The RTX 4070 Ti is a phenomenal graphics card when it comes to offering good value for money and handling 4K gaming at good framerates. It comes with 7680 CUDA Cores and offers a boost clock speed of 2610 MHz. Of course, you will have to pair the GeForce RTX 4070 Ti with a capable CPU to benefit from everything it has to offer. Therefore, I’ve compiled a list of the Best CPUs for RTX 4070 Ti, which mostly comprises equally high-performance and bang-for-the-buck processors.
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I have summarised all of my recommendations in this table:
Before picking a processor for the GPU, make sure you opt for the best variant of the RTX 4070 Ti:
Best CPU For RTX 4070 Ti
Following are the 6 Best CPUs for RTX 4070 Ti you can get:
- Best AMD CPU For RTX 4070 Ti: Ryzen 7 7800X3D
- Best Intel CPU For RTX 4070 Ti: Intel Core i7-13700K
- Best Overall Gaming CPU For RTX 4070 Ti: Intel Core i5-13600k
- Best Budget CPU For RTX 4070 Ti: Core i5-13400
- Best High-End CPU For RTX 4070 Ti: Intel Core i9-13900K
- Best Value CPU For RTX 4070 Ti: Ryzen 7 5800X3D
Ryzen 7 7800X3D
Best AMD CPU For RTX 4070 Ti
Socket: AMD AM5 | Cores: 8 | Threads: 16 | L2 Cache: 8MB | Base Clock: 4.2 GHz | Boost Clock: Up to 5.0 GHz | TDP: 120W
Pros
- Lots of L3 Cache
- Best Gaming CPU
- Exceptional Performance
Cons
- Locked Multiplier
- High Thermals
Performance: The Ryzen 7 7800X3D excels in performance, featuring 8 cores and 16 threads with multi-threading support. As an X3D variant, it also boasts an impressive 96MB of L3 cache, a significant upgrade from the standard 32MB which grants it an edge over its high-end counterparts, especially in gaming scenarios.
Cooling: In our tests, the 7800X3D consumed 21.4% less power than the Ryzen 7 7950X3D while also remaining 7% cooler. The Ryzen 7 7800X3D also benefits from a lower TDP of just 120W; however, I would recommend a capable 360mm AIO liquid cooler to properly cool the processor.
Future Proofing: Packed with a higher L3 cache capacity, support for DDR5 memory, as well as outstanding performance, the Ryzen 7 7800X3D is an excellent pick for those looking for a long-lasting processor. Additionally, AMD is expected to support the AM5 chipset for the next generation, opening up multiple upgrade paths.
Buy It If
Take a look at the Ryzen 7 7800X3D from our in-house testing:
✅You want an extremely capable gaming CPU. When I tested the Ryzen 7 7800X3D, I was quite impressed to see how well the processor goes head-to-head against flagship CPUs in gaming performance.
Don’t Buy It If
❌You want to manually overclock your CPU: The only downside to going with the Ryzen 7 7800X3D is that the processor comes with a locked multiplier, barring you from overclocking it using the traditional method.
What Makes It The Best AMD CPU For RTX 4070 Ti?
There is no other AMD processor that offers the 7800X3D’s equivalent performance at such a good price tag, and that’s what makes the Ryzen 7 7800X3D the Best AMD CPU For RTX 4070 Ti.
Intel Core i7-13700K
Best Intel CPU For RTX 4070 Ti
Socket: LGA1700 | Cores: 16 (8P + 8E) | Threads: 24 | L2 Cache: 24MB | Base Clock: 3.4 GHz (P-cores) | Boost Clock: Up to 5.4 GHz (P-cores) | TDP: 125W
Pros
- Overclocking Potential
- Overall Good Performance
Cons
- High Power Consumption
- High Temperatures
Performance: The i7-13700K boasts a balanced configuration with 16 cores, all of which support hyper-threading for a total of 24 threads. Clock speeds vary, with performance cores at 3.40 GHz base and 5.30 GHz boost, and efficient cores at 2.50 GHz base and 4.20 GHz boost, enhancing overall processing capabilities.
Cooling: During my tests, the processor hit a maximum temperature of 76°C under full load. It’s worth noting that my test setup featured an extensive cooling solution with a large 1260mm cooler and 9 fans. Even with this cooling setup, the temperature still reached 76°C, warranting the need for a robust solution for optimal temperatures.
Future Proofing: In terms of longevity, the Core i7-13700K provides enough performance to last you the next 2-3 years. Moreover, the LGA 1700 socket allows for upgradability to the 14th gen, which is an added bonus. Overclocking is also an option with the Core i7-13700K; however, a better cooler is required for that.
Our senior hardware tester, Nauman Siddique, was amazed by the Core i7-13700K’s performance, stating:
“The Core i7-13700K delivers remarkable performance, outperforming its predecessors and rivaling CPUs like the Ryzen 7 7900X, thanks to its new architecture. “
Buy It If
Here is a shot of the i7-13700K we captured before testing.
✅You want a balanced processor: In all of my tests, the i7-13700K nailed both gaming and productivity benchmarks with excellent results.
Don’t Buy It If
❌You want an efficient processor: The processor consumes a lot of power and, consequently, generates a ton of heat.
What Makes It The Best Intel CPU For RTX 4070 Ti?
The gaming performance, backward compatibility with 600-series motherboard and DDR4 RAM, and the overclocking potential are what make the i7-13700K the Best CPU For RTX 4070 Ti.
- Read Our Intel Core i7-13700K Review
- Best Cooler for Intel Core i7-13700K
- Best Motherboard for Intel Core i7-13700K
- Best RAM for Intel Core i7-13700K
Intel Core i5-13600K
Best Overall Gaming CPU For RTX 4070 Ti
Socket: LGA1700 | Cores: 14 (6P + 8E) | Threads: 20 | L2 Cache: 20MB | Base Clock: 3.5 GHz (P-cores) | Boost Clock: Up to 5.1 GHz (P-cores) | TDP: 125W
Pros
- Nails Gaming Benchmarks
- Affordable
- Good Overclocking Potential
Cons
- Nothing Significant
Performance: The i5-13600K features 14 cores, divided into 6 Performance and 8 Efficient cores, along with 20 threads. It demonstrates impressive capabilities as a mid-range processor, making it suitable for high-refresh-rate gaming. As for the clock speeds, they are quite high as well, with a boost clock of 5.1 GHz for its P-Cores.
Cooling: In my tests, the CPU drew 192W, and its temperature peaked at 81°C. Granted that was with a high-end custom cooling setup; however, achieving reasonable temperatures with a capable AIO shouldn’t be difficult with the processor. If you are a fan of AIOs, then you can easily use a 240mm or 280mm to keep the CPU from thermal throttling.
Future Proofing: Despite excellent performance results in my test, I won’t necessarily deem the core i5-13600K a future-proof processor. That said, you can expect great performance at 1440p with this CPU for a few more years. Moreover, it also showcases decent overclocking potential for those looking for a performance uplift.
Buy It If
Take a look at the i5-13600K from our review:
✅You want balanced price-to-performance: The core i5-13600K managed to surprise me with its remarkable price-to-performance ratio.
Don’t Buy It If
❌You want a cooler and less power-hungry processor: The Core i5-13600K draws a decent amount of power, which results in higher temperatures.
What Makes It The Best Overall CPU For RTX 4070 Ti?
There are many reasons why the i5-13600K is the Best Overall CPU For RTX 4070 Ti. For instance, it offers good performance, it’s power and thermally efficient, it is backward compatible, and you can even overclock it for greater performance.
- Read Our Intel Core i5-13600K Review
- Best Cooler for Intel Core i5-13600K
- Best Motherboard for Intel Core i5-13600K
- Best RAM for Intel Core i5-13600K
Intel Core i5-13400
Best Budget CPU For RTX 4070 Ti
Socket: LGA1700 | Cores: 10 (6P + 4E) | Threads: 16 | L2 Cache: 9.5MB | Base Clock: 2.5 GHz (P-cores) | Boost Clock: Up to 4.6 GHz (P-cores) | TDP: 65W
Pros
- Affordable
- Incredibly Power Efficient
- Comes With A Cooler
- Good Gaming Performance
Cons
- Locked Multiplier
Performance: On paper, the i5-13400 holds up adequately. The processor comes with 6 P-cores and 4 E-cores, giving it a total of 10 and 16 threads cores. It features P-Cores with a boost up to 4.60 GHz and E-Cores with a 3.30 GHz boost. With the RTX 4070 Ti, the i5-13400 is capable of providing a flawless experience at both 1080p and 1440p.
Cooling: The i5-13400 is rated with a TDP of 65W, which eliminates the need for expensive high-end coolers, as the included stock cooler is enough to run the CPU at safe temperatures. Of course, anyone looking for additional headroom can pair it with a capable air cooler.
Future Proofing: While the Core i5-13400 holds up well in modern titles, it is a budget-oriented offering, which means, it is not particularly the best CPU to pick if you are looking to future-proof your system. Not only that, but the locked multiplier adds to my last point, further limiting its potential.
Buy It If
✅You are on a limited budget: The Core i5-13400 packs solid performance at a lower price.
✅You want an efficient processor. The processor has a rated TDP of 65W, making it far more efficient than higher-end 13th gen offerings.
Don’t Buy It If
❌You want an unlocked CPU: Since it is not a “K” series chipset, the i5-13400 does not feature multiplier-based overclocking, which can be disappointing for enthusiasts.
❌You want a future-proof CPU: The core i5-13400F’s performance is not enough to future-proof your system.
What Makes It The Best Budget CPU For RTX 4070 Ti?
When it comes to the Best Budget CPU For RTX 4070 Ti, there is no better product than the i5-13400. It has a low price tag, offers adequate performance, supports 600-series motherboards and DDR4 RAM, and comes with a stock cooler that is enough to cool it down.
Intel Core i9-13900K
Best High-End CPU For RTX 4070 Ti
Socket: LGA1700 | Cores: 24 (8P + 16E) | Threads: 32 | L2 Cache: 32MB | Base Clock: 3.0 GHz (P-cores) | Boost Clock: Up to 5.8 GHz (P-cores) | TDP: 125W
Pros
- High-End Gaming Performance
- Can Be Overclocked
- Remarkable Productivity Performance
Cons
- Very Expensive
- High Power Consumption
- High Thermals
Performance: The i9-13900K is Intel’s highest-end offering from the 13th-generation series, offering uncompromised performance with its combination of 24 cores and 32 threads. Clock speeds include P-Cores at 3.00 GHz base, 5.40 GHz boost, and a Max Turbo Frequency reaching 5.80 GHz. showcasing phenomenal multi-core performance.
Cooling: With high performance comes high temperatures, which makes the i9-13900K a very difficult processor to keep at optimal thermals. You will have to spend top dollar on an equally high-end CPU cooler to keep this beast tame.
Future Proofing: The Core i9-13900K’s sheer performance will allow you to rest easy for the next 3-4 years. An upgrade path to the Raptor Lake refresh is also available with the LGA 1700 platform; however, given its performance that most likely won’t be needed, especially if you are considering overclocking.
Buy It If
Here is the i9-13900K during our testing:
✅You need excellent gaming and productivity performance: The high-end performance of the Core i9-13900K is what I liked the most about this processor.
Don’t Buy It If
❌You are looking for a cheaper processor: The high price tag is a disadvantage for anyone working with a limited budget.
What Makes It The Best High-End CPU For RTX 4070 Ti?
The 24 cores, the ability to clock at 5.80 GHz, overclocking potential, 32 threads, and most importantly, extreme gaming performance. All of these features make the Core i9-13900K the Best High-End CPU For RTX 4070 Ti.
- Best Cooler for Intel Core i9-13900K
- Best Motherboard for Intel Core i9-13900K
- Best RAM for Intel Core i9-13900K
AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3D
Best Value CPU For RTX 4070 Ti
Socket: AM4 | Cores: 8 | Threads: 16 | L2 Cache: 4MB | Base Clock: 3.4 GHz | Boost Clock: Up to 4.5 GHz | TDP: 105W
Pros
- Affordable
- Good Value For Money
- Works Well With RTX 4070 Ti
Cons
- Old Platform
Performance: The Ryzen 7 5800X3D is considered one of the most powerful 5000-series CPUs you can get your hands on. It achieves its performance through a combination of 3D-V Cache technology providing 96 MB of L3 storage, a boost clock speed of 4.5 GHz, and the inclusion of 6 cores and 16 threads.
Cooling: Compared to the rest of the flagship 5000-series processors, the Ryzen 7 5800X3D runs surprisingly cooler thanks to its lower TDP rating of 105W. A balanced 240mm AIO liquid cooler will be a safe option for the processor since a top-of-the-line cooler isn’t necessarily required.
Future Proofing: It cannot be denied that the Ryzen 7 5800X3D delivers impressive performance in both gaming and productivity tasks; however, you will be limited to the old AM4 platform. Adding on to that, you also miss out on overclocking and DDR5 RAM support with the Ryzen 7 5800X3D.
Buy It If
✅You already own an AM4 motherboard: The Ryzen 7 5800X3D makes for a perfect upgrade for anyone who is looking for a performance boost without switching platforms.
✅You prioritize performance-to-performance: I was blown away by how much performance the Ryzen 7 5800X3D still offers despite being affordable. It offers the best value for money.
Don’t Buy It If
❌You want a future-proof socket: The AM4 platform is relatively old at this point, meaning that you will have to swap motherboards the next time you upgrade your CPU.
What Makes It The Best High-End CPU For RTX 4070 Ti?
The Ryzen 7 5800X3D makes the best out of its extra L3 capacity, nailing every AAA title I benchmarked on it. In light of its performance and the affordability of the processor itself and its overall platform, the Ryzen 7 5800X3D is undoubtedly the best high-end CPU forRTX 4070 Ti.
My Tested Benchmarks
Here are the results from my testing to make sure that my recommendations for the best CPU for RTX 4070 Ti are truly top-notch:
Important CPU Key Terms
CPUs are surrounded by a wide range of technicalities. When looking for a CPU, keep an eye out for the following crucial terms:
- Cores: CPU cores are responsible for executing different programs (tasks) and performing the actual computation. Generally, you should go for a CPU with 8 more cores if you want high-end gaming.
- Threads: Referred as virtual tasks, CPU threads allow parallel execution of multiple programs inside a CPU.
- Multi-Threading: Hyper-Threading (Intel) or Multi-Threading (AMD) enables each CPU core to handle two threads in parallel, giving each individual CPU core the ability to multitask.
- Cache: It is a small but very fast memory storage residing in the CPU die. There are three levels of cache: L1 cache, L2 cache, and L3 cache. The L1 cache is built closest to the CPU. Hence it is also the fastest. As you move down the cache levels, the storage and distance from the CPU increase, but the speed decreases.
- Clock Speed: The clock speed of a CPU refers to how many data cycles it can complete in a second. The CPU will always run at its base clock speed, while its boost clock speed will be used only under heavy workloads.
- TDP: The TDP of a processor indicates how much heat it generates, determining the size of the cooler needed for efficient cooling. A higher TDP requires a larger cooler to handle the increased heat.
- Overclocking: Running CPUs at higher than stock clock speeds by giving extra power is called overclocking. It results in more performance but can also cause stability issues.
How We Picked The Best CPU For RTX 4070 Ti
Whenever you are out shopping for a processor, you should also consider these factors to ensure that you make the right purchase.
- Performance: To judge the performance, I ran several gaming and productivity benchmarks to check how well they performed in CPU-intensive scenarios. If you’re thinking of buying a particular processor, make sure to check its performance. You can look into our comparisons section to go through different processor/graphics card comparisons as well.
- Value For Money: I also scrutinized the pricing of the best CPUs for RTX 4070 Ti to make sure that I recommend those products that offer the most value for money. Take the Ryzen 7 5800X3D, for example, the processor isn’t from the latest generation, but it offers exceptional value, and that’s why it made it to my list.
- Power Consumption and Thermal Efficiency: A processor drawing excessive power without a performance increase is indicative of poor power efficiency, which impacts thermals and requires investment in a quality AIO or liquid cooler. This makes power consumption and thermal efficiency key factors when it comes to CPU selection.
- Overclocking: Not everyone is a fan of overclocking, but many tech enthusiasts, including me, prefer to push their hardware to their limits to test how much performance we can get out of it. Therefore, I also overclocked the best processors for RTX 4070 Ti to give you an idea of how much extra performance you should expect from them without crashing into errors.
FAQs
You should get the Core i5-13600K for RTX 4070 Ti. The CPU comes with 14 Cores and can clock at up to 5.1 GHz. It also offers good value for money because it is not an expensive processor.
The i5-13400 is the minimum CPU to pair with the RTX 4070 Ti. You shouldn’t pair the RTX 4070 Ti with a CPU that offers less performance than the i5-13400.
My recommended CPUs won’t bottleneck an RTX 4070 Ti. These include the Ryzen 7 7800X3D, i7-13700K, i5-13600K, i5-13400, i9-13900K, and Ryzen 7 5800X3D.
No, the i5-13400 will not bottleneck an RTX 4070 Ti. It is a very affordable processor which offers just enough performance to go along with the RTX 4070 Ti perfectly.
Also Read:
- Best CPU For Streaming
- Best CPU For Video Editing
- Best CPU For RX 7900 XTX & RX 7900 XT
- Best CPU For RTX 4090
- Best CPU For RTX 4080
Recent Updates
- March 12, 2024: I have added Cinebench R23 score, 1080p gaming performance, and average power consumption of my top CPU picks after testing each of them.
- February 7, 2024: Few text changes to improve readability.
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[Hardware Expert]
With a major in Computer Science, Sameed is a tech enthusiast who puts his passion for gadgets into words and creates informative blogs. From comparing different hardware to reviewing the best RAMs, motherboards, and graphics cards for your next build, Sameed has covered a wide spectrum of topics that have given him a special insight into every nook and cranny of the tech world. Sameed is also a certified expert at Computer Hardware & Networking.
Get In Touch: sameed@tech4gamers.com
