- Best CPU for RTX 2060
- How to Choose a CPU
- Is the RTX 2060 a Good Graphics Card?
- Will an i5 Bottleneck an RTX 2060?
- Will a Ryzen 5 Bottleneck an RTX 2060?
- Compare CPUs
- Review Summary
Here’s a deal:
You’re dumped in a —
- sea of technical terms
- plethora of choices
- and the ever-present worry about compatibility
It’s a lot, right?
All you want is a CPU that not only matches the RTX 2060 requirements but also offers reliability and longevity without breaking the bank.
You’re looking for straightforward advice, clear options, and, let’s be honest, you don’t want to wait forever to get your hands on it.
So let me give it to you straight. Here are your best bets for a good processor for RTX 2060 card:
- Best Overall: AMD Ryzen 5 5600X
- Budget Pick: Intel Core i5-12600KF
- Best for Gaming: AMD Ryzen 7 5800X
- Premium Option: Intel Core i7-9700K
Best CPU for RTX 2060
You know what? I had cold feet finding the best options for the 2060 card. Somehow, the internet is rigged. It has either outdated suggestions or unavailable options.
So I asked real people who build a rig with this graphics card for their opinions and mistakes—they helped me figure out 13 options to look into. I tested them all for a few weeks to find the ultimate winners.
Hence, you don’t have to scroll over countless forum and subreddit comments!
Instead here’s what you should look into:
- Speeds: 3.7GHz - 4.9GHz
- Cores: 10
- Socket: LGA1700
- TDP: 125W
- Speeds: 3.6GHz - 4.9GHz
- Cores: 8
- Socket: LGA1151
- TDP: 95W
Now let’s discuss each processor in more detail:
1. AMD Ryzen 5 5600X: Best Overall
Don’t want just fast, but leaderboard-topping-fast-without-burning-pocket? Get this one!
At its heart, this Ryzen 5 processor packs six cores and 12 threads. Even with a base clock speed of 3.7GHz, it can juggle tasks like a pro.
But that’s not it.
You can push it to its limits courtesy of the unlocked overclocking headroom and the boosted potential of up to 4.6GHz.
- Minimal CPU-GPU bottleneck
- Perfect for multi-threaded tasks
- Packs a Wraith Stealth Cooler
- No integrated graphics
- No PCIe 5.0
Are you one of those speed demons who simply doesn’t want to yield to fellow gamers and win every round? If yes, the AMD Ryzen 5 5600X is the perfect CPU for RTX 2060 super and the standard vanilla variant.
With a built-in Wraith Cooler and exceptional base and turbo speeds, there is nothing much this processor cannot achieve.
There are six cores and 12 threads to take care of all your gaming and multitasking needs.
And do you know what makes it a powerful multitasking ninja? The turbo-boosted clock speed limit of 4.6GHz. This CPU for RTX 2060 6GB even packs 35MB of cache memory for loading most game resources in a heartbeat.
As a gamer, I tested one of the best CPU GPU pairings with two games — GTA V and Fortnite, at ultra 1080p. The average for GTA V came out to be 86 FPS, whereas Fortnite returns 80 FPS.
Benchmark levels: PassMark
With toned-down settings, this CPU-GPU combo can also chart 100+ FPS with relative ease. The CPU itself scores 21,915 per the PassMark benchmark score, ensuring exceptional single and multi-threaded performance.






Concerned about the power consumption figures? Well, the Ryzen 5 5600X boasts a manageable TDP of 65W despite being a powerful processor.
While it remains cool, the 7nm architecture further makes it an RTX 2060-compatible CPU without powering through the overheating charts.
Confused as to which motherboard this processor best aligns with! Well, you can work with the B550 and X570 motherboards, the Ryzen 5 variant is compatible with AM4 sockets.
You can even pair DDR4 RAM modules, which can clock 3200MHz, at max.
Other relevant CPU-specific traits include the integrated cooler and the Precision Boost technology that further aids its multitasking capabilities.
And yes, you do get PCIe 4.0 support, which can accommodate most SSDs.
But then, if you are interested in a more gaming-focused CPU, the AMD Ryzen 5 3600X can be a worthy alternative. Packed with a more powerful Wraith Spire Cooler and a slightly high base clock speed of 3.8GHz, the 3600X is better for open word and MOBA titles.
2. Intel Core i5-12600KF: Best Budget Intel CPU
Go for this one if you’re looking for a CPU that’s like a double espresso shot for your RTX 2060
This processor brings in 10 cores and 16 threads. The base clock runs at 3.7 GHz, but boosted; you can push the limits on this one at 4.9 GHz.
Plus, there is room for overclocking, which ensures video editing, gaming, and even some AI-specific tasks can progress without hiccups.
- High frame rates at 1080p
- Strong overclocking performance
- PCIe 5.0 compatible
- 10nm manufacturing process for power efficiency
- Lacks integrated graphics
- May need a BIOS update
More of a Blue Team supporter? Well, the Intel Core i5-12600KF can help you spice up the gaming performances already exhibited by the RTX 2060 graphics card.
Even though this Intel CPU is a power chugger, its hybrid architecture keeps overheating at bay.
The Core i5-12600KF is a 10-core maestro. There are six performance and four efficiency cores, striking the perfect balance between power efficiency and heavy-duty gigs like gaming.
Clock speeds can be boosted to 4.9GHz. Plus, there is an insanely high overclocking headroom, making it the RTX 2060’s best CPU match.
When it comes to games like GTA V, this Intel CPU performs better than the recently reviewed Ryzen 5, hitting 95 FPS consistently at 1080p.
Benchmark levels: PassMark
For Fortnite, I was able to churn out 86 fps at 1080p ultra. Benchmark-wise, this i5 variant assumes a PassMark score of 27,453, making it an exceptional choice for 1080p and even 1440p gaming and content creation.






This RTX 2060-compatible CPU sports a TDP of 125W. Even though this signifies a higher level of power consumption, more so as it is a 10nm processor, the existence of efficient cores can help manage the heat levels.
This i5 chipset can fit into any Intel 700 series motherboard, courtesy of the LGA-1700 socket compatibility.
Unlike the AMD variants that I discussed, this processor works seamlessly with DDR4 and DDR5 RAM modules. And yes, the existence of PCIe 5.0 support makes it a futuristic component.
And even though these are reasons enough to opt for this gaming-friendly CPU, Intel’s HyperThreading technology adds more stars to its credibility.
If you do not want to future-proof your gaming PC as of yet, you can consider the more budget-specific Intel Core i5-11600KF chipset. Even though it lacks the efficiency cores, its higher base clocking potential of 3.9GHz makes it a comparable gaming component.
3. AMD Ryzen 7 5800X: Best for Gaming
Gaming to Multitasking. This processor dominates on all fronts.
This chipset is a multitasking powerhouse, all thanks to the 8 cores and 16 threads.
Even the base clock speed is a nippy 3.8GHz, which can be boosted to 4.7GHz.
Plus, it is unlocked, priming the users for the overclocking potential.
- Stellar processing performance
- Future-proof
- Massive overclocking headroom
- No dedicated cooler
- Overkill for casual gamers
Still searching for raw processing power and the best CPU and GPU combo for gaming! If yes, you cannot look beyond the AMD Ryzen 7 5800X. And leave the RTX 2060 aside!
You can even consider this AMD CPU for 2060 Super and other high-end cards, courtesy of the insane processing power on display.
The Ryzen 7 5800X has eight cores in play, which translates to 16 threads and a blistering turbo speed ceiling of 4.7GHz.
All that power allows you to pack some insane gaming punch and multitasking heat, provided you want to build through the powerhouse of a PC.
Benchmark levels: PassMark
Like earlier, I tested two titles — GTA V and Fortnite using this CPU-GPU combo at 1080p ultra.
For both the games I could gank out 90 FPS and 80 FPS, on average — at par with the previously reviewed Intel i5 variant.
More than gaming, this CPU is a multitasking beast, all thanks to the high PassMark score of 27,927.






In case compatibility is one of your concerns, the Ryzen 7 5800X works like a marathon runner, all thanks to the manageable TDP level of 105W.
Plus, AMD’s advanced 7nm architecture keeps the power consumption and overheating levels to a minimum. This is a good CPU for RTX 2060 as it even accommodates high-speed DDR4 RAM modules.
When it comes to motherboard compatibility, all X570 chipsets work, thanks to the AM4 alignment.
There is PCIe 4.0 support in play, a feature that readies the CPU for bigger GPUs and powerful SSD modules.
Gaming performances take center stage, all thanks to the Precision Boost and SMT technology, features that only extract the best out of your overall PC setup.
Even though the Ryzen 7 is a powerhouse, if you have a few additional bucks on you, the AMD Ryzen 9 5900X might not be out of reach. It boasts the Zen 3 architecture and offers a 12-core count, helping you manage the latest AAA titles and complex tasks like 3D modeling. Plus, compared to the 36MB cache on the Ryzen 7, the Ryzen 9 variant packs 64MB, helping optimize all your heavy-duty tasks.
4. Intel Core i7-9700K: Premium Option
Craving a bit more oomph? This one has got you covered.
The Intel Core i7-9700K makes way for 8 cores and 8 threads, with a base clock speed of 3.6GHz.
The turbo clocking potential, at 4.9GHz, is enough for most tasks without having to go through the rigors of overclocking.
- Top-notch gaming performance
- Robust turbo-boosting capabilities
- Integrated GPU works as a necessary fallback mechanism
- Support overclocking
- Powerful cooling solutions are needed
- No Hyper-threading support
- Limited multitasking performances
If you aren’t particularly concerned about the price tag and are willing to pay a premium for power, the Intel Core i7-9700K might be a good deal.
Even though it isn’t the most future-proof option, it is capable of handling most games without breaking a sweat.
The Core i7-9700K is one of the more well-balanced CPUs around.
While the eight cores and eight threads help with multitasking, its manageable base clock speed of 3.6GHz doesn’t make it overkill for the less demanding builds.
Honestly speaking, it can scale its capabilities whenever needed. It comes with overclocking headroom and can ramp up the processing performances.
For Fortnite, played at 1080p ultra, the processor-GPU pair can hit 75 FPS on average. For GTA: V, the frames per second experience remains the same at 75 FPS.
Benchmark levels: PassMark
It is worth noting that while the output might not be as sharp as some of the other processors that I reviewed, its high benchmark score of 14,483, per PassMark rating, makes it more than a gaming-friendly processor.






This i7 processor assumes a moderate TDP level of 95W. And even though the 14nm architecture isn’t the most power-efficient one, it still manages to balance smart energy usage with raw power.
I tested the processor with the Intel 300 series motherboard, courtesy of the LGA 1151 socket compatibility. When it comes to RAM-specific compatibility, this processor can work with most dual-channel DDR4 variants.
The i7-9700K is one of the few processors on the list to offer an integrated graphics unit — UHD 630.
Therefore, even if the RTX 2060 goes bad, you will still have visual output.
Plus, the processor packs several performance-enhancing tools like the Performance Maximizer and the Extreme Tuning Utility functionality, helping you with almost every heavy-duty task.
The Core i7-9700K is good. But if you want some more power and a future-proof CPU, I would recommend picking the Intel Core i7-11700K. Even though it has a higher TDP at 125W, it offers 4MB of additional cache, an integrated UHD 750 graphics unit, and a boosted clock speed potential of 5GHz.
How to Choose a CPU
There is no such thing as the perfect CPU. For every build, there are countless CPUs to choose from.
The key is to find a CPU that is within your budget, won’t bottleneck other components, and meets your personal needs.
If you do a lot of streaming or rendering, you might want to consider stepping up to an option with more cores.
Conversely, if gaming is your sole task, then you can save some money and get something with fewer cores.
If you still need help finding the right CPU for you, check out the article here.
Is the RTX 2060 a Good Graphics Card?
The RTX 2060 is a great choice if you’re looking to get into Ray-tracing at the lowest price possible.
It also makes a great mid-range gaming card and will handle 1080p 100hz+ and 1440p no sweat. If you are looking for 4k, however, the 2080 TI will better suit your needs.
The RTX 2060 is also about 45% more potent than its predecessor, the GTX 1060. If you want to save some money, you could look for a used 1070 ti that would give you the same performance at a fraction of the cost.
For what you’re paying, the RTX 2060 is a great value. It can make a great addition to a current build and is an excellent choice for a brand-new system.
If you’re curious about the lifespan of your GPU, check out our article to learn more about factors affecting the lifespan of your graphics card and tips to extend its life.
Will an i5 Bottleneck an RTX 2060?
Yes, and No. New i5s that include six cores and six threads should not bottleneck 2060.
However, the older i5 processors that have only four cores will most likely result in a bottleneck with the 2060, especially in newer games, because they better leverage multi-core processors.
What’s the bottom line here?
Any eighth-generation Core i5 or newer should not cause a bottleneck, and just about any Ryzen 5 CPU won’t bottleneck either.
Will a Ryzen 5 Bottleneck an RTX 2060?
No, pretty much all of the Ryzen 5 CPUs are great options to pair with the RTX 2060 across the board.
AMD has stepped up to the plate with its Ryzen CPUs, giving Intel a run for its money. It used to be that you could pair any i5 with the latest graphics card and you’d be alright.
Now, it’s the other way around – just about any Ryzen 5 CPU will do, but you have to think twice before choosing an Intel model.
Compare CPUs
If you want to compare different CPUs to help you decide which is best for your 1060, here are some awesome resources for you:
Choosing the right CPU also means ensuring it works well with your cooling setup. For more details on CPU compatibility and cooling options, check out our article on CPU_OPT vs. CPU_FAN connectors for optimal cooling setup.
Those links should help!
Review Summary
- Speeds: 3.7GHz - 4.9GHz
- Cores: 10
- Socket: LGA1700
- TDP: 125W
- Speeds: 3.6GHz - 4.9GHz
- Cores: 8
- Socket: LGA1151
- TDP: 95W