Best CPUs For GTX 1070 – 2023 Complete Round-up

Austin
| Last Updated: January 14, 2023

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The GTX 1070 is a remarkable series. It is a powerful graphics card which, when paired with a quality processor, can show some extraordinary performance.

A decent unit helps users max out games at 1440p or 1080p with more than 60+fps with hardly any compromise.

If you already own a GTX 1070 or want to add it to your gaming setup, then you need to read this whole article thoroughly. 

Comparison of the Best CPUs For GTX 1070

IMAGEPRODUCT
  • Automatic overclocking of up to 5.1 GHz
  • Exceptional performance in productivity applications and games
  • Lower price-per-thread as compared to other models
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  • Lightning-fast clock speeds and outstanding performance
  • Innovator of 12nm architecture found in mainstream processors today
  • Outperforms the other well-known brands
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  • Best for the money
  • Maximum Turbo frequency of up to 4GHz
  • Supports Intel Optane Memory
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  • Powerful product that comes with a Wraith Prism cooler
  • Wraith Spire is designed with a copper base plate that helps in heat transference
  • Six-core and 12 threads ensure great performance
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  • Excellent performance in both productivity applications and games
  • Highly competitive with previous-generation models
  • Six physical cores ensure higher core count and clock rates
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Are All CPUs For GTX 1070 The Same?

Not all CPUs are the same. They differ in the following aspects:

Types

There are two types of CPUs – Intel and Advanced Micro Devices (AMD). They are the market leaders in terms of quality and speed.

Intel’s desktop CPUs include Pentium, Core, and Celeron. AMD’s desktop processors include Phenom, Athlon, and Sempron. Intel has designed Pentium M, Celeron M, and Core mobile processors for notebooks. There are also mobile versions of Athlon and Sempron available while the Turion mobile processor comes in dual-core and ultra versions. Both companies produce both multi-core and single-core processors.   

AMD Ryzen 7 2700X Processor YD270XBGAFBOX

Clock Speed

Cores and clock speeds are the most advertised aspect of processors. Clock speed is measured in hertz (such as 4.1 GHz) while the number of cores is measured in octa-core, hexa-core, quad-core, or dual-core.

Cache Performance

A cache is typically the RAM for your processor. This means all the functions recently performed by the CPU are stored in the cache. Thus, when these functions are requested again, the processor can access the data from the cache. This is much faster, as the processor does not have to perform the function a second time. 

Processors are designed with different levels of cache, from L1 to L4, and you should compare cache size only at the same level. For example, an L3 cache of 6 MB is a better choice than an L3 cache of 4 MB.

How Do I Choose a CPU?

The CPU is a vital part of your computer system. Whether you are building a new PC or upgrading your existing one, the CPU that you choose will dictate your motherboard options. This is because each processor is compatible only with a particular set of chipsets and CPU socket. When choosing a CPU for your system, you should pay special attention to the following considerations:

Clock Speeds

The speed at which the chip operates is measured in gigahertz (GHz). The higher the number, the faster the processor is. Most of the CPUs available nowadays adjust their clock speeds according to their temperature and the task at hand. That is why you will see a turbo (maximum) speed and a base (minimum) speed listed.

Cores

Cores are the processors within the processor. Today, CPUs come with cores ranging from two to thirty-two. Typically, most processors come with four to eight cores. Each of these cores has the capacity to handle its own tasks. Unless you are looking for a bargain, it is best to have at least four cores.  

Threads

Threads refer to the number of independent processes that a chip can handle at a time, which in theory, is the same as the number of cores. Most processors are equipped with multi-threading capability, which enables a single core to form two threads. AMD refers to it as Simultaneous Multi-threading, and Intel calls this Hyper-Threading. More threads result in enhanced performance and better multitasking on heavily-threaded apps like transcoders and video editors.

Review of the Best CPUs For GTX 1070

Pairing a good quality CPU with your GTX 1070 is a sure recipe for a great gaming experience. But with the number of choices available, it can become quite difficult to choose a model. Here, we have reviewed some of our top picks to make it easier for you to choose one that is just right for you.

Best Overall:
Intel Core i7-8700K Desktop Processor

PROS

  • Supported by Intel Optane Memory
  • Six hyper-threaded cores feature the highest clock rates
  • Aggressive Turbo Boost bins ensure amazing performance
  • Six cores make short work of even the most demanding tasks
  • Incredibly capable processor that ensures outstanding gaming experience

CONS

  • Requires a motherboard belonging to the Z series

What Recent Buyers Report

Uninterrupted gaming, overclocking to 5 Ghz hitch-free, and 1.35 vcore – these are the features that have made buyers very satisfied with this product. Users who played computer games and enjoyed video streaming found that this combination bogged down their system. But with the Intel Core i7-8700K processor, users were able to play games at 4K while transcoding videos for streaming. Buyers also find the leap from four to six cores immediately noticeable during multitasking.   

Why it Stands Out to Us

Incomparable performance, economical components, no faffing with overclocking, an ecosystem, a motherboard that is going to last for many years, no need for water cooling, and many more features have made this product one of our favorites. This processor is a clear improvement over the previous processors by Intel with impressively higher multi-core and single-core numbers and exceptional gaming performance.

Who Will Use This Most

The Core i7 processor from Intel is a beast. It is the ultimate solution for gamers who want to enjoy the best experience. This chip delivers incredible out-of-the box performance, incredible overclocking, and amazing power consumption. Moreover, its exceptional hyper-threading performance puts it at a position well above the other processors available.  

Bottom Line

The Core i7-8700K from Intel is simply the best processor in the Coffee Lake lineup. Its 12-threads, six-cores, and higher core clock way more than any of the models produced by its competitors. It is the best-rounded processor with virtually no weaknesses. Its attractive price is another plus point which gamers really appreciate. 

Runner-up:
AMD Ryzen 7 2700X Processor YD270XBGAFBOX

PROS

  • Makes it easier for users to multitask
  • X470 platform ensures better power delivery
  • Features a 16-thread and 8-core configuration
  • Precision Boost 2 comes in handy during encoding and gaming
  • Improved overclocking with the help of Extended Frequency Range 2

CONS

  • Very high energy draw on load

What Recent Buyers Report

Buyers who have upgraded to this processor are very happy with the results, as this chip undertakes all tasks with complete ease. They have found this chip to be not only great for gaming but also for multitasking, as well. They highly recommend this product to other users and assure them that they cannot go wrong with this product.

Why it Stands Out to Us

Incredible performance, a highly affordable price, and very fast clocking speed allow this product to outperform compared to other CPUs available. Moreover, it comes with an RGB Wraith-Prism cooler that delivers almost silent acoustics together with capable thermal performance. This extraordinary cooler features an RGB LED illumination that gives the Ryzen 2700X a unique look. 

Who Will Use This Most

If you want to multitask on your computer, then the Ryzen 2700X is worth the upgrade. If you stream videos, listen to music, or play online games while running hardware monitoring tools in the background, all at the same time, then this product is definitely for you. Ryzen 2700X is a perfectly balanced CPU, which is a must for every serious PC enthusiast.  

Bottom Line

Voted as the best overall gaming CPU, this product allows you to experience the ultimate in content creation, gaming, and intensive multitasking. Ryzen 2700X is undoubtedly the best processor available. The enhancements made to XFR2 and Precision Boost, together with the Wraith Prism cooler provided, makes it an amazing value package. 

Best for the Money:
Intel Core i5-8400 Desktop Processor

PROS

  • Ideal for users on a budget
  • Incredible value at an amazing price
  • Stunning processor with six high-speed cores
  • Exceptional performance in games and other applications
  • Powerful chip capable of delivering high gaming frame rates

CONS

  • Only functions with a 300-series chipset

What Recent Buyers Report

Buyers highly recommend this CPU for anyone who wants to have great gaming results without spending too much money. It is an extremely powerful chip that runs close to 3.9 on multiple cores, thus eliminating any worries regarding clock speed. They also assure potential users that they will not regret buying this product, particularly if they are on a budget.   

Why it Stands Out to Us

This gamer’s chip from Intel offers fantastic value to its customers. It is a mix of gaming power and multi-core performance, which makes it one of the best CPUs available. Its powerful six-core design ensures competitive performance in heavier applications.The Core i5-8400 can easily be called the pound-for-pound gaming champion. 

Who Will Use This Most

This versatile and powerful CPU is perfect for all game addicts and office users. With this installed, you can play games that could not be played on your system before, perform office automation tasks, Photoshop, rendering, and Corel without any hassle. This chip completely eliminates problems of low performance and ensures the efficiency of your system.

Bottom Line

The Intel Core i5 is a good choice because it provides numerous benefits at an unbelievably low price. It has a maximum turbo speed of 4 GHz and is capable of overclocking to an amazing 5.1 GHz with hardly any effort. Thus, Core i5-8400 is one of the most affordable Coffee Lake chips for hardcore gamers. 

4. AMD Ryzen 5 2600X Processor YD260XBCAFBOX

PROS

  • Improved cache performance and memory
  • Bundled cooler and storage software adds value
  • Is backward compatible with 300-Series chipsets
  • Much faster than the previous generation models
  • Sophisticated multi-core boosts allow users to experience gaming on another level

CONS

  • Lacks value-oriented 400-Series motherboards

What Recent Buyers Report

Buyers were pleasantly surprised with the performance of this CPU as they were able to run this all day at 4.2 GHz without having any heat issues. The solid OEM Spire heatsinks allow users to run multiple applications simultaneously without facing any problems related to stability or extreme temperatures. Many buyers were nervous at first, as its dynamic OC program seemed too good to be true. However, after using it for a few weeks, they can easily attest to its unparalleled performance.

Why it Stands Out to Us

Despite being cheaper than its rivals, the Ryzen 5 2600X processor does not lack in quality or performance. It efficiently manages clock speeds per core and makes optimal use of cache levels with the help of targeted adjustments to allocation dynamics. Ryzen 5 2600X is not just an amazing gaming CPU, with some serious multi-threaded chops, but also provides good value for money.    

Who Will Use This Most

Serious gamers and computer enthusiasts pay special attention to their graphics cards and processors. However, with the help of this CPU, they can easily compete with confidence. It gives its rivals good value for money with its better single-core power, high multi-core performance, and fantastic gaming experience without sacrificing its affordability. Thus, this unit is ideal for gamers who take their processor performance quite seriously. 

Bottom Line

If you want a gaming processor that will allow you to have the best gaming experience, then this CPU is for you. With its new 12nm Zen+ architecture and great boost clock, this CPU delivers exceptional gaming frame rates and highly improved multi-core performance. Moreover, it comes with a new premium RGB Wraith Prism, which adds more value to this product.      

5. Intel Core i5-8600K Desktop Processor

PROS

  • Can run most games on high settings
  • Unlocked multiplier for faster overclocking
  • Super-fast CPU which can be easily installed
  • Powerful chip makes for an exceptional gaming experience
  • I5 8-Generation cores that ensure great value for money

CONS

  • Only works with motherboards based on Intel 300 chipsets

What Recent Buyers Report

Buyers who paired this CPU with the GTX 1070 have reported having experienced gaming like never before. They claim that this product is the best, as they can play any game now without any issues. It is super-fast, and many buyers find that it provides the best quality for money.

Why it Stands Out to Us

From the performance point of view, the Intel Core i5-8600K is one of the best gaming CPUs available today. With a base clock speed of 3.6 GHz, six overclockable cores, and a maximum turbo boost speed of 4.3 GHz, this CPU is like a dream come true for gamers.

Who Will Use This Most

This CPU is beyond perfect for people who use their desktop mainly for gaming. Its six cores operate between 3.6 and 4.3 GHz for streaming live gameplay, editing digital content, and running various other intensive tasks. You can also overclock the cores to work more than its maximum frequency for more performance.

Bottom Line

The Intel Core i5-8600K offers a significant boost compared to its predecessors, while the turbo boost bins ensure exceptional performance in lightly-threaded workloads. An excellent gaming performance, together with an easy overclocking experience, makes this CPU a well-sought-after unit by enthusiasts. Although the previous Intel quad-cores can also provide users with a sufficient amount of frames, this eight-generation CPU can certainly make for a better experience.  

Aspects to Consider Before Buying

Before investing in a good quality processor, it is vital to keep the following things in mind:

AMD or Intel

If you want to obtain the highest possible frames-per-second from your graphics card on your high-refresh monitor, then your choice should be Intel, as it is still the leader in gaming at 1080p in some selected games.

However, AMD, on the other hand, has considerably narrowed the gap with its advanced en architecture. It also offers more threads and cores, which makes these CPUs best for animation and professional-grade video editing.   

What Do You Need Your Computer To Do?

Your processor type and budget will be greatly decided by what you need your computer to do. If you only want a processor that will allow you to browse the web, watch videos, and perform basic productivity tasks like light spreadsheet work and word processing, then an entry-level chip designed with two or four cores will be sufficient for you. However, if it takes hours for your current system to render a 4K video or 3D animation, or if you deal with complex math and massive databases, you need an advanced processor capable of handling such tasks.

Which Generation of CPU is Best For You?

Almost every year, Intel and AMD upgrade their processors with innovative architecture. The 9th-Gen Core Series is the current generation from Intel. For example, the Intel Core i7-9700K and the more advanced Intel Core i9-9900K. The latest processors from AMD belong to its Ryzen 3000 line, namely the AMD Ryzen 9 3900X, Ryzen 7 3700X, and Ryzen 7 3800X. Although you can still find older generation processors on sale, it is not recommended that you choose one unless your motherboard does not support the latest models of CPU.

Conclusion

A gaming enthusiast wants nothing more than to get the best gaming experience. In order to do that, you need to find a CPU that works best with GTX 1070. We have reviewed some of the top chips to help you create an ultimate gaming system and enjoy gaming like before. So be sure to compare the specifications of various processors mentioned here before choosing one.

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Austin

When the tech company I worked for restructured and I ended up jobless, I decided to put the wealth of knowledge and management skills to use somewhere new. I’d checked out a few buyer’s guides on the site in the past and reached out to the previous owner. A few months later, here we are. Now, I get to be behind the scenes, helping people find the best tech.