The Nvidia GeForce RTX 3080 Ti is an advanced graphics card featuring second-generation Ray Tracing and third-generation Tensor cores. Built on the NVIDIA Ampere architecture, it boasts 12GB of GDDR6X memory and a 384-bit memory interface. This card excels in gaming, content creation, 3D rendering, and other graphics-intensive tasks when paired with a top-tier CPU.
Quick shopping tips
Usage and Budget: Know your usage and budget before buying. High-end users like content creators or gamers might need pricier CPUs. Average users can find affordable yet effective options.
CPU Socket: Ensure the CPU socket matches your motherboard. AMD typically uses AM4 sockets, while Intel uses various LGA configurations.
Cores, Threads, and Multi-threading: More cores and threads improve data flow and performance. Multi-threading uses multiple cores and threads to maximize output. Aim for CPUs with more cores and threads.
Cache Memory: Cache reduces the time the CPU takes to access instructions. Look for CPUs with at least 16MB of L3 cache.
Performance and Bottlenecks: Ensure the CPU can handle the graphics card to avoid bottlenecks. A high-performing CPU optimizes the GPU’s abilities.
Overclocking Headroom: Overclocking enhances performance. Prefer CPUs with high boost clock speeds and overclocking headroom for better performance.
The Best CPU for RTX 3080 Ti You Can Buy Today
| Award | Design | Best | Retailer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Flagship CPU For RTX 3080 Ti |  | view on amazon | |
| Best Enthusiast CPU For RTX 3080 Ti |  | view on amazon | |
| Best Value CPU For RTX 3080 Ti |  | view on amazon | |
| Best Overall CPU For RTX 3080 Ti |  | view on amazon | |
| Best Premium CPU For RTX 3080 Ti |  | view on amazon | |
| Best Powerful CPU For RTX 3080 Ti |  | view on amazon | |
| Best AMD CPU for RTX 3080 Ti |  | view on amazon | |
| Best Intel CPU for RTX 3080 Ti |  | view on amazon |
AMD Ryzen 9 5950x
Best Flagship CPU For RTX 3080 Ti
Brand: AMD | Series/Family: AMD Ryzen 9 Desktop Processors | Lithography: 7nm | Cores: 16 | Threads: 32 | Cache: 8MB L2, 64MB L3 | Multi-Threading: Yes | Unlocked Multiplier: Yes | Integrated graphics: No | Socket: AMD AM4 | Base clock: 3.4GHz | Boost clock: 4.9GHz | Rated TDP: 105W | Bundled cooler: No
✓
✓
✓
✓
✓
✗
✗
✗
The AMD Ryzen 9 5950x is a top-tier processor perfect for high-end users. It outperforms the Intel i9-10980 XE Extreme Edition by 8% in gaming and 23% in 3D rendering. With 16 cores, 32 threads, 8MB L2 cache, and 64MB L3 cache, it nearly qualifies as an HEDT-class processor.
It features a base clock of 4.9GHz, boosting to 5.2GHz, with a slight 0.3GHz overclocking headroom. This makes it an ideal choice for developers, gamers, and content creators using the RTX 3080 Ti.
The Ryzen 9 5950x supports DDR4 memory up to 3200MHz and has PCIe 4.0 connectivity, compatible with 400-series and 500-series motherboards. This processor offers effective multi-threading and single-core abilities, making it a perfect choice for heavy usage. However, it is quite expensive.
Intel Core i9-10900K
Best Enthusiast CPU For RTX 3080 Ti
Brand: Intel | Series/Family: 10th Generation Intel Core i9 Processors | Lithography: 14nm | Cores: 10 | Threads: 20 | Cache: 20MB Intel Smart Cache | Hyper-Threading: Yes | Unlocked Multiplier: Yes | Integrated graphics: Intel UHD Graphics 630 | Socket: LGA1200 | Base clock: 3.7GHz | Boost clock: 5.3GHz | Rated TDP: 125W | Bundled cooler: No
The Intel Core i9-10900k delivers powerful performance, combining the fastest speeds and lowest latencies. In testing, it boosts single-core capabilities by 5% against the AMD Ryzen 9 3900x and multi-core performance by 15% over the previous generation Core i9-9900k.
The CPU features Intel’s hyper-threading, thermal velocity boost, and thermal boost technologies. It includes 10 cores, 20 threads, and a 20 MB Intel Smart Cache. The Turbo Boost Max 3.0 raises the base clock of 3.7GHz to a 5.3GHz Max Turbo Boost.
Renowned for its gaming capabilities, the i9-10900k delivers 140+ FPS with the RTX 3080 Ti at 2k and 1440p resolutions, maintaining a three-digit refresh rate. Compatible with Z490 motherboards via the LGA1200 socket and supporting PCIe 3.0, it has a 125W TDP but lacks a bundled cooler, requiring an aftermarket solution for optimal performance. This makes it a top choice for enthusiast gamers using the RTX 3080 Ti.
AMD Ryzen 7 5800X
Best Value CPU For RTX 3080 Ti
Brand: AMD | Series/Family: AMD Ryzen 9 Desktop Processors | Lithography: 7nm | Cores: 8 | Threads: 16 | Cache: 4MB L2, 32MB L3 | Multi-Threading: Yes | Unlocked Multiplier: Yes | Integrated graphics: No | Socket: AMD AM4 | Base clock: 3.8GHz | Boost clock: 4.7GHz | Rated TDP: 105W | Bundled cooler: No
The AMD Ryzen 7 5800X is the value CPU for the RTX 3080 Ti, offering an excellent price/performance ratio. Powered by the 7nm Zen 3 architecture, it provides 19% better IPC than previous architectures. If the Ryzen 9 5950x is out of your budget, the Ryzen 7 5800X is a great alternative.
It features 8 cores, 16 threads, and a 32MB L3 cache to boost efficiency by reducing latencies. It also has a 4MB L2 cache and a base clock of 3.8GHz, which can boost up to 4.7GHz. The processor supports DDR4 memory up to 3200MHz and PCIe 4.0 connectivity with 20 lanes, compatible with 400-series and 500-series motherboards via an AM4 socket.
While it lacks integrated graphics and a bundled cooler, it pairs well with the RTX 3080 Ti, delivering 130+ FPS and high-quality 4k or 2k gaming and content creation performance. The Ryzen 7 5800X outperforms Intel 10th Gen processors in many aspects, making it a solid choice for budget-conscious gamers.
Intel Core i7-10700K
Best Overall CPU For RTX 3080 Ti
Brand: Intel | Series/Family: 10th Generation Intel Core i7 Processors | Lithography: 14nm | Cores: 8 | Threads: 16 | Cache: 16MB Intel Smart Cache | Hyper-Threading: Yes | Unlocked Multiplier: Yes | Integrated graphics: Intel UHD Graphics 630 | Socket: LGA1200 | Base clock: 3.8GHz | Boost clock: 4.1GHz | Rated TDP: 125W | Bundled cooler: No
Reviewing the Intel Core i7-10700k against the Intel Core i9-10900k, the i7-10700k offers nearly identical gaming benchmarks at a lower cost. With Intel’s Turbo Boost Max 3.0, it gains an additional 100MHz boost frequency, enhancing its power. This makes it an excellent CPU for the RTX 3080 Ti.
The i7-10700k features 8 cores and 16 threads, providing enriched single-core performance and effective multitasking through hyper-threading. Its base clock is 3.8GHz, boosting to 5.1GHz, with substantial overclocking headroom. It includes Intel UHD Graphics 630 and a 16MB Intel Smart Cache.
When paired with the RTX 3080 Ti, the i7-10700k achieves 120+ FPS at 2k and 60+ FPS at 4k, making it ideal for 1440p gaming with high refresh rates. It supports DDR4-2933 memory, compatible with Z490 motherboards via the LGA1200 socket. Its all-around performance makes it the best CPU for the RTX 3080 Ti.
AMD Ryzen 9 5900X
Best Premium CPU For RTX 3080 Ti
Brand: AMD | Series/Family: AMD Ryzen 9 Desktop Processors | Lithography: 7nm | Cores: 12 | Threads: 24 | Cache: 6MB L2, 64MB L3 | Multi-Threading: Yes | Unlocked Multiplier: Yes | Integrated graphics: No | Socket: AMD AM4 | Base clock: 3.7GHz | Boost clock: 4.8GHz | Rated TDP: 105W | Bundled cooler: No
Team Red has continuously innovated to meet the demands of modern gaming and content creation. For gamers, the AMD Ryzen 9 5900x is the ideal CPU for the RTX 3080 Ti. It delivers high-quality graphics with 120+ fps at FHD to 4k resolution.
Powered by the advanced 7nm Zen 3 architecture, it outperforms the previous Zen 2 version. With 12 cores, 24 threads, a 6MB L2 cache, and a 64MB L3 cache, it offers peak-level performance. Its base clock is 3.7GHz, boosting to 4.8GHz, providing excellent single-core performance.
It supports DDR4 memory at 3200MHz and PCIe 4.0 for compatibility with 400-series and 500-series motherboards. With a 105W TDP, it is power-efficient. The Ryzen 9 5900x rivals the higher-end Intel Core i9-12900k and Ryzen 9 5950x, making it the best premium CPU for the RTX 3080 Ti.
Intel Core i9-9900K
Best Powerful CPU For RTX 3080 Ti
Brand: Intel | Series/Family: 9th Generation Intel Core i9 Processors | Lithography: 14nm | Cores: 8 | Threads: 16 | Cache: 16MB Intel Smart Cache | Hyper-Threading: Yes | Unlocked Multiplier: Yes | Integrated graphics: Intel UHD Graphics 630 | Socket: LGA1151 | Base clock: 3.6GHz | Boost clock: 5.0GHz | Rated TDP: 95W | Bundled cooler: No
The Intel Core i9-9900k, part of the 9th generation Coffee Lake processors, is built on 14nm lithography. It features 8 cores, 16 threads, and a 16MB Intel Smart Cache. With a base clock speed of 3.6GHz, it can boost up to 5.0GHz, providing substantial overclocking headroom.
When paired with the RTX 3080 Ti, you can expect 135+ fps at 2k and 60+ fps at 4k resolution, enhancing your gaming experience. The CPU includes Intel UHD Graphics 630 with a 1.2GHz max GPU frequency. It supports LGA1151 sockets and PCIe 3.0, compatible with Z370 and Z390 motherboards, boosting memory speed up to 4000MHz with Intel Extreme Memory support.
For high-end gamers and content creators, the i9-9900k offers exceptional performance and low latencies, making it a top choice for pairing with the RTX 3080 Ti.
AMD Ryzen 7 3700X
Best AMD CPU for RTX 3080 Ti
Brand: AMD | Series/Family: AMD Ryzen 7 Desktop Processors | Lithography: 7nm | Cores: 8 | Threads: 16 | Cache: 512KB L1, 4MB L2, 32MB L3 | Multi-Threading: Yes | Unlocked Multiplier: Yes | Integrated graphics: No | Socket: AMD AM4 | Base clock: 3.6GHz | Boost clock: 4.4GHz | Rated TDP: 65W | Bundled cooler: Wraith Prism with RGB LED
The AMD Ryzen 7 3700x is a budget-friendly, high-performance CPU, offering impressive features at a reasonable price. It is powered by the 7nm Zen 2 architecture, which, while not as advanced as Zen 3, still outperforms earlier versions. With 8 cores, 16 threads, a 4MB L2 cache, and a 32MB L3 cache, it ensures efficient performance.
Its base clock of 3.6GHz can boost up to 4.4GHz, providing an 0.8GHz overclocking headroom. It supports 100+ FPS at medium settings and 1440p resolutions, making it ideal for gaming.
The Ryzen 7 3700x also features a PCIe 4.0 connection, offering a 50% performance boost over PCIe 3.0, and supports DDR4-3200 memory. Its 65W TDP ensures minimal energy consumption, and it comes with a cooler, adding value for budget-conscious users.
Intel Core i5-11600K
Best Intel CPU for RTX 3080 Ti
Brand: Intel | Series/Family: 9th Generation Intel Core i5 Processors | Lithography: 14nm | Cores: 6 | Threads: 12 | Cache: 12MB Intel Smart Cache | Hyper-Threading: Yes | Unlocked Multiplier: Yes | Integrated graphics: Intel UHD Graphics 750 | Socket: LGA1200 | Base clock: 3.9GHz | Boost clock: 4.9GHz | Rated TDP: 95W | Bundled cooler: No
The Intel Core i5-11600k is a standout mid-end gaming chip in the 11th generation Rocket Lake series. It offers speedy hyper-threading and excellent multi-core and single-core performance benchmarks. Compared to the 10th generation, this chip brings improved clock speeds, memory bandwidth, and graphics technologies.
With 6 cores, 12 threads, and a 12MB Intel Smart Cache, it excels in multi-core optimized tasks. The base clock speed of 3.9GHz boosts to 4.6GHz, showing significant improvement over similar AMD processors.
Featuring Intel UHD Graphics 630, DDR4 memory support, and PCIe 4.0, it provides comprehensive connectivity. However, the PCIe 4.0 efficiency may be limited with the Z590 motherboard chipset. Despite this, it’s more affordable than the Ryzen 5 5600x, delivering 120+ FPS at 1440p. Note that an external cooler is necessary as it doesn’t include one.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth upgrading to 3080 Ti?
Yes, it’s totally worth it. The GeForce RTX 3080 Ti is a perfect graphics card with excellent performance benchmarks. The NVIDIA Ampere architecture powers it along with second-generation Ray Tracing for generating realistic visuals and third-generation Tensor cores to enhance the AI-based graphics quality. On top of that, 12GB of GDDR6x memory works perfectly fine based on a 384-bit memory bus.
Will the i9 9900k bottleneck the RTX 3080 Ti?
No, the Intel Core i9 9900k will not bottleneck the RTX 3080 Ti. The chip has an incredible set of features to ensure good in-gaming performance. Further, it has an unlocked multiplier, so its clock speed can increase up to a 5GHz one-core clock.
What CPU is best for RTX 3080 Ti?
The market is full of hundreds of processors to pair with the RTX 3090 Ti, but an unsuitable chip may cause bottlenecks. So, we have chosen the AMD Ryzen 9 5900x as a perfect option to pair with the RTX 3090 Ti. It carries a great value to price with excellent performance and power efficiency. You can utilize its PCIe 4.0 support to connect a wide range of motherboards like 500-series.
EDITOR
Arslan Ashraf is a dedicated tech writer with a rich background in Computer Science and five years of experience in the field. While pursuing his Bachelor's degree from Virtual University, he has honed his expertise in CPUs and CPU Coolers. His ability to simplify complex technological concepts has made him a valuable resource for a wide audience.
