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Best CPUs for RTX 3080: The Ultimate Guide for 2023

by Peter Samuel

With the release of the RTX 3080, gamers around the world are looking to upgrade their systems to take advantage of the new graphics card.

Though the RTX 3080 is a relatively new graphics card on the market, that hasn’t stopped gamers from wondering what the best CPUs are for it.

Some are concerned that they might need to upgrade their entire system to be able to run the card at its fullest potential.

But don’t worry - we’re here to help! In this unbiased guide, we’ll take a look at some of the best CPUs for an RTX 3080 and explain why they would work well with this particular graphics card. So read on to learn more!

At A Glance:

Best pick

AMD's Best CPU for RTX 3080

AMD Ryzen 9 5900X

AMD Ryzen 9 5900X

Offers 100+ FPS performance

Supports most latest and advanced gaming

Excellent gaming with 12 Cores and 24 Threads

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Staff Pick

Best Overall CPU for RTX 3080

Intel Core i7-10700K

Intel Core i7-10700K

Amazing all-core based performance

Based on the latest gaming technology

Reliable overclocking with an unlocked multiplier

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Budget Pick

Best Budget CPU for RTX 3080

AMD Ryzen 9 3900X

AMD Ryzen 9 3900X

Offers color controlled LED support

70 MB of game cache to stop glitching

Bundled with Wraith Prism LED Cooler

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We have included here some flagship models, and also some of them are budget-friendly options. Nvidia delivered intense waves with their declaration of the Next-Gen GPU RTX 3080 is recognized as their top-flight consumer GPU.

This CPU aims to surround the 4K gaming and promises to cover all that has left before. A ton of improvements have doubled the shelter, Tensor performance, and ray tracing of this GPU.

Its new technologies like DLSS 2.0 let the GPU use compound effects and still maintain high frame rates even at those resolutions that face older GPUs struggle.

It is ultimately the Next-Gen in the graphics world, and if you want to experience its full potential, you will require a CPU that best suits it.

On the other hand, if your system can not go with the firm and powerful GPU, you’ll face lag, poor performance, and stutter, destroying your quality time with this powerful graphics card.

To avoid all this and ensure that your system can support RTX 3080, here are our top guides of the best CPUs that amazingly suit your graphic card.

Our Recommendations For Best CPU for RTX 3080

Award Modal Design Retailer
AMD's Best CPU for RTX 3080 AMD Ryzen 9 5900X AMD Ryzen 9 5900X View on amazon
Intel's Best CPU for RTX 3080 Intel Core i9-10900K Intel Core i9-10900K View on amazon
Best Mid-Range CPU for RTX 3080 AMD Ryzen 7 5800X AMD Ryzen 7 5800X View on amazon
Best Overall CPU for RTX 3080 Intel Core i7-10700K Intel Core i7-10700K View on amazon
Best Flagship CPU for RTX 3080 AMD Ryzen 5 5600X AMD Ryzen 5 5600X View on amazon
Best Enthusiast CPU for RTX 3080 Intel Core i9-9900K Intel Core i9-9900K View on amazon
Best Budget CPU for RTX 3080 AMD Ryzen 9 3900X AMD Ryzen 9 3900X View on amazon
Best Performance CPU for RTX 3080 Intel Core i5-10600K Intel Core i5-10600K View on amazon

AMD Ryzen 9 5900X

Best pick AMD Ryzen 9 5900X View on amazon

Brand: AMD | Cores: 12 | Threads: 24 | Max Turbo Frequency: 4.8GHz | L3 Cache: 70MB | Wattage: 105 Watts | Socket Type: AM4

What recent buyers report?

The buyers are pleased with the ultimate gaming results of this processor. It is fully unlocked for overclocking and consists of 12 cores and 24 processing threads. Moreover, it has a boost clock up to 4.8GHz and a Cache of 70MB.

People liked it so much, but some complained about the coolers not included. They stated that how can a pricy RCPU doesn’t have a CPU cooler.

Why it stands out to us?

AMD Ryzen 9 5900X stands out to us because it has a ton of quality features.

To configure and customize your gaming rig is not an easy task. It is compatible with any AMD 500 series motherboards with an effortless setting of Bios update.

Its Master utility features can directly access fan speeds, temperatures, core voltage, memory timings, CPU frequencies, and a simple switchable profile.

It is the ideal tool for fine-tuning, and those looking for incredible performance and want more from their AMD processors.

Who will use it most?

This processor is used for multi-purposes. You can use it for video rendering, 3D rendering, software compiling with the help of 12 cores, 24 threads, and PCIe 4.0.

This processor is specifically designed for gaming enthusiasts and is ideal for content creators and those who have ordinary workloads at home. This processor performs like a beast and is demanding among its users.

Bottom line

Overall, it’s a perfect product and is known to be the fastest desktop processor. You can overclock it according to your will, and it can boost the clock up to 4.8GHz.

This processor runs so much calmer, and the process of encoding video is significantly faster and comfortable. It has the top-class quality and delivers top-class results. People who work from home are delighted and said that they would rebuy this product.

The Pros

Offers 100+ FPS performance

Supports most latest and advanced gaming

Excellent gaming with 12 Cores and 24 Threads

The Cons

Cooler not included

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Intel Core i9-10900K

Intel Core i9-10900K View on amazon

Brand: Intel | Cores: 10 | Threads: 20 | Max Turbo Frequency: 5.3GHz | L3 Cache: 20MB | Wattage: 125 Watts | Socket Type: LGA 1200

What recent buyers report?

The buyers report it as the best processors that perform in a very systematic way. They stated that it is the best and elite processor of intel.

This ultimate processor has ten cores and 20 threads, which performs like a beast in its circle.

The users are delighted with its brilliant performance and said they would repurchase it as they want the best and outclass results in their games and other workloads.

Why it stands out to us?

Intel Core i9-10900K stands out to us because of its performance in single and multi-threaded applications. However, Intel has always been known as the best consumer processor, and for a long time, it held a top performance.

It is a brilliant PC gamer and delivers powerful results in heavy gaming sessions. The Intel and other brand wars have been going on for decades, but Intel didn’t go with its dignity and performance.

It always maintains its standard and remains constant, no matter what complications it has to face.

Who will use it most?

Now let’s discuss the individual performance. It has impressive performance in the gaming zone and is brilliant in content creation.

So this is not only specific for gaming but also office workloads and work-from-home sessions. By upgrading your CPU, you can also show your skills and talent, plus you can outperform your opponents on the battlefields.

You can perform excellently in your games if you have 6-core or more than that on an Intel processor.

Bottom line

Overall, it is the most robust and most powerful processor of all. It can perform up to 5.3GHz, but it becomes throttled and shaggy when it reaches the thermal limit.

The beautiful central part is that it can be overclocked and is unlocked for its customers. Intel is a famous brand and never sacrifice for its quality.

It is the best option for your gaming rig, and we recommend you try this product. We are sure you will not regret it.

The Pros

Upgraded networking chipset

Great potential for overclocking

Great base and boost clock speed

The Cons

Cooling system requirements

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AMD Ryzen 7 5800X

AMD Ryzen 7 5800X View on amazon

Brand: AMD | Cores: 8 | Threads: 16 | Max Turbo Frequency: 4.7GHz | L3 Cache: 36MB | Wattage: 105 Watts | Socket Type: AM4

What recent buyers report?

Recent buyers find this product very perfect and brilliant in performance. They stated that it is beneficial to build a new system and upgrade your gaming rig.

Some users complained that it gets a little warm, but overall it has an outstanding performance. Some people appreciated the perfect temperature and maintained cooling. However, a better cooler is recommended with it.

Why it stands out to us?

AMD Ryzen 7 5800X stands out to us because it has perfect single-core performance exceed any Intel contender and multi-core performance that shatters most of the competition.

It has incredible potential for performance achievement and has excellent thermals. It has an outstanding performance in games and can deliver top-class performance in productivity and other workloads.

Who will buy it most?

This product is ideal for a gaming enthusiast who wants to upgrade their gaming performance. It is also beneficial in productivity and content creation.

Besides this, it doesn’t matter the settings or resolution. You can lead your team to success with this brilliant 8-core gaming processor.

With a boost clock of 4.7GHz and 32MB of Cache, you can reach maximum performance in games while encrypting high-resolution video for top-class quality streaming.

Bottom line

Overall, this processor is a good performer. It is a big thanks to its moderately approachable cost and high-end improvement in performance compared to the last generation. However, AMD 7 5800X is the best processor in the market.

Its Master utility takes you to a real-time approach to fan speeds, core voltage, temperatures, CPU frequencies, and effortless switchable profiles. It is the perfect processor who wants something incredible for multi-tasking and productivity.

The Pros

Energy-efficient thermals

Excellent for multi-tasking

Brilliant performance in gaming

The Cons

Missing a CPU cooler

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Intel Core i7-10700K

Staff Pick Intel Core i7-10700K View on amazon

Brand: Intel | Cores: 8 | Threads: 16 | Max Turbo Frequency: 5.1GHz | L3 Cache: 16MB | Wattage: 125 Watts | Socket Type: LGA 1200

What recent buyers report?

It’s worth noting that recent buyers of the Core i7-10700K report that it’s an excellent choice for a high-end gaming rig.

They appreciate the unlocked multiplier, which allows them to easily overclock the processor and report that it hits its advertised boost clock speeds with ease. Many also note that the included cooler is sufficient for keeping the CPU at reasonable temperatures, even when overclocking.

However, some users do note that the processor is a bit pricey compared to other options on the market. Others report that they had to update their BIOS to use the CPU, so keep that in mind if you plan to use this processor with an older motherboard.

Why it stands out to us?

Many people admire Intel Core i7-10700K as it covers all the rich features that severe gamers demand to enhance their gaming rig.

This amazing processor has eight cores and sixteen threads, so it’ll be able to handle even the most demanding games and applications. Additionally, the unlocked multiplier makes overclocking a breeze, and the included cooler is more than adequate for keeping the CPU cool, even when pushed to its limits.

Who will use it most?

The Core i7-10700K will be most commonly used by gamers or power users who need a high-end processor that can handle demanding games and applications.

However, its price may also be used by content creators or other professionals who need a powerful CPU for their workstations.

Bottom line

The i7-10700K is a great processor that is unlocked with integrated graphics. This processor significantly draws less power than other models.

No matter what resolution you enjoy on your PC games, this unit can face all the hurdles your GPU can bring to other connected monitors.

The Pros

Amazing all-core based performance

Based on the latest gaming technology

Reliable overclocking with an unlocked multiplier

The Cons

High power consumption

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AMD Ryzen 5 5600X

AMD Ryzen 5 5600X View on amazon

Brand: AMD | Cores: 6 | Threads: 12 | Max Turbo Frequency: 4.6GHz | L3 Cache: 35MB | Wattage: 65 Watts | Socket Type: AM4

What recent buyers report?

Buyers are genuinely happy with the performance of AMD Ryzen 5 5600X. They find it classy and the processor with top-notch results. It has a perfectly reasonable cost so that most people can easily afford it.

Some users said that the performance is beyond their expectations and finds no complications regarding processor settings.

It delivers high-speed gaming performance of the world’s perfect desktop processors.

Why it stands out to us?

It stands out to us because it encodes fast, renders, and iterate more quickly. You can create and show your skills with AMD Ryzen processors.

It is one of the most popular and balanced desktop processors.

People are amazed by the increase in performance as compared t the old Generation models.

Moreover, it offers the fastest cores around the world of PC enthusiasts.

Who will use it most?

These six incredible cores deliver exceptional performance in gaming. This processor is perfect for those who want to play games, no matter how demanding it is and how difficult it is to play. Besides this, if you plan to buy a processor that can manage all the tasks and workloads, plus you want to access PCIe 4.0 and other remarkable technologies, this would be the best suitable processor for you.

Bottom line

Overall, it is a classic processor that enhances the entire performance of your gaming rig.

You can also avail of its advantages in content creation and other ordinary workloads. It also bundles a Wraith Stealth cooler and has less power consumption than others.

This processor got the maximum rating and a super hot recommendation for all the passionate gamers.

The Pros

Wraith Stealth cooler included

Top-notch single-core performance

Remarkable boost frequency of 4.6GHz

The Cons

Needs AIO for good performance

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Intel Core i9-9900K

Intel Core i9-9900K View on amazon

Brand: Intel | Cores: 10 | Threads: 20 | Max Turbo Frequency: 5.3GHz | L3 Cache: 20MB | Wattage: 125 Watts | Socket Type: AM4

What recent buyers report?

The buyers find it a memorable and super performer processor. It works terrific, and it can overclock at 5.3GHz with no complications.

However, some buyers complained of the processor being heated when we attempt to overclock.

They suggested that one should have a decent AIO water cooler or a brilliant air cooler before pushing this chip.

Why it stands out to us?

Intel Core i9-9900K stands out to us because it has Turbo boost technology that reaches 5.3GHz and is specifically designed for content creators and serious gamers.

It offers top-notch performance when overclock to deliver an unmatchable experience. If you want a top-class and powerful CPU for gaming, then i9-10900k is the perfect one.

Moreover, it is Intel’s first processor that has ten cores in its well-developed line-up.

Who will buy it most?

This product is ideal for gaming as well as content creation. If you want to overclock your system for elite performance, then this is the best option.

It is outstanding for those who wish to stunning results in their design and enhances their gaming sessions. Intel has now been the best worldwide, and all of its products have unique features.

Bottom line

Overall, it is a perfect product and the best CPU for RTX 3080. It has a ton of unique features that covers all the single and multi-threaded applications.

If you want to make your system more attractive and enhance your gaming battlefields, we recommend this product ideal for most of us.

This processor is compatible only with the motherboards that are based on Intel 300 series chipset.

The Pros

Multi-threaded beast

Overclocking at its peak

Excellent boost clock at 5.3GHz

The Cons

More power consumption at 125W

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AMD Ryzen 9 3900X

Budget Pick AMD Ryzen 9 3900X View on amazon

Brand: AMD | Cores: 12 | Threads: 24 | Max Turbo Frequency: 4.6GHz | L3 Cache: 64MB | Wattage: 105 Watts | Socket Type: AM4

What recent buyers report?

The buyers find this product very unique and deliver classic performance in games and other tasks. They Stated that this processor is something else that goes beyond its limits in delivering high-end performance.

Due to its extra threads and cores, it offers unique multi-core benchmarks.

People said that the CPU cooler that arrived with this processor also has impressive features and performance.

Why it stands out to us?

AMD Ryzen 9 3900X stands out to us due to its multi-core performance and 64MB of L3 Cache. It has a base frequency of 3.8GHz and reaches up to 4.6GHz.

It is one of the top-notch processors created for innovative tasks and a versatile processor with top-class performance in gaming, proving rock-solid.

Moreover, it is the most compelling CPU introduced by AMD and can do everything you ask to enhance your system.

Who will use it most?

This CPU is ideal for multitasking and delivers top-class results.

It can handle gaming, video editing, rendering, streaming, and other ordinary workloads. If you want to do work like content creation and productivity, it demands a fast and robust CPU. This processor delivers what it promises to offer.

It is an excellent investment and purely created for gaming purposes. This product is truly a gem that can do a rendering job efficiently than any other CPU.

Bottom line

Overall, this is a brilliant processor that is very beneficial for gaming and extra workloads. All in all, Ryzen 9 3900X supports multi-threading.

They can run two computing tasks simultaneously on each processor core.

If we put all these basic specs together, we will get the ultimate product known as Ryzen 9 3900X. This processor will never let you disappoint and make your gaming rig outstanding and worth appreciable.

The Pros

Offers color controlled LED support

70 MB of game cache to stop glitching

Bundled with Wraith Prism LED Cooler

The Cons

No Integrated graphics

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Intel Core i5-10600K

Intel Core i5-10600K View on amazon

Brand: Intel | Cores: 6 | Threads: 12 | Max Turbo Frequency: 4.8GHz | L3 Cache: 12MB | Wattage: 125 Watts | Socket Type: AM4

What recent buyers report?

The buyers report it as a moderate processor that is no best for the gaming purpose. This 6-core, 12 thread CPU can be overclocked and gives you a better gaming experience, but for the temperatures, power consumption, and cost.

Users said that it is perfect for everyday use and can get better framerates in 95% of games. It is the ideal CPU in the lineup that is based on value and output.

Why it stands out to us?

Intel Core i5-10600K stands out to us because it has all the essential features that a beginner needs. If you plan to build a new system that is not specific for games and other ordinary tasks, this is the best suitable processor for you. It is optimized for overclocking, productivity, and gaming purposes, plus it is compatible only with 400 series chipsets based motherboards.

Who will use it most?

It is not known as the world’s fastest and powerful gaming processor, but it can be a better CPU after overclocking than other models for most users.

This product is best suitable for ordinary tasks and works from home experience. The main key spec of this processor is the thread and core count.

Bottom line

In short, it is the best processor but best suitable for ordinary tasks.

Intel is a well-known brand, and it has a good reputation in its circle. It doesn’t compromise on the quality and performance, though it delivers everything that it offers.

When overclocked, it can be a world-class gaming processor that can outrun anything that comes in its way to success.

The Pros

Works as advertised

Provides cool and calm service

Comes with Intel Hyper-threading technology

The Cons

Lack of PCIe 4.0

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Summary For Best CPU for RTX 3080

Award Modal Design Retailer
AMD's Best CPU for RTX 3080 AMD Ryzen 9 5900X AMD Ryzen 9 5900X View on amazon
Intel's Best CPU for RTX 3080 Intel Core i9-10900K Intel Core i9-10900K View on amazon
Best Mid-Range CPU for RTX 3080 AMD Ryzen 7 5800X AMD Ryzen 7 5800X View on amazon
Best Overall CPU for RTX 3080 Intel Core i7-10700K Intel Core i7-10700K View on amazon
Best Flagship CPU for RTX 3080 AMD Ryzen 5 5600X AMD Ryzen 5 5600X View on amazon
Best Enthusiast CPU for RTX 3080 Intel Core i9-9900K Intel Core i9-9900K View on amazon
Best Budget CPU for RTX 3080 AMD Ryzen 9 3900X AMD Ryzen 9 3900X View on amazon
Best Performance CPU for RTX 3080 Intel Core i5-10600K Intel Core i5-10600K View on amazon

Conclusion

Summing it up, we have gone through the list of best CPU for RTX 3080. Intel and AMD are the best brands that don’t compromise on performance and quality. People have different requirements and priorities, so it is challenging to rate the best processor, as everyone has other choices and preferences.

Customers like the product according to their needs and will. If you want a processor that is suitable for gaming and enhancing your gaming rig, Intel Core i9-10900K is the best option. It has unlocked and best for overclocking. And if you want a CPU that performs flawlessly in all tasks and best for several workloads, then AMD Ryzen 9 5900X is best suitable for you.

You just need to evaluate them on some standard parameters like price, memory support, base and boost clock, and cooling solutions, etc because all of the products are the best possible options for the RTX 3080.

Frequently Asked Questions

What CPU is best for RTX 3080?

RTX 3080 is the most advanced and high-end graphics card but when we talk about the performance and value of Intel Core i9-9900K, there might be no comparison for this processor. Even when Comet Lake processors are released, this processor got a prime spot for mainstream customers. So we recommend you to try this processor as it consists of a complete set of features.

What CPU should I get for RTX 3080?

There is a lot of CPU that can best relate to RTX 3080. All of the processors belong to well-known brands and are brilliant in their style and performance. These brands don’t compromise on the quality and performance and deliver the best what they offer. Intel Core i7-10700K is the most suitable processor that can go with RTX 3080. It has 8-cores, 16-threads, and boost frequency up to 5.1GHz. It is the most reliable, efficient, and <a href="https://www.perfecttechreviews.com/cpus/best-intel-for-gaming/" aria-label="fastest gaming processor">fastest gaming processor</a>.

Will the i9 9900k bottleneck The RTX 3080?

Yes, it is okay. It is a super new and high-end processor that will not bottleneck your RTX 3080. It has a rich set of features that can overcome all the hurdles that come in its way. People are delighted with its performance as it delivers incredible results when combined. You should also try AMD Ryzen 7 5800X as it is ideal for gaming enthusiasts, gives the best performance in gaming, and enhances your entire setup.

Is Ryzen 9 3900X enough for 3080?

Yes, it is sufficient for RTX 3080. Or any Ryzen could be enough for it. 4k depends on the GPU, so it doesn’t need any high-end CPU. The Ryzen 9 3900X did a great job when combined with RTX 3080. And most of the users appreciate the link between them. You should also try AMD Ryzen 5 5600X. It has 6-core, 12-threads, and can boost up to 4.6GHz. This 6-core is enough to enhance any gaming rig.

What do I need to know about choosing a CPU for RTX 3080?

Make sure that you choose a CPU compatible with your motherboard. You'll also want to consider the amount of RAM that you have, as well as the number of cores that you need. If you're not sure what to get, our experts can help you choose the best CPU for your needs.

Which CPU is best for RTX 3080?

There isn't a straightforward and definitive answer when it comes to the best CPU for RTX 3080, as there are a few different options that could be viable depending on your needs. If you're looking for raw power, something like the Intel Core i9-10900K would be a good choice. However, if you're looking for something that strikes a balance between power and efficiency, then the AMD Ryzen 9 5900X might be a better option. In the end, it's up to you to figure out which CPU is best for your needs.

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