in Spiderman remastered at high 1080p settings with ray tracing. Overall, gaming performance at 1080p met expectations.
Fun Fact: It’s also ranked #1 in my list of best-rated CPUs for RTX 4090.
Design and Warranty
The Ryzen 9 7950X is built using the 5nm architecture and is compatible with AM5 sockets and 600-series motherboards.
The Zen 4 architecture ensures compatibility with PCIe 4.0 and PCIe 5.0 connectors, allowing you to fit in DDR5 RAM modules that can clock as high as 5200 MHz under normal conditions.
However, the high TDP level of 170W might be a deal breaker if you seek a more power-efficient processor. Also, the high TDP level means that you would need to pair a high-end liquid cooler with the concerned processing setup.
As for the warranty, AMD covers the Ryzen 9 7950X for three years against manufacturing issues.
Conclusion
If you plan to play games at a clip while even utilizing the processor for professional-level video editing and rendering, Ryzen 9 7950X is the best CPU to pair with RTX 3090 Ti.
Even though there are several reasons to consider this, the 32-thread architecture makes it a powerhouse and easily the most performance-oriented processor around.
Pros
- Best multi-threaded performances
- Handles most AAA games
- Excellent boosted clock speed
- Supports ultra-fast DDR5 RAMs
Cons
- High TDP level
- Expensive
- Runs hot
2. Best Runner-Up: Intel Core i9-13900K
- CPU base speed: 3.0 GHz
- CPU boosted speed: 5.8 GHz
- Cores: 24
- Threads: 32
- Socket: LGA 1700
If you are in the market for a high-end Intel processor for your RTX 3090 Ti GPU, the Core i9-13900K comes across as the best option. It must be noted that this processor comes with excellent overclocking potential, allowing you to enhance the base clock speed by almost twice if needed.
Compared to the i9-12900KF, the 13th gen variant boasts better-boosted clock speed — a feature needed to handle the newest AAA games like Hogwarts Legacy and more.
Hardware Performance
The Core i9-13900K boasts a hybrid architecture with 8 performance and 8 efficiency cores. This way, it becomes possible to use this processor for even basic tasks like web browsing and more.
At 3.0 GHz, the base clock speed doesn’t feel underwhelming yet is good enough for basic to intermediate-level workload. However, the Intel Boost Max 3.0 tech allows you to push the clock speeds to 5.8 GHz, even higher than the AMD variant I just reviewed.
This chipset boasts the Intel 7 lithography standard, based on the 10nm architecture. However, if you are simply seeking a processor for gaming and other graphics card-specific tasks like rendering and video editing, you might want to keep the 14.7% bottleneck in mind.
This means that regardless of how powerful the GPU is, the Intel Core i9-13900K is still a tad overpowered.
Design and Warranty
The Intel i9-13900K boasts LGA 1700 socket compatibility, ensuring that it fits seamlessly with most Intel 600 and Intel 700-series motherboards.
If that weren’t enough, the CPU supports PCIe 4.0 and PCIe 5.0 connectors, allowing you to work with DDR5 RAM modules that can clock at 5600 MHz.
The equivalent (L2+L3) cache memory of 38 MB pales compared to AMD but can still manage decent app and game loading speeds.
At 125W, the TDP level feels a tad higher. However, compared to AMD Ryzen 9 7950X, the Intel Core i9-13900K feels more power efficient.
And yes, there is the 3-year standard warranty from Intel on this Raptor Lake processor across a wide range of manufacturing issues.
Conclusion
If you need a high-end Intel CPU that doesn’t bottleneck the GPU while handling general processes, the i9-13900K is your best bet.
Also, the manageable TDP level and the support for high-speed DDR5 RAM modules make it appear second on this highly esteemed list of CPUs.
Pros
- Loaded with efficiency cores
- Excellent boosted clock speed limit
- Supports DDR5 RAM modules
- Boasts Optane memory compatibility
Cons
- Not the most power-efficient option around
- Costly processor
- Tad overpowered for the RTX 3090 Ti
3. Best for Gaming: AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3D
- CPU base speed: 3.4 GHz
- CPU boosted speed: 4.5 GHz
- Cores: 8
- Threads: 16
- Socket: AM4
Even though the likes of Ryzen 9 and Core i9 are the top-rated CPUs for the RTX 3090 Ti graphics card, the Ryzen 7 5800X3D comes to the fore if you are only looking for a gaming-specific processor.
While there are several good things about this processor, what stands out is the 3D V-cache support — a feature that gives gaming performances a massive uplift.
I even tested the 5800X3D against the vanilla 5800X, only to find an average fps boost of 30 for almost every other game — thanks to the V-cache support.
Hardware Performance
The 5800X3D comes packed with 8 cores and 16 threads, capable of easily handling most single and multi-core processing requirements.
At 3.40 GHz, the base clock frequency is good enough for regular tasks. The boosted clock speed of 4.50 GHz takes care of overclocking needs in case you want to push those gaming limits.
At 100 MB of cache, thanks to the 96 MB L3 cache, the game loading speeds are insane. Also, at 105W, the TDP level is quite acceptable, considering the power it summons.
The processor bottleneck is on the higher side, above 20%, meaning that the RTX 3090 Ti might overrun the CPU in terms of power, especially when GPU-specific tasks are concerned.
Regarding gaming, I tested the CPU-GPU setup with Battlefield V at high 1080p settings. The average frame rates were as high as 190 FPS. Even 4K gaming performances were excellent, and for Battlefield V, I could churn out close to 125 FPS with ease.
Design and Warranty
The AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3D supports the AM4 socket, ensuring compatibility with AMD’s 300, 400, and 500 series motherboards. Also, you get PCIe 4.0 support, extending to the X570 and B550 motherboards.
As for the RAM support, you can connect a standard DDR4 module clocking at 3200MHz with this processor. And like any other model, AMD offers a 3-year limited manufacturing warranty on this one.
Conclusion
Yes, there are more powerful and aligned processors than the Ryzen 7 5800X3D when it comes to pairing with RTX 3090 Ti. However, if you are only seeking the gaming boost, thanks to the L3 cache, this is a clear standout.
Pros
- Massive cache support
- Wide motherboard compatibility
- Excellent overclocking limit
- Good 4K gaming throughput
Cons
- Heats up a bit more
- There is some processor bottleneck present
4. Best Mid-Range CPU: Intel Core i7-12700K
- CPU base speed: 3.6 GHz
- CPU boosted speed: 5.0 GHz
- Cores: 12
- Threads: 20
- Socket: LGA 1700
If you want to spend less than $300 on an RTX 3090 Ti compatible CPU, the Intel Core i7-12700K is a decent choice. What’s heartening is the hybrid architecture — a trait that makes this a reliable everyday CPU and not just a gaming behemoth.
When compared with the i5-12600K, the Core i7 variant is a powerhouse, boasting better-boosted clock speeds and sustained gaming performances.
Hardware Performance
The i7-12700K features a hybrid architecture comprising 8 performance and 4 efficiency cores — capable of handling every task you throw at it.
The base clock speed of 3.60 GHz is good enough for basic tasks, whereas the overclocking potential of 5.0 GHz, courtesy of the Intel Turbo Boost 3.0, is a perfect resource for gaming concerns.
There is 12MB of L2 and 25MB of L3 cache support for faster data access, followed by a standard TDP level of 125W.
This might not be the most power-efficient processor to use with RTX 3090 Ti, owing to the higher TDP level, and might need external cooling support if you plan on pushing the gaming limits.
And just so you know, the Intel i7-12700K supports Intel Optane memory, helping you set up an intelligent PC.
I tested the setup (CPU and GPU) for Assassin’s Creed Valhalla at ultra 1080p and could play games at 110 FPS consistently.
It is worth mentioning that i7-12700K also produces a 14% processor-specific bottleneck, meaning that the RTX 3090 Ti can overrun the CPU in GPU-related tasks.
Design and Warranty
The Intel Core i7-12700K is compatible with LGA 1700 sockets, allowing you to pair the same with 600-series motherboards.
Also, the PCIe connector supports extends to 4.0 and 5.0. You can plug in DDR5 RAM modules to maximize the PC’s capabilities. And with all that, you also get Intel’s 3-year limited warranty on this one.
Conclusion
The Core i7-12700K is one of the best mid-range CPUs that work with RTX 3090 Ti GPU. It focuses equally on gaming and productivity. Also, it is the support for DDR5 memory modules that makes it a standout performer.
Pros
- Excellent overclocking speed
- 25MB of L3 cache
- Support for PCIe 5.0
- Hybrid architecture
Cons
- Higher TDP
- Significant processor bottleneck with RTX 3090 Ti
5. Best for Power Users: AMD Ryzen 5 7600X
- CPU base speed: 4.7 GHz
- CPU boosted speed: 5.3 GHz
- Cores: 6
- Threads: 12
- Socket: AM5
For users who seek gaming prowess and even raw processing firepower, all on a budget, AMD Ryzen 5 7600X can be a great fit.
Compared to the Ryzen 5 5600X, the 7600X version offers more overclocking juice, making it a better bet for gaming-specific scenarios.
Hardware Performance
The Ryzen 5 7600X comes packed with 6 cores and 12 threads, making it a pretty usable component for basic to advanced tasks.
What’s interesting is the base clock speed of 4.7 GHz, a feature that lets you handle most straightforward tasks with ease. However, if you wish to overclock the same, you can push the processor up to 5.3 GHz.
The total cache memory of 38 MB boosts game access speeds, whereas the default TDP of 105W ensures that this AMD processor is moderately power-efficient.
Regarding gaming performances, I tested the CPU-GPU setup with Spiderman Remastered at 4K ultra, getting 150 FPS on average.
And as far as the processor bottleneck is concerned, the Ryzen 5 7600X accounts for 25%, which means that it might just be a lot underpowered compared to the RTX 3090 Ti, provided you want to use the same for tasks other than gaming.
Design and Warranty
The 7600X is AM5 socket compatible, making it good enough for AMD 600-series motherboards. As for the connectors, this AMD variant supports PCIe 5.0 components, allowing you to pair DDR5-5200 MHz RAM modules for that additional firepower.
And just so you know, this processor features the Zen 4 5nm architecture, a feature that agrees well with power efficiency. Also, AMD offers the standard, 3-year warranty on this Ryzen variant.
Conclusion
If you want to spend under $250 on a gaming-friendly RTX 3090 Ti CPU, the AMD Ryzen 5 7600X can be the right one, especially if you have a fixation on high-speed RAM modules.
And even though it comes with many positives, the availability of a 32MB L3 cache for such a throwaway price point is what makes the CPU special.
Pros
- Manageable TDP levels
- Excellent multi-threaded performance
- Support for DDR5-5200 MHz RAMs
- Sizable L3 cache memory
Cons
- Significant processor bottleneck with RTX 3090 Ti
- Heats up a bit more than expected
6. Best Budget CPU: Intel Core i5-12600K
- CPU base speed: 3.6 GHz
- CPU boosted speed: 4.9 GHz
- Cores: 10
- Threads: 16
- Socket: LGA 1700
And finally, I have the Intel Core i5-12600K, a budget CPU that works perfectly with the likes of RTX 3090 Ti. Do note that getting a deca-core processor like this for under $250 is a pretty decent catch.
Also, if you compare the same with the i5-12400F, the former comes across as a more gaming-centric processor, courtesy of a better-boosted clock speed.
Hardware Performance
Thanks to the hybrid architecture, the Intel i5-12600K brings in 6 performance cores and 4 efficiency cores for regular tasks.
At 3.70 GHz, the base clock speed is good enough for standard office work. Yet, if you wish to boost the same, you can go as high as 4.90 GHz.
Do note that despite the Optane memory support for faster PC configurations, this CPU doesn’t actually support the Intle Boost Max 3.0 technology.
There is 20 MB of L3 cache for that much-needed gaming boost. Power-wise, the TDP of 155W is still on the higher side, emphasizing separate liquid cooling setups for more aggressive gaming.
I tested the same with Cyberpunk 2077 at 1080p ultra and could experience an average of 125fps rather consistently. Smoother experiences were common for the likes of Hitam 3 at 1080p.
As for the processor bottleneck, this Intel CPU is at least 27% less powerful than the RTX 3090 Ti. However, if you plan on taking the graphics-specific tasks to 2K and even 4K levels for gaming and editing, the bottleneck starts dropping considerably.
Design and Warranty
The Intel Core i5-12600K is built using the Intel 7 lithography standard. Also, the LGA 1700 socket compatibility makes it work with all 600-series motherboards.
PCIe 4.0 and PCIe 5.0 components are supported, allowing you to work with DDR5-5200 MHz RAM modules if needed.
Also, Intel offers a 3-year limited warranty on the Core i5-12600K, making life easier for you as a user.
Conclusion
Overall, the i5-12600K might not be the best processor for 1080p GPU-specific tasks, but it can really power through if you want to take the graphics settings higher. And while affordability is one of the reasons to consider it, the 20 MB L3 cache support for this price point puts it right on the list.
Pros
- Support for ultra-fast RAM modules
- Excellent gaming throughput at 1080p
- 20MB cache support
- Affordable price point
Cons
- CPU bottleneck at 1080p
- Higher TDP levels
Frequently Asked Questions
If you prefer Intel processors, the i9-13900K is the best possible CPU to pair with the RTX 3090 Ti.
With 24 cores and 32 threads to work with, the i9-13900K is more than capable of working with even the most complex games and productivity-specific tasks.
However, if you want a specific-gaming boost courtesy of the higher cache memory, you can also consider the AMD Ryzen 9 7950X.
While most CPUs I mentioned on the list will work smoothly with the RTX 3090 Ti, the likes of Core i5-12600X and Ryzen 7 5800X might bottleneck specific performances or activities at lower resolutions.
In case you plan on looking for an entire PC configuration focussed on the RTX 3090 Ti, it is necessary to at least focus on a deca-core processor with over 16 threads. 16GB of DDR4/DDR5 RAM support is minimum, followed by an ultra-fast SSD and a 750W power supply.
As mentioned, you need to pair the RTX 3090 Ti with a 750W power supply. Anything higher, like 850W or even 1000W, is also welcome in case you want to pair other high-performance components with the same.
Verdict
Every processor on the list is known to complement the RTX 3090 Ti in the best possible way. However, if you are still looking for specific suggestions, here is a quick curated list for your reference:
- You can get the AMD Ryzen 9 7950X if you simply want to focus on raw gaming power and are willing to work with a separate cooling setup.
- If your focus is more on the number of cores and even efficiency cores for handling gaming and everyday tasks with equal comfort, the Intel Core i9-13900K is a pretty reliable option.
- The Intel Core i5-12600K is a great processor for budget seekers, especially if you want the best gaming frames per second results and minimal CPU bottleneck at high-demand zones.
And these are simply my picks. You should still read through each review individually and pick one that aligns with your processing, gaming, and price-specific needs.
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