When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Best CPU For Arc A380 (Intel, AMD, Gaming, Compatible)

With the launch of Intel’s Arc Alchemist graphics cards, many are wondering what the best CPU pairing options are to get the most out of these new GPUs. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about choosing the right CPU for the Intel Arc A380, whether you’re looking for the best Intel or AMD processor, gaming performance, or simply compatibility.

The Arc A380 is Intel’s entry-level discrete GPU, aimed at smooth 1080p gaming. This means you don’t need an extremely powerful CPU to avoid bottlenecking the A380. A modern 6-core/12-thread CPU like the Intel Core i5-12400 or AMD Ryzen 5 5600X is a great match, providing excellent gaming performance with the A380 without overspending on your processor.

Now, Intel Arc GPUs do work best with Intel CPUs thanks to Deep Link technology allowing tighter integration between the GPU and CPU. This can provide a small performance uplift in some games when using an Intel chip. However, AMD CPUs will work perfectly fine as well.

For Intel CPUs, a Core i5 model like the 12400, 12500 or 12400F offers the best blend of performance, value and fitting the power level of the A380. More budget-oriented options like the Intel Core i3-12100F or Ryzen 3 3300X also pair well for cheaper 1080p gaming rigs.

On the AMD side, along with the Ryzen 5 5600X, the Ryzen 5 5500 and Ryzen 3 3300X are good choices to match the gaming power of the Arc A380.

So in summary, a 6-core Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 CPU gives you the best experience with the Arc A380 and covers high refresh rate 1080p gaming. But you have plenty of options on both AMD and Intel platforms if building a gaming PC around this new entry-level GPU.

Our recommended list of the Best CPU For Arc A380

  1. AMD Ryzen 5 5600X 6-core, 12-Thread Unlocked Desktop Processor
  2. Intel Core i5-11400 Desktop Processor
  3. Intel Core i9-9900K Desktop Processor
  4. AMD Ryzen 5 4600G, 6-Core, 12-Thread Unlocked Desktop Processor
  5. Intel Core i7-10700K Desktop Processor
  6. AMD Ryzen 7 3700X 8-Core, 16-Thread Unlocked Desktop Processor

Arc A380 CPU Requirements

  • Min Cores: 2
  • Max Cores: 8
  • Min Threads: 4
  • Max Threads: 16
  • CPU TDP: 65 Watts 
  • Overclockable CPU can deliver better 
  • Supported Gen: 10th,11th,12th gen CPUs

Intel Arc A380 V/S AMD And Nvidia’s GPUs

  • The ARC A380 is a different type of graphics card than Nvidia and AMD
  • Intel used architecture and the driver support a lot different for A380
  • Arc A380 is ready to compete with  Radeon RX 6400 and deliver 25 percent better performance
  • Intel A380 can boost up the titles up to 60 percent 
  • On average  the Intel Arc A380 lost by 19 percent as compared to the GTX 1650
  • However Arc A380 deliver high performance compared to the GeForce RTX 3060

1- AMD Ryzen 5 5600X 6-core, 12-Thread Unlocked Desktop Processor

AMD Ryzen 5 5600X 6-core, 12-Thread Unlocked Desktop Processor

The AMD Ryzen 5 5600X is a mid range processor that is accentuated by amazing application performance. You can use it in the DIY of your gaming system, it will give you a great power efficiency. Ryzen 5 5600 just delivers stunning output like the Intel’s mid range CPUs. 

Ready to be unstoppable by purchasing the unprecedented speed of the best CPU in the world, Ryzen 5600. This is another member of AMD Ryzen 5000 series of processors and delivers the performance a gamer desires. Like its family members this CPU offers the ultimate high performance. This CPU is compatible with AMD RX 6500 XT and RX 6600 CPU.

Best of all, this CPU can cover you, it does not matter for what purpose you need to purchase it. You can use it to play the latest games, design a new skyscraper and crunch scientific data.

With 12 processing threads it can be a perfect choice for a mainstream computer system. With this CPU you can give elite 100+ FPS performance in gameplay in most played games of the world. On top of all, you do not have to invest extra money for a thermal solution to cool down this CPU. Because it is designed with a capable and quiet AMD Ryzen 5 5600 Wraith Stealth CPU cooler. 

The supported memory type is DDR4 and up to 4.6 GHz Maximum Boost speed. Due to its unlocked design you can overclock it to get its peak performance. Bundled with 35 MB of Cache memory that enhances the computing speed. You can use the AM4 CPU socket for its installation on PCB. Due to the PCIe 4.0 support we recommend it for X570 and B550 motherboards

2- Intel Core i5-11400 Desktop Processor

Intel Core i5-11400 Desktop Processor

To compete with the AMD Ryzen processors Intel launched the Core i5- 11400 desktop processor. This CPU will make a hole in the product stack of Ryzen. If you want a budget processor then you can consider this processor by Intel. Comes with all those compatibities that you can wish without breaking the bank.

Pound for pound, this CPU can cover you for both gaming and application performance at this classy price. We can consider this chip as a surprisingly well priced product and a nimble chip. This is also a mid range CPU and based on the family of Rocket Lake 14 nm. Integrated with 6 cores and doubles of processing threads which has 12 threads. 

With the hyperthreading architecture it can offer high performance for applications and gaming as well. With the help of LGA 1200 socket you can place it at PCB and soldering is not required. This processor has 12 MB of L3 cache memory that retrieves the most used data quickly and improves the overall computing speed.

Intel i5-11400 supports up to 2.60 GHz speed that is quite fine for productivity. This desktop CPU is a perfect choice for creating work, gaming and office work too. Supports PCIe Gen 4.0 to unleash the full potential of your SSD and graphics card. A compatible thermal solution is included in the box, which keeps your processor cool without spending extra money. 

With the balanced cost 14 nm design provides incredible efficiency and nimble processing. At top all, it is bundled with Intel Ultra HD Graphics 730 controller to provide you improve visual quality. Supports up to 3 monitors which means you can get the output up to 3 display screens.

3- Intel Core i9-9900K Desktop Processor

Intel Core i9-9900K Desktop Processor

If you are looking for the processor to use Photoshop, look no further than Intel Core i9-9900K desktop processor. This is an absolute powerhouse for video rendering. One of the most powerful processors of Intel’s lineup of 9th generation CPUs. This chip is just overkill for casual web browsing and watching Youtube. 

Features more cores, performance boosting TIM and higher frequencies. Which means this desktop processor contains everything that satisfies enthusiasts. Due to such improvements this chip is one of the fastest mainstream CPUs. However, unfortunately even after the upgrade the architecture is not lavish. 

This processor consists of 8 cores and 16 processing threads are good for the hyper threading. Its unlocked design allows you to overclock it so you can enjoy its full potential. Supports 3.60 GHz to up to 5.0 Ghz that is fine to run even heavy applications. Plus, it has a cache memory of 16 MB which boosts up the overall performance. 

But you need to keep in mind that it is only compatible with such motherboards that are based on shipsets of 300 series. To provide you fast writing speed this processor supports Intel Optane memory. Best of all, integrated with a ultra HD graphics 630 controller that offers you better gaming graphics cards and high quality visuals. 

Intel continuously adding new features and specifications in their processor to compete with the CPUs of AMD Ryzen. The intel processor i9-9900K and i7-9700K both have the same number of cores. That is the reason they deliver 33 percent improvements which are warmly appreciated by their users. This CPU is engineered with STIMs that provide better heat dissipation and very helpful to prevent unexpected shutdowns that occur due to the soaring themptures. 

4- AMD Ryzen 5 4600G, 6-Core, 12-Thread Unlocked Desktop Processor

AMD Ryzen 5 4600G, 6-Core, 12-Thread Unlocked Desktop Processor

Introducing Ryzen 5 4600G an exclusive OEM-only Chip launched by AMD. Which is specially designed to use for desktops. This processor is based on Zen 2 architecture of AMD. The 4600G delivers slightly better performance as compared to the 4600H. Equipped with 6 cores and 12 processing threads and offers a base clock of 3.7 GHz.

Best of all, you can boost up its performance which means you can get up to 4.2 GHz. This Zen 2 microarchitecture chip is designed on a TSMC 7 nm process to deliver you best of the best. Also, AMD specified its thermal design power to be at 65 Watts.

Which means it is good to go for Browsing, Streaming, and productivity applications of office use. Plus, there is plenty of room to perform multitasking on your computer system. Ryzen 5 4600G is a capable processor and can easily do day-to-day workflow such as; video editing, photo editing, and 3D applications. Not only perform day to day workloads but also can do excellent gaming due to the integrated Vega 7 Graphics.

Supported memory types for this desktop processor is DDR4-3200. And the CPU socket type is AM4 that helps to place it on the PCB. The CPU benchmark score is 83 percent which is very good. This desktop processor features powerful graphics performance and you can do smooth 1080p gaming. Furthermore, it is bundled with the AMD Wraith Stealth cooler which means you do not need to spend extra for a thermal solution.

Comes with a 11 MB cache that increases the overall computing speed. The most distinctive feature of this processor is Hyper-Threading technology that allows this CPU to proceed with twice as many threads.

5- Intel Core i7-10700K Desktop Processor

Intel Core i7-10700K Desktop Processor

Intel launched their desktop processor with improved cores to compete with AMD’s CPUs. If you are looking for a computer system with improved performance then you can consider Intel Core i7-10700K Desktop Processor. This CPU comes in the 10th Gen lineup by Intel Intel with Intel Turbo Boost Max Technology 3.0 for fast user experience. 

Designed to deliver optimized performance that is the first choice for enthusiast gamers. Core i7-10700K does not only cover gamers but also can deliver best to satisfy serious creators. To add a boost in its performance the manufacturer makes its design unlocked. Which means you can overclock its performance to get its full potential. 

However, the only drawback of this CPU is that the thermal solution is not included in its box. You need to invest in a CPU cooler separately to keep your processor cool. You can only use this processor with a 400 series chipset based board.

With the help of socket type LGA 1200 you can install it on PCB without soldering. Additionally, its thermal power design is 125 Watt so you need to be careful while buying a power supply unit. Engineered with 8 cores and 16 processing threads that is quite enough for gaming and day to day tasks too. To enhance your usage experience you can boost up its speed up to 5.1 GHz.

Bus speed of this processor is 8 GT/s that gives you better read and write speed. Supports Intel Optane Memory for the fast speed as compared to the SSD. and the higher graphics frequency of 350 MHz that is fine for the better gameplay. Recommended to play most games, better suits for gamers instead of creators. 

6- AMD Ryzen 7 3700X 8-Core, 16-Thread Unlocked Desktop Processor

AMD Ryzen 7 3700X 8-Core, 16-Thread Unlocked Desktop Processor

Here is a desktop processor that is the best choice for most people. For its price it is a piece of brilliant hardware which gamers and creators like for sure. So if you are hungry for power then you must give a try to AMD Ryzen 7 3700X. With a just 65 watts TDP this processor is ready to give raw performance that other CPUs take much more power to deliver equal. AMD Ryzen 7 3700X also supported by AMD RX 6600 XT and AMD RX 6500 XT CPU.

This processor provides higher clock speeds and more cores as compared to its previous first and second generations. The third generation of the Ryzen 3000 CPU lineup by AMD has the capabilities to hit the market. Ryzen 7 3700X comes with revolutionary features including the support for the 4th generation PCI express interface.

Designed with 8 cores and 16 processing threads that deliver better experience in heavily threaded applications. Manufactured with an improved architecture that makes it an incredibly well rounded CPU so it can deliver best in gaming as well.

Furthermore, this processor comes in the list of world’s most advanced CPUs especially for the gaming segment. With this CPU you can deliver ultra fast 100 plus FPS performance in almost all popular games. Equipped with AMD Wraith Prism cooler that keeps it cool and color controlled LED shows its status like temperature etc. 

Comes with the 4.4 Ghz max boost unlocked overclocking performance is enough for gaming and creative tasks too. The 36 MB of game cache memory speeds up the overall computing. You can use DDR4 3200 MHz memory type with it and boost up its performance.

Best CPU For Intel Arc A380 Buying Guide 

If you are looking for the Best CPU For Intel Arc A380, then you have to be very careful. While buying a compatible processor for your required graphics card is a simple drive. Because only the best combo of a processor and video can give you your required performance.

To help you and the process of making your decision easier we give you some factors. These factors are necessary considerations while buying your CPU for your selected graphics processing unit. Check out these features and make your purchase easy. 

Purpose: 

The purpose of your purchase defines what should look in it. That is the reason we recommend that first of all you should determine the purpose for what you are going to design your computer system for. Define your usage for instance, what will be your usage whether you will use it for gaming or creative world. 

Then define how much time you will use it for daily bases. Basically the brand, type and price of your processor depend on these factors. After determining all this, search for a CPU that can fulfill all your requirements. Above mentioned products can cover you whether you want a processor for gaming or creative work. 

Cores And Threads

The number of cores and threads of your processor also come in the list of considerable factors. While buying, check the number of cores that you need to run your computer system properly. For the Intel Arc A380 you need a minimum 2 cores. But for better performance you need at least 6 cores and you can go up to 8 cores. 

Go for Intel Core i5-11400 Desktop Processor for 6 cores performance and if you want to invest in a 8 cores CPU then you can choose AMD Ryzen 7 3700X. And when it comes to the number of processing threads, they always double the number of cores. Like is if your processor has 8 cores then the threads will be 16. 

CPU Clock Speed:

Another important factor that you need to pay attention to is the CPU clock speed. Because it defines how much time a task will take to be performed. In short, we can say that a fast clock speed is always the best option. 

For your chosen graphics processing unit your processor’s clock speed can be from 2.60 to 5.1 GHz. For 2.60 GHz you can go for Intel Core i5-11400 Desktop Processor and for 5.1 GHz we recommend you to choose Intel Core i7-10700K desktop processor. 

Thermal Design Power:

Another important consideration is the thermal design power because it defines the amount of maximum heat that a processor generates under heavy load. And the less Thermal Design Power is always a better option. But do not get disappointed because if you want to choose a CPU with high TDP. 

You can tackle the heat by installation of a compatible CPU cooler. For this GPU you can buy a CPU with 65 watts TDP to 125 Watts that can be fine. For you can go for a CPU that comes with an integrated thermal solution. You can buy an AMD Ryzen 5 4600G because it comes with a  Wraith Stealth Cooler. 

Overclocking: 

When it comes to the most attractive feature of a CPU that you must consider. Then at the top of the list overclocking comes. Because overclocking is a process that boosts the speed of your processor up to its extreme limit. 

This feature is necessary for gamers and some serious creators who need to perform heavy tasks. However all the desktop processors can not overclock so you must go for an unlocked design CPU, so you can push its speed. You can buy an Intel Core i9-9900K Desktop Processor because it is unlocked and you can unleash its full potential. 

CPU socket Compatibility: 

The last considerable factor is CPU socket because the processors launched  by AMD have a wide range of socket compatibility. But AM4 is their new and most common socket that offers vast compatibility. And the CPUs of Intel have their own sockets, which can be used with many motherboards. 

But it all depends upon your motherboard, check the compatibility of your motherboard with your CPU socket before purchase. This is necessary because the CPU socket is responsible for installation on PCB that is why they must be compatible with each other. 

FAQs

What CPU pairs well with A380?

For the Intel Arc A380 6GB GPU, a good CPU pairing would be something like an Intel Core i5-12400 or AMD Ryzen 5 5600X. The A380 is a lower-end GPU, so you don’t need a top-of-the-line CPU, but a modern 6-core/12-thread CPU would be a good match.

What CPU do you need for Intel Arc?

The Intel Arc GPUs are designed to work best with Intel CPUs to utilize Intel Deep Link technology. However, they will work fine with AMD CPUs as well. An Intel Core i5 or i7 CPU would be ideal to pair with an Arc GPU.

Does Intel ARC work better with Intel CPU?

Yes, Intel Arc discrete GPUs do tend to perform better with Intel CPUs compared to AMD CPUs. Intel Deep Link technology allows tighter integration and communication between Intel Arc GPUs and Intel CPUs. This can provide a small performance boost in some games. But Intel Arc GPUs are compatible with AMD CPUs too.

Is Intel Arc A380 6GB good for gaming?

The Intel Arc A380 6GB is entry-level gaming GPU. It’s best suited for 1080p gaming at medium-high settings in modern titles. Performance wise it compares roughly to an Nvidia GTX 1650 Super. So it can provide a decent 1080p gaming experience but lacks power for high refresh rate or maxed out settings in demanding games. Overall it’s a good option for casual gaming at 1080p if you get it at a reasonable price.

Author

    by
  • Areesha

    Areesha is a tech enthusiast and a freelance writer who loves to share her insights on the latest gadgets and innovations. She has been reviewing tech products for over five years, covering everything from smartphones, laptops, cameras, smartwatches, headphones, and more. She enjoys testing out new features, comparing different models, and giving honest feedback to her readers. Areesha’s reviews are always informative, engaging, and easy to understand. Whether you are looking for a new device, a gift idea, or just curious about the tech world, Areesha’s reviews will help you make the best decision. You can find her work on various websites and blogs, such as [TechCrunch], [CNET], [The Verge], and [Gizmodo]. You can also follow her on [Twitter] and [Instagram] to get the latest updates on her reviews and projects. Areesha is always open to suggestions and feedback from her audience, so feel free to contact her anytime. She is looking forward to hearing from you!

Leave a Comment