Best CPU for Warzone 2 in 2024 – our top picks
Pick up the best CPU before you drop into Warzone 2
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Looking for the best CPU for Call of Duty Warzone 2? Then you’re in luck. Warzone 2 is the latest iteration of the popular battle royale game and it’s pretty demanding if you’re looking to run the game at its best. A large map with plenty of players does weigh on the CPU, so you’re going to need a decent powerhouse that can keep up. With that in mind, let’s look at the best CPU for the job.
Based on the Warzone 2 system requirements, focusing on the CPU, Activision recommends the Intel Core i5-6600K or Core i7-4770 to run Warzone smoothly. Needless to say, if you buy a relatively recent processor from Intel or AMD, then you should be in good hands. With that said, here are the best CPUs for Warzone 2. We wouldn’t worry too much about the Intel 14th Gen here – these processors will be more than up the job, and won’t cost nearly as much.
Best CPU for Warzone 2
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.
| Boost Clock | 5.4GHz |
| Total Cores/Threads | 16/24 |
| Socket | LGA1700 |
| TDP | 125W |
The Intel Core i7 13700K is still one of the best gaming processors money can buy right now. It delivers exceptional performance in both gaming and production workloads. This one is also a more practical choice over CPUs like the Core i9 13900K or Ryzen 9 7950X. So, while it’s not going to outperform the processors we just mentioned, this processor should do quite well in Warzone 2. In fact, thanks to the 5.4GHz boost clock and superb single-threaded performance, this processor provides excellent performance in most modern triple-A titles.
It also supports overclocking and DDR5 memory. If you pair this processor with a good Z790 motherboard, fast RAM, and PCIe Gen 4 storage, you’ll have a blazing-fast gaming PC that will last you for years to come.
Best Budget CPU for Warzone 2 – 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.
| Boost Clock | 5.1GHz |
| Total Cores/Threads | 14/20 |
| Socket | LGA1700 |
| TDP | 125W |
If you don’t want to spring for the high-end Core i7 13700K, then alternatively you can go with the Intel Core i5 13600K. This i5 processor is an even better value this generation, especially if you take the 14 cores, 20 threads, and 5.1GHz boost clock into account. It’s a CPU that overclocks very well, and outperforms the likes of the Ryzen 5 7600X, a direct competitor. On top of all that, it’s an unlocked chip that has excellent support for overclocking.
Best Ryzen CPU for Warzone 2 – Ryzen 7600X
AMD Ryzen 5 7600X
Cores
6
Threads
12
Base speed
4.7GHz
Boost speed
5.3GHz
Cache
L3 32MB
Socket
AM5
| Boost Clock | 5.3GHz |
| Total Cores/Threads | 6/12 |
| Socket | AM5 |
| TDP | 105W |
While the Ryzen 5000 series still remain popular for those still on the AM4 platform, we had to go with the 7600X, which resides in the latest AM5 socket. We found, when we reviewed the 7600X, that it offers fantastic value for money and think it is just what you need for game like Warzone 2. If the Intel choices we’ve picked out are no good to you on your AMD compatible motherboard, this Ryzen CPU may be just for you. We can also recommend the highly popular Ryzen 5 5600X if you’ve not yet upgraded your motherboard to accommodate the 7000 series processor. Either way, you’re getting great value for money and a well-performing CPU.
What to look for in a gaming CPU for Warzone
Since most games only use a few cores, core speed is more important when looking for a CPU specifically designed for gaming. What you require is a CPU that has a high CPU boost speed and a high base speed when putting together your PC build for Warzone. Given that, you need to think about purchasing a CPU that can be overclocked. This will help it last longer because you can add more power to the Cores to speed up operations when the CPU beings to slow down, helping you reach the very best graphics settings when paired with an appropriate GPU.
Best CPU for Warzone 2 FAQs
Is Warzone 2 CPU intensive?
Many players have reported on the fact the Warzone 2 is occupying a lot of their CPU usage while playing, so it definitely looks to be a game which is more CPU-intensive on average. Due to the large map size, high number of players, and AI enemies thrown in, we can see why this would be the case.
Is an Intel or AMD processor best for Warzone?
Both Intel and AMD offer great CPU solutions for Warzone 2, so there’s no major reason to put one above the other, though Intel is generally the more popular choice. The thing you want to cater for most is what your motherboard is compatible with.
