Gaming on a PC allows for high performance and customization. With the ability to choose your components, you can build a rig optimized for your favorite games. One of the most important choices is your CPU (central processing unit), as it can greatly impact your gaming experience. Elevate your gaming experience with insights into what makes the best AMD CPU for gaming in 2023.
AMD offers excellent CPUs for gaming at various price points. In this article, we’ll examine some of the best AMD processors for gaming and help you pick the right one for your needs and budget.
Be sure to check out our many other buying guides, including the
- Best AM4 CPU For Gaming
- Best CPUs for Gaming
- Ryzen CPU with integrated graphics
- Best CPU for RTX 2080
- Best CPU with Integrated Graphics
- Best CPU Under $100
- best CPU under 200
- Best CPU under $300
- Best CPUs Under $400
AMD CPU Options for Gaming
Budget Pick: AMD Ryzen 3 3100
If you’re looking for an affordable CPU just to get started with PC gaming, the Ryzen 3 3100 is a great choice. This quad core, 8 thread processor delivers reliable performance for smooth 1080p gaming. While not the fastest chip, the Ryzen 3 3100 can achieve 60+ fps gameplay in popular titles like Fortnite, Valorant, Apex Legends, and more.
It may struggle to maintain high frame rates in the most demanding games, but for under $100, it’s an excellent budget CPU. The included Wraith Stealth cooler also allows for some easy overclocking to help boost performance. Overall, the Ryzen 3 3100 gives budget-conscious gamers a solid foundation for their first gaming PC build.
Mid-Range Pick: AMD Ryzen 5 5600X
For gamers who want great high fps performance at 1080p and smooth gameplay at 1440p, the Ryzen 5 5600X is an outstanding mid-range choice. This 6 core, 12 thread processor can achieve 100+ fps in esports titles and 60-80 fps in graphics-intensive AAA games. Its excellent single core speed results in high frame rates in most games.
The Ryzen 5 5600X is usually overclocked to 4.6 GHz across all its cores using the included Wraith Stealth cooler and handles almost any game thanks to its PCIe 4.0 support and high cache. At around $200, it delivers top-tier gaming performance at a mid-range price point.
The Ryzen 5 5600X is arguably the best value CPU for gaming from AMD.
High-End Pick: AMD Ryzen 9 5950X
At the ultra-high end range, AMD offers the Ryzen 9 5950X for enthusiasts who want maximum gaming performance. With a staggering 16 cores, 32 threads, and boost speeds reaching 4.9 GHz, this is one of the most powerful gaming CPUs currently available.
It delivers incredibly high frame rates even at 4K resolution. You’ll be able to achieve 120+ fps in esports games and 100+ fps in demanding AAA titles with the Ryzen 9 5950X. It has more than enough muscle for gaming while streaming and recording.
The main downside to the 5950X is the very high price of around $550 for just the CPU. But for hardcore gamers focused on extremely high fps gaming, the Ryzen 9 5950X is the clear top choice.
Key Factors for Choosing an AMD CPU for Gaming
When picking the best AMD processor for your gaming build, there are a few key factors to consider:
Resolution – The higher the screen resolution you plan to game at, the more powerful CPU you will need. At 1080p resolution, even budget CPUs can often get good frame rates. But for 1440p or 4K gaming, a mid-range or high-end CPU becomes necessary.
Frame Rate – If you want high fps for super smooth gameplay and to take advantage of a high refresh rate monitor, a stronger CPU will be required. Esports gamers looking for 100+ fps will want at least a mid-range CPU.
Budget – AMD offers excellent gaming CPUs at lower prices than their competitors. But you still need to balance performance with how much you can reasonably spend on a CPU. Determine the right chip that fits into your overall budget.
CPU/GPU Pairing – Avoid bottlenecking your powerful graphics card with a low-end CPU. Aim for a CPU/GPU pairing that makes sense – such as a Ryzen 5 5600X with an RTX 3060 Ti.
Recommendation: AMD Ryzen 5 5600X
Considering the key factors above, the Ryzen 5 5600X stands out as the best AMD CPU for gaming for most PC builders. It delivers elite-level performance and high frame rates at 1080p and 1440p resolutions in any game.
The 6 core, 12 thread design and impressive IPC improvements allow it to rival more expensive processors. And at around $200, it’s reasonably priced for nearly all gamers. Unless you need to maximize 4K gaming performance, the Ryzen 5 5600X has all the power you need.
Pair it with a suitable Nvidia or AMD GPU like the RTX 3060 Ti or Radeon RX 6700 XT, and you have an incredible AMD gaming rig. For its balance of performance, features, and value, the Ryzen 5 5600X is our top recommendation for a gaming CPU.
Conclusion
AMD makes excellent processors for gaming PCs across all budgets. Their Ryzen lineup offers great options whether you’re looking for an affordable entry-level CPU, a mid-range all-rounder, or an elite high-end chip.
Think about your target gaming resolution, desired frame rates, and how much you can spend. Do some research to pick the right AMD CPU that matches your goals and budget. With choices like the Ryzen 3 3100, Ryzen 5 5600X, and Ryzen 9 5950X, AMD has you covered for your next epic gaming build.
