AMD’s Radeon RX 7700 XT is one of the strongest graphics cards in the mid-range category, boasting superb gaming performance and a versatile feature set. Its excellent gaming performance in modern titles has established it as one of the best 1440p graphics cards on the market. With such an excellent performer, it is ideal to pair an equally powerful CPU to minimize bottlenecks and maximize the value for money.
Here’s a quick look at our selected CPUs for RX 7700 XT and a brief comparison of their specs:
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Best CPU For RX 7700 XT
Here is a selection of the best CPUs for RX 7700 XT that you can buy right now:
- AMD Ryzen 5 7600X
- Intel Core i5 13600K
- AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3D
- Intel Core i5-13400F
- AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D
- AMD Ryzen 5 5600
AMD Ryzen 5 7600X
Best AMD CPU For RX 7700 XT
Socket: AMD AM5 | Cores: 6 | Threads: 12 | L2 Cache: 6MB | Base Clock: 4.7 GHz | Boost Clock: Up to 5.3 GHz | TDP: 105W | Unlocked: Yes
Pros
- Excellent gaming performance
- Efficient power consumption
- Unlocked multiplier
- Solid value for money
Cons
- Exclusive to DDR5 memory
- Relatively pricey AM5 motherboards
Performance: The AMD Zen 4 architecture brought monumental improvements in both instructions per clock (IPC) and performance-per-watt metrics, resulting in superior single-threaded performance across the board. With 6 cores and 12 threads boosting up to 5.3 GHz, the mid-range AMD Ryzen 5 7600X proves to be a commendable gaming partner for the Radeon RX 7700 XT, thanks to its excellent overall gaming performance.
Cooling: Although AMD specifies a rated TDP of 105W for the AMD Ryzen 5 7600X, it proves to be quite an efficient performer in actual operation. In my testing with the Noctua NH-U12S, the Ryzen 5 7600X peaked at a comfortable 72C during gaming and a manageable 82C during an all-core stress test. One should look to pair the Ryzen 5 7600X with a 240mm AiO or a decent aftermarket AM5 air cooler to strike the optimal balance.
Overclocking Potential: AMD’s advantage shines through once again as the Ryzen 5 7600X comes with an unlocked multiplier for overclocking. In my testing, I managed to achieve an all-core overclock of 5.3GHz at 1.29V, which yielded noticeable performance improvements across the board. You may want to invest in a premium aftermarket cooler to handle the added thermal strain if you want to venture into manual overclocking.
Buy It If:
You want the ideal AMD CPU for RX 7700 XT: Maximizing the potential performance of the Radeon RX 7700 XT at multiple resolutions, the Ryzen 5 7600X is the ideal AMD pairing for this GPU.
You don’t have a premium CPU cooler: With its efficient nature and manageable thermals, the Ryzen 5 7600X is easy to cool even with affordable CPU coolers.
Don’t Buy It If:
You don’t want to shift to DDR5 memory: Since the AMD Ryzen 7000 series CPUs are exclusive to DDR5 memory, you can’t use your current DDR4 memory kits with these CPUs.
What Makes It The Best AMD CPU For RX 7700 XT?
The AMD Ryzen 5 7600X maximizes the gaming performance of the Radeon RX 7700 XT across multiple resolutions without going overboard on pricing, making it the best AMD CPU for RX 7700 XT.
More for Ryzen 5 7600X:
- Best CPU Cooler for Ryzen 5 7600X
- Best Motherboard for Ryzen 5 7600X
- Best RAM for Ryzen 5 7600X
- Best GPU for Ryzen 5 7600X
| Performance: 9/10 | Value: 8/10 |
| Features: 9/10 | Efficiency: 10/10 |
Intel Core i5 13600K
Best Intel CPU For RX 7700 XT
Socket: FCLGA1700 | Cores: 14 (6P + 8E) | Threads: 20 | L2 Cache: 20MB | Base Clock: 2.6 GHz | Boost Clock: Up to 5.1 GHz | TDP: 125W | Unlocked: Yes
Pros
- High overclocking potential
- Solid gaming performance
- Versatile chipset support
- Support for DDR4 and DDR5 memory
Cons
- Slightly higher power draw
- No included stock cooler
Performance: Intel’s hold over the mid-range CPU market has strengthened over the past few years simply due to the superb gaming performance of its Core i5 CPUs. The Intel Core i5 13600K is another beneficiary of this trend, as it offers a total of 14 cores and 20 threads. With a high boost clock of 5.1 GHz on its 6 performance cores, the Core i5 13600K delivers admirable gaming performance at all resolutions with the Radeon RX 7700 XT.
Cooling: While it is marketed with a TDP rating of 125W, the Core i5 13600K can be slightly challenging to cool when it is operating at its maximum. My sample of the Core i5 13600K managed to peak at 76C during an all-core Cinebench R23 stress test, while under a custom loop liquid cooling solution. A 360mm AiO cooler or a premium dual-tower air cooler is a wise choice to pair with the Core i5 13600K if you plan to overclock.
Overclocking Potential: Bearing the special “K” suffix, the Core i5 13600K comes with an unlocked multiplier for overclocking. After a bit of tinkering, I settled on a P-Core frequency of 5.6GHz with an E-Core frequency of 4.4GHz at 1.330V on the VCore. This resulted in a substantial increase in temperature and power draw, which were recorded at 81C and 192W, respectively. One must invest in an appropriate cooling solution before overclocking.
Buy It If:
You want the ideal Intel CPU for RX 7700 XT: Despite being in the mid-range price category, the Core i5 13600K allows the Radeon RX 7700 XT to fully flex its muscles.
You want to overclock: The Core i5 13600K comes with an unlocked multiplier and a respectable power budget for noticeable overclocking results.
Don’t Buy It If:
You don’t have a high-end CPU cooler: With a relatively high power consumption, the Core i5 13600K requires an excellent CPU cooler for comfortable operation.
What Makes It The Best Intel CPU For RX 7700 XT?
Providing more than enough gaming performance for the Radeon RX 7700 XT while being affordable and overclocking-friendly, the Intel Core i5 13600K is the best Intel CPU for RX 7700 XT.
More for Core i5 13600K:
- 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
- Best GPU for Intel Core i5-13600K
| Performance: 9/10 | Value: 8/10 |
| Features: 9/10 | Efficiency: 8/10 |
AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3D
Best Overall Gaming CPU For RX 7700 XT
Socket: AMD AM4 | Cores: 8 | Threads: 16 | L2 Cache: 4MB | Base Clock: 3.4 GHz | Boost Clock: Up to 4.5 GHz | TDP: 105W | Unlocked: No
Pros
- Superb overall performance
- Affordable AM4 motherboards
- DDR4 memory support
- Solid value proposition
Cons
- No overclocking support
- Relatively higher power draw
Performance: With the bonus advantage of the amazing 3D V-Cache technology on top of the already amazing AMD Zen 3 architecture, the Ryzen 7 5800X3D delivers superb gaming performance across a multitude of modern titles. Featuring 8 cores and 16 threads with a boost clock of 4.5 GHz, the Ryzen 7 5800X3D is an exceptional performer in lightly threaded applications such as gaming, especially when paired with the Radeon RX 7700 XT.
Cooling: The AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3D might seem like a demanding CPU if you judge it by its 105W TDP, but in fact, it is quite reasonable in its thermal output. My sample of the Ryzen 7 5800X3D peaked at around 79C during a multi-core stress test while under a Noctua NH-U12S CPU cooler. Judging by this result, it may be wise to consider a high-end air cooler or a 240mm liquid cooler for your Ryzen 7 5800X3D for comfortable long-term operation.
Overclocking Potential: One of the key drawbacks of the AMD Ryzen X3D CPUs is the lack of an unlocked multiplier, restricting manual overclocking as a result. The AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3D also falls victim to the same trend and cannot be overclocked as a result. Unlike its Ryzen 7000 series siblings, you can’t even overclock the Ryzen 7 5800X3D using the Curve Optimizer (CO) or Precision Boost Overdrive (PBO) techniques, which is another minor annoyance.
Buy It If:
You want more affordable motherboards: The Ryzen 7 5800X3D provides superb gaming performance while being compatible with affordable AM4 motherboards, giving you the best of both worlds.
You want DDR4 compatibility: If you already have DDR4 memory lying around, the Ryzen 7 5800X3D will improve your value for money even further.
Don’t Buy It If:
You want a better future upgrade potential: Although the Ryzen 7 5800X3D itself is an excellent CPU choice, the AM4 platform has been retired as of the time of writing.
What Makes It The Best Overall Gaming CPU For RX 7700 XT?
With tremendous amounts of L3 cache to maximize its single-threaded performance, along with support for more affordable AM4 motherboards and DDR4 memory, the Ryzen 7 5800X3D is the best overall gaming CPU for RX 7700 XT.
More For Ryzen 7 5800X3D:
| Performance: 9/10 | Value: 8/10 |
| Features: 8/10 | Efficiency: 7/10 |
Intel Core i5 13400F
Best Budget CPU For RX 7700 XT
Socket: FCLGA1700 | Cores: 10 (6P + 4E) | Threads: 16 | L2 Cache: 9.5MB | Base Clock: 1.8 GHz | Boost Clock: Up to 4.6 GHz | TDP: 65W | Unlocked: No
Pros
- Respectable single-threaded performance
- Very efficient design
- Useable included cooler
- Superb value proposition
Cons
- No overclocking support
- No integrated graphics
Performance: Although the Core i5 13400F is aimed at the budget segment of the CPU market, it still punches way above its weight when it comes to gaming performance. With 10 cores and 16 threads under the hood, the Core i5 13400F delivers admirable gaming performance with the Radeon RX 7700 XT without producing any significant bottlenecks. Its 4.6 GHz boost clock is respectable and helps the i5 13400F to deliver excellent single-threaded performance.
Cooling: One of the key advantages of the Core i5 13400F is its comfortable thermal performance since the CPU is incredibly efficient by design. Intel claims a reasonable 65W TDP for the Core i5 13400F, which is why my sample peaked at around 59C in an all-core stress test and 51C during gaming while being cooled by a Noctua NH-U14S. Moreover, Intel includes a reasonably competent stock cooler with the Core i5 13400F, which is surprisingly useable.
Overclocking Potential: Unfortunately, the Intel Core i5 13400F comes with a locked multiplier, which disables any manual overclocking by traditional means. You can try your hand at BCLK overclocking just like any other CPU, but that is a relatively risky method with minimal returns. Contrary to regular multiplier-based overclocking, BCLK overclocking disrupts the normal operation of other components attached to the CPU, leading to system instability.
Buy It If:
You want a value champion: Targeted at the entry-level desktop CPU market, the Core i5 13400F delivers great overall performance with the Radeon RX 7700 XT at a very reasonable price.
You want a useable stock cooler: While the included Intel stock cooler is not going to help you set any overclocking records, it is more than useable with the Core i5 13400F.
Don’t Buy It If:
You want to overclock: Since the Core i5 13400F has a locked multiplier, you cannot manually overclock this CPU by increasing the multiplier.
What Makes It The Best Budget CPU For RX 7700 XT?
At an entry-level price point, the Intel Core i5 13400F provides sufficient gaming performance and avoids any bottlenecks when paired with the Radeon RX 7700 XT, making it the best budget CPU for RX 7700 XT.
The Core i5-13400F has also won our awards for the following:
| Performance: 8/10 | Value: 10/10 |
| Features: 8/10 | Efficiency: 10/10 |
AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D
Best High-End CPU For RX 7700 XT
Socket: AMD AM5 | Cores: 8 | Threads: 16 | L2 Cache: 8MB | Base Clock: 4.2 GHz | Boost Clock: Up to 5.0 GHz | TDP: 120W | Unlocked: No
Pros
- Best-in-class gaming performance
- Loads of L3 cache
- Reasonable power consumption
- Excellent productivity
Cons
- Relatively expensive
- No overclocking support
Performance: Combining the excellent AMD Zen 4 architecture with the revolutionary 3D V-Cache technology is a recipe for success, and that is what AMD did with the Ryzen 7 7800X3D. Featuring 96MB of L3 cache along with 8 cores and 16 threads, the Ryzen 7 7800X3D minimizes latency and maximizes single-threaded performance. Its respectable boost clock of 5.0GHz also plays a significant role in its superb performance in lightly-threaded applications.
Cooling: The AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D is a rather average performer in terms of thermals and does not raise any significant red flags. AMD labels the TDP as 120W for the Ryzen 7 7800X3D, which necessitates the use of a high-quality air cooler or 240mm AiO for regular operation. In my testing with the Noctua NH-U12S, the Ryzen 7 7800X3D peaked at 84C under an all-core stress test, while the maximum gaming temperature was recorded at 68C.
Overclocking Potential: AMD does not allow an unlocked multiplier on its 3D V-Cache processors, and the same holds true for the Ryzen 7 7800X3D. Although you cannot overclock this CPU by increasing the multiplier normally, it still supports performance optimization through Precision Boost Overdrive (PBO) and Curve Optimizer (CO) methods. Keep in mind that these techniques do yield an increase in operating temperatures as well.
Buy It If:
You want the ultimate gaming performance: Featuring a 3D V-Cache design and tremendous gaming prowess, the Ryzen 7 7800X3D maximizes the performance of any modern GPU, including the Radeon RX 7700 XT.
You want a multi-purpose CPU: Thanks to its high core and thread count, along with impressive multi-core performance, the Ryzen 7 7800X3D can handle productivity tasks admirably as well.
Don’t Buy It If:
You have a limited budget: Even though its extremely impressive gaming performance justifies its price tag, the Ryzen 7 7800X3D is certain to leave a dent in your wallet.
What Makes It The Best High-End CPU For RX 7700 XT?
Per our testing, the AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D is one of the absolute fastest gaming CPUs available at the time of writing, thanks to its superb Zen 4 architecture and 96MB of L3 cache. Consequently, it is the best high-end CPU for RX 7700 XT.
More for the Ryzen 7 7800X3D:
- Best Cooler for Ryzen 7 7800X3D
- Best Motherboard for Ryzen 7 7800X3D
- Best RAM for Ryzen 7 7800X3D
- Best GPU for Ryzen 7 7800X3D
| Performance: 10/10 | Value: 7/10 |
| Features: 9/10 | Efficiency: 8/10 |
AMD Ryzen 5 5600
Best Value CPU For RX 7700 XT
Socket: AMD AM4 | Cores: 6 | Threads: 12 | L2 Cache: 3MB | Base Clock: 3.5 GHz | Boost Clock: Up to 4.4 GHz | TDP: 65W | Unlocked: Yes
Pros
- Impressive value for money
- Decent gaming performance
- Inexpensive AM4 motherboards
- Efficient power draw
Cons
- Platform limitation
- Exclusive to DDR4 memory
Performance: The AMD Ryzen 5 5600 is one of the finest options in the budget segment, thanks to its respectable gaming performance when paired with the Radeon RX 7700 XT. Featuring 6 cores and 12 threads boosting up to 4.4 GHz, the single-threaded performance of the Ryzen 5 5600 is admirable for the price point. The underlying Zen 3 architecture and redesigned CCX layout are also responsible for the excellent all-around performance of the Ryzen 5 5600.
Cooling: As is expected from Ryzen 5 CPUs from the Zen 3 lineup, the AMD Ryzen 5 5600 is supremely efficient in its operation with a comfortable thermal output. AMD labels the Ryzen 5 5600 with a 65W TDP, and that translates into its temperatures. In my testing with the Noctua NH-U14S, my sample of the Ryzen 5 5600 peaked at around 52C during an all-core stress test. This result gives us an idea of the excellent thermal management of this CPU.
Overclocking Potential: Despite being a budget CPU, the Ryzen 5 5600 comes with an unlocked multiplier for manual overclocking, which is a distinct advantage of AMD CPUs. After some experimentation, I settled on an all-core overclock of 4.6GHz at 1.35V on the VCore, which yielded a noticeable improvement in the gaming results of the CPU. It is nice to have the option of overclocking on a budget CPU to squeeze more performance out of your purchase.
Buy It If:
You want to maximize your bang for the buck: Delivering respectable gaming performance with the Radeon RX 7700 XT at a very affordable price point, the AMD Ryzen 5 5600 is the ultimate bargain buy.
You want affordable motherboards: The AMD AM4 platform is getting on in years, so the motherboards are resultantly getting cheaper and more accessible.
Don’t Buy It If:
You want a better upgrade path: Even though the AM4 platform is quite modern with support for many high-end CPUs, it has been replaced and has a limited upgrade path.
What Makes It The Best Value CPU For RX 7700 XT?
Since the Ryzen 5 5600 provides acceptable performance for the Radeon RX 7700 XT, along with being affordable and compatible with inexpensive motherboards and memory, it is the best value CPU for RX 7700 XT.
These components work well with the Ryzen 5 5600 too:
| Performance: 7/10 | Value: 10/10 |
| Features: 7/10 | Efficiency: 10/10 |
Important CPU Key Terms
When in the market for a new CPU, it is easy to get confused by marketing jargon. Here are some key terms to remember.
- CPU (Central Processing Unit): The primary hardware component of a computer responsible for executing instructions and performing calculations for all software applications.
- Clock Speed: The rate at which a CPU processes instructions, measured in gigahertz (GHz), indicating how many cycles it can complete per second.
- Core: A processing unit within a CPU that can independently execute instructions, with modern CPUs having multiple cores for improved performance.
- Cache Memory: High-speed, on-chip memory that stores frequently used data and instructions to reduce the CPU’s access time to this information, enhancing overall performance.
- Overclocking: The practice of increasing a CPU’s clock speed beyond its manufacturer’s specifications to achieve higher performance, often at the risk of stability and overheating.
- Hyper-Threading: A technology that allows a single CPU core to handle multiple threads simultaneously, improving multitasking performance by simulating additional cores.
- Thermal Design Power (TDP): A measure of the maximum amount of heat a CPU is expected to generate under typical workloads, used for selecting appropriate cooling solutions.
How We Picked The Best CPU For RX 7700 XT
Choosing the best CPU for the Radeon RX 7700 XT can be tricky business, as one has to strike the perfect balance between price and performance to maximize the value aspect. Even experienced PC builders can get stumped in this process, so here are some key factors to keep in mind when picking the ideal CPU for RX 7700 XT.
- Performance: Assess benchmarks for real-world gaming scenarios at 1080p, 1440p, and 4K to ensure a balanced CPU-GPU synergy. It’s imperative to avoid CPU bottlenecks, meaning the CPU should be powerful enough to keep pace with the RX 7700 XT’s capabilities, ensuring a smooth and lag-free gaming experience.
- Overclocking Support: Look for CPUs with unlocked multipliers, as they enable support for manual overclocking. Examine overclocking results from reputable sources to gauge the CPU’s potential performance gains. Additionally, consider the thermal management and power consumption of an overclocked CPU to ensure system stability and longevity while pushing for higher clock speeds.
- Power Draw: Pay attention to the CPU’s power consumption under load, as this can affect your system’s overall energy efficiency. Take into account the Thermal Design Power (TDP) rating as a guideline for heat dissipation and general efficiency. Evaluating the resulting temperatures and the type of cooling solution required is crucial to maintaining a stable and reliable system.
- Future Upgrades: In today’s technology landscape, CPU platforms, often referred to as chipsets, typically have a limited ability to support only one or two generations of a specific CPU before becoming obsolete. Consequently, this may necessitate a motherboard replacement when upgrading in the future.
- Price and Value: Take into account your budget and compare the CPU’s performance relative to its cost. It’s essential to strike a balance between performance and price to ensure you’re getting the best value for your specific gaming needs. Consider factors like platform support, performance levels, and long-term usability to make an informed decision.
FAQs
The AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3D can definitely be considered the best overall gaming CPU for the RX 7700 XT due to its excellent performance and value for money. On the Intel side, the Intel Core i5 13600K positions itself as the best Intel CPU for RX 7700 XT in our roundup.
AMD recommends a 700W PSU for the Radeon RX 7700 XT, although this can vary depending on the aftermarket variant that you buy. The advertised typical board power (TBP) of the RX 7700 XT is 245W.
No, the AMD Ryzen 7 5800X does not cause any significant bottlenecks with the Radeon RX 7700 XT. The Ryzen 7 5800X is still a very solid gaming CPU with admirable results when paired with the RX 7700 XT, especially at 1440p and 4K.
Of course, the Radeon RX 7700 XT can run some games at playable framerates at 4K, but it is not exactly a 4K graphics card. It is targeted more towards 1440p gaming, which is where it excels even in modern games.
Technically, the Radeon RX 7700 XT supports a maximum display resolution of 8K (7680×4320), even though it is unrealistic to expect the GPU to handle games at that resolution. For gaming, the Radeon RX 7700 XT targets 1440p and high-refresh-rate 1080p resolutions.
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[Reviews Specialist]
Usman Saleem brings 8+ years of comprehensive PC hardware expertise to the table. His journey in the tech world has involved in-depth tech analysis and insightful PC hardware reviews, perfecting over 6+ years of dedicated work. Usman’s commitment to staying authentic and relevant in the field is underscored by many professional certifications, including a recent one in Google IT Support Specialization.
- 8+ years of specialized PC hardware coverage
- 6+ years of in-depth PC hardware analysis and reviews
- Lead PC hardware expert across multiple tech journalism platforms
- Certified in Google IT Support Specialization
