8 Best CPUs to Pair With RTX 3090: Power And Performance Combined (2024)

Choosing the right CPU for your RTX 3090 is key to maximising its performance. With this powerful graphics card, you’ll want a processor that can keep up, whether you’re gaming, streaming, or tackling creative tasks. In this review, we’ll highlight the best CPUs for the RTX 3090, covering both Intel and AMD options. Let’s find out which CPUs can truly unlock the potential of your RTX 3090 setup!

Key Factors To Consider

• Core Count & Threads: For demanding tasks like video editing, 3D rendering, or gaming, a higher core and thread count are essential. Look for a CPU with at least 8 cores and 16 threads to ensure smooth multitasking and better performance in resource-intensive applications.
• Clock Speeds: If you plan to run applications that rely heavily on single-threaded performance, a high boost clock speed is vital. Aim for a CPU with a boost clock of 4.5GHz or higher to handle tasks efficiently, especially in gaming or other scenarios that require quick responsiveness.
• Socket Compatibility: Before buying, check the CPU’s socket compatibility with your motherboard. Popular options include AM5 for AMD processors and LGA1700 for Intel chips. Ensuring compatibility will save you the hassle of returns or additional costs for a new motherboard.

Best CPUs for RTX 3090- An Overview

Best CPUs for RTX 3090- Reviewed

1. ZOTAC ZT-A30900J-10P

Having explored the ZOTAC ZT-A30900J-10P graphics card for several weeks, we can confidently say that this is a powerhouse, designed for serious gamers and creators. With a memory speed of 19.5 Gbps and a maximum resolution of 7680×4320, it handles demanding tasks effortlessly. The NVIDIA Ampere architecture, coupled with 24GB of GDDR6X memory, ensures that it can tackle the latest games and applications without breaking a sweat.

The card features quad display capability, which is perfect for multi-monitor setups, and the IceStorm 2.0 cooling system keeps temperatures low, even during intense gaming sessions. Plus, the RGB lighting adds a nice touch to any build. For optimal performance, pairing this with the best CPU for the RTX 3090 is essential to avoid any slowdowns. Overall, the ZOTAC RTX 3090 is an excellent choice for anyone looking to take their gaming or creative work to the next level.

Specifications:

• Socket Compatibility: Not applicable.
• Overclocking Potential: Not specified.
• Power Consumption: 350W, recommended PSU 750W (lower than 850W).
• Cooling Solution: IceStorm 2.0 Advanced Cooling.

Pros:

• Excellent cooling performance, keeping temperatures low during intense gaming and video editing sessions. A sturdy metal backplate reduces sagging, enhancing the card’s durability and aesthetic appeal.
• Performs exceptionally well in 4K gaming, allowing users to maximize graphics settings in demanding games.
• Reliable for light video editing tasks, making it versatile for both gaming and content creation.

Cons:

• Experienced fan issues shortly after purchase, leading to instability and a need for replacement, resulting in a frustrating customer service experience.
• The included software is limited, requiring manual updates for game drivers, which can be inconvenient for users.

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2. NVIDIA RTX 3090

As a longtime user of NVIDIA products, we were eager to try the NVIDIA RTX 3090 and see how it performs. This graphics card delivers impressive specs, featuring 24GB of GDDR6X memory and a 384-bit memory interface, making it well-suited for both gaming and professional applications. Whether you’re diving into the latest games or tackling resource-intensive creative projects, the RTX 3090 handles everything smoothly.

With three DisplayPort 1.4a outputs and one HDMI 2.1 port, you can connect multiple displays for an enhanced viewing experience. It also supports cutting-edge gaming technologies, including real-time ray tracing and AI-enhanced graphics, which significantly elevate visual quality. To get the most out of your RTX 3090 PC, it’s crucial to pair it with the best CPU for the RTX 3090, ensuring optimal performance and minimizing any potential bottlenecks.

Specifications:

• Socket Compatibility: Not applicable.
• Overclocking Potential: Not specified.
• Power Consumption: Power requirements are not specified but typically require around 350W.
• Cooling Solution: Founders Edition Cooling.

Pros:

• Remarkable performance, often outperforming other RTX 3090s according to benchmarks, making it a good value for the price.
• OEM piece that functions like new, providing peace of mind for users wary of buying used components.
• Smooth operation across all games, with improved performance compared to previous generation cards.
• Excellent for video editing and rendering, significantly speeding up workflows and reducing render times.

Cons:

• The lack of original packaging raises concerns about the product’s condition and authenticity, leading to buyer scepticism.
• Performance issues, such as overheating while mining, suggest potential prior heavy use, which may indicate the product is not truly “like new.”

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3. Skytech Gaming Prism II

When it comes to high-performance gaming, the Skytech Gaming Prism II has shown remarkable capability. With the RTX 3090 24GB GDDR6X graphics card, it delivers stunning visuals and smooth gameplay in demanding titles. Paired with the Intel Core i9 12900K processor, often regarded as the best CPU for 3090, this system reaches speeds of up to 5.1GHz, making it an ideal CPU for 3090 setups.

The combination of a 1TB NVMe Gen4 SSD ensures quick boot times and game loading, while the 32GB of DDR5 RGB memory maintains high performance during intense gaming sessions. This setup is a perfect match for the RTX 3090 Ti, allowing users to enjoy ultra settings and 4K resolution in games like Call of Duty Warzone and Fortnite, showcasing why it’s considered one of the best CPUs to pair with the 3090.

Specifications:

• Socket Compatibility: LGA1700 (Meets requirements).
• Overclocking Potential: Yes, “K” CPU for overclocking.
• Power Consumption: 850W PSU (Meets requirements).
• Cooling Solution: 360mm AIO (Meets requirements).

Pros:

• Stylish white case with a good overall build quality, adding aesthetic value to any setup.
• Adequate efficiency and performance for most modern gaming needs, providing a solid gaming experience.
• Easy to set up, making it user-friendly for those new to building or owning a gaming PC.
• Comes with a white AIO liquid cooler, enhancing cooling performance and overall visual appeal.

Cons:

• The included 650W PSU may be insufficient for high-performance upgrades, suggesting a need for replacement for future-proofing.
• Limited overclocking capability due to the B660 motherboard, restricting potential performance enhancements.

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4. EVGA FTW3 Ultra

From the moment the team at ElectronicsHub unboxed the EVGA FTW3 Ultra, we were intrigued by its potential to deliver an exceptional gaming experience. With a digital max resolution of 7680 x 4320 and a real boost clock of 1800 MHz, this graphics card is designed to push boundaries. The RTX 3090 with 24GB of GDDR6X memory brings real-time ray tracing to the table, offering hyper-realistic graphics in the latest games.

The cooling system is impressive too, featuring triple HDB fans and nine iCX3 thermal sensors that ensure high performance without excessive noise. This card is often regarded as a top choice for those seeking the best CPU for 3090 setups. If you’re considering a CPU for 3090, pairing it with an Intel i9 or Ryzen 9 will maximize performance, making it an excellent option for gamers who demand the best from their RTX 3090 Ti.

Specifications:

• Socket Compatibility: Not applicable.
• Overclocking Potential: Not specified.
• Power Consumption: 350W, recommended PSU 750W.
• Cooling Solution: Triple HDB fans, 9 iCX3 thermal sensors.

Pros:

• Features a dual BIOS, providing users with backup options for different settings and configurations.
• Minimal coil whine, contributing to a quieter overall operation, especially during high-performance tasks.
• Excellent cooling solutions keep the card performing optimally even under heavy load.
• High-quality design and layout, ensuring reliability and ease of installation in various builds.

Cons:

• Higher price points compared to other models make it a significant investment for users.
• The card’s triple-slot design may limit compatibility with certain cases, potentially restricting expansion options.

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5. CyberPowerPC Gamer Xtreme

If you’re in the market for a reliable gaming PC, let us tell you why the CyberPowerPC Gamer Xtreme caught my eye. Featuring an Intel Core i9-13900KF processor with 8+16 cores and a base speed of 3.0GHz, this system offers incredible performance for demanding games and applications. With 16GB of DDR5 RAM and a speedy 1TB PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSD, you can expect quick load times and seamless multitasking.

The graphics are powered by an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 with 12GB of video memory, making it a great choice for gamers looking to run titles at high settings. Although it doesn’t include the RTX 3090, this setup is still impressive, especially when considering its capabilities for gaming and productivity. If you’re considering options that balance performance and value, this is a strong contender.

Specifications:

• Socket Compatibility: LGA1700 (Meets requirements).
• Overclocking Potential: Yes, “KF” CPU.
• Power Consumption: PSU not specified, typically a 750W PSU is included.
• Cooling Solution: Liquid Cool CPU (Meets requirements).

Pros:

• Sturdy and stylish design that appeals to gamers looking for aesthetics as well as performance.
• High-performance components ensure smooth gameplay in demanding titles, providing an immersive gaming experience.
• Easy to upgrade, with ample space for future enhancements, making it a long-term investment.
• An efficient cooling system maintains optimal temperatures during gaming sessions, promoting longevity.

Cons:

• Initial issues with LED lighting not functioning, led to a disappointing first experience for some users.
• Minor problems with front USB ports can create confusion and frustration during initial setup.

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6. NVIDIA RTX 3090 Ti

The NVIDIA RTX 3090 Ti is a powerhouse graphics card designed for serious gamers and content creators. With an impressive 24 GB of GDDR6X RAM, this graphics coprocessor delivers incredible performance for the most demanding applications. The GPU clock speed reaches up to 1.86 GHz, ensuring smooth gameplay and quick rendering times.

Equipped with an HDMI video output interface, the RTX 3090 Ti supports high-resolution displays and real-time ray tracing, bringing hyper-realistic graphics to life. Whether you’re playing the latest AAA games or working on high-end video editing, this card handles it all with ease. If you’re considering a graphics card that can handle anything from gaming to 3D rendering, the NVIDIA RTX 3090 and RTX 3090 Ti are the top choices for your build.

Specifications:

• Socket Compatibility: Not applicable.
• Overclocking Potential: Not specified.
• Power Consumption: Not specified but generally requires around 350W.
• Cooling Solution: Founders Edition Cooling.

Pros:

• Fast and undamaged shipping, arriving in good condition.
• Great value, providing a noticeable improvement in gaming performance compared to older models.
• Excellent graphics quality and frame rates in games.

Cons:

• Noisy fan issues were reported by some users, impacting the overall experience.
• Poor packaging in some cases, with items appearing used or refurbished.
• Size compatibility issues, as the card may be too large for certain pre-built systems.

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7. Skytech Gaming Nebula

From the very first use, the Skytech Gaming Nebula made a strong impression versus the others on the list. Powered by an Intel Core i5 13400F CPU, this system runs at 2.5GHz with a boost of up to 4.6GHz. It features a 1TB NVME SSD, providing load times up to 30x faster than traditional HDDs. The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 with 8GB GDDR6X memory ensures smooth gameplay at 1080p Full HD resolution, allowing you to enjoy popular games like Fortnite and Call of Duty Warzone at over 60 FPS.

While it’s not equipped with the RTX 3090, the Nebula is still a solid choice for gamers who want performance without breaking the bank. If you’re considering building a gaming setup that might include the best CPU for RTX 3090 in the future, this system offers a good starting point. Overall, it’s an excellent gaming rig for anyone looking to play at high settings without needing the 3090 CPU.

Specifications:

• Socket Compatibility: LGA1700 (Meets requirements).
• Overclocking Potential: No, “F” CPU.
• Power Consumption: 600W PSU (Lower than requirement).
• Cooling Solution: 4 RGB fans.

Pros:

• Secure packaging with exceptional attention to detail, ensuring safe delivery.
• Minimal setup is required, making it user-friendly for new buyers.
• Excellent performance, capable of running many games at ultra settings without issues.
• Low noise levels during operation, enhancing the gaming experience.

Cons:

• Limited initial RAM of 16GB may require upgrading for optimal performance.
• Minor assembly issues, such as RAM seating and loose fans needed adjustment.
• Poor internal cable management obstructs ports and complicates upgrades.

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8. MSI RTX 3090 VENTUS 3X 24G OC

When it comes to high-end gaming, the MSI RTX 3090 VENTUS 3X 24G OC is an impressive choice. This graphics card features the powerful NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3090 chipset, providing 24GB of GDDR6X memory and a wide 384-bit memory interface. With a triple fan thermal design, it efficiently keeps temperatures down during intense gaming sessions. You can connect multiple displays via three DisplayPort 1.4a outputs and one HDMI 2.1, allowing for stunning visuals and smooth gameplay.

If you’re looking for the best CPU for RTX 3090, consider pairing it with a high-performance processor to maximize its capabilities. For optimal performance, choose a 3090 CPU that complements the card. This setup is perfect for gamers wanting to enjoy titles at ultra settings and 4K resolution, making it a fantastic choice for anyone serious about gaming.

Specifications:

• Socket Compatibility: Not applicable.
• Overclocking Potential: Not specified.
• Power Consumption: Not specified.
• Cooling Solution: Triple Fan Thermal Design

Pros:

• Impressive performance, running cool and quiet while delivering high frame rates.
• Excellent thermal management, with fans rarely activating under load.
• Capable of handling 4K gaming and high refresh rates smoothly.

Cons:

• Unresponsive customer support and difficulties during troubleshooting led to frustration.
• Installation issues were reported, with no output signal upon installation.
• Instances of receiving defective cards that failed shortly after purchase, leading to returns.

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What To Consider When Buying A CPU For RTX 3090

When choosing the best CPU to pair with the RTX 3090, several key factors should be considered to ensure optimal performance, whether you’re gaming or content creating. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision.

1. CPU Bottleneck

The RTX 3090 is a powerful GPU, and you need a CPU that can keep up with it to avoid bottlenecking, which can limit overall performance. A top-tier CPU, like an Intel Core i9 or AMD Ryzen 9, ensures your system can handle intensive tasks like gaming at 4K, video editing, and 3D rendering.

2. Core Count & Threads

For tasks that involve multitasking or heavy workloads (like gaming, streaming, or video rendering), a CPU with more cores and threads is essential. Look for at least an 8-core CPU, with 16 threads being ideal for balancing performance with the RTX 3090.

3. Clock Speeds

High boost clock speeds are crucial for single-threaded performance, which is particularly important in gaming scenarios. Look for a CPU that boasts a boost clock of 4.5GHz or higher for the best performance in both gaming and productivity applications.

4. Socket Compatibility

Before purchasing, ensure that the CPU is compatible with your motherboard. For AMD processors, look for the AM5 socket, while Intel users should look for CPUs that fit the LGA1700 socket. Compatibility is vital for seamless installation and performance.

5. Overclocking Potential

If you plan to overclock your CPU for enhanced performance, opt for models with unlocked multipliers. Intel CPUs with a “K” suffix and AMD CPUs with an “X” suffix allow for overclocking, providing an opportunity to push performance beyond stock settings.

6. Power Consumption

Powerful CPUs consume more electricity, so it’s important to ensure that your power supply unit (PSU) can handle the load. A PSU with at least 850W is recommended to ensure stable performance, especially when paired with the RTX 3090.

7. Cooling Solution

High-performance CPUs generate significant heat, particularly when overclocked. Invest in a high-quality cooling solution, such as a high-quality air cooler or an AIO liquid cooler, to prevent overheating and maintain optimal performance.

8. Budget

Set a realistic budget that balances cost against features. The price range for suitable CPUs can vary significantly, so it’s essential to prioritise the features that matter most to you, whether it’s raw performance or energy efficiency.

9. Gaming vs. Content Creation

Consider your primary use case: for gaming, prioritise CPUs with strong single-core performance, while for content creation, focus on higher core counts and thread counts. This will ensure the best performance tailored to your specific needs.

10. Future-Proofing

Think about your long-term plans for upgrades. Investing in a CPU that supports future advancements will save you money in the long run. Look for models that are compatible with the latest technologies and upcoming features.

11. Read Reviews

Before purchasing, check reviews from reputable sources to gain insights into real-world performance and user experiences. Look for consistent feedback across multiple platforms to ensure the CPU meets your expectations.

12. Additional Tips

• Consider Motherboard Chipset: Higher-end chipsets often come with more features and better support for upgrades.
• Consult Knowledgeable Sources: Online communities and tech forums can provide valuable advice and updates on the latest releases.
• Watch for New Releases: Technology evolves rapidly, so keeping an eye on new products can help you find the best value for your investment.

FAQs:

Conclusion

In conclusion, pairing the right CPU with your RTX 3090 is crucial for optimal performance. Look for processors that match the power of the 3090, whether for gaming or productivity. With the options I’ve covered, you’ll be set for a smooth, high-performance experience, ensuring you get the most out of your system.