Looking for the best CPU to pair with your RTX 2070 graphics card? Well, you’re in luck because we put together a list of eight CPUs that will see you blasting through the most demanding games.
These CPUs were picked with your 2070 in mind. For example, a CPU that’s too weak will not let you utilize the GPU to its fullest. It’ll suck up most of the resources leaving little for the graphics card.
The bottlenecking will also lessen the performance of the graphics card so we can’t recommend pairing an RTX 2070 with a CPU that doesn’t give it enough juice to perform at its best.
So, after determining everything, here’s our list of the best CPUs that you can pair with your 2070.
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Best CPU to Pair with RTX 2070 Graphics Card
Finding the best CPU can be hard to pair with RTX 2070 graphics card – but your search ends here. Here I’m sharing the best CPUs which can easily pair with RTX 2070 graphics cards without any compatibility and bottleneck issues.
1. Intel Core i5 8400, 6 Cores & 12 Threads Desktop CPU
The first entry on our list is the Intel Core i5 8400. This is a six-core CPU that’s clocked at 2.8 GHz to 4.0 GHz with a 12 MB cache which is pretty standard for Intel CPUs. The i5 8400 can handle 4 physical processors and 4 virtual processors that make this the perfect CPU for your 2070 graphics card, at least in terms of processing power.
If you’re a fan of overclocking, you can overclock the i5 8400. It has a TDP of 65W that limits you to air cooling. This could be a problem since overclocking requires the use of high-end cooling systems. You can also get your hands on an unlocked K-series version but there’s no guarantee that it will overclock well.
Overall, the i5 8400 will deliver great performance and can easily be overclocked to your liking. Plus, it runs on the relatively cheaper LGA 1151 platform which means you’ll save a lot of money.
Pros
- Quieter than expected
- Runs on LGA 1151 motherboard
- Has a great overall performance
Cons
- Overclocking takes a toll since it’s limited to air cooling and will cost more than other CPUs of the same level.
My Views?
The i5 8400 has the potential to deliver great performance at an affordable price. This is one of the best CPUs to pair with an RTX 2070 graphics card, but it’s only for those who want to save money and don’t plan on overclocking their CPU.
It’s a great CPU and you won’t have to worry about bottlenecks. However, if you’re looking for the best performance, you’ll have to upgrade from the i5.
2. AMD Ryzen 7 3700X, 8 Cores & 16 Threads Unlocked Desktop Processor with Wraith Prism LED Cooler
The next entry on our list is the AMD Ryzen 7 3700X. This is an eight-core CPU that’s clocked at 3.6 GHz to 4.4 GHz with a 16 MB cache which is standard for most modern CPUs. The Ryzen 7 3700X has 8 cores and 16 threads that make this the perfect CPU for your 2070 graphics card, at least in terms of processing power.
You can also get your hands on an unlocked X-series version. Overall, the Ryzen 7 3700X will deliver great performance and can easily be overclocked to your liking. Plus, it runs on the X470 platform which is more stable than AMD’s previous AMD 400 series platform.
It also runs on the relatively cheaper AM4 socket which means you’ll save a lot of money. This processor also comes with Wraith Prism LED cooler so you can expect to enjoy an excellent cooling performance.
Pros
- Runs on the X470 platform for better overclocking stability and better power efficiency
- Great overall performance and good for gaming and productivity (video editing, rendering, etc.)
- Comes with Wraith Prism LED cooler which is surprisingly quiet and efficient cooling system at no extra cost.
Cons
- None… best CPU for pairing with RTX 2070.
My Views?
The Ryzen 7 3700X is a great CPU and you won’t have to worry about bottlenecks. This is the best CPU to pair with an RTX 2070 graphics card, but it’s only for those who want the best processing power on the market.
You’ll get more cores and threads than with Intel CPUs but you should expect higher temperatures, especially if you plan on overclocking it.
3. Intel Core i7-9700K, 8 Cores & 8 Threads Unlocked Desktop Processor
The next entry on our list is the Intel Core i7-9700K. This is an eight-core CPU that’s clocked at 3.6 GHz to 4.9 GHz with a 12 MB cache which is standard for most modern CPUs. The i7 9700K has 8 cores and 8 threads that make this the perfect CPU for your 2070 graphics card, at least in terms of processing power.
You can also get your hands on an unlocked i9-9900K if you’re willing to spend more money. Overall, the i7 9700K will deliver great performance and can easily be overclocked to your liking. Plus, it runs on the relatively cheaper 300-series chipset which means you’ll save a lot of money.
Like other X-series processors, you’ll also get your hands on a Wraith Prism LED cooler for better cooling and silence. It also runs on the relatively newer LGA 1151v2 socket which means you won’t have to worry about compatibility issues.
Pros
- Runs on the relatively newer LGA 1151 v2 socket for better compatibility and stability.
- Great overall performance and good for gaming and productivity (video editing, rendering, etc.)
- Comes with Wraith Prism LED cooler which is surprisingly quiet and efficient cooling system at no extra cost.
Cons
- None… best CPU for pairing with RTX 2070.
My Views?
The Core i7-9700K is a great CPU and you shouldn’t have to worry about bottlenecks. This is the perfect CPU to pair with an RTX 2070 graphics card, but it’s only for those who want the best processing power on the market.
You’ll get more cores and threads than with Intel CPUs but you should expect higher temperatures, especially if you plan on overclocking it.
4. AMD Ryzen 5 3600X, 6 Cores & 12 Thread Unlocked Desktop Processor with Wraith Spire Cooler
The next entry from AMD is the Ryzen 5 3600X, which is a six-core CPU that comes with an unlocked multiplier. The processor features 12 threads and clocks at 3.6 GHz to 4.5 GHz, which isn’t bad at all. It also runs on the newer AM4 socket for better compatibility and stability, especially if you have older motherboards that are compatible with this processor.
Like the Ryzen 7 series processors, you’ll also get a Wraith Spire cooler for better heat management and noise reduction. It runs on the AM4 socket for better compatibility and stability in older motherboards.
Overall, the Ryzen 5 3600X looks incredible and we’re very excited to see how the processor performs against other CPUs. You can expect great power for less than $500 though you might not get a chance to run it overclocked. You can also opt for the Ryzen 7 3600X which features 8 cores and 16 threads for a higher price.
Pros
- Runs on the relatively newer LGA 2066 socket for better compatibility and stability.
- The Wraith Spire cooler is quiet and efficient while cooling your processors.
Cons. - Comes with Wraith Spire LED cooler which is surprisingly quiet and efficient cooling system at no extra cost.
Cons
- Plagued by performance dips when overclocked above 4 GHz.
My Views?
If you’re looking for a value processor that offers great power levels at a relatively lower price then you can go for the Core i9 9900K.
However, if you’re willing to spend the extra money then you can opt for the Ryzen 7 3700X which is a little cheaper than the Intel counterpart and also offers amazing performance.
5. Intel Core i5-9600K, 6 Cores & 6 Threads Unlocked Desktop Processor
If you are looking for an unlocked processor to overclock on your Z390 motherboard, the Intel Core i5-9600K might be the right option. This processor is priced under $230 and offers 6 cores and 6 threads. It also comes with a 3.7 GHz boost speed and a TDP of 95W.
You can also get your hands on X-series processors. Overall, the i5-9600K will deliver great performance and can easily be overclocked to your liking. Plus, it runs on the newer 300-series platform for better compatibility and stability in older motherboards.
Overall, the i5-9600K is a good value processor that can easily be overclocked to your liking. Plus, it runs on the newer 300-series platform for better compatibility and stability in older motherboards.
Pros
- Runs on the relatively newer LGA 1151 socket for better compatibility and stability.
- Great overall performance and good for gaming and productivity (video editing, rendering, etc.)
Cons
- None… best CPU for pairing with RTX 2070.
My Views?
The Core i5 9600K is a great CPU and you shouldn’t have to worry about bottlenecks. This is the perfect CPU to pair with an RTX 2070 graphics card, but it’s only for those who want the best processing power on the market.
You’ll get more cores and threads than with Intel CPUs but you should expect higher temperatures, especially if you plan on overclocking it.
6. AMD Ryzen 5 5600X, 6 Cores & 12 Threads Unlocked Desktop Processor with Wraith Stealth Cooler
Next on our list is the Ryzen 5 5600X which is a six-core processor that you can overclock with a powerful motherboard as well. This processor features 12 threads and clocks up to 3.7 GHz with a turbo boost of 4.6 GHz. It comes with a TDP of 65W and delivers great performance at an affordable price.
This processor is priced under $300 and can easily be overclocked to your liking. Overall, the Ryzen 5 5600X will deliver great performance and can easily be overclocked to your liking. Plus, it runs on the newer AM4+ platform for better compatibility and stability.
Like other X-series processors, you’ll also get a Wraith Stealth cooler which is a surprisingly quiet and efficient cooling system at no extra cost. It’s a great CPU and you shouldn’t have to worry about bottlenecks.
Pros
- Runs on the relatively newer AM4+ socket for better stability than older motherboards.
- Great overall performance and good for gaming and productivity (video editing, rendering, etc.)
- Comes with Wraith Stealth LED cooler which is surprisingly quiet and efficient cooling system at no extra cost.
Cons
- None… best CPU for pairing with RTX 2070.
My Views?
The Ryzen 5 5600 is a great processor and you won’t have to worry about bottlenecks. This is the perfect CPU to pair with an RTX 2070 graphics card, but it’s only for those who want the best processing power on the market.
You’ll get more cores and threads than with Intel CPUs but you should expect higher temperatures, especially if you plan on overclocking it.
7. Intel Core i5-10600K, 6 Cores & 12 Threads Unlocked Desktop Processor with Intel UHD Graphics 630
The next entry on our list is the Intel Core i5-10600K which offers six cores and 12 threads. It comes with a boost clock of 4.1 GHz and a turbo boost of 4.8 GHz which is decent at a price no one can deny using it.
This processor runs on the relatively newer 400-series and 500-series platforms for better compatibility and stability. Overall, the i5-10600K will deliver great performance and can easily be overclocked to your liking. It also comes with an Intel UHD Graphics 630 which is a nice addition to the processor.
Downside? none… it’s a great CPU and you shouldn’t have to worry about bottlenecks. This is the perfect CPU to pair with an RTX 2070 graphics card, but it’s only for those who want the best processing power on the market.
Pros
- Runs on the relatively newer LGA 1200 socket for better compatibility and stability.
- Great overall performance and good for gaming and productivity (video editing, rendering, etc.)
- Comes with Intel UHD Graphics 630 which can play games smoothly at medium settings.
Cons
Cons
- It runs at a higher temperature than other CPUs.
My Views?
The Core i5-9600K is a great CPU and you won’t have to worry about bottlenecks. This is the perfect CPU to pair with an RTX 2070 graphics card, but it’s only for those who want the best processing power on the market.
You’ll get more cores and threads than with Intel CPUs but you should expect higher temperatures, especially if you plan on overclocking it.
8. AMD Ryzen 9 3900X 12 Core, 24 Thread Unlocked Desktop Processor with Wraith Prism LED Cooler
The last most powerful CPU that can be paired with your RTX 2070 is AMD Ryzen 9 3900X. It comes with 12 cores and 24 threads which makes this CPU one of the best for high intensive works and games.
With AMD Ryzen 9 3900X CPU, you can easily play games with a performance of more than 100+ FPS in the world’s most powerful games and it can really work like a charm while rendering high-quality videos and 3-D modeling. This is the perfect CPU to pair with an RTX 2070 graphics card, but it’s only for those who want the best processing power on the market.
This CPU can be easily overclocked and it surprisingly comes with the Wraith Prism LED cooler which is one of the most efficient and quiet CPU cooler available in the market at no extra cost.
Pros
- Runs on the relatively newer AM4 socket for better stability than older motherboards.
- Great overall performance and good for gaming and productivity (video editing, rendering, etc.)
- Comes with Wraith Prism LED cooler which is surprisingly quiet and efficient cooling system at no extra cost.
Cons
- None… best CPU for pairing with RTX 2070.
My Views?
The Ryzen 9 3900X is a great CPU and you shouldn’t have to worry about bottlenecks. This is the perfect CPU to pair with an RTX 2070 graphics card, but it’s only for those who want the best processing power on the market.
The Ryzen 7 3700X is one of the best processors in terms of power consumption and productivity. It comes with eight cores and 16 threads, which makes it one hell of a powerhouse.
Buying Guide for Choosing the Best CPU to Pair with RTX 2070 Graphics Card
One of the most important things to consider while buying a CPU is power consumption. Here are a few key things to consider while choosing the best CPU for your needs.
1. Performance
As we mentioned before, there are many factors that affect the performance of a processor. The first thing that matters is the number of cores a CPU has. Many people think that more cores provide better performance than others but in reality, it’s not quite the case.
The only thing that matters is how fast and efficiently it performs while demanding high power and heat levels. More number of cores doesn’t mean more power consumption or performance unless you overclock them.
The second important factor is the cache. The cache is responsible for storing CPU instructions that decode and execute applications. A processor’s cache memory consists of a small amount of extremely fast memory close to the core of a CPU.
Higher cache size means better performance as more instructions can be held in the memory which results in quicker performance and less waiting time for instructions to load.
Finally, there’s speed which is represented by GHz. The higher the speed, the better the CPU. Generally, the best processor for RTX 2070 graphics card will have a base clock of 3.4 – 3.9 GHz and a boost clock of 4.4 – 5 GHz and have 6 cores and 12 threads or higher.
2. Wattage & Power Consumption
Power consumption is essential for processing large files and running real-time systems. It’s a good idea to compare different CPUs in terms of power consumption and then choose one accordingly.
If we compared AMD vs Intel, AMD uses less power which means it consumes less energy which is good for the environment. It also depends upon the best CPU for pairing with RTX 2070 graphics card. Since you’re not trying to overclock the CPU, you don’t have to worry about power consumption as much.
3. Frequency Boost
The frequency boost is like a turbo boost which changes the clock speed of a CPU, making it go from idle speed to turbo speeds. The best CPU for pairing with RTX 2070 will have a high-frequency boost. It also depends upon the best CPU for pairing with RTX 2070 graphics card.
Since you’re not trying to overclock the CPU, this doesn’t matter that much as you won’t be overclocking it in any case.
4. Cache Size
The cache is responsible for storing CPU instructions that decode and execute applications. A processor’s cache memory consists of a small amount of extremely fast memory close to the core of a CPU.
Higher cache size means better performance as more instructions can be held in the memory which results in quicker performance and less waiting time for instructions to load.
Also, the higher the cache speed, the better the processor. Here, you’ll see the best processor for pairing with RTX 2070 graphics card from a certain manufacturer due to its high-frequency boost and cache speed.
5. Thermal Design Power (TDP)
The TDP is responsible for defining the processing power, thermal standards, and power usage of a processor. The most important thing to consider while buying computer parts is power consumption so it’s vital to have an idea about it.
This is the reason why we mentioned Thermal Design Power as it’s one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a CPU for pairing with an RTX 2070 graphics card.
6. Intel vs AMD
This is a question we hear often. The answer to it is completely based on personal preferences and needs. For example, if you’re into gaming and need to work on your primary computer, it’s better to go with an Intel CPU.
Nowadays, modern games demand a lot of processing power which is why Intel will do better than an AMD in terms of power consumption and performance for the best CPU for RTX 2070 graphics card. But if you’re into streaming, for example, an AMD processor is better suited for it.
7. Overclocking Capabilities
Overclocking is the process of speeding up your processor to squeeze more performance out of it so you should consider a CPU that is capable of doing that without damaging it.
It’s a bit tricky as you won’t always get the same results from overclocking a processor as it depends upon its number of cores and threads, cache size, frequency boost, etc.
8. Extra Features
The CPU’s features can come in handy especially if you’re using the same CPU for a long time. For example, the cache speed matters so it depends on the best CPU for pairing with RTX 2070 graphics card as some of them have a higher frequency boost.
The extra features are also useful if you’re looking to build a workstation or home-office PC as they can help boost productivity and performance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Below are some of the most frequently asked questions and answers related to the best CPU for the RTX 2070 graphics card.
1. What is the best processor for RTX 2070?
The best CPU for pairing with RTX 2070 graphics card is Intel Core i7-9700K. You should get it if you’re going to run complicated software like Adobe Premiere Pro or use your computer for a lot of 3D modeling because it’s the best processor for RTX 2070 graphics cards.
2. What to look at while choosing the best CPU to pair with RTX 2070?
While choosing the best CPU for your RTX 2070, you should have to look at the performance, wattage, and cache size. The higher the performance the better.
Also, find out that the CPU you’re trying to use doesn’t cause any bottleneck issue.
Conclusion
The above was the list of the best CPUs you can use to pair with the RTX 2070 graphics card. There are many factors to consider while choosing one but it depends on your needs.
If you’re into gaming, you should get AMD or Intel CPUs. If you need the best CPU for pairing with RTX 2070 graphics card for high-demanding tasks, then I think Intel will do better than Ryzen.
We hope this guide helped you and if it did, please share it with your friends so they can also get to know what the best CPU for RTX 2070 graphics card would be.