Best GPU for Ryzen 9 7900X & 7950X: top picks to avoid bottlenecks
Powerful AMD CPUs deserve powerful processors.
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Choosing the best GPU for any CPU can be hard, it’s made even harder by the fact we’re opting for two of the best and most powerful CPUs that the 7000 series has to offer. You might think it’s as simple as selecting the best GPU you can find, but that can be a recipe for wasting a lot of money. Now the top CPUs need a powerful GPU to pair with them So what is the best GPU for Ryzen 9 7900X & 7950X?
The Ryzen 7000 series CPUs utilize TSMCs 5nm process. Creating a die size of 2x 70mm² in the chiplet design. Which itself holds 13.4 billion transistors throughout the die. They differ in price and specs. The 7950X features 16 cores and 32 threads with a TDP of 170W at a price of $699. Whilst the 7900X has 12 cores and 24 threads with a TDP of 170W and an MSRP of $549. though you can find them for much less now thanks to the release of the 9000 series.
Products at a glance
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best GPU for 7900X & 7950X
ASUS ROG Strix RTX 4090 OC
- Core Clock Speed: 2,640 MHz boost
- CUDA Cores: 16,384
- Memory Size: 24GB GDDR6X
- Dimensions: 357.6 x 149.3 x 70.1mm
- PSU Required: 1000W
- TDP: 450W
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Runner Up
ASUS TUF Radeon RX 7900 XTX OC
- Core Clock Speed: 1,895 MHz base, 2,395 MHz shader & game, 2,565 MHz boost
- Stream processors: 6,144
- Memory Size: 24GB GDDR6
- Dimensions: 352.9 x 158.2 x 72.6 mm
- PSU Required: 850W
- TBP: 355W
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Value Pick
ASUS TUF Gaming GeForce RTX 4070 Super OC
- Core clock speed: 2565 MHz boost, 1980 MHz base
- CUDA count: 7,168
- Memory: 12GB GDDR6X
- Dimensions: 301 x 139 x 63 mm
- PSU required: 750W
- TBP: 220W
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Budget Pick
AMD Radeon RX 7800 XT
- Core clock speed: 2,430MHz boost, 2,124MHz game
- Stream processors: 3,840
- Memory: 16GB GDDR6
- Dimensions: 267 x 111 x 50mm
- PSU required: 600W
- TBP: 263W
How we test the best GPUs for the 7900X & 7950X
For the Ryzen 9 7900X and 7950X, our focus is on testing GPUs in real-world environments, combining synthetic benchmarks with actual in-game scenarios. This allows us to assess the GPU’s performance across different use cases, whether it’s gaming, creative work, or demanding multitasking. We carefully analyze frame rates, rendering speeds, and overall efficiency to ensure each GPU can complement the power of these Ryzen CPUs without causing any bottlenecks. To learn more about how we test GPUs, you can check out our dedicated page
Once we’ve completed our testing, we go beyond just the numbers, considering factors such as power consumption, thermal performance, and build quality. This comprehensive approach helps us recommend the ideal GPU for your 7900X or 7950X system, giving you the confidence to make the best decision for your build.
Best GPU for Ryzen 9 7900X & 7950X
- Core Clock Speed: 2,640 MHz boost
- CUDA Cores: 16,384
- Memory Size: 24GB GDDR6X
- Dimensions: 357.6 x 149.3 x 70.1mm
- PSU Required: 1000W
- TDP: 450W
- Memory Clock: 21 Gbps
- Memory Bus: 384-bit
- Card Bus: PCIe 4.0 x16
- Output: 2x HDMI 2.1a, 3x DP 1.4a
- Power Connectors: 1x 16-pin
The RTX 4090 is the best of the best when it comes to graphical rendering at desktop level. If you’re looking to pair the best CPU with a GPU, then this is it. It might be expensive, but hands down it is the best gaming performance you can get right now.
- Excellent air cooling solution
- Pushes performance above the rest of the selection
- Updated design cooling and aesthetically focused
- A more expensive choice over the rest of the picks and will cost a lot to run
The RTX 4090 proves to be a powerhouse for gamers, as we found in our comprehensive 4090 review it makes a top choice for the 7900X or 7950X. Similar to its predecessor, the 3090, Nvidia’s 4090 caters to more extensive applications beyond gaming. Its performance surpasses previous models, thanks to cutting-edge technology innovations. DLSS 3 technology enhances performance, alongside upgraded ray tracing cores and a refined foundry process allowing for denser core designs.
Spec-wise, it boasts an AD102-300 GPU variant, crafted using TSMC’s 4N process, a departure from the previous Samsung technology. This results in a 608mm² die accommodating a staggering 76.3 billion transistors. With 16,384 CUDA cores, 512 TMUs, 1786 ROPs, 512 Tensor cores, and 128 RT cores, it operates at improved speeds, boasting a base clock of 2,235 MHz, breaking the 2GHz barrier seen in the previous AMD generation. The Strix model achieves an impressive boost clock of 2,610 MHz, promising further performance gains.
Regarding memory, it elevates its capabilities with 24GB of GDDR6X memory on a 384-bit bus, yielding a bandwidth of 1,018 GB/s at a clock speed of 21.2 Gbps. However, this necessitates a hefty 450W TDP, mandating new power connectors and enhanced cooling solutions. Consequently, the cards, particularly the ROG Strix, expand to quad-slot sizes, measuring 357.6 x 149.3 x 70.1mm and carrying substantial weight. Installation without proper support may risk bending or damage over time.
The card gives you hundreds of FPS across the board, even at 4K. You have to spend a pretty penny to get it but it certainly unlocks the full potential of your CPUs without holding back.
- Core Clock Speed: 1,895 MHz base, 2,395 MHz shader & game, 2,565 MHz boost
- Stream processors: 6,144
- Memory Size: 24GB GDDR6
- Dimensions: 352.9 x 158.2 x 72.6 mm
- PSU Required: 850W
- TBP: 355W
- Memory Clock: 20 Gbps
- Memory Bus: 384-bit
- Card Bus: PCIe 4.0 x16
- Output: 1x HDMI 2.1, 3x DP 2.1
- Power Connectors: 3 x 8-pin
The 7900 XTX is the best that AMD currently offers making it a top pick for high-end Ryzen CPUs. 4K is not out of the question with this GPU so consequently 1440p is no issue either, especially on the RDNA 3 architecture.
- OC card but still priced at MSRP for better performance at the same price
- Dual BIOS button and robust design of the card
- Side RGB that has no button but requires software to control
Now, claiming the apex position in AMD’s GPU lineup and the best GPU for the 7900X or 7950X, the RDNA 3 cards boast significant enhancements. With each generation, these cards demonstrate marked performance improvements, particularly exemplified by the flagship RX 7900 XTX, which competes favorably against Nvidia’s offerings. Their enticing price-to-performance ratio outshines Team Green’s alternatives, making them a compelling choice for consumers. Furthermore, robust software support ensures potential performance boosts beyond the hardware’s capabilities.
Powered by the Navi 31 XTX GPU, built on TSMC’s advanced 5 and 6nm process, these cards leverage an MCM design, enhancing chip yield. The total die size of 520mm² accommodates a whopping 57.7 billion transistors. Equipped with 24GB of GDDR6 memory on a 384-bit bus, operating at a clock speed of 20 Gbps, the card achieves a bandwidth of 960 GB/s. Clock speeds are finely tuned, with a shader clock of 2,269 MHz, alongside a base clock of 1,855 MHz, a game clock of 2,269 MHz, and a boost clock of 2,499 MHz or higher with an overclocked GPU model. These frequencies drive the 6,144 shading units, 284 TMUs, 192 ROPs, 96 compute units, and 96 RT cores.
In our review of the RX 7900 XTX, we observed commendable performance across various metrics. The card excels particularly in delivering a stellar 4K gaming experience, albeit with relatively weaker performance in ray tracing and rendering compared to Nvidia counterparts. Nevertheless, its gaming prowess remains commendable.
- Core clock speed: 2565 MHz boost, 1980 MHz base
- CUDA count: 7,168
- Memory: 12GB GDDR6X
- Dimensions: 301 x 139 x 63 mm
- PSU required: 750W
- TBP: 220W
- Memory clock: 21Gbps
- Memory bus: 192-bit
- Card bus: PCIe 4.0 x16
- Output : 1x HDMI 2.1a, 3x DP 1.4a
- Power connectors: 1x 16-pin
The RTX 4070 Super is a fantastic card if you’re talking value for money. It offers so much better performance from more budget cards such as the 4060, it’s also about on parr with the 7800 XT. Once again you have DLSS 3, and fantastic Ray Tracing performance.
- Great build quality and design
- Strong value for the performance with 1440p and above resolutions
- A high cost model as it is much higher than MSRP
- Requires 16pin power connector and so an adapter is needed that has been hazardous
- Large size card can be harder to fit all cases
The Nvidia RTX 4070 Super is an outstanding value option for those pairing it with the powerful 7000 series processors. Offering remarkable mid-range performance, this GPU delivers excellent bang for your buck. Equipped with the AD104-350 processor, the RTX 4070 Super features 7,168 CUDA cores, 12GB of GDDR6X memory, and a base clock of 1.98GHz, boosting up to 2.47GHz, making it a great choice for handling demanding workloads without overextending your budget.
Whether you’re aiming for high refresh rates at 1440p or taking your experience to 4K, the RTX 4070 Super ensures smooth frame rates and an impressive gaming experience. It shines at 1440p, easily achieving over 119 FPS in games like AC Mirage, as we found in our review while maintaining solid performance at 4K. Additionally, its efficient power usage, with a TDP of 220W, makes it a well-balanced option for both performance and energy efficiency.
When paired with the Ryzen 9 7900X or 7950X, the RTX 4070 Super is the perfect choice for anyone seeking top-tier gaming performance and workstation capability at a more accessible price point.
- Core clock speed: 2,430MHz boost, 2,124MHz game
- Stream processors: 3,840
- Memory: 16GB GDDR6
- Dimensions: 267 x 111 x 50mm
- PSU required: 600W
- TBP: 263W
- Launch price: $499
- Availability: September 6th, 2023
- GPU Name: NAVI 32
- Architecture : RDNA 3
- Process size: 5 nm
- Die size: 346mm
- L3 Cache: 64 MB
- Bandwidth: 624.1 GB/s
- Memory Bus: 256 bit
- Compute units: 60
- RT Cores: 60
The base 7800 XT is a great pick for anyone looking to pair a GPU with a 7900X or 7950X. The access to FSR makes 1440p gaming a breeze, and you’re going to want to be aiming for 1440p to avoid a heavy CPU bottleneck.
- Axial tech and opposite spin fans provide plenty of airflow for cooling with cutouts for it
- Metal build provides good convection and rigidity to the build
- More expensive choice in the range of models
For a more budget-friendly yet robust option, consider the RX 7800 XT, offering remarkable value to complement your 7900X or 7950X setup. Despite being a late entrant into the RDNA 3 lineup, it swiftly establishes itself as a prime choice for gamers, significantly lowering the price barrier without compromising on performance.
Equipped with the Navi 32 processor featuring the MCM layout, the RX 7800 XT boasts 3,840 stream processors, 240 TMUs, 96 ROPs, 60 CUs, and 60 RT cores. Its 16GB GDDR6 memory setup, operating on a 256-bit bus, delivers a bandwidth of 624GB/s. Clock speeds are respectable, offering a base clock of 1,295MHz, a game clock of 2,124MHz, and a boost clock of up to 2,430MHz, resulting in a total TDP of 263W.
Reviewing the performance of the RX 7800 XT, as seen in other reviews and benchmarks, it may not quite match the top-tier cards available. However, its power remains formidable, capable of delivering an average of 4K 60 FPS gameplay, even though it’s primarily marketed as a 1440p option. This versatility underscores its strength as a compelling contender for the title of the best GPU in its price range.
Is the 4090 overkill for the 7900X?
No, to match your top-end processor, you want a top-end graphics card. So for the best GPU for the Ryzen 9 7900X, the top pick is the RTX 4090. As the unparalleled top card, you can get the most out of both components.
As for alternatives, if you want the best budget choice, the RX 800 XT is a good choice. As a value AMD card, it has the performance for a lower price. Whilst for the best AMD GPU the RX 7900 XTX is a great choice. AS these will work well together and provide the best performance.
What GPU should I pair with Ryzen 9 7950X?
Now for the top of AMD’s CPU range, there is plenty of power behind it. And so you want to match its power with top-end graphics as well. So the best GPU for the Ryzen 9 7950X would be the RTX 4090. As they are both the best of their offerings and will be untouched by what they offer.
If you might want some alternatives, the RX 7900 XTX is the top AMD GPU and provides a strong contender for what the CPU has to offer. As for a budget option, the 7800 XT is a good alternative as well.
Final Word
If you need to pair your CPU with a GPU that matches it perfectly, then you are in the right place. Everything we have selected here will suit the 7900X or 7950X perfectly without causing a significant bottleneck. You’d want to target 1440p with all of these GPUs as that is the resolution in which they shine. Ray tracing is also a thing with every single one of these GPUs, but if RT performance is really important to you, we’d suggest going to Nvidia. Conversely, if it’s value you want, then AMD is for you.
