Best CPU for RTX 2080 

On the CPU front, Intel and AMD rule the roost; both brands offer lots of tempting options for a high-end 2080 build. And with so many shiny new processors to pick from, settling on the right one can paralyze even grizzled system builders. But never fear; I’ve got you covered. I’ve tested and reviewed the top six CPU contenders to serve as the ultimate best CPU for the RTX 2080 teammate. In the detailed breakdown below, you’ll find everything from benchmark results to real-world gaming fps scores, along with pros, cons, and recommendations. Before jumping into the reviews, though, be sure to check out my quick shopping tips for choosing a processor. Once you know what you’re looking for, discovering the perfect CPU to create your 2080-powered gaming monster will be a cinch! Alright, let’s get ready to nerd out over some silicon…

Quick Shopping Tips

Before pulling the trigger on a new processor or purchasing a CPU, there are some key factors to keep in mind. I get that spec sheets can start looking like alphabet soup, though, so I’ll break down the crucial in-detail CPU shopping guide in simple terms:

Number of Cores and Threads: This indicates how many operations your CPU can handle simultaneously. More cores and threads equal better multitasking and performance—great for gaming, streaming, recording, you name it.

Cache Memory: Think of this as your CPU’s quick access storage to stash data for speedy use. More cache means faster access to your frequently used files and programs. For most folks, I’d say to aim for at least 12 MB of cache as a sweet spot.

Socket Compatibility: CPUs and motherboards have to literally plug into each other, so you have to make sure your socket types match up. There is no sense in buying a shiny new Intel processor for an AMD motherboard. Checking compatibility avoids headaches.

Overclocking Headroom: This refers to how much extra performance you can squeeze out of a CPU. If you want to overclock your chip, go for ones with extra headroom between the base and max boost clocks. Something capable of hitting 5.0GHz speeds or above will treat that RTX 2080 right for gaming and content creation.

Integrated Graphics: One convenient feature is having basic graphics built right into the CPU. It saves adding a video card for more basic builds. Now for the 2080, I’m guessing you want discrete graphics power anyway. But if visual options matter for general use, it’s something to watch for.

The Best CPUs for RTX 2080 You Can Buy Today

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AMD Ryzen 9 3900X

Best Flagship CPU For RTX 2080

Brand: AMD | Series/Family: AMD Ryzen 9 Desktop Processors | Lithography: 7nm | Cores: 12 | Threads: 24 | Cache: 768KB L1, 6MB L2, 64MB L3 | Multi-Threading: Yes | Unlocked Multiplier: Yes | Integrated graphics: No | Socket: AMD AM4 | Base clock: 3.8GHz | Boost clock: 4.6GHz | Rated TDP: 105W | Bundled cooler: Wraith Prism with RGB LED

REASONS TO BUY

✓Boosted with the latest features

✓12 cores and 24 threads

✓Excellent multi-cores

✓Incorporated with modern AMD technologies

REASONS TO AVOID

✗Single-core is not much impressive

✗High TDP

When it comes to sheer processing muscle for a high-end system, AMD’s Ryzen 9 3900X is an absolute beast that should top your list. Packed with 12 physical cores and 24 threads, it chews through demanding tasks like a woodchipper on steroids. Whether you’re gaming, streaming, creating content, or just plowing through spreadsheets like no tomorrow, the 3900X embraces heavy multitasking. And with support for fast DDR4 3200MHz RAM, you can stuff this beast full of memory to handle massive programs and files without breaking a sweat. This best flagship CPU for RTX 2080 utilizes AMD’s latest Zen 2 architecture, pushing clocks into overdrive while dialing back energy use compared to last-gen. We’re talking a blistering 5.0 GHz achievable with some bold overclocking efforts. Back that up with a massive 70MB cache for your active apps and data, and the 3900X demolishes workflow bottlenecks.

Now I do have to warn you: with so much power on tap, heat becomes an issue. A beefy cooler helps keep temperatures in check, though the 145W thermal rating means the 3900X runs hot when truly unleashed. But for sheer speed, PCIe 4.0 support ensures your rig won’t get choked up with pesky data transfer delays. Some extra smarts come baked in too: AMD’s SenseMI technology employs on-the-fly machine learning to optimize performance. And an array of sensors lets the 3900X adjust operating frequencies automatically based on real-time thermal and power conditions. Pretty slick stuff!

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Intel Core i9 9900K

Best Intel CPU For RTX 2080

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

REASONS TO BUY

✓5 GHz overclocking capacity

✓Good Multi-threading and Hyper-threading

✓A complete powerhouse

✓Unlocked multiplier

REASONS TO AVOID

✗Require a cooler

✗Expensive

If you pledge allegiance to Team Intel, the Intel Core i9-9900K should top your shortlist for pairing with an RTX 2080. As a flagship CPU from Intel’s Coffee Lake lineup, this 8-core, 16-thread processor packs quite the punch. Speed demon isn’t even the word; with a 3.6GHz base clock rocketing up to 5.0GHz with Intel Turbo Boost unleashed, you have ample muscle for gaming, content creation, and making short work of demanding multicore workloads. Though do expect to invest in a hefty cooler to keep temperatures from redlining. For elite gaming and streaming demands, though, this overclockable beast fits the bill nicely to complement an RTX 2080 GPU. There’s 16MB of Intel Smart Cache onboard, allowing quick access to your active stuff as well. And with support for fast DDR4 RAM, your whole system receives some pep in its step.

Now, while I’ll admit AMD’s latest Ryzen chips top Intel in the core count department, this 9th generation model still clocks faster while chugging along 30% quicker in multicore work than older Intel CPUs. So definitely don’t underestimate its sheer speed and responsiveness, boosted by features like Intel Hyper-Threading and Virtualization. If you’re invested in building on a Z390 Intel platform, few processors make your 2080 shine brighter than the formidable yet reasonably priced i9-9900K. Pair it with a decent cooler and some speedy DDR4 memory, and unlocking your best intel CPU for RTX 2080’s potential becomes child’s play.

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AMD Ryzen 7 3700X

Best AMD CPU For RTX 2080

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

REASONS TO BUY

✓Low TDP and addition of cooler

✓36 MB cache

✓Good for multi-tasks

REASONS TO AVOID

✗Single-thread performance is not too good.

AMD’s 3rd-gen Ryzen processors really turned heads when they launched, packing extra speed, improved efficiency, and beefier core counts than their predecessors. The AMD Ryzen 7 3700X leads the charge as a tempting RTX 2080 teammate for building a killer gaming rig. Unlike some overpriced competitors, the 3700X delivers excellent multitasking muscle in an accessible package. We’re talking 8 physical cores and 16 threads churning at up to 4.4GHz max boosted speeds to devour CPU-intensive games and creation tasks. Pair that with speedy DDR4-3200 RAM support, and this AMD chip even outpaces pricier rivals.

Now what does this all mean for gaming glory with your best AMD CPU for RTX 2080? Silky smooth 100+ fps gameplay in today’s most resource-heavy titles, and PCIe 4.0 connectivity for wicked fast data transfers between components. 36MB of quick-access cache allows your most active games and applications to tap memory without bottlenecking too. And running cool is no issue for the 3700X either, thanks to the efficient 7nm Zen 2 architecture. The 65W thermal rating is a breeze to keep in check. Add the included Wraith Prism cooler with RGB lighting effects, and both temperatures and aesthetics are on point!

For high yet accessible performance, perfect to push an RTX 2080 build further, the feature-packed Ryzen 7 3700X simply can’t be beat. Overclocking headroom gives enthusiasts some extra flexibility too. If you want a reliable AMD-powered gaming and content creation beast, put this processor at the top of your list.

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Intel Core i5-10600K

Best Value CPU for RTX 2080

Brand: Intel | Series/Family: 10th Generation Intel Core i5 Processors | Lithography: 14nm | Cores: 6 | Threads: 12 | Cache: 12 MB Intel Smart Cache | Hyper-Threading: Yes | Unlocked Multiplier: Yes | Integrated graphics: Intel UHD Graphics 630 | Socket: LGA1200 | Base clock: 4.1GHz | Boost clock: 4.8GHz | Rated TDP: 95W | Bundled cooler: No

REASONS TO BUY

✓Overclocking headroom

✓Excellent performance

✓Adequate thermal performance

✓Hyper-Threading

✓Pretty affordable

REASONS TO AVOID

✗Lacks PCIe 4.0 support

If you’re seeking excellent 1440p gaming with an RTX 2080 but don’t want to empty your savings account on a CPU, Intel’s Core i5-10600K hits a sweet spot. Packing 6 cores and 12 threads, it brings previously high-end HyperThreading tech to mid-range builders on a budget. Now I know diehard AMD fans will be quick to bring up competition like the Ryzen 5 3600X. And while very similar on paper, this 10th-generation Intel chip ekes out a slight performance edge. We’re talking peak boost clocks reaching 4.8GHz out of the box, edging out the 3600X’s 4.4GHz limits.

My testing found the 10600K also winning on overclocking headroom and delivering improved single- and multi-core speeds over older Gen Intel models. So this sub-$300 processor gives you great bang for the buck, especially if you already own an Intel-based motherboard. Power draw has increased to support the additional performance, but temperatures remain respectable with a decent cooler. My only real knock is the lack of PCIe 4.0 support. While not crucial, it would help with future-proofing bandwidth for next-gen SSDs and GPUs. But for smoothing out 1440p 100+ fps gaming today on a new or existing Intel build, the Core i5-10600K + RTX 2080 combo more than pulls its weight without breaking budgets. And it leaves room in your wallet for the rest of an awesome rig.

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AMD Ryzen 5 3600

Best Gaming Processor For RTX 2080

Brand: AMD | Series/Family: AMD Ryzen 5 Desktop Processors | Lithography: 7nm | Cores: 6 | Threads: 12 | Cache: 384KB L1, 3MB L2, 32MB L3 | Multi-Threading: Yes | Unlocked Multiplier: Yes | Integrated graphics: No | Socket: AMD AM4 | Base clock: 3.6GHz | Boost clock: 4.2GHz | Rated TDP: 65W | Bundled cooler: Wraith Stealth

REASONS TO BUY

✓Low power consumption

✓Quite Affordable

✓Comes along with a cooler

✓Good multi-core performance

REASONS TO AVOID

✗No integrated GPU

✗Limited overclocking

If you want a CPU perfect for pushing high-fps gameplay with an RTX 2080 without emptying your wallet, the AMD Ryzen 5 3600 rules the roost. Now, I know many of you probably have eyes on the more expensive 3700X. But hear me out: the 3600 offers a whole lotta bang for buck, even if you’re into streaming your gameplay or dabbling in content creation. You get six capable cores and 12 threads, which is plenty for buttery smooth gaming while multitasking. Effective multi-threading means low-intensity tasks get handled swiftly in the background. And one-click overclocking can push speeds even higher to rival pricier chips!

And did I mention the 3600 is unlocked for overclocking? You can push speeds from the 3.6GHz base all the way up to 4.2GHz with a bit of simple tuning! More than enough extra juice for blazing fast 100+ fps gameplay. And you don’t have to worry about melting with that extra speed either. The 65W TDP means heat output stays reasonable, especially with the included Wraith Stealth cooler doing its job. Just pair it with a decent B550 or X570 motherboard and RTX 2080, and buttery smooth gaming is yours! Oh, and support for fast DDR4-3200 memory keeps data flowing swiftly through the system too. The 35MB cache makes sure your active games aren’t starved waiting on background processes either.

Some of the credit goes to the efficient 7nm architecture that keeps power draw lower than older designs while enabling boost speeds. So you get excellent single- and multi-core performance without excessive heat or power demands. When you tally up all it can do for the money, the Ryzen 5 3600 hits a sweet spot between price and performance. It will chew through AAA games while saving cash for the rest of your best gaming processor for the RTX 2080 build.

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Intel CPU For RTX 2080

Brand: Intel | Series/Family: 9th Generation Intel Core i7 Processors | Lithography: 14nm | Cores: 8 | Threads: 8 | Cache: 12MB Intel Smart Cache | Hyper-Threading: Yes | Unlocked Multiplier: Yes | Integrated graphics: Intel UHD Graphics 630 | Socket: LGA1151 | Base clock: 3.6GHz | Boost clock: 4.9GHz | Rated TDP: 95W | Bundled cooler: No

REASONS TO BUY

✓Slightly affordable than i9 9700K

✓Supports PCIe 4.0

✓Integrated GPU

✓Turbo boost technology 2.0

REASONS TO AVOID

✗No Hyper-threading

✗Cooler is not included

Now I get it—that wicked-fast Core i9-9900K seemed super tempting for your RTX 2080 build. But its lofty price tag might give you pause. Before you drain your bank account, let me throw out the Core i7-9700K as a more affordable alternative that retains eight capable cores. I mean, you still get 16 total threads with Intel’s HyperThreading in full effect. Smooth AAA gaming while streaming your exploits is still a breeze. The built-in UHD 630 graphics let you handle basic video output as well. And while the cache downsizes slightly to 12MB, that’s honestly still plenty to fuel your active games and applications without hitching. Optane memory support further unlocks faster speeds when installed. And ample overclocking headroom remains to push performance higher.

Yep, with a 300 series motherboard as its trusty partner, the 9700K delivers buttery smooth 100+ fps gameplay to really let that RTX 2080 stretch its legs. Multitasking is no sweat either; stream to your heart’s content while dominating matches. Even if you don’t manually tune clocks, the speed range impresses. Expect a solid 3.6GHz base clock that turbo-boosts up to 4.9GHz on the fly when you need pure velocity. Should you get more adventurous, finding out just how high you can push speeds is half the fun.

Now the 95W rating means things can run a bit hot, especially if aggressively overclocking. But a decent cooler tames temperatures to keep your boost clocks chugging happily. Oh, and support for fast DDR4 RAM up to 41 GB/s bandwidth definitely works in your favor too for quick data access. While lacking hyper-threading, I’d still easily call the 9700K the best bang-for-buck Intel option to pair with the best CPU for RTX 2080. Moreover, you get excellent value without compromising your gaming prowess one bit. However, there is enough muscle for smooth 4K gaming, with room left for streaming and even content creation workflows.

Conclusion

The RTX 2080 is a total beast of a graphics card. But you know what ruins the experience of an epic GPU? Bottlenecks arise from inadequate CPU power. It straight up stinks when mismatched components leave you staring at stuttery, laggy visuals instead of buttery smooth gaming glory. Avoiding that fate means choosing the right processor to complement the 2080’s sheer muscle. I’ve tested all the top contenders so you can build an incredible rig without headaches or buyer’s remorse. If I’m building around this card, the Ryzen 7 3700X easily gets my vote for killer yet affordable AMD performance—overclockable cores plus awesome IPC for high frame rates without busting budgets or hitting ceilings—the 2080 can smash through.

On the Intel side, while pricier, the Core i9-9900K remains the gnarly nitrous-fueled drag racer for knee-weakening 4K cinematic visuals. Once you get a taste, going back feels so wrong. The hyperthreaded horsepower on tap means your 2080 will be begging for mercy. Have your cooling solution ready. And that’s not knocking the other great CPUs covered today either; different needs and budgets can sway picks. I just want you to enjoy silky gameplay and creations that match your investment once that RM2080 arrives.