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Best CPU for 8k gaming and resolution

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Updated: Oct 18, 2023 11:46 am
Best CPU for 8k gaming and resolution

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8K resolution is not exactly mainstream just yet, but we do have plenty of TVs rocking 8k in the cinema space. It’s only a matter of time, with the rate current technology is advancing that 8k is the new 4k, and with that being said, what is the best CPU for 8k?

8K is an incredibly large resolution, it’s actually four times bigger than 4k. You might be forgiven for thinking it’s only double, but that;’s not how resolutions work. With all those pixels to coordinate, we’re going to need one heck of a CPU.

Without further delay, here’s the best CPU for the 8k resolution.


Best CPU for 8K: Top picks

Here are the top picks for the best CPU for 8K resolution. We’ve scoured the CPU market to bring you the best of the best, capable of almost anything.


Best CPU for 8K gaming and resolution

Here are our picks for the best CPU for 8k, here you will get several options in an effort to match one to your current needs and budget.

Best AMD CPU 8k – Ryzen 9 7950X3D

Ryzen 9 7950X3D
Best AMD Ryzen CPU for Dead Island 2

Ryzen 9 7950X3D

ryzen 9 7950X

Cores:

16

Thread:

32

Boost speed:

5.7 GHz

Cache:

144 MB

TDP:

120W

Pros
  • 3D V-cache makes for fantastic gaming performance
  • Less limited thanks to dual CCD config
  • Relatively efficient
Cons
  • Expensive
  • Locked to auto overclocking, no manual

Leading the charge in CPU gaming technology for the current year is the AMD Ryzen 9 7950X3D, with an impressive 16 CPU cores and 32 threads, all running at a remarkable 5.7GHz clock speed. Its most notable feature is its cache, which is notably larger than any other CPU currently available in the market.

However, the V-cache of this processor has certain limitations. This feature is highly sensitive to both high voltage and temperature, which means that careful monitoring and restrictions are necessary to ensure its proper operation.

The Zen 4 version of the X3D CPUs is a true game-changer, thanks to the integration of 3D V-cache technology into just one of the two CCDs. This design minimizes the limitations of V-cache to just half of the CPU.

In terms of gaming, the 7950X3D is simply unbeatable, outperforming competitors by up to 40% in certain scenarios. When compared to the 5800X3D, the difference in performance is clearly visible. Although it may require a significant investment, the benefits it brings to gaming and computing performance far exceed the cost.

To summarize, the AMD Ryzen 9 7950X3D reigns supreme as the top CPU for gaming in 2024, and by extension, the top CPU for 8k resolution. It leverages the latest technological advancements to deliver unparalleled performance, making it the ultimate choice for gamers and computer enthusiasts.

Best Intel CPU for 8k- Core i9-13900K

Intel Core i9-13900K
Best high-end Intel CPU for Dead Island 2

Intel Core i9-13900K

19 118 412 V01

Cores

24

Threads

32

Base speed

P-cores 3 GHz / E-cores 2.2 GHz

Boost speed

P-cores 5.8 GHz / E-cores 4.3 GHz

Cache

36MB

TDP

125 W / 253 W boost.

Pros
  • Powerful single and multi-core performance
  • High boost speeds
  • improved L2 cache capacity
  • 32 logical processors
Cons
  • pricey
  • runs VERY hot

The i9-13900K is a force to be reckoned with in the CPU world, effortlessly outperforming its competitors. Its impressive 24 cores and 32 threads allow it to excel in both single and multi-core workloads, making it the top performer in multi-threaded performance for the first time in years. This impressive stack of cores and threads makes it very good for the 8k resolution.

Although the 13900K has a significant increase in TDP over the previous generation Alder Lake at 125 W base and 253 W boost, it also boasts a remarkable jump in performance. The Raptor Lake CPUs offer an improvement in the single-core performance of up to 15% and multi-core performance of up to 41%. Moreover, users can access this level of performance without even upgrading their motherboard, although upgrading does have its benefits.

One of the most notable enhancements in the 13900K is the doubling of L2 CPU cache, which allows the CPU to access larger and faster storage more swiftly and keep processing instructions without any backlog that could slow it down. With a boot core speed of up to a massive 5.8 GHz, the 13900K is truly speedy, and it currently boasts the fastest core speed on the market.

However, this immense performance of the 13900K comes with a caveat. The CPU runs extremely hot under heavy load, and it can throttle up to 13% during a stress test while using a 360mm AIO. While it’s unlikely that most users will reach such levels of usage, it’s something to consider when weighing the i9-13900K’s pros and cons.

AMD Ryzen 9 7900X

AMD Ryzen 9 7900X
Runner up AMD Ryzen CPU for 8K

AMD Ryzen 9 7900X

ryzen 9 7900X

Cores

12

Threads

24

Base speed

4.7GHz

Boost speed

5.6GHz

Cache

L3 64MB

Socket

AM5

Pros
  • Incredible performance
  • High performance pew Watt
  • Interesting IHS
  • Cooler than other 7000 series CPUs on average
Cons
  • A little pricey
  • Hard to keep cool

The 7900X is part of the cutting-edge Zen 4 architecture, which takes performance on the AMD platform to the next level. The new AM5 socket supports both DDR5 and PCIe Gen 5, bringing the 7000 series up to date and generating excitement among AMD users worldwide.

With its massive 5.6 GHz boost clock speed, the 8-core, 16-thread Ryzen 7900X can deliver tremendous multi-core and single-core performance. AMD has made significant strides in improving single-core performance, placing it on par with Intel’s previous generation CPUs, such as Alder Lake.

The Zen 4 CPU cores can process more instructions, and the cache per core has been doubled from 512 Kb to 1 MB. This means that a CPU that receives data quickly from the cache can operate faster overall.

However, we must also consider the TDP, which is significantly higher than that of the previous generation. The 7900X has a TDP of 170 W at the base core speed and 230 W at the boost speed. Unfortunately, this causes the CPU to run hotter than we would prefer, similar to the 13900K. It seems that CPU cooler technology is struggling to keep up with the amount of power packed into the latest generation of CPUs.

Despite this limitation, the Ryzen 9 7900X remains an excellent option for gamers seeking a high-performing 8k CPU at a reasonable price. With the latest technological advancements and impressive clock speeds, the 7900X promises to deliver unparalleled performance and value.


is the 8k resolution worth it?

The decision to invest in an 8k resolution display ultimately depends on a variety of factors, including personal preference, intended use, and budget.

From a technical standpoint, 8k resolution displays offer four times as many pixels as 4k displays and sixteen times as many pixels as 1080p displays, resulting in stunningly sharp and detailed images. This can be particularly beneficial for applications such as video editing or viewing high-resolution photos, where every detail matters.

However, there are also some practical limitations to consider. For example, to truly appreciate the benefits of an 8k display, you need to be viewing content that is specifically created and optimized for that resolution. Currently, there is a limited amount of 8k content available, and it can be more challenging to find than content optimized for 4k or 1080p displays.

Additionally, the cost of an 8k display is typically much higher than that of a 4k or 1080p display, and you may also need to upgrade your graphics card and other components to take full advantage of the increased resolution.

Whether or not 8k resolution is worth it depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you’re a professional in a field that requires high-resolution displays, or you simply enjoy the latest and greatest technology, then an 8k display may be a worthwhile investment. However, for most average users, a 4k or 1440pp display will likely provide more than enough resolution and image quality.


Is 8k hard on the CPU?

Displaying an 8k resolution image requires a lot of processing power, but it’s primarily the graphics card, not the CPU, that is responsible for handling the workload.

Modern graphics cards are specifically designed to handle high-resolution displays, and high-end cards available today can handle 8k resolution without issue. However, if you’re using an older or less powerful graphics card, you may experience performance issues or reduced image quality when running an 8k display.

In terms of the CPU, there may be some slight impact on performance when running an 8k display, but it’s generally not significant. The CPU is responsible for handling various background tasks and managing the flow of data between the graphics card, memory, and other components, but it’s not directly involved in rendering the image on the screen.

Overall, while an 8k resolution display does require a lot of processing power to run, the primary impact is on the graphics card, not the CPU. As long as you have a modern, mid-to-high-end graphics card, you should be able to handle an 8k display without significant issues.


Final word

In conclusion, choosing the best CPU for 8K gaming is crucial for a smooth and immersive gaming experience. While there are various options available in the market, our article highlights the top contenders based on their performance, features, and value for money.

It is important to note that the graphics card also plays a crucial role in handling the processing demands of an 8K display. By investing in a powerful CPU and GPU, gamers can enjoy the breathtaking visuals and performance of 8K gaming, making it a worthwhile investment for serious gamers and content creators alike.


Jack is a Tech and News Writer who has a vast and proficient knowledge of CPUs, Motherboards, and Computer technology.

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