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Buying a new gaming PC is a lot of work since it entails investing a handsome amount of money. While it’s likely that you already know the games you want to play if you’re shopping for a new gaming PC, you might need to be made aware of the necessary hardware. You can put your cash to waste by buying the most expensive PC while playing your titles on less expensive alternatives.
Moreover, buying a high-end GPU but a basic CPU or vice versa cannot achieve the best performance. So you need to find the middle ground between CPU and GPU.
If gaming enthusiasts want a new PC to uplift their gaming experience, this guide is for you! Because here, we will discuss the best CPU and GPU combos that can take your gaming to another level. Here are the five best CPU and GPU combos!
- Intel Core i9-13900K + Nvidia GeForce RTX 4090
- AMD Ryzen 5 3600 CPU and AMD Radeon RX 5600 XT GPU
- INTEL Core i5 and NVIDIA RTX 3060 Ti
- AMD Ryzen 5 5500 + Nvidia GeForce GTX 1660 Ti
- Intel Core i3 and GeForce 1660 Super – Budget Pick
You may also Like: Best GPU for Ryzen 9 5900x
Our Picks for Best GPU for 4K Gaming
After reviewing a number of CPUs and GPUs, we come up with the best CPU and GPU combinations that can uplift your gaming experience!
1. Intel Core i9-13900K + Nvidia GeForce RTX 4090 [ Editors Picks ]
Reasons to Consider
The Intel Core i9-13900K and Nvidia RTX 4090 are the best CPU and GPU combinations for building a flexible PC. This PC best serves the 4K gameplay, streaming, and editing software. If you have good bucks under your hand and want the best system go for this one.
GPU Specifications
- Ram: 24 GB GDDR6X
- Video Output: 1x HDMI 2.1, 3x DisplayPort 1.4a
- CUDA: 16384 cores
- Boost Clock Speed: 2520 MHz
- Base Clock Speed: 2235 MHz
- Bandwidth: 1,008GB/Sec
- Memory Interface: 384-bit
CPU Specifications
- Architecture: Raptor Lake
- Socket: LGA 1700
- Cores: 24
- Threads: 32
- Base Frequency: 3.0 GHz
- Max Boost Frequency: 5.8 GHz
- TDP: 125 W
First on our list of best CPU and GPU combo is the Intel Core i9-13900K and Nvidia RTX 4090. You can take your gaming to the next level with these two gigantic processors.
Thanks to the powerful processors, this combo will let you do video editing, gaming, graphic designing, 3D rendering and modeling, and high-end streaming. Moreover, you can enjoy gaming at a 4K resolution with the best frame rates, regardless of your titles.
Although you have to spend quite a few bucks on this deadly combo, you get the best performance for all your endeavors. So if you need more budget, look for this PC. Moreover, this combination also wastes a lot of processing power for casual users. So don’t plan to invest your money in this combo if you don’t use processor-hungry applications.
Now if we speak of the processing potential of these two units, they are real workhorses. The Intel Core i9-13900K features a 24-core with 32 threads and a base clock speed of massive 3 GHz. Moreover, this CPU can hit as much as 5.80 GHz clock speed When needed. In addition, you can overclock it to more than 6.5 GHz if you put liquid cooling technology in place. To your surprise, the best-recorded speed of the Core i9-13900K can go as far as 8.8 GHz.
Since this CPU is a real doer, we easily coupled the RTX 4090 with this processor, and you will find no better GPU for high-resolution gaming.
The RTX 4090 has a lot to offer with 24GB DDR6X Vram and 384-bit memory bus. You can do any heavy processing and even 4k gaming with this card. While the RTX is the best GPU for almost any title, including DLSS 3, it also meets your gaming needs for the coming years.
2. AMD Ryzen 5 3600 CPU and AMD Radeon RX 5600 XT GPU [ Gamers Picks ]
Reasons to Consider
You can use this CPU and GPU combo if you want to play immersive games without investing much. This GPU and CPU go hand in hand for better gameplay. And the best part is that you don’t need to make a hole through your pocket to get this combination.
GPU Specifications
- Ram: 6GB GDDR6
- Video Output: x 3 (v1. 4) / HDMI 2. 0b x 1
- CUDA: 2304 cores
- Boost Clock Speed: 1600 MHz
- Base Clock Speed: 1130 MHz
- Bandwidth: 288GB/Sec
- Memory Interface: 192-bit
CPU Specifications
- Architecture: Zen 2
- Socket: AM4
- Cores: 6
- Threads: 12
- Base Frequency: 3.6 GHz
- Max Boost Frequency: 4.2 GHz
- TDP: 65 W
Our next pick is the best CPU and GPU combo for 1440p gaming. Without investing much money, you can get your hands on a full PC with AMD Ryzen 5 3600 CPU and AMD Radeon RX 5600 XT GPU.
Its launch in July 2019 astonishes gaming enthusiasts for several reasons. First, it is based on Zen 2 architecture with CPU design moving to 7nm CPU from 12 nm. Result? Better performance and high processing speed.
Next, it has six cores and 12 threads which you can overclock to perform better. Furthermore, you will enjoy betterment in the memory function. Since this CPU is migrated to the PCle standard, you can get better bandwidth for AMD’s Nvidia graphic cards. So if you want to take your gaming to another level, this CPU will serve best.
Further, you will enjoy immersive gameplay when you couple this CPU with Radeon RX 5600 XT GPU. Since the RX 5600 XT comes fitted with RDNA architecture and in-built gaming features, you will have a good time gaming.
Moreover, this GPU comes with 6 GB GDDR6 memory and 288 GB/s bandwidth. You will have no problem with most of your graphical works. Since this GPU comes with Express 4.0 functionality, you can enjoy better data rates than Express 3.0. By leveraging these two components, you can play 1440p gaming without lag and at 60 frames per second.
3. INTEL Core i5 and NVIDIA RTX 3060 Ti [ Budget Picks ]
Reasons to Consider
The intel Core i5 and NVIDIA RTX 3060 Ti come fitted with a feature that enhances your gameplay. With a minimum bottleneck ratio, this combo can uplift your gameplay. Moreover, the GPU includes many RT and tensor cores, letting you enjoy realistic gameplay.
GPU Specifications
- Ram: 8GB GDDR6
- Video Output: x 3 (v1. 4) / HDMI 2. 0b x 1
- CUDA: 4864 cores
- Boost Clock Speed: 1665 MHz
- Base Clock Speed: 1410 MHz
- Bandwidth: 448 GB/Sec
- Memory Interface: 256-bit
CPU Specifications
- Architecture: Micro-architecture
- Socket: LGA1150
- Cores: 6
- Threads: 12
- Base Frequency: 2.40 GHz
- Max Boost Frequency: 4.2 GHz
- TDP: 28 W
If you are looking for a budget pick for a CPU and GPU combo, look no further than this. First, let’s have a look at the CPU. With six cores and twelve threads, the i5 11600K eleventh generation CPU outperforms in most functions. Moreover, it also comes with a superior low-temperature setup despite heavy processing.
On top of that, the i5-11600K comes with Intel’s UHD Graphics 750 Integrated Graphics Processor, the same as the potent i7-11700K. Further, it also comes fitted with a graphics base frequency of 2400 MHz,z, which is enough for the best performance.
You will also have 50G/s memory bandwidth, a DDR4-3200 memory cache, and a 14nm lithography with this CPU. Moreover, this gaming beast has features like support for PCI Express, hyperthreading, and 4K display quality. In addition, you should also love the features like Intel OS Guard, and Intel Trusted Execution Technology for better performance. But remember, you must compromise on CPU encoding if you stream and play games on the same PC. For this, you can consider i7-700K. However, for a gaming pc, this CPU works best.
Next, if you couple this CPU with NVIDIA Geforce RTX 3060 Ti, the experience will be even more enjoyable. Since the RTX 3060 Ti comes fitted with second-generation RT cores, you will get a performance like other top-tier NVIDIA models with improved ray tracing and lifelike and immersive gaming.
In addition, the RTX 3060 Ti is a step forward than RTX 3060 despite having just 8GB VRAM compared to the latter’s 12GB VRAM. You can have immersive gameplay with 1280 more RT and Tensor cores than the RTX 3060. Moreover, Compared to the RTX 3060, you will also get a whopping memory interface.
Overall, the RTX 3060 Ti GPU’s power combined with a good CPU like the i5-11600 should satisfy every gamer.
Most in demand: Best Budget Graphics Card
4. AMD Ryzen 5 5500 + Nvidia GeForce GTX 1660 Ti [ High-End Picks ]
Reasons to Consider
The AMD Ryzen 5 5500 and Nvidia Geforce GTX 1660 Ti combo make a fairly solid system if you want a light video editing and gaming PC. If you want a more dependable PC go for other high-end options. You can quickly get up to speed with 1080p gaming and video editing when used with the GTX 1660 Ti.
GPU Specifications
- Ram: 6GB GDDR6
- Video Output: 1x DVI; 1x HDMI 2.0; 1x DisplayPort
- CUDA: 1.536 cores
- Boost Clock Speed: 1770 MHz
- Base Clock Speed: 1.500 MHz
- Bandwidth: 288 GB/Sec
- Memory Interface: 192-bit
CPU Specifications
- Architecture: Zen 3
- Socket: AM4
- Cores: 6
- Threads: 12
- Base Frequency: 3.6 GHz
- Max Boost Frequency: 4.2 GHz
- TDP: 65 W
If you want to invest less in expensive combos but want a powerful PC that can run demanding applications without a problem, then go for this AMD Ryzen 5 5500 + Nvidia GeForce GTX 1660 Ti combo. This combo might be less impressive for gaming enthusiasts but works well for light video editing and gaming.
First, let’s have a look at the AMD Ryzen 5 5500 processor. This CPU comes with a standard Hexa core processor, which works well with a boost clock speed of 4.2 GHz. Although you might not get 4k gameplay, you can achieve much better frame rates. Moreover, it works well if you want to overclock it but remember it will not function better than intel core i5. But the best part about this CPU is that it does not entail a hefty price tag as other hex-core processors.
And yes, this CPU does not have any integrated Graphic card. Do you have to look for a GPU to pair it with this processor? And for that, we found the Nvidia GeForce GTX 1660 Ti the best since it offers a minimum bottleneck ratio. You can enjoy 1080p streaming and gaming with this GPU.
While you might not get premium gameplay, it offers a good experience for most of your titles. And considering the price of this GPU, the 6GB of GDDR6 VRAM of this GPU makes for impressive performance.
You can play most of the games at 1080p settings at low settings, while at high settings, you can play high-end games such as Fortnite and Apex legend at 60FPS. Moreover, high-end games like Shadow of Tomb Raider can provide the best performance at 35-45 FPS. You can play older titles better on this card than on new titles.
You might not get gameplay for 4K resolution, but for 1080p, you can get good gameplay. On top of that, for video editing, this PC is the best. All in all, this CPU and GPU combo is good for your day-to-day work and light gaming and video editing.
5. Intel Core i3 and GeForce 1660 Super [ Budget User Picks ]
Reasons to Consider
Look at this combo if you have a very limited budget to invest in a PC. This is the best CPU, and GPU combo for budget gaming, as 14 GB RAM of GPU and four cores of CPU will make for good gameplay.
GPU Specifications
- Ram: 14GB GDDR6
- Video Output: 1x DVI, 1x HDMI 2.0, 1x DisplayPort 1.4a
- CUDA: 1408 cores
- Boost Clock Speed: 1785 MHz
- Base Clock Speed: 1530 MHz
- Bandwidth: 336 GB/Sec
- Memory Interface: 192-bit
CPU Specifications
- Architecture: Ivy Bridge
- Socket: LGA1155 socket
- Cores: 4
- Threads: 8
- Base Frequency: 3.0 GHz
- Max Boost Frequency: 4.10 GHz
- TDP: 28 W
The entry-level CPU is good for basic gaming. It is a cost-effective option with improvements over the Pentium and Celeron versions. With a clock speed of 3.6GHz, four cores, eight threads, and a boost clock of 4.30 GHz, you can achieve better gameplay than many other PCs. However, it will be less impressive than our other picks, it’s a budget pick.
Moreover, it stars a 6 MB cache and 128 GB DDR4-266 RAM, making for decent performance. Furthermore, this i3-10100 Intel CPU has several cutting-edge technologies, such as thermal monitoring, turbo boost, and hyperthreading.
Considering these features, you can get better system performance than many other rivaling systems in the same price bracket. Although it lacks integrated graphics, it has a decent performance if you couple it with the NVIDIA GeForce 1660 Super.
If you look at the NVIDIA 1660 Super, you will see it can play most of your titles. Moreover,r with little in-game tweaking, you might play most modern titles as well, however, at a lower FPS. With the Turing technology of NVIDIA, you can handle most modern gameplay. In addition, with the 6GB DDR6 memory, you will have gameplay without lag.
Considering its amazing features, it is difficult to find a reasonably priced GPU like the NVIDIA 1660 Super. Combining the benefits of the i3 and the 1660 Super is beneficial for budget gamers looking to increase their enjoyment of gaming.
Things to Consider when Choosing the Best CPU-GPU Gaming Combo
Choosing the best CPU-GPU gaming combo can get tricky since there is no one-set rule. But by keeping a few important factors in mind, you can call the best combo. Here are some important factors!
Frames Per Second
Refresh rate is one of the most crucial factors when selecting the CPU-GPU combination. The demand on the CPU increases as the frames per second increases, and a better CPU increases the Frame rate. Simply put, for 240Hz gaming, you will need more processing power from the CPU than 60 Hz.
In a nutshell, if you want to enjoy CPU-intensive games or use applications at higher refresh rates, you must opt for a potent processor. That also goes for the same is true for game titles with lesser resolutions. Since the greater FPS lowers the resolution, that puts strain on the CPU, and the lower FPS increases resolution, which puts stress on GPU, you need to be mindful of finding a balance. Be aware that some screens can support both high FPS and high resolution.
Display Resolution
As was already said, greater resolutions require the rendering of more pixels, which puts more strain on the GPU. In contrast, fewer resolutions burden the CPU more because more frames will be processed. So it all boils down to your preferences and the type of games you play. You can leverage different applications to keep an eye on FPS, resolution, and other things.
Clock Speed
You might already know that the greater the clock speed, the better the processor performance. Nevertheless, keep in mind that a fast clock speed is good but not necessary for the best performance. Why? Because some CPUs and GPUs operate at greater clock speeds while using less total power. So, you must ensure that your combo ticks all the other requirements for peak performance while having greater clock speeds.
Number of Cores
A CPU or GPU’s performance power is further checked by the number of cores it houses. In a nutshell, the performance and efficiency increase with the number of cores. While CPU core counts remain in single digits (4, 6, 8), the GPU core counts go in thousands. A Quad-core CPU paired with any potent GPU will go hand in hand with your gaming, but you should opt for a higher number of cores for multitasking.
Video RAM
You might already be familiar that video RAM performs similar tasks to computer RAM, but VRAM is only for image processing. Like the CPU and GPU core, a higher Memory number equates to a higher performance level. So, a big capacity Memory is good for the greatest gaming experience.
Bottlenecks
Every gamer wants to find a combination of CPU and GPU to boost their gaming performance. But remember, not all CPUs are made for all GPUs. And if you don’t find the perfect fit, one could restrict the other. Therefore, ensure you are well-versed in the CPU and graphic card you pair to prevent bottlenecks. Moreover, seek a professional’s help to figure out the best combo.
Dimensions
Since Computer cases are made with space or slots for installing particular components, like graphics cards, you might need help buying an ingredient whose measurements don’t suit the space allotted. And even if it fits the PC, chances are it will block the airflow hence heating the system. Thus, before making a purchase, be sure the component and the slot designated for it are the same sizes.
Cooling System
For durability and efficiency, cooling the PC is crucial. If your PC temperature increase, it will put its efficiency at risk. However, when examining the specifications of any specific CPU or GPU combo, you must pay attention to the thermal design power (TDP). Also, you must ensure that your PC’s cooling system can go hand in hand with your PC’s heavy processing.
Budget
The first and foremost factor is the budget. Before looking out for the combo, you need to consider your budget limits. If your budget allows, choose a CPU and GPU combination with all the necessary features you need in your system. If not, consider settling for something less expensive, a CPU and GPU. Nowadays, you can find many inexpensive combos on the market.
Conclusion
Choosing the right combination when merging GPUs and CPUs can seem unattainable because there are so many alternative configurations. This list of the top 5 CPU and GPU combinations should have answered some of your questions and directed you in the right direction.
Whether you have a budget of thousands or a few hundred dollars is fine. Your main goal is to get the price-to-performance ratio out of your combo. You can create an amazing play station with the correct CPU and GPU configuration. On the other hand, purchasing the incorrect parts can severely limit your performance and cause you to second-guess your choice.
That’s all from our guide. We hope you find it helpful to find the best CPU and GPU combo.
FAQ
Can I Link all GPUs with all CPUs
Generally, AMD Processors are compatible with both AMD and Nvidia GPUs. Furthermore, all CPUs—from AMD or Intel—support AMD and Nvidia graphics cards. Though on a double AMD rig, technologies like AMD Smart Access Memory can improve performance.
CPU or GPU: Which Is More Important For Gaming?
For the majority of gaming systems, high-quality visuals are a requirement. This explains why the GPU’s capacity is frequently highlighted. Yet, some games demand high CPU usage. The needs of any single game are what matter. In summary, the CPU is also a crucial component in gameplay, although the more common focus is visuals.
What is the optimal CPU and GPU combination for 1080p 60fps?
The best 1080p At 60fps gaming combination is Ryzen 5 3600 paired with MSI GTX 1660 Super. This combination is one of the top CPU and GPU combinations for 1080p gaming at 60 frames per second.
Why Do CPU-GPU Bottlenecks Occur?
A bottleneck will develop if one data processing speed is slower than another. If the CPU processing speed of a CPU-GPU combination is noticeably weaker than the GPU computational efficiency, for instance, there will be a CPU bottleneck.
Can a Low-End CPU and High-End GPU Work Together?
Yes, of course, assuming that the two parts work well together. It is preferable to combine a weak CPU with a weaker GPU. However, any bottlenecks that might eventually develop in such a situation would likely come from the poor CPU.
