Best CPUs for RX 6800 XT

The processor and graphics card are the two most essential components that ensure gaming performance. When shopping for a gaming rig, everyone is aware of and discusses the CPUs and GPUs. However, few people realize that CPUs have a substantial influence on system speed and performance. If you’ve already decided on AMD’s current star performer, we’ll concentrate on finding the best CPU for RX 6800 XT, as it is a super strong GPU. You’ll need a capable CPU to complement its processing capability and ensure that your gaming PC isn’t slowed down by any means. It would be good to grasp a few essential aspects of the 6800 XT to determine which CPU is best for you.

The AMD Radeon RX 6800 XT ( Amazon ) is based on AMD’s newest Radeon DNA Gen 2 architecture, optimized for 4K resolution in Blockbuster titles and 1440p gaming in Competitive gaming activities. It includes the most recent version of AMD’s proprietary software and drivers, optimizing your system for the most remarkable performance and delay-proof game-play. The Intelligent access memory is another speed-boosting technology that AMD used to provide its consumers with the best gaming experience possible. It provides faster access speed because of improved channels between processing cores and RAM modules. The Processor possibilities for such a strong gaming beast are primarily restricted to top performers from AMD and Intel’s portfolios. Would you please look at our buying tips to help you choose the best CPU for 6800 XT for unsurpassed performance?

Quick Shopping Tips:

Number of Cores: The number of cores is highly effective at multiplying the CPU’s output. However, for most gamers, eight cores is the maximum amount of cores required to run the top 2021 games in Full HD. Anything more, though, and we’ll only see modest performance gains in games aimed at hobbyists and high-end PC makers. Creative work, such as encoding and rendering tasks, needs more than eight cores to maximize output via exploiting the multi-core performance of multiple cores.

Top Frequency: As previously stated, the processor clock is the characteristic that has the most impact on in-game performance. CPU developers use a variety of ways to increase the clock speed as much as feasible. FOR EXAMPLE, Intel TB and TVB technologies allow the clock to reach up to 1.3 times the base clock if the temperature band lets it. Similarly, AMD uses PB and PBO technologies to increase clock speed and force the CPU to operate faster. However, choosing a CPU with a high top frequency is preferable to reduce the strain on overclocking since it necessitates additional cooling requirements. 

Overclocking Capability: Hardcore Gamers are naturally disappointed with the default CPU speeds. They favor overclocking, which increases CPU clock rates above typical values to increase computing power. When overclocking, high-performance CPU coolers are typically necessary to keep the CPU within an acceptable temperature range. However, unlocked CPUs typically lack an integrated GPU, necessitating the need for an external GPU, as well as a high-performance cooler to cool the excess heat created while overclocking.

AMD or Intel: AMD versus Intel has been one of the gaming market’s most prolonged discussions and fiercest rivalries. AMD’s focus is primarily on content creation because they produce the best multitasking processors, whereas Intel is focused mainly on creating the fastest gaming processors. Both make the best quality processors at competitive prices in the market and offer superb after-sales services.

Best CPUs for RX 6800 XT at a glance:

  1. AMD Ryzen 9 5900X
  2. Intel Core i9-10900K
  3. AMD Ryzen 7 5800X
  4. AMD Ryzen 9 5950X
  5. AMD Ryzen 5 5600X
  6. Intel Core i7-10700k
  7. AMD Ryzen 9 3950X
  8. AMD Ryzen 9 3900X

The Best CPUs for RX 6800 XT You Can Buy Today

AMD Ryzen 9 5900X (Image credit: Amazon)

AMD Ryzen 9 5900X

AMD's Best CPU for RX 6800 XT

SPECIFICATIONS

Socket: AM4 motherboards | Architecture: Zen 3 | Cores/Threads: 12/24 | Base Frequency: 3.7 GHz | Max Boost Frequency: 4.8 GHz | TDP: 105W

REASONS TO BUY

VR ready premium features

Best for workstations & gaming

AMD Master Utility for easier overclocking

REASONS TO AVOID

No stock cooler

No Integrated GPU

Ever since the Zen 3 architecture release, AMD has been regarded as the best multitasking processor and an outstanding gaming partner. The AMD Ryzen 9 5900X is their top performer, with 12 cores capable of extreme multi-threading and top-end single-core performance. It is the best CPU for 6800XT if you want to construct a high-end workstation for gaming and professional applications. The AMD’s 5000 series made sure to take out their Achilles heel by focusing mainly on single-core competence to grab the top spot as the most excellent CPU in both categories (gaming and production).

AMD’s incorporation of PCIe 4.0 into subsequent CPUs eliminated doubts about their commitment to gaming performance in their processors. The pricing was slightly more than the AMD Zen 2 CPUs, but you had to pay for the newer architecture and the significant advantages it entails. The most notable architectural difference between Zen 2 and Zen 3 is the inclusion of 8 cores on a single compute die (CCD), doubling the capacity from Zen 2 and improving the in-core communication speed for substantial IPC gains. You can utilize it as the AMD’s best CPU for RX 6800 XT without ever having to worry about bottlenecks.

The newer processor may run a bit hotter than the older models, but that is expected due to its compact die structure and doesn’t hurt the CPU; after all, we will cool it with a high-efficiency cooler. The AMD 5900X has the same number of cores and threads as the Zen 2 3900X but consumes less energy while having a higher peak frequency of 4.8 GHz. With the latest X570 chipset motherboards, you can significantly improve the CPU’s processing capabilities and make it into an all-rounder workstation.

Intel Core i9-10900K (Image credit: Amazon)

Intel Core i9-10900K

Intel's Best CPU for RX 6800 XT

SPECIFICATIONS

Socket: LGA 1200 | Architecture: Comet Lake | Cores/Threads: 10/20 | Base Frequency: 3.7 GHz | Max Boost Frequency: 5.3 GHz | TDP: 125W

REASONS TO BUY

Advanced network chipset

Intel Clear Video HD Technology

Thermal Velocity Boost topping at 5.3GHz

REASONS TO AVOID

No PCIe 4.0

No embedded options

Intel’s Comet Lake CPUs are no joke due to their newer architecture, massive core upgrades, and consistent hyperthreading technology. The Intel Core i9-10900K is the Comet Lake monarch, debuting the new Thermal Velocity Boost Technology, which can boost the CPU clock to a staggering 5.3 GHz. No mainstream processor has ever been pushed to such levels before the 10900K, and it is Intel’s best CPU for RX 6800 XT because of its apparent single core strength and huge ten-core chip.

In addition to boosting the highest core frequency, Intel has reduced its gen on gen pricing to compete with AMD’s mainstream spectrum and preserve its position as the best CPU for RX 6800 XT. However, it’s no match for AMD’s threadripper, but that CPU is mainly for the HEDTs and costs twice as much. The only areas where Intel CPUs lag behind AMD are power efficiency and heat dissipation. The CPU, while being marketed with a 125W TDP, may use up to three times when pushed to its maximum.

Intel has improved the chip size and heat spreader to keep heat dissipation as low as possible. But for the time being, we must cope with the considerable heat by employing a high-performance air cooler or, better yet, a high-end liquid cooler if you intend to overclock this monster. Although the additional expense of the cooler will be a hardship on the user, that is the price you must pay for endless 2K gaming and becoming the king of the games industry.

AMD Ryzen 7 5800X (Image credit: Amazon)

AMD Ryzen 7 5800X

Best Overall CPU for RX 6800 XT

SPECIFICATIONS

Socket: AM4 | Architecture: Zen 3 | Cores/Threads: 08/16 | Base Frequency: 3.8 GHz | Max Boost Frequency: 4.7 GHz | TDP: 105W

REASONS TO BUY

AMD Store MI technology

Extensive IPC developments

Suitable for 3D modeling rendering tasks

REASONS TO AVOID

No Blockchain Technology

Limited overclocking headroom

The AMD Ryzen 7 5800X is the best overall CPU for RX 6800 XT for gaming and creative setup, blending newer architecture, optimum core count, and superior multi-thread performance. AMD’s latest architectural breakthrough, Zen 3, boasts a nearly 20% improvement in latency and instructions per cycle. Its price is slightly more than the previous generation, but performance gains more than compensate for the price bump. The CPU may be overkill for casual gaming, but it is the best CPU for the 6800 XT for extreme gaming.

Just like Intel’s top performer, Ryzen 7 also dissipates quite a lot of heat. We estimate at least double the maximum heat rise with Precision Boost Overdrive set to the maximum with a TDP of 105W. It necessitates the use of competent liquid cooling with overclocking headroom. It may also increase the overall cost and may be out of reach for those on a tight budget. Budget consumers may choose a lower-end model, but enthusiasts and professionals will find the 5800X fair valued and not be put off by the price bump.

Being the best cpu for 6800 XT, it has an all-core boost frequency topping at 4.5 GHz, while the top dual-core frequency boost hit a 4.7 GHz mark, beating the previous-gen AMD processors. When we evaluated its performance in multi-threading and productivity applications to the leading competitors, the processors began to outshine others. It outperformed rival 8-core CPUs in multi-core performance while providing realistic 1080p and 1440p gaming.

AMD Ryzen 9 5950X (Image credit: Amazon)

AMD Ryzen 9 5950X

Best Premium CPU for RX 6800 XT

SPECIFICATIONS

Socket: AM4 | Architecture: Zen 3 | Cores/Threads: 16/32 | Base Frequency: 3.4 GHz | Max Boost Frequency: 4.9 GHz | TDP: 105W

REASONS TO BUY

AM4 socket compatible

Unlocked for overclocking

DDR4 up to 3200 MHz memory

REASONS TO AVOID

No AMD Infinity Guard

It needs a powerful cooler

AMD’s Threadripper made waves into the professional creative industry with its extreme processing capabilities. Nevertheless, it was meant for servers and workstations and wasn’t a mainstream processor due to its unique TR4 socket.  AMD Ryzen 9 5950X is an AMDs attempt to bring that massive processing potential to the mainstream market and be the best premium CPU for RX 6800 XT for one window gaming and creation activities.

As previously stated, the 5950X performs comparably to the well-known Threadripper in numerous multi-threaded workloads. It also competes with Intel Core-X series HEDT CPUs. The hefty 16-core CPU performs admirably in encoding, 3D modeling, and rendering tasks. Its competitive advantage is the lack of requirement of a specialized HEDT chipset and massive motherboards. You can connect it into the standard AM4 socket, and you’re ready to roll with the best CPU for 6800XT.

This CPU is far too powerful for gaming purposes alone. You’d get marginally better gaming performance while paying a hefty premium for it. Although it is not a financially realistic choice for most gamers, enthusiasts and the elite who live to indulge in hardcore gaming may opt to get the best FPS in processor-intensive games. 1080p and 2K gaming are way too easy for these processors; however, If you go for it, you can also indulge in lag-free 4K gaming if matched with the right GPU.

AMD Ryzen 5 5600X (Image credit: Amazon)

AMD Ryzen 5 5600X

Best Budget CPU for RX 6800 XT

SPECIFICATIONS

Socket: AM4 | Architecture: Zen 3 | Cores/Threads: 06/12 | Base Frequency: 3.7 GHz | Max Boost Frequency: 4.6 GHz | TDP: 65W

REASONS TO BUY

PCIe 4.0 compatible

High-performance at low TDP

Wraith Stealth CPU Cooler included

REASONS TO AVOID

No AMD PRO security

No machine learning technology

The Ryzen 5 5600X is a six-core CPU with dual threads per core that delivers the highest performance at a low cost to be the best budget CPU for RX 6800 XT. It focuses on the mid-range market, offering excellent gaming at 1440p/1080p and good benchmarks on content development software applications without spending a fortune. The CPU is constructed on a 7nm chip that Intel has yet to conquer, and it has the most recent Zen 3 enhancements to optimize IPC and eliminate delays as much as possible.

The architectural improvements also allowed AMD to increase gen on gen performance while keeping the TDP lower as the smaller die is significantly more power-efficient than before. AMD has made this offer even more intriguing by including a Wraith Stealth Cooler with the CPU. The lower TDP also enabled the CPU to be operated with the supplied air cooler. The inclusion of a cooler sweetens the bargain on this CPU, which is also the best CPU for RX 6800 XT in the budget PC gaming world.

 Another advancement in such a speedy and power-efficient device is using a single core die for up to four cores and direct access to the L2 cache. It led to considerable performance increases and a significant boost in games, necessitating higher single-core throughput. The multi-core performance of AMD ryzen chips is well documented, and this chip also lived up to the expectations on both production and gaming fronts as expected.

Intel Core i7-10700k (Image credit: Amazon)

Intel Core i7-10700k

Best Performance CPU for RX 6800 XT

SPECIFICATIONS

Socket: LGA 1200 | Architecture: Comet Lake | Cores/Threads: 8/16 | Base Frequency: 3.80 GHz | Max Boost Frequency: 5.10 GHz | TDP: 125 W

REASONS TO BUY

Power with Hyper-Threading

Advanced Thermal Monitoring

Excellent single & multi-thread performance

REASONS TO AVOID

No ECC memory support

No Thermal Velocity Boost

Most users in the gaming community don’t belong to the financially elite club. The budget gaming business flourishes because it is the most cost-effective sector for the majority of gamers. The i9 Intel CPUs are the top performers in terms of raw gaming performance, but they are out of reach for most gamers about their premium costing. Nonetheless, Suppose you want to get a similar gaming experience without paying the outrageous price of a flagship. In that case, Intel Core i7-10700k is the best Performance CPU for RX 6800 XT and the most cost-effective option.

The processor is equipped with frequency boost technologies that can boost core frequencies from a base speed of 3.8 GHz. Intel reserved the TVB (Thermal Velocity Boost) technology for the i9 series, boosting the fastest two cores to even higher frequencies if the temperature allows. Nonetheless, the i7 is equipped with TB 2.0, which can accelerate all cores to 5.1 GHz, which is exceptionally remarkable given that most AMD CPUs have yet to achieve a 5 GHz peak. 

The CPU is constructed on the 14nm chip used in last year’s Comet Lake CPUs. Intel has been trapped on the bigger die size for a long time and has been unable to breach the 7nm chip that AMD celebrates in the Zen 3 CPUs. The newer 10nm equivalents are marginally better and too pricey at the moment. It is the best CPU for the 6800 XT we have right now, with strong overclocking capabilities that can rival the performance of flagship processors if done correctly.

AMD Ryzen 9 3950X (Image credit: Amazon)

AMD Ryzen 9 3950X

Best Enthusiast CPU for RX 6800 XT

SPECIFICATIONS

Socket: AM4 | Architecture: Zen 2 | Cores/Threads: 16/32 | Base Frequency: 3.5 GHz | Max Boost Frequency: 4.7 GHz | TDP: 105 W

REASONS TO BUY

Dual-memory channels

Optimized for liquid cooling

Boosted gaming performance

REASONS TO AVOID

No AMD 25X20 Initiative

No AMD Enduro Technology

For a few years, AMD has reshaped the industry with its multi-talented CPUs for diverse market segments. AMD’s best enthusiast CPU for RX 6800 XT, the AMD Ryzen 9 3950X, has blurred the borders between HEDT and mainstream desktop CPUs. Its lower price makes it a viable alternative for server PCs and high-end workstations, as well as a direct competitor for HEDT-centric Intel Core-X series, AMD’s 5th generation 5950X, and AMD’s Thread Ripper range.

AMD’s third-generation processors are built on a 14nm technology and use the well-known Zen 2 architecture. AMD has recently switched to the newer Zen 3 design, made on a smaller 7nm chip and claims to be 20% better than the Zen 2 architecture on paper, although the margin is not as prominent in real-world circumstances. The 3rd generation Zen 2 processors, like 3950X, continue to provide superior value owing to lower costs when compared to the newer 5th generation versions. It is the best CPU for 6800XT for elites and professionals.

 AMD has crammed a whopping 16 cores into the CPU, each with multi-threading support while maintaining the TDP at a manageable 105W. In comparison, Intel Processors with a similar number of cores have a TDP of up to 165W, whereas the Threadripper series starts at 250W. Lower TDP equates to less cooling required and less money spent on a CPU cooler. However, the CPU is still twice as expensive as the budget versions. We do not suggest it only for gaming unless you want the maximum possible framerates and want to use it for professional creative work.

AMD Ryzen 9 3900X (Image credit: Amazon)

AMD Ryzen 9 3900X

Best Flagship CPU for RX 6800 XT

SPECIFICATIONS

Socket: AM4 | Architecture: Zen 3 | Cores/Threads: 12/24 | Base Frequency: 3.8 GHz | Max Boost Frequency: 4.6 GHz | TDP: 105W

REASONS TO BUY

Extended memory support

Multiple operating systems

Thermal solution plus RGB

REASONS TO AVOID

No AMD ROCm™ open software

No Introduction to Semiconductors

AMD Ryzen 9 3900X is the best Flagship CPU for RX 6800 XT and the best gaming processor in terms of performance, value, and compatibility. It is also one the most accomplished multi-tasker and has the most powerful content creation capability among mainstream processors that the HEDT processors can only surpass. Additionally, it features the PCIe 4.0 support to cater to newer and faster gaming GPUs like the 6800 XT.

It is trusted as the best CPU for RX 6800 XT with 12 cores that is attractively priced to compete with top gaming processors such as Intel’s Comet Lake and Coffee Lake flagships. Although 12 cores are overkill for gaming, you can convert it into a 2K multi-screen gaming setup or link it to UHD gaming monitors with higher refresh rates. The CPU will never fail to perform even in the most intense gaming activities or otherwise.

The 3900X may not achieve comparable single-core performance to Intel’s top processors. Still, it makes up for it with exceptional multi-core performance that easily outperforms Intel’s top performers and its better energy-efficient architecture. The AMD CPU uses half the input power and dissipates half the heat as Intel equivalents, resulting in energy savings and reduced cooling requirements. It’s a good investment for serious gamers and content producers.

Conclusion

Building a gaming setup is a costly endeavor. If you don’t optimize the value, you’ll be able to prefer the best CPU for 6800 XT to boost the graphical results of your ideal PC. AMD was on the verge of bankruptcy when they took their ultimate gamble on the first Ryzen architecture processor half a decade ago. The newer architecture managed to beat Intel on various fronts. Content creation was already AMDs niche before taking over the gaming world, while Intel has solely focused its efforts on producing the best gaming processor for the mainstream market.

The fastest gaming processor is Intel Core i9-10900K due to its fastest single-core performance and the most significant boost of 5.3 GHz. It incorporates the newest Thermal Velocity Boost technology exclusive to the i9 series and raises two processing cores to higher than usual boost frequencies. On the other hand, AMD has taken a more balanced approach and made the most budget-friendly top-performing processor AMD Ryzen 5 5600X is the best CPU for 6800XT to meet all your gaming needs. It also incorporates the PCIe 4.0 technology that increases the direct lanes between the CPU and the GPU for greater bandwidth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, RTX 3080 vs 6800 XT?

NVidia’s RTX Gen2 architecture is used in the RTX 3080, whereas Radeon DNA 2 architecture is used in the 6800 XT. Both are extremely powerful gaming CPUs intended for smooth 2K and perhaps even 4K gaming, and they offer nearly identical benchmarks, with the 3080 being around 5% better. However, when it comes to energy-efficient design, the 6800XT outperforms the competition by 10%. We propose AMD Ryzen 9 3900X to compliment the 6800 XT and provide an overall better gaming experience.

What is the best CPU for 6800 XT?

If you intend on enjoy stutter-free 4K gaming, you need a powerful CPU with your 6800 XT. AMD Ryzen 7 5800X is the best CPU for 6800 XT for the most pleasing gaming experience at higher FPS and refresh rates. It also flaunts the newest PCIe 4.0 integration to support greater bandwidth and provide better future-proofing for your gaming PC.

Which is the best Rx 6800?

The ASUS ROG Strix Radeon RX 6800 OC is the finest 6800 GPU in the market. It outperforms the Founder’s Edition in terms of frequency gains and thermal design. We recommend combining it with an Intel Core i7-10700k processor for hours of 4K gaming and competing in your preferred esports titles. It has much overclocking freedom, and its turbo boost 2.0 can quickly push it to 5.1 GHz.

Does RX 6800 XT have ray tracing?

Yes, the latest AMD RX series GPUs include ray tracing technology, producing high-quality visuals with realistic reflections, illuminations, and shadows. It vastly improves the overall user experience while playing. You may choose the AMD Ryzen 5 5600X to fully use AMD’s ray tracing technology and enjoy realistic visuals in high definition.