Best CPU for Fortnite – our top budget and high-end pick in 2024
Pick out the best CPU for the ever-popular battle royale Fortnite
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Wondering what the best CPU for Fortnite is? We’ll answer that right here. Fortnite is a popular battle royale game from Epic Games that requires a strong CPU to run smoothly, especially if you’re looking for the best possible framerates. If you’re building a new gaming PC or upgrading your current system, you may be wondering about the best CPU for Fortnite.
In this article, we’ll be discussing two of the best CPUs for running Fortnite: the Intel Core i5 13600K and the Intel Core i3 12100F. These processors are capable of running the game at high settings with a high refresh rate. There’s no need to worry about the more expensive i9 models, or the Intel 14th Gen here. Fortnite is not a graphically-intensive game and does not need a huge CPU powerhouse. Of course, you’ll also want to invest in a good GPU for the best possible performance for games outside of Fortnite, so we’ll help you choose wisely.
Best CPU for Fortnite
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.
- High core count for an entry level CPU
- High base and boost speeds
- Efficient
- backwards compatible with 12th gen motherboards
- Runs very warm
The Intel Core i5 13600K is still one of the best processors around when it comes to the price-to-performance ratio. This excellent gaming CPU is one of the best in terms of value right now, and that’s easy to judge considering the specs and price.
For under $400, you are getting a 5.1GHz boost clock, superb single-threaded performance, and 14 cores. A couple of years ago, a 14-core i5 processor at this price was unheard of, and it’s a win for consumers thanks to the ongoing battle between AMD and Intel. For Fortnite, you can go with a better CPU, but you’d witness diminishing returns. The 13600K is the best choice because it delivers high-end performance at a mid-range price. Last but not least, it is also one of the best processors around in terms of productivity. You really can’t go wrong with this one.
Best Budget CPU for Fortnite
Intel Core i3-12100F
Intel Core i3-12100F
Core (threads)
4/8
Boost clock
4.3 GHz
Socket
Lga 1700
- Efficient
- Budget friendly
- excellent low-power option
- Doesn’t hold up to more powerful CPUs
- Little future-proofing
Since Fortnite has low system requirements, you can also get away with using a cheap entry-level processor. However, while the Core i3 12100F is cheap, it is anything but slow. The four cores might sound a bit limiting, but this CPU can handle modern titles with relative ease. There’s no overclocking support here, but that doesn’t matter much. If you only play Esports titles such as Fortnite, Rocket League, and Overwatch 2, then this is a good choice when on a budget.
Final Word
In conclusion, the Intel Core i5 13600K is the best CPU for Fortnite right now. This is because not only is this processor a great performer, but it is also excellent in terms of value. For budget users, the Intel Core i3 12100F is a decent choice, especially now that the 14th Gen is out and prices could well drop more. You may also want to check out the best CPUs for gaming in 2024, to see the very greatest CPUs you can buy if money is no object.
