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Best CPU For Valorant (Budget, 360hz, 144hz, 240hz)

For the gameplay of your choice you must look for the Best CPU For Valorant first. Valorant is a processor dependent game which is a bit surprising for some gamers. The purchase of the CPU will be tricky, you have to do it carefully to avoid inconvenience. Look at our top picks and make your decision easier, read more!

We can say that Valorant is a sci-fi team based shooter game and is one of the most fast growing esport games. The developer decided to make Valorant a CPU intensive game to make it easily accessible for more and more users. If you want to play it on average settings then you can go for a CPU with 4 cores. However, we recommend you to buy a processor with at least 6 cores even to play on minimal settings. 

You should buy a desktop processor with 14 cores to make your gameplay future proof. Up to 20 processing threads will be sufficient to ensure your CPU is multitasker. From our recommended gaming CPU options we have chosen Intel core i5- 13600K as our overall best processor. If you want the best budget CPU for Valorant then core i5-10500 is a great option as well.  

Furthermore, you should consider the clock speed of the processor, for Valorant you need a base 3.5 GHz and boost up to 5.6 GHz. If you want to get more enhancement in speed then you can buy an overclockable processor. While buying a CPU always try to get as big cache space as you to process commands quicker. For better thermal management you need to invest in a separate CPU cooler if it is included in the box will be a plus point.  

Our Recommended list of the Best CPU For Valorant

  1. Intel Core i5-13600K Desktop Processor
  2. Intel Core i7-12700K Desktop Processor
  3. AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3D Desktop Processor
  4. Intel Core i5-10500 Desktop Processor
  5. AMD Ryzen 5 5600X Unlocked Desktop Processor
  6. AMD Ryzen 7 5800X Unlocked Desktop Processor

Valorant CPU Requirements:

  • CPU: Core i5, Ryzen 5 
  • Cores: Min. 4 Cores, Recommended 12 Cores
  • Clock Speed: Min. 3.0 GHz, Recommended 3.6 GHz
  • Boost Clock Speed: up to 5.6 GHz
  • Cache: For quick execution look for the possible big number 
  • Overclocking: Require for getting extreme clock speed 

Valorant CPU Benchmark

To play Valorant smoothly, you need a good CPU that can handle the game’s graphics and physics. Valorant is a CPU-heavy game, so the CPU you choose will have a big impact on your FPS. Here we’ll compare different CPUs and their performance in Valorant.

Valorant CPU Benchmark

1- Overall Best CPU For Valorant: Intel Core i5-13600K Desktop Processor

Intel Core i5-13600K Desktop Processor

Our first choice for best cpu for valorant is core 13600K. With Intel’s cutting-edge architecture, you can immerse yourself in everything from epic adventures to multiplayer battles. Your gameplay will be pushed beyond performance thanks to the newest iteration of performance hybrid architecture. Which is created with today’s gamers in mind, offers you exactly what you’re looking for. 

You have choice over your memory setup thanks to expanded compatibility both for DDR4 and DDR5 memory options. Develop your setup and add Thunderbolts 4 support for a quick and easy method to connect devices. With compatibility for Intel Killer WI-Fi 6/6E competitive connectivity may be achieved rapidly and without interruption.

You can adjust your performance by setting the maximum and enhanced overclock for both sets of cores. Integrated Intel HD Graphics 770 integrated performance hybrid design incorporates 2 core microarchitectures. Which are responsible for prioritizing and spreading workloads to enhance performance. It has 14 cores from 6 are P-cores and 8 are E-cores and 20 threads to deliver performance of your choice. 

It can be unlocked to 5.1 GHz which is a good number for classic performance. Compatible with motherboards using Intel 600 series and 700 series chipsets. PCIe 5.0 and 4.0 support as well as Turbo Boost Max Technology 3.0. With one PCI-Express 4.0 x4 NVMe slot connected to the CPU offers the same I/O as the 12th Gen. 

Comparison:

Core 13600K and Ryzen 4100 are comparable, both have their own specs and experience. You can buy 13600K over Ryzen 3 4100 for the 71% higher single core performance by having 10 more cores and 12 threads also it has Intel integrated graphics. To save your 78% money, 48% lower TDP and CPU cooler you should buy Ryzen 4100 instead of core 13600K. 

Pros:

  • Stunning performance 
  • PCIe 5.0 
  • DDR4 motherboards are compatible 
  • Integrated graphics 

Cons:

  • There are some improvements are required for overclocking 
  • Hotter and power hungrier 

2- Intel Core i7-12700K Desktop Processor

Intel Core i7-12700K Desktop Processor

Core i7-12700K is the recommended CPU for Valorant from our side. Comes with hyper-threading architecture gives strong performance that can tackle all the demanding workloads along with enhanced onboard graphics capabilities and faster turbo boost. Installation is happen on the PCB through LGA-1700 CPU socket and L3 cache is there for improve system overall performance per watt.

The chipset has an integrated Ultra HD Graphics controller of Intel for the enhancement of visual quality. The company combines that technology with another first for desktop PCs. Alder’s new hybrid x86 design, which represents the company’s most revolutionary architectural shift in a decade. Intel is the first to enable DDR5 and PCI Express Generation 5.0 for your computer system.

Simply stated, the Core i7-12700K outperforms comparable Ryzen CPUs while offering all the gaming capabilities of its more costly i9 equivalent. As a result, the Core i7-12700K is the preferred chip for gamers seeking the most performance at a reasonable price. With the Gracepoint microarchitecture, Intel’s new single-threaded Efficient core offers great area efficiency performance per watt, and multi-threaded performance improvements.

Up to 5.0 GHz clock speed enables you to perform beyond the performance. Allows you to enjoy better onboard graphics and fast turbo boost speed. For the enhancement of visuals it is equipped with Intel ultra graphics controller. This processor will be an ideal option to enjoy the gaming of the next generation. 

Comparison:

From i7-12700K and i7-10700K, 12700K is newer with a lot of advantages than 10700K such as; it offers 44% high single core, 65% multithreading performance by having 4 more cores and 4 extra threads. The only reason to pick up 10700K over 12700K is it is 11% cheaper in price. 

Pros:

  • Excellent performance in single and multi thread 
  • Cool and quiet 
  • Integrated graphics 
  • DDR5 
  • Overclockable 
  • PCI-Express 5.0 

Cons:

  • No bundled cooler  

3- AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3D Desktop Processor

AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3D Desktop Processor

The Ryzen 5800X3D is the best AMD Ryzen CPU for Valorant that you can try. You get the 5800X3D CPU and ASUS Crosshair VIII Dark Hero AM4 X570S. By having this package you can save some money and get both a processor and a motherboard. AMD claims that this processor is the most fastest and powerful CPUs in the world. 

The main factor which makes it different from the other CPUs is the addition of 3D stacking technology. Constructed with 8 cores and 16 processing threads that makes it efficient and multitasker. Offers you 4.5 GHz maximum boost clock speed that is enough for mid level computing. Along with the CPU you get 100 MBcache space for the enhancement in the computing speed. 

You can configure your memory of the PC by using any DDR4 with 3200 supported speed. Comprehensive thermal design ensures the well management of heat. This cooling design consists of Passive chipset M.2 aluminum heat sinks and Water Cooling Zone. Robust power delivery makes sure that your system has proper power delivery. 

Power solution includes 14+2 Ti power stages rated 90A, ProCool II connectors. Plus, it is equipped with alloy chokes and Japanese metallic capacitors gives it durability. With the help of AM4 CPU socket you can placed it on the PCB easily. ASUS ROG Crosshair VIII Dark Hero is there to use it with all the AM4 and Ryzen 5000 processors.  

Comparison:

AMD Ryzen 5800X3D is a newer product than Ryzen 5 5600X, there are different pointers that are reasons to buy one of these CPUs. You should invest in 5800X3D for 27% better multithreading performance while having 2 more cores and 4 threads. However, you can buy the 5600X because of 48% less price, 38% lower TDP, higher clock speed and included CPU cooler over 5800X3D. 

Pros:

  • SMT support 
  • Competitive price 
  • Lower power consumption 
  • PCIe 4.0 
  • Comes with 8 Zen 3 cores 
  • Huge cache 

Cons:

  • No integrated graphics
  • Not overclockable 
  • No bundled cooler

4- Intel Core i5-10500 Desktop Processor

Intel Core i5-10500 Desktop Processor

The Intel Core i5-10500 is the cheapest CPU for valorant, that can deliver decent performance. Based on Intel’s 10th generation “Comet Lake” microarchitecture, the Core i5-10500 is designed to maximize the performance of the “Skylake” core design. Which has been used for the previous 4 generations by enabling Hyper Threading and increasing L3 cache sizes universally. The 10th generation Core i5 series blends out the 6-core “Comet Lake” silicon, which is similar to the “Coffee Lake” die. 

Offers 12 MB of L3 cache, in contrast to the earlier generation of Intel which is Core i5 has a combo of 6-core and 6-thread chips with a cache space of 9 MB. With a 65W power rating, a 3.1 GHz base frequency, and a 4.5GHz maximum speed. You can perform the way the gamers expected. The Core i5-10500 is a member of the Core i5 series and is built on the Comet Lake 14 nm family.

The base clock multiplier cannot be used to overclock the Core i5-10500 because it is not an unlocked processor. However, Intel has removed numerous constraints placed on motherboard suppliers’ power management, allowing you to practically tinker with the performance limits on even cheaper chipsets like the H470, B460, and H410. By fiddling with DMI and PCIe clocks, you can also increase the baseline clock itself which will boost performance. 

Since the multipliers are set two notches greater than they are for the i5-10400. There is a little more room to squeeze performance out of the i5-10500 given that its TDP is only set at 65 W. The motherboard can deliver up to 142 W to a Core i5-10500 at its maximum performance, compared to the Core i5-maximum 10400’s PPT of 65W.

Comparison:

Core i5-10500 and i3-10105 are comparable, the reasons to buy 10500 are it offers slightly better single core and multithreading performance and higher turbo clock frequency. For saving 44% money and higher clock speed you can give preference to 10105 over 10500. 

Pros:

  • Improvement than its previous generation 
  • Integrated graphics 
  • Heatsink 
  • Amazing gaming performance 
  • Hyper threading 
  • CPU cooler included 
  • Low TDP 

Cons:

  • Multiplier locked 

5- AMD Ryzen 5 5600X Unlocked Desktop Processor

AMD Ryzen 5 5600X Unlocked Desktop Processor

At number five we’ve Ryzen 5 5600X, which is good cpu for valorant. The greatest 6-core processor for serious gamers that demand a gaming processor with incredible capability. Configuring and personalizing your setup was never simpler, allowing you to build with confidence. With a straightforward BIOS update, AMD Ryzen 5000 Series desktops processors may be installed with any AMD 500 Series motherboard

This high-performance cooling system, the AMD Wraith Stealth Cooler, is cool, silent, and low profile. One of the best processors with the best gaming operating system. AMD Ryzen Processors deliver a fantastic gaming experience on Windows 11. With the flagship Ryzen 5950X and 5900X, has arrived, handily surpassing Intel’s rival processors and introducing a new level of efficiency to the desktop gaming PC.

The fastest AMD 6 core CPU for mainstream desktops, with 12 processing threads. Provides elite 100+ FPS performance in all the  well-known games in the world. Comes with the efficient, quiet AMD Wraith Stealth cooler. System Memory Type DDR4 with integrated DDR3200 support, 4.6 GHz Max Boost, unlocked for overclocking, 35 MB of cache and thi is alo supported by RX 580 CPU , AMD RX 6500 XT CPU and RX 6600 CPU.  

The X570 and B550 motherboards can enable PCIe 4.0 for the sophisticated Socket AM4 platform. No compromise gaming CPU for the midrange, AMD Ryzen 5600X reigns supreme. Thanks to its category application performance and energy efficiency. With the launch of the flagship Ryzen 9 5950X, AMD’s raised the performance bar for desktop PCs.

Comparison: 

AMD Ryzen 5600X is 16 months newer than 3600X, and 5600X wins the battle from 3600X because of its high single core performance. In the comparison of 5600X with 3600X, 5600X offers 21% high single core, 22% multithreading performance and 32% lower TDP. However, you should buy 3600X over 5600X for its 17% cheaper price and higher clock speed. 

Pros:

  • Relatively new 
  • Great for gaming 
  • Consumes only 65 watts power
  • Decent base clock speed

Cons:

  • Average multitasking performance
  • No graphics card

6- AMD Ryzen 7 5800X Unlocked Desktop Processor

AMD Ryzen 7 5800X Unlocked Desktop Processor

The world’s greatest 8-core gaming processor, with 8 cores specialized for high-FPS gaming rigs. Helps your team win no matter the setting or the resolution. Enables Highest Quality Streaming that is demanded by the gamers. You may anticipate optimal performance for gaming with peak frequencies up to 4.7 GHz2, 8 cores, 16 threads, and 36MB of cache, while encoding high-resolution video for the finest stream quality.

It’s never been simpler to configure and customize your equipment, so build with confidence. With a straightforward BIOS update, AMD Ryzen 5000 Series desktop processors may be installed with any AMD 500 Series motherboard. Precision Push Overdrive allows you to overclock instantly and uses the sturdy construction of your motherboard to boost clock speeds faster and longer. this CPU is also compatible with RTX 4080 CPU , Radeon RX 6950 XT CPU and Radeon RX 6650 XT CPU.

You have easily switchable profiles as well as genuine accessibility to thermostats, fan speeds, cache timings, cores voltages, and CPU frequencies with the AMD Ryzen Master application. It is the ideal solution for consumers who want to optimize and maximize the performance of their AMD Ryzen unlocked process.

To avail high processing capacity you needs a CPU with cutting-edge technologies. All Ryzen 5000 Series processors have Precision Boost 2 and Precision Boost Overdrive, two Ryzen innovations meant to increase the processing power of your PC. Utilizing the powerful AMD Ryzen Master software, your AMD Ryzen processor may be tweaked and tuned for customized performance, unlocking the possibility of overclocking and controlling your processing power. 

Comparison:

Ryzen 5800X and i7-5820K are relatable CPUs from AMD and Intel, 5800X is 6 years newer release than 5820K. For the 91% better single core, 149% higher multithreading  performance, 25% lower TDP with 2 more cores and 4 threads Ryzen 5800X is better over i7-5820K. However, i7-5820K is 84% cheaper and offers a slightly better offer for workstation as compared to the 5800X. 

Pros:

  • Prominent IPC performance
  • Compatible AM4 socket
  • Incredible single core performance
  • PCIe 4.0
  • Based on 7 nm process

Cons:

  • High TDP
  • Not bundled cooler
  • No integrated graphics

Best CPU For Valorant Buying Guide 

The selection of the best CPU for Valorant can be a tricky task especially for the newbies. From our recommended products, the overall best product is Core i5-13600K. We have kept some important pointers that will make your purchase worthy. Below are those factors, look at them!

Cores:

The one thing common in all the processors is the cores and threads but the number varies from CPU to CPU. If you want to run Valorant on higher settings than you need at least 4 cores but recommended are 6. For better performance and future proof you should  buy a processor with 14 cores. You can choose 13600K with 14 cores and  20 threads; it will be more than enough for Valorant. 

Cache Space:

If you want to execute your commands faster than you have to look for the cache space. For Valorant cache space is more important for the running of a set of instructions quicker. Always try to get as big a cache space as you can, it will be better. You can buy 5800X3D, it  comes with 100 MB of cache and improves overall computing. 

Clock Speed:

The clock speed of the CPU refers to the time of execution of the commands. That is the reason if your clock speed is higher your computer will perform as better. To run Valorant on reasonable settings you have to buy a CPU that offers at least 3.0 GHz. Core 13600K offers you 3.5 GHz base clock speed which is a decent number for Valorant. 

Overclocking:

Overclocking is such a feature of a desktop processor that can not be ignored. Because this spec allows you to push the speed of the CPU to its extreme limits. For this you should buy an unlocked CPU it will be easily overclockable and you can get its full potential. Our recommended 13600K is overclockable and you can get its full 5.1 GHz boost clock speed. 

CPU Socket:

CPU socket is responsible for its installation on the PCB, that is why you have to consider it. While buying a CPU you have to consider compatibility of the processor with the circuit board. If you already have a board then you are stuck to buy a CPU which suits it otherwise you have to invest in a newer board. We recommend you to buy a CPU with LGA 1700 or AM5 sockets; these are the latest and future proof. 

FAQs 

Does A CPU Matter For Valorant?

The answer is Yes, CPU does matters for Valorant like every other CPU intensive game. Valorant is a CPU-intensive game, meaning that the games is more depandant on the CPU than the GPU for performance. This is because Valorant is a fast-paced game that requires the CPU to process a lot of information in real time.

Which Is Better AMD or Intel For Valorant?

AMD and Intel are both great brands for CPUs, and they both offer a variety of CPUs that are suitable for Valorant. However, in general, AMD CPUs tend to be better in gaming and other high end tasks, value for money than Intel CPUs. This is because AMD CPUs offer better multi-core performance, which is important for Valorant.

is valorant cpu or gpu intensive?

Yes, the Valorant is a CPU-intensive game. This means that the CPU is more important than the GPU for Valorant for performance. However, the GPU still plays a role in Valorant, and a good GPU can help to improve frame rates.

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  • Dave James

    Dave has been gaming since the days of Zaxxon and Lady Bug on the Colecovision, and code books for the Commodore Vic 20 (Death Race 2000!). He built his first gaming PC at the tender age of 16, and finally finished bug-fixing the Cyrix-based system around a year later. When he dropped it out of the window. He first started writing for Official PlayStation Magazine and Xbox World many decades ago, then moved onto PC Format full-time, then PC Gamer, TechRadar, and T3 among others. Now he's back, writing about the nightmarish graphics card market, CPUs with more cores than sense, gaming laptops hotter than the sun, and SSDs more capacious than a Cybertruck.

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