Best CPU for FL Studio in 2024 – our top picks
Work with FL Studio as smoothly as possible with these CPU picks
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Looking for the best CPU for FL Studio? We have you covered. FL Studio is a digital audio workstation (DAW) that has been around for quite a long time. Originally known as Fruity Loops during its launch in 1997, this DAW has been a staple for music producers for quite some time now. So, if you want to work with this software, what’s the best CPU for FL Studio?
Before we get into it, it is important to mention that you don’t need a particularly powerful processor to get started with FL Studio. However, this highly depends on what type of workflows you’re working with. If you want to use an expansive number of plugins, then go with a faster CPU. We’ve included the most recent Intel generation here, the 14th Gen, whilst also picking the best of the last gen for this particular program. Here are our picks for the best CPUs for FL Studio.
Best CPU for FL Studio
Intel Core i7 13700K
Intel Core i7-13700K
Cores
16
Threads
24
Base speed
P-cores 3.4 GHz / E-cores 2.5 GHz
Boost speed
P-cores 5.4 GHz / E-cores 4.2 GHz
Cache
24MB
TDP
125 W / 253 W boost.
Specs:
- Speed: 5.4GHz
- Cores/Threads: 16/24
- Socket: LGA1700
- TDP: 125W
Considering its excellent balance between pricing and performance, the Core i7 13700K is the best CPU for FL studio right now. It’s a more practical choice compared to something like an i9 13900K or Ryzen 9 7950X. It’s easier to cool, cheaper, and will still give you great performance in FL Studio.
Intel has upped their game recently, and this CPU has four more cores than the Ryzen 9 7900X, its direct competitor. It also performs better in most professional workloads, and even in games. We also have to consider the fact that its backwards compatible with Z690 motherboards, so upgrading should be easy. All in all, this is a processor that you’ll be happy with for years to come. You can install as many plugins as you like, and FL Studio won’t slow down if you have this mighty CPU inside your next workstation build.
Best Budget CPU for FL Studio
Intel Core i5 13600K
Intel Core i5-13600K
Cores
14
Threads
20
Base speed
P-cores 3.5 GHz / E-cores 2.6 GHz
Boost speed
P-cores 5.1 GHz / E-cores 3.9 GHz
Cache
20MB
TDP
125 W / 181 W boost.
Specs:
- Speed: 5.1GHz (Boost Clock)
- Cores/Threads: 14/20
- Socket: LGA1700
- TDP: 125W
If you wanto save some money, then consider going with the Intel Core i5 13600K. It’s slightly slower than the i7 part, but cheaper and easier to cool. Considering it still has a high core count and a 5.1GHz boost clock, it’s a great CPU for FL Studio. On top of all that, it’s also great in terms of gaming performance, if you care.
Intel Core i5-14600K
Intel Core i5-14600K
Cores:
14 (6+8)
Threads:
20
P-Core Speed:
5.3GHz (boost) 3.5GHz (base)
E-Core Speed:
4.0GHz (boost) 2.6GHz (base)
DDR5 support:
Yes @ 5600MHz
TDP
125W base 253W PL1 & PL2
The latest addition to the Intel i5 family sees some decent gains over the previous generation, but may be overkill if you’re just looking to use it for this program. For the price, you’re getting 20 threads, which is the same as the 13th Gen equivalent, plus it supports DDR5 RAM. It’s a decent future-proof option, but we would opt for the 13th Gen equivalent at the moment, or opting for an 13th Gen i7, especially as prices will fall.
Final Word
So, in conclusion, the 13th Gen Core i7 processor is the best CPU you can buy right now for FL Studio. On the other hand, the Core i5 13600K does not lag far behind, and might be a better choice if you want to save some money. Either way, both are excellent options in our opinion. If you’re still not convinced, check out our best CPUs guide.
