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The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 Ti is one of the best graphics cards, which offers exceptional performance for graphics-intensive tasks and demanding games. The downside is that if you want to tap into its full power, you need to pair it with a powerful CPU.
In this article, we are going to take a look at the best CPU for 4070 Ti. From high-end options to budget-friendly picks that will push your system to its limits. No matter you are a gamer looking to increase your frame rates or a content creator, looking for some additional power, these CPUs will surely deliver. If you do not have a decent CPU, your graphics card will end up being a paperweight. This is the reason it is important to find the best CPU for your RTX 4070 Ti, one that does not cause any kind of bottleneck on any side.
When the CPU of a computer is not powerful enough to keep up with the demands of other components, especially the GPU, it will result in a bottleneck that can harm the system’s overall performance.
It can let to slowdowns and stuttering in gaming and poor video quality when you stream. When it comes to gaming, lower frame rates will make the game less enjoyable to play and smoother, particularly in fast-paced games that need high frame rates.
However, before we dive into the products, let us find out how we choose have chosen the best CPU for RTX 4070 Ti.
Our Criteria for Selecting the Best CPU for 4070
We have considered a few before buying a CPU to pair up with RTX 4070 Ti. Here are the most important ones.
1. Motherboard Compatibility
When we are choosing a CPU for our build, one of the top points for contention is motherboard compatibility. With a wide range of components in the market, various names, numbers, and chipsets to get used to, it can be relatively arduous for an average consumer.
Here is a table that will cover the compatibility of motherboards with different CPU ranges.
CPU Range | Socket Type | Compatible Motherboards |
AMD Ryzen 5000 | AM4 | A520, B450, B550, X470, X570 |
AMD Ryzen 7000 | AM5 | E |
Intel 12th-Gen | LGA 1700 | H610, H670, B660, Z690, Z790 |
Intel 13th-Gen | LGA1700 | H610, H670, B660, Z690, Z790 |
As is evident from the table the most recent 13th-Gen processors of Intel and the previous 12th-Gen offering work on every current LGA1700 motherboard. It means you can use it as one of the newer graphics cards with an older motherboard and vice versa, enabling consumers to be a tad more price-conscious as they put together the build.
On the other hand, for AMD, consumers have to be aware of the socket change between Ryzen 5000 and Ryzen 7000. These CPU ranges aren’t compatible with the respective cheapest ranges of each other. Hence, you will have to choose an entirely new board while upgrading.
Moreover, it is essential to note that because of RTX 4070 Ti’s large dimension, choosing a motherboard with more protection around the primary PCI-E slot is worth doing. If not dealt with, GPU sag can damage the graphics card and motherboard.
2. DDR4 or DDR5 RAM
DDR4 or DDR5 is another big question that pops up more and more these days, particularly with the popularity of the Ryzen 7000 processors. In its present state, DDR5 memory is not worth the money when focusing on price-to-performance metrics.
Nevertheless, AMD Ryzen 7000 users have to secure one of these kits to build a system on the new AM5 platform since it is only DDR5 compatible.
For anyone looking for the 12 or 13th gen, there is the option of DDR4 and DDR5 based on the motherboard that is being chosen, enabling consumers to select a future-proof system.
3. Clock Speed vs. Cores
It was not very long ago that all processors had a single core, even a decade ago. But these days, single processors are not the rule but an exception. Multicore processors are very popular these days as they have become increasingly available.
When you are choosing a CPU for your system, you have to take a look at the number of cores you should have access to and the overall speed of the clock. The one chosen depends on the use case but should be considered regardless.
For a workstation PC, a CPU with more cores is the priority. Workstation applications prioritize more cores since these programs can use more because of the complexity of the software. When it comes to gaming systems, CPUs with higher clock speeds have to be the priority. It is crucial to choose a CPU with 6 or more cores for modern games since that core should realistically run faster to process GPU data quickly enough.
To choose the best CPUs for RTX 4070 Ti, we have rounded up different options from Intel and AMD’s older and newer ranges to find the best option. We have compared the options in many gaming and workstation benchmarks. Due to the teetering of RTX 4070 Ti between high-end and mid-range markets, we have chosen some options, which allow consumers to be a little more precise with their component choices or develop a top-end system.
4. Cache
The cache of a processor is similar to a computer’s memory. The cache of the processor is a small amount of fast memory, which is used for temporary storage. It enables a computer to receive the files, which are in the cache of the processor very quickly. The larger the cache of the processor, the more files it can store for quick retrieval.
5. Frequency
The CPU’s frequency, measured in hertz, is the speed at which it operates. Previously, a faster frequency meant better performance. However, that is not the case anymore. In certain cases, a CPU that runs at a lower frequency might perform better than a processor that runs at a higher frequency because of the infrastructure of the CPU. It is crucial to check out the instructions per lock of the CPU in addition to the CPU’s frequency.
Even though frequency is a good indication of how rapidly a processor can perform, it is not the only factor affecting the processor’s speed.
6. Socket Compatibility
A primary concern while listing a CPU is socket compatibility. The socket compatibility allows the interface between the CPU and the motherboard. In case the motherboard has already been acquired, make sure that the processor that has been installed is compatible with the socket of the motherboard. When you build a computer around the processor, ensure that the motherboard goes well with the existing processor.
Best CPUs for NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 Ti
Now, we are going to list the top CPUs that will go with RTX 4070 Ti. So, let’s drive in.
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1. Intel Core i5 12600K: Best within Budget
Specifications | Intel Core i5 12600K |
Thread Count | 16 |
Core Count | 10 |
Boost Clock Speed | 4.9GHz |
Base Clock Speed | 3.7GHz |
Max Turbo Power | 150W |
The first one on our list is the Intel i5 Core 12600K. Depending on the excellent performance and current price of the Core i5, it makes an excellent pair with RTX 4070 Ti. It is the best 12th-generation affordable option between Intel and AMD in comparison to many other options.
The CPU offers great multithreaded and single metrics. So, it is best for 1440p and 1080p gaming. It is capable of tackling lower frame rates. However, if you are looking to play games in 4K visuals constantly, you should look for a more robust CPU and GPU combo.
The reason we have chosen this CPU is because of its pricing. The price has dropped significantly since the release of the 13th-Gen platform. Thus, it is the best CPU within the budget.
Conclusion
Intel Core i5 12600L is one of the top CPUs available in the market if you are on a budget and want to build a gaming PC. The mid-range offering will offer great metrics in games at different resolutions with a few decent legs in less intensive workstation applications. But the CPU might not be the best in more intense cases.
Our Verdict
One of the things we liked about the product is its price point. The price had been competitive upon release. However, now you will have access to an incredible game-based CPU, which can handle a large number of modern titles at an affordable price point.
Even though the Core i5 12600K is not a new CPU, you still have the option to choose a new motherboard if you want. Moreover, it is the first CPU to offer support for DDR4 and DDR5 memory.
But it is not the best option for a workstation system. Another drawback of the CPU is that it will deprecate within the next year or so.
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Pros and Cons
Check out the pros and cons of the CPUs.
Pros
- Incredible single-core performance.
- The very affordable price point.
- Ideal for a mid-range system.
Cons
- Not ideal for complicated multi-threaded productivity applications.
- At max settings, it can experience bottlenecking
2. Intel Core i7 13700K – Best Overall
Specifications | Intel Core i7 13700K |
Thread Count | 24 |
Core Count | 16 |
Boost Clock Speed | 5.4GHz |
Base Clock Speed | 3.4GHz |
Max Turbo Power | 253W |
When the 13th-Gen CPU was being launched, Intel showed that can provide considerable generational improvements and the Core i7 13700K is arguably one of the top SKUs, that came with the new platform. It is currently one of the top CPUs on offer, catering to the metrics of the last generation’s Core i9 12900K in multithread and single scores.
The CPU can handle almost anything that is thrown at it. No matter whether you are playing games at 4K or 1440p or you need a chip, which can handle complicated workloads, such as 3D rendering and video editing. Even though the 13th-Gen platform might deprecate soon, the 13700K can survive the demand in performance for at least the next 5 years.
Conclusion
The Core i7 13700K is ideal for those who want to build a system, which can handle productivity and gaming without issues. It strikes an excellent balance between the two. While it sits at a higher price point in comparison to other market options, you will only get what you pay for.
Our Verdict
The CPU is an all-rounder and is one of the top CPUs in terms of multi-faceted systems. Even though it is a new product, we found the cost to be relatively the same in comparison to 12th-Gen options. Another thing we liked about the CPU is that it works with previous-generation motherboards. However, one of the major drawbacks of the CPU is that it lacks inherent upgradability.
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Pros and Cons
The product comes with pros and cons like everything else.
Pros
- Quite capable of 4K.
- A good option for high-end gaming or workstation PC.
- Affordable platform cost.
Cons
- Platform towards the end of its lifecycle.
3. AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3d – The Best Value
Specifications | AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3d |
Thread Count | 24 |
Core Count | 16 |
Boost Clock Speed | 5.4GHz |
Base Clock Speed | 3.4GHz |
Max Turbo Power | 253W |
This CPU is a unique variant of AMD Ryzen that does neck-to-neck with Intel’s Core i9 12th-Gen SKUs that up until a few months ago were the strongest CPUs on the market.
The reason why AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3d is one of the top gaming CPUs is because of the technology of AMD’s 3D V-Cache. The cache offers a significant boost in gaming performance, making it a worthy purchase for those developing a PC just for gaming.
The 5800X3D is not the best choice for a productivity workstation since there are better options in terms of clock speeds and cores. However, it is perfect for a gaming-only system and it is a relatively low platform cost, enabling more price-conscious consumers to save money while still being able to build a strong gaming PC.
Conclusion
AMD’s Ryzen 7 5800X3D is one of the top gaming CPUs in the market at present. Its 3D V-Cache will push performance even further making it an affordable option in comparison to Ryzen 9 Titans and Core i9. Even though it is not the best workstation system, if you plan to build just for gaming, the 5800X3D is not going to disappoint you.
Our Verdict
We found AMD’s Ryzen 7 5800X3D to be one of the best CPUs on the market because of the popular 3D V-Cache with performance compared to Intel Core i9 12900K. 3D V-Cache has a good thermal limitation, the CPU has a lower TDP in comparison to other options. But for longevity, you might have to look for a strong cooler. However, we found that it might not be the right CPU for a workstation.
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Pros and Cons
Check out the pros and cons of the CPU.
Pros
- Platform cost is very affordable.
- Incredible metric in games.
- Many cheaper motherboard options.
Cons
- No upgrade because of a deprecated platform.
- Not the best for a productivity workload.
4. AMD Ryzen 9 7900X – The Best Performing
Specifications | AMD Ryzen 9 7900X |
Thread Count | 24 |
Core Count | 12 |
Boost Clock Speed | 5.6GHz |
Base Clock Speed | 4.7GHz |
Max Turbo Power | 170W |
The launch of the AMD 7000 was a little overwhelming for AMD, but the high-end SKUs provide a much better value proposition in comparison to 7700X and 7600X. The 7900X has topped the charts in terms of frame rates. Single and multithreaded scores incredible scores are stunning, and several consumers will be happy with the performance as a workstation or in games.
One of the top benefits of choosing a Ryzen 7000 CPU is upgradability. AM5 platform of AMD is one of the only offerings on the market, which is offering hardware that will not be deprecated in the following year or so. They have the potential to become the new standard for hardware shortly. It can make upgrading much more convenient.
Conclusion
The Ryzen 9 7900 is one of the best CPUs on their AM5 platform sitting on an affordable price point with stronger performance metrics. Users will have to pay a little more for finalizing a build with one of these CPUs but the 7900x makes the best pairing for anyone looking to create a multi-faceted system.
Our Verdict
We found this to be one of the top-performing options. It is the best option in the market providing stunning metrics in multi-core and single-core benchmarks. The CPU comes with many features and a lifespan of more recent AMD sockets.
It generally runs hot because of its boosting behavior. But this means that the CPU has a lot of headroom. So, you are going to need a good cooler when you plan to overclock or use the CPU for intense workloads.
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Pros and Cons
Here are the pros and cons of this CPU.
Pros
- The platform might last for the next three years.
- Excellent gaming CPU or workstation.
- One of AMD’s top CPUs.
Cons
- An expensive platform.
- Boosting behavior needs a strong CPU cooler.
5. AMD Ryzen 7 7700X – Best for Gaming
Specifications | AMD Ryzen 7 7700X |
Thread Count | 16 |
Core Count | 8 |
Boost Clock Speed | 5.4GHz |
Base Clock Speed | 4.5GHz |
Max Turbo Power | 105W |
Another great fit for RTC 4070 Ti will surely come from the latest generation of Intel and AMD. We have chosen AMD Ryzen 7 7000x depending on the objective performance. The 7000 series Ryzen 7 is packed with 16 threads and 8 cores to deliver up to 5.4GHz at only 105 W TDP. AMD can match the RTX 4070 Ti speed and power by demanding less power from the PSU and developing less heat. This makes it the best fit for a power-efficient GPU.
Even though 105W of thermal power isn’t as good as expected is the lowest TDP of any other product on the list. It can hit the perfect spot for content creation and gaming. The CPU can communicate and manage smoothness with the speed of 4070 Ti.
Conclusion
This is a CPU with a lower thread count and core than Intel Core i9-13900K. However, it can still have impressive single and multi-core performance thanks to its sizeable 5.6GHz improved clock speed. The CPU does a great job serving the 4070 Ti, even though on a little tighter budget.
Our Verdict
We found that the AMD Ryzen 7 7700X can outperform 5800X3D in terms of gaming. However, it might not be the best option for the workstation. Also, its boosted clock speed is beneficial for gamers.
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Pros and Cons
Check out the pros and cons of the CPUs.
Pros
- Excellent pricing.
- Outperforms 5800X3D in gaming.
- The eco mode of the CPU is amazing.
- Higher frequency under the all-core speed.
Cons
- Lacks a tad in terms of cores.
Conclusion
The CPU you choose can have an impact on the performance since the CPU is the central component determining the processing speed and power of the computer. A stronger CPU handles demanding tasks, such as video editing, gaming, and multitasking with ease, while a weaker CPU might struggle and as a result, it will slow down the performance. But other factors, such as storage, graphics, and memory card can have an impact on the overall performance and shouldn’t be neglected when you are building a high-performance PC.
Intel has managed to retain its performance crown with its CPU Core 17 13700L. It is a particular CPU that provides incredible metrics in games at different resolutions and settings while offering great performance as a CPU that is productivity-oriented. The CPU is on the expensive side in comparison to the rest of the market. However, consumers can spend a little less on RAM and their motherboard choice for picking up the best CPU for 4070.