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Best CPU for iRacing

There's no slowing down with one of the best CPUs for iRacing

Updated: Nov 21, 2023 4:27 pm
Best CPU for iRacing

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iRacing is a popular racing simulation game that requires a strong CPU to run smoothly. If you’re putting together a new gaming rig or upgrading your current PC, you may be wondering about the best CPU for iRacing.

In this article, we’ll be discussion two CPU options that are best suited for iRacing. One is a higher-end processor while the other is a more budget option. Of course, you’ll also need a decent GPU to get the best framerates. With that said, these are the best CPUs for iRacing.

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Best CPU for iRacing – Intel Core i7 13700K

Intel Core i7-13700K

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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:

  • Boost Clock: 5.4GHz
  • Total Cores/Threads: 16/24
  • Socket: LGA1700
  • TDP: 125W

Simulation racing games like iRacing and Forza Motorsport can be quite CPU-intensive. As such, the Intel Core i7 13700K is an excellent choice here. Not only are you getting a whopping 16 cores and 24 threads, but also a 5.4GHz boost clock.

Needless to say, the single-threaded performance here is excellent. You can expect great frame rates, and that will allow you to play the game at a high resolution monitor with high refresh rates. The CPU also pairs well with higher-end GPUs like the RTX 3070 or higher.

In addition to its gaming capabilities, the 13700K is also a great processor for production workloads. It works well in professional applications such as CuBase, AutoCAD, Photoshop, Premiere Pro, and more.

While it’s a bit hard to cool, it is definitely more practical than the Core i9 13900K. It’s a great investment and will continue to be an excellent processor for years to come.

Best Budget CPU for iRacing –  Intel Core i5 13600K

Outstanding

Intel Core i5-13600K

19 118 416 V01

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 are on a budget, we would recommend sticking with something like the Core i5 13600K. While it’s a value-focused processor, the 14 cores, 20 threads, and 5.1GHz boost clock beg to differ. It’s an excellent gaming processor for its price, and might just be the best value you can get out of any CPU right now.

Last but not least, it’s also an unlocked chip, meaning you can push the boost clock to even higher speeds.

Final Word

So, for a simulation game like iRacing that’s heavy on realism, the Intel Core i7 13700K is clearly the best choice. However, for those on a budget, even the Intel Core i5 13600K will suffice, as it is a highly performant chip at a cheaper price.


As a Junior Staff Writer, Jack is involved in writing and maintaining a bunch of hardware guides & reviews. With an interest in PC gaming, he now focuses on writing about monitors, headsets, and more.

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