If you want to pair your high-end GTX 1070 graphics card with a powerful CPU, choosing one that can fully complement its capabilities and prevent any bottlenecks is essential. A strong CPU will ensure smooth and efficient performance. However, the GTX 1070 can still run modern and high-end games on your PC, even without a powerful CPU.
A regular CPU may struggle with demanding tasks like 3D rendering and multitasking, but a fast CPU makes running challenging games with a GPU much easier.
Gamers often spend a lot of money on a high-end GPU, but pairing it with a compatible, stable and high-performing CPU is equally vital for the best results. Choosing an outdated CPU for your PC may not be wise. As graphics settings and resolution increase, the CPU’s impact becomes more noticeable. It can affect the frame rates in games and the smoothness of your gameplay.
Investing in a powerful and capable CPU allows for future expansion and upgrades. As games become more demanding over time, having a CPU that can handle upcoming titles can extend the life of your system before an upgrade is necessary. A modern-day CPU can maintain the GTX 1070 and enable GPU updating later.
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Intel Core i5-9600K
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AMD Ryzen 7 2700X
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AMD Ryzen 5 3600
Alternatively, the GTX 1070 is a superior graphics card made by NVIDIA, supporting a memory clock of 2002MHz, a base clock speed of 1506MHz, and a boost clock speed of 1683MHz. With these specifications, the GTX 1070 can run trendy games with ease.
If you have a GTX 1070 and need help figuring out which CPU to pair with it, you’ve come to the right place. Below, we’ve listed the best possible CPUs to pair with the GTX 1070.
Top 8 Best CPUs for GTX 1070 in 2023
Here is the list and review of the best CPU for GTX 1070 along with the pros and cons buying guide.
Budget Pick
AMD Ryzen 5 3600
Features:
| Brand | AMD |
| CPU Model | Ryzen 5 3600 |
| CPU Speed | 4.2 GHz |
| CPU Socket | Socket AM4 |
One of the top products on our list is The AMD Ryzen 5 3600. Its exceptional 6-cores and 12- threads can handle multiple tasks at once efficiently thanks to its multithreading capabilities. It can handle both single-core and multi-core tasks with ease. It is the world’s most advanced CPU in the desktop PC gaming sector. The AMD Ryzen 5 3600 is a well-liked mid-range processor launched in July 2019 as part of AMD’s third-generation Ryzen line of products. This processor has become popular among gamers, content creators, and casual users due to its exceptional performance, budget-friendly price, and overall value for money.
Here are the essential specifications and features of the Ryzen 5 3600:
This AMD Ryzen 5 3600 6-Core, 12-Thread has a processing speed of 4 GHz, which can be boosted up to a further 2 GHz. It also has a cache of 35MB specifically for gaming and supports DDR4 3200. This processor boasts impressive specs, including 32MB of L3 cache, support for 24 lanes of PCIe Gen 4, and dual-channel DDR4 RAM at 3200MHz. To maximize the benefits of PCIe 4.0, users should pair it with an AMD X500 motherboard. It also has a TPDP of 65W and comes equipped with a Wraith Stealth cooler.
The AMD Ryzen processors come with DDR4 RAM and Wraith Stingray installed, ensuring you do not have to worry about storage and memory problems. With its versatility, this processor can handle content creation, media streaming, and photo and video editing tasks. It is ideal for game cards like the GTX 1060 and higher, enabling you to power up your PC.
Remember that it doesn’t have an integrated GPU. So GTX 1070 will comfortably pair with AMD Ryzen 5 3600. In a nutshell, the AMD Ryzen 5 3600 is a top-notch processor that offers an excellent blend of gaming and multi-threaded performance at a reasonable cost. With six cores and twelve threads, plus the advancements brought about by the Zen 2 architecture, it is an impressive choice for those seeking a robust and budget-friendly processor.
Reasons to Buy
Reasons to Avoid
Best Pick
Intel Core i5-9600K
Features:
| Brand | Intel |
| CPU Model | Core i5 |
| CPU Speed | 3.7 GHz |
| CPU Socket | LGA 1151 |
It has the 2nd position in our review list. It is the latest 9th Gen Intel® Core™ Desktop Processors, the most influential generation of Intel. These processors are perfect for gamers who want a great gaming experience with smooth streaming and highlights. Intel Core i5-9600K is a suitable option for Gamers. Because it provides an incredible gaming experience, this mid-range processor was launched in October 2018, targeting gamers and users who require reliable performance for everyday computing tasks.
CPU is the fundamental thing to improve your computer’s performance. Consider increasing the clock speed a little and upgrading to dual-channel DDR4 storage with a capacity of 128 GB. A great option is the Core i5-9600K, which has a maximum speed of 3.70 GHz and a high Hyper-Threading speed of 4.60 GHz. This processor significantly improved over the previous i5-86003.60 K model, which only offered peak Turbo frequencies of 4.40 GHz. The Intel Core i5-9600K is also easily overclockable due to its accessible processor.
The Core i5-9600K is an excellent choice for gaming, particularly when paired with a powerful graphics card, such as GTX 1070. Because the GTX 1070 supports both 1080p and 1440p gaming. Its impressive single-core clock speeds make it ideal for gaming, and it can handle most trendy games at high resolution with the finest frame rates. This CPU has 8 GB of GDDR5 memory, running at an effective memory clock speed of 8 Gbps. VRAM capacity and speed enable a smooth gaming experience.
The Intel Core i5-9600K is a capable processor that provides solid gaming and general computing performance. Its six cores and high clock speeds make it excellent while multitasking. Enthusiasts can push for additional performance through overclocking. Therefore, it’s worth considering more recent options when building a new system.
Reasons to Buy
Reasons to Avoid
Staff Pick
AMD Ryzen 7 2700X
Features:
| Brand | Gigabyte |
| CPU Model | AMD Ryzen 7 |
| CPU Speed | 4.3 GHz |
| CPU Socket | Socket AM4 |
Now we are talking about the impressive Ryzen 7 Series from AMD, which boasts 8 cores and 16 threads. With each core capable of handling two threads simultaneously, this processor is perfect for managing multithreaded workloads. It is an excellent choice for tasks that demand high productivity, such as video editing, rendering, and streaming.
The AMD Ryzen 7 2700X is a high-performance desktop processor introduced in April 2018 as part of the 2nd Gen Ryzen product line. This CPU is mainly designed for exclusive computing and is ideal for enthusiasts, gamers, and content creators who require exceptional multi-core processing power.
The Ryzen 7 2700X’s base clock speed is 3.7 GHz, but it can reach up to 4.3 GHz on a single core due to AMD’s Precision Boost 2 technology. This high boost clock is crucial for tasks that require single-core solid performance, like gaming.
The processor has an absolute cache size of 20MB, with 16MB allocated to L3 and 4MB to L2. This larger cache size facilitates faster access to frequently used data, leading to better overall performance.
The Ryzen 7 2700X is more energy efficient due to the 12nm manufacturing process and architectural improvements, resulting in lower heat generation and power usage.
When purchasing the Ryzen 7 2700X, customers will receive a Wraith Prism RGB cooler included in the package. This cooler offers complete CPU cooling and allows for personalized RGB lighting options.
It would be advantageous to pair GTX 1070 with an AMD Ryzen 7 2700X processor to achieve a well-balanced system that can effectively handle multithreaded tasks.
The AMD Ryzen 7 2700X is a competent processor offering remarkable multi-core performance and sufficient single-core performance. It’s an excellent pick for users seeking a high-performance processor to handle challenging tasks while providing good value for its capabilities.
Reasons to Buy
Reasons to Avoid
Intel Core i7-8700K
Features:
| Brand | Intel |
| CPU Model | Core i7 |
| CPU Speed | 3.7 GHz |
| CPU Socket | LGA 1151 |
When searching for the best CPU on the market, it’s essential to consider the Intel Core i7-8700K. Many options are available, but this one stands out as a top performer.
The Intel Core i7-8700K is a robust desktop processor belonging to Intel’s 8th generation Core series. It launched in October 2017 as a part of the Coffee Lake architecture. It became popular among gamers, content creators, and enthusiasts due to its exceptional speed and overclocking abilities.
The Core i7-8700K has a base clock speed of 3.7 GHz. Intel’s Turbo Boost 2.0 technology can reach up to 4.7 GHz on a single core. This high-boost clock helps the CPU deliver powerful single-core performance, which is crucial for activities such as gaming and general computing tasks.
The CPU has 12MB of Smart Cache among its cores. This cache helps reduce memory latency and improves the CPU’s overall performance by allowing it to access frequently used data quickly. This Intel chip has a system Ram type of DDR4 SDRAM, which gives you enhanced transfer rates and helps in less power consumption.
To use the Core i7-8700K, you’ll need a motherboard with the LGA1151 socket and a compatible Intel 300-series chipset, such as Z370 or Z390. Remember that this CPU is incompatible with older motherboards designed for 6th or 7th-generation Intel CPUs.
The Core i7-8700K performs exceptionally well when paired with a powerful graphics card like GTX 1070. It can efficiently handle modern games at high settings, maintaining suitable frame rates. Moreover, with the Intel Core i7-8700K CPU, users can enjoy playing games in 4K resolution while simultaneously streaming videos for viewing.
Reasons to Buy
Reasons to Avoid
AMD Ryzen 5 2600
Features:
| Brand | AMD |
| CPU Model | Ryzen 5 2600 |
| CPU Speed | 3.9 GHz |
| CPU Socket | Socket AM4 |
The AMD Ryzen 5 2600 processor is a highly efficient multithreaded processor that belongs to the 2nd Gen Ryzen series. It was released in April 2018 and is ideal for desktops. The AMD Ryzen 5 2600 is renowned for its exceptional performance, affordability, and balance between performance and cost-effectiveness.
The Ryzen 5 2600 has six cores and twelve threads. This CPU utilizes AMD’s advanced Simultaneous Multi-Threading (SMT) technology. This technology enables each core to manage two threads simultaneously, enhancing multithreaded processor performance regarding productivity tasks.
The Ryzen 5 2600 processor uses the 12nm Zen+ architecture, which provides several improvements over the previous Zen architecture. These improvements include better memory support and faster clock speeds.
This CPU comes with the best base clock speed of 3.4 GHz and can boost up to 3.9 GHz on a single core with the help of AMD’s Precision Boost technology. Although it may not have the fastest clock speeds, it compensates for it with its multi-core abilities, resulting in a reliable and overall solid performance.
The CPU has a 16MB L3 cache and a 3MB L2 cache, which adds up to 19MB of total cache memory.
Regarding compatibility, the Ryzen 5 2600 uses the AM4 socket, making it compatible with a diverse range of motherboards supporting AMD Ryzen processors. This level of compatibility allows users to select from multiple motherboards that align with their unique preferences and requirements.
To Consider the gaming company’s needs. It seems a good idea to pair this CPU with GTX 1070 as it is the best match for gaming purposes.
Reasons to Buy
Reasons to Avoid
Intel Core i5-8400
Features:
| Brand | Intel |
| CPU Model | Core i5 |
| CPU Speed | 2.8 GHz |
| CPU Socket | LGA 1151 |
This is another capable mid-range CPU in our review list. The Intel Core i5-8400 is a desktop processor that belongs to Intel’s 8th generation Core series. It was launched in October 2017 as part of the Coffee Lake architecture, which aims to provide a balance between performance and affordability for regular users.
This article will show you the crucial specifications and features of the Intel Core i5-8400:
The Core i5-8400 consists of 6 cores and 6 threads. It doesn’t support Hyper-Threading, which is available in some higher-end Intel CPUs, meaning it has only one thread per core. However, with its six physical cores, it can manage multi-core tasks quite efficiently, though it does lack the multi-threading capabilities of the Core i7 series.
The Core i5-8400 has a base clock speed of 2.8GHz. This speed can reach up to 4.0GHz using Intel’s Turbo Boost technology on a single core. This higher boost clock enhances single-core performance, which is crucial for everyday computing and gaming activities.
It comes with Intel UHD Graphics 630, which provides basic graphics capabilities for systems without a dedicated graphics card. Though not ideal for high-end gaming, it can perform everyday graphics tasks and video playback. If you consider adding a dedicated GPU to this chip, it can handle most modern games with decent frame rates on medium to high settings. Therefore, it is a reliable choice to pair with GTX 1070.
This CPU requires a compatible Intel 300-series chipset motherboard with the LGA1151 socket. Examples of suitable motherboards are B360 or H370. It cannot function with older motherboards for 6th or 7th-generation Intel CPUs.
Nevertheless, The Core i5-8400’s price provides good value for money, making it a popular choice for users who want a reliable processor without spending on a higher-end model.
Reasons to Buy
Reasons to Avoid
AMD Ryzen 5 5600X
Features:
| Brand | AMD |
| CPU Model | Ryzen 5 |
| CPU Speed | 4.6 GHz |
| CPU Socket | Socket AM4 |
The AMD Ryzen 5 5600X is a highly prominent processor known for its exceptional performance. With 6 cores and 12 threads, it offers a high base clock speed and boosts clock speed, making it perfect for multitasking and running demanding applications. It is an excellent choice for 1080P and 1440P gaming and can likely support 4K. Additionally, it provides stability and value, making it the top choice for GTX 1070 Compatible Motherboards.
This CPU can deliver over 100 FPS in popular games, making it an optimal choice for gaming. However, it is essential to note that it does not have an integrated GPU so you will need a dedicated graphics card. If you want graphics, you must look into the G series range.
The Ryzen 5 5600X uses the 7nm Zen 3 architecture, making it more energy-efficient than previous generations. It offers an exceptional performance-to-performance ratio and allows for more relaxed and quieter operations.
This processor is compatible with various motherboards that support AMD Ryzen processors. The AM4 socket is responsible for its efficient performance. However, older motherboards may require a BIOS update for the Zen 3 architecture to function correctly.
The AMD Ryzen 5 5600X is a reliable option for gamers, content creators, and regular users looking for excellent processing performance within its price range. However, it’s important to consider your specific requirements before deciding. Remember the potential limitations in multi-core performance, cooling, availability, and overclocking capabilities.
The AMD Ryzen 5 5600X is reasonable in today’s market and is often found on deals due to its age.
Reasons to Buy
Reasons to Avoid
Intel Core i5-12600KF
Features:
| Brand | Intel |
| CPU Model | Core i5 |
| CPU Speed | 3 |
| CPU Socket | LGA 1700 |
The Intel Core i5-12600KF processor significantly improved over its predecessor, offering better performance and power consumption efficiency. Its hybrid architecture combines high-performance and high-efficiency cores, giving it 8 cores and 16 threads for faster multitasking and processing speed. This CPU is equipped with a base clock of 3.7 GHz and a boost clock speed of 4.9 GHz, making it perfect for handling various tasks and demanding applications.
Intel’s latest technologies, such as the ‘Intel Thread Director’ and ‘Intel Thermal Velocity Boost,’ help maintain task assignments to ensure excellent performance and power efficiency. The GTX 1070 graphics card from NVIDIA GeForce GTX 10 series is a perfect mid-range option for 1080p and 1440p gaming, providing good performance and acceptable settings. When paired with the Intel core i5-12600KF, it creates a gaming system perfect for 1080p gaming and delivers an excellent gaming experience.
However, if you are looking for higher resolutions or need to perform heavy multitasking or content creation, you may require a more powerful GPU and a higher-tier CPU.
Reasons to Buy
Reasons to Avoid
Buying Guide for the Best CPU for GTX 1070
By gaining the required knowledge, you can eventually determine which CPU works and rank higher in compatibility. Reading the above reviews lets you decide which processor meets top-notch performance.
To discuss the article’s main point, what to do next after selecting a potent CPU? Therefore, earlier finding out the Best CPU for GTX 1070 must ensure the several following tips:
Performance: When it comes to CPUs, A demanding CPU should deliver outstanding performance in various tasks, including single-core and multi-core performance. Single-core performance is essential for single-core-based tasks, such as gaming, while multi-core performance is critical for multitasking and multi-threaded applications.
Overclocking Capability: If you’re a gaming enthusiast, a processor with excellent overclocking capabilities can provide additional performance by increasing the CPU’s clock speed. Overclocking the CPU can lead to building a potent gaming PC. The well-known overclocking speed has an impact on hardware, making it as fast as possible.
Cores and Threads: It’s better to have multiple threads and incredible cores CPU. The number of CPU cores and threads affects the processor’s ability to handle multiple tasks concurrently. More cores and threads generally lead to better multi-core performance and adequate multitasking.
Socket Compatibility: It is also a primary factor to consider before finalizing the best CPU product. The CPU socket must meet the motherboard socket for compatibility. Manufacturers often release new CPUs that are compatible with specific motherboard generations. However, mainly CPUs are compatible with motherboards.
CPU Caches: The CPU caches play a pivotal role in increasing the execution time of a CPU. The CPU cache is a small, fast memory located on the chip. The Larger caches can improve performance by reducing the time it takes for the processor to access frequently used data.
Price to Performance ratio: Overall, when choosing a CPU, you must consider your specific needs and budget. The best CPU for one person may not be the best choice for someone else, depending on their individual preferences and available resources. After finalizing the budget, consulting professional reviews and benchmarks is wise.
Conclusion:
In contemporary CPUs, every latest processor can perform excellent overclocking and multitasking. After reading this article, you’ll have all the necessary information to choose the perfect CPU for your specific needs. For optimal performance with your GTX 1070 graphics card, selecting a CPU with a strong core count, high clock speed, and excellent performance is essential. We suggest choosing a CPU that complements the capabilities of your GTX 1070. After thorough analysis, we’ve compiled a list of the best CPUs to pair with your GTX 1070 GPU.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is GTX 1070 good for 4K gaming?
If you’re looking to play games in 1080p or 1440p, the GTX 1070 graphics card is a fantastic option. However, if you’re hoping to play games in 4K, there may be better choices than this card due to its limitations in delivering smooth frame rates at this resolution. To get the most out of your gaming experience in 4K, it’s worth considering investing in a more powerful GPU designed explicitly for high-resolution gaming.
What if you pair an outdated CPU with the GTX 1070?
Treating the CPU and GPU as a balanced system is essential to optimize your PC’s performance and value. The GTX 1070 is a powerful graphics card, but to fully utilize its capabilities in games and other applications, it’s best to pair it with an equally qualified and updated CPU. If you already have a GTX 1070 but an outdated CPU, you should upgrade the CPU to unlock the full potential of your graphics card and improve your system’s overall performance.
Which CPU would be best with GTX 1070 8GB?
Based on research and analysis. After reviewing the performance. There are several CPUs you can choose from:
AMD Ryzen 5 3600
Intel Core i7-8700K
AMD Ryzen 7 2700X
Intel Core i5-8400
