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If you are looking to get the most out of your processor by overclocking to the highest potential, it can be very challenging to get the best one.
With so many models and generations available, how do we know which one will be the best?
We have taken the time to create a guide for the best CPUs for overclocking in 2024, with both Intel and AMD options to help you get your money’s worth.
We will focus on each brand separately and present the information needed to make the best decision for any budget.
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Best INTEL CPUs For Overclocking
Best AMD CPUs For Overclocking
Best Intel CPUs for Overclocking
Intel is the top dog in the overclocking field compared to AMD when it comes to raw clock speed and general percentage increases from the base clock. This means that in single-threaded applications, like most video games, you can achieve higher overall performance through overclocking.
Remember that the performance boosts you can achieve will rely directly on your cooling capabilities and the CPU’s thermal performance.
While it is unlikely for the average user to employ liquid nitrogen and super cool their CPU to the absolute max, Intel usually has a much steeper performance gain when ramping up than AMD does, making it a great choice for those looking to push their hardware with the most cooling efficiency.
The table below will give you a quick look at the five best Intel CPUs for overclocking currently available on the market. To read the full review, simply click on ‘review>>’ in the respective row.
Product | Image | Rating | |
1. Intel Core i9-13900K ''Best Intel CPU for overclocking in 2024'' |  | 9.9 | |
2. Intel Core i9-12900K ''Best 12th generation Intel CPU for overclocking'' |  | 9.8 | |
3. Intel Core i9-10900K ''Best 10th generation Intel CPU for overclocking'' |  | 9.7 | |
4. Intel Core i9-9900K ''Best 9th generation Intel CPU for overclocking'' |  | 9.6 | |
5. Intel Core i7-8700K ''Best 8th generation Intel CPU for overclocking'' |  | 9.5 |
1. Intel Core i9-13900K
9.0 GHz Record
Architecture: Raptor Lake | Socket: LGA 1700 | Cores: 24 | Threads: 32 | Base Frequency: 2.2 GHz | Max Boost Frequency: 5.8 GHz | TDP: 125 W
REASONS TO BUY
- Current world record holder for max frequency (9 GHz)
- Extremely overclockable (55% over the turbo boost clock)
- Superior single-core performance
- Cheaper than its AMD counterpart
- Efficient cores help with consumption when idle
- Supports the new DDR5 memory
- Great integrated graphics chip
REASONS TO AVOID
- Higher price
- Can reach over 300W consumption during overclocking
- Custom liquid cooling is a must (for overclocking)
Our Rating: 9.9/10
Intel sets the gold standard for overclocking potential with its latest and greatest Core i9-13900K. Considered by many to be the best on the market, this CPU can reach overclocking frequencies that are unrivaled by prior Intel generations or the competition.
The 13th generation i9-13900K processor first hit the public market in September 2022, and not too long after that, it set a new world record by reaching a frequency of 8.8 GHz.
That got the attention of ASUS’ overclocking team, who went all out and managed to overclock the processor to over 9 GHz, a barrier that hasn’t been broken by any other processor yet.
This is an astounding processing speed and is a 55% improvement over the listed maximum turbo frequency of 5.8 GHz. Where this overclocking potential truly stands out is in comparison with the other 13th-generation chips and against its AMD competitor.
When looking at the unlocked i7 chip, the 13700K, overclocking with liquid nitrogen can only bring frequencies up to 7 GHz, which is ‘only’ a 30% increase from max power.
Even when coming from a lower starting frequency, the Intel Core i5-13600K can only reach overclocking speeds up to 25% higher than its maximum frequency.
Compared to a direct competitor, the AMD Ryzen 9 7950X, the AMD flagship model can only reach overclocking speeds up to 7.3 GHz, which is merely a 28% improvement from the maximum frequency guaranteed by the manufacturer.
What makes the i9-13900K so impressive is that it not only has higher base and turbo frequencies, but it proportionally can overclock to higher percentages from max power compared to the lower-end models, which start at lower frequencies.
With great overclocking power, however, comes an essential need for proper cooling. Please take note that to reach the full overclocking potential of this processor, an extreme cooling system will be required.
We strongly encourage investing in a cooling system proportional to your overclocking needs before investing in this unit.
Furthermore, Intel’s 13th generation i9 processor also comes with some impressive base specifications. This unit consists of 24 total cores, including 8 performance cores and 16 efficiency cores, and 32 threads.
This translates into a default TDP of 125W, but this will creep up to 253W, and if you’re overclocking beyond 6 GHz, this processor can easily draw more than 300W, so keep that in mind.
On the other hand, when testing the i9 at idle, we recorded only 70W, meaning it can be tamed to a reasonable usage if needed.
All of these specs are far more advanced than any predecessor and allow for some hefty overclocking potential. The i9 13900K presents both base and overclocking metrics higher than any prior Intel generation.
All things considered, the Intel Core i9-13900K is by far the best CPU for overclocking in 2024. While, as such, it’s perfect for overclockers and the enthusiasts’ crowd, it’s hard to recommend to the regular gamer out there–it’s simply an overkill for gaming.
With that being said, if you want the highest-performing processor that you can really push and have the money and cooling for it, it doesn’t get any better than this.
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2. Intel Core i9-12900K
7.7 GHz Record
Architecture: Alder Lake | Socket: LGA 1700 | Cores: 16 | Threads: 24 | Base Frequency: 2.4 GHz | Max Boost Frequency: 5.2 GHz | TDP: 125 W
REASONS TO BUY
- Much more affordable than the 13900K
- One of the best processors for overclocking to date
- 7.7 GHz record (48% over maximum turbo boost clock)
- Supports PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 memory
- Outstanding single-core performance
- Top-notch gaming performance
REASONS TO AVOID
- Lags behind 13900K for serious overclockers
- Gets hot and is very power-hungry
- Requires expensive cooling and motherboard
Our Rating: 9.8/10
While the 13th generation of Intel chips is a big step above everyone else, the 12th generation, namely the i9-12900k, also offers some serious overclocking potential.
With performance metrics falling not far behind those of the 13th generation, this could be the perfect option for those looking for near-peak Intel performance at a significant discount.
Debuting in September 2021, the Intel 12th generation was a colossal improvement compared to the performance upgrades that accompanied the 11th generation.
As a result, the 12900K processor has the potential to reach overclocking frequencies of up to a whopping 7.7 GHz, which is a 48% improvement over the boost clock listed by the manufacturer.
Where the overclocking potential of this model truly shines is in direct comparison with the latest competition from AMD, the Ryzen 9 7950X.
While having the same number of cores and the AMD unit even having a higher boost clock by 500 MHz, the 12900K can exceed its overclocking potential by 400 MHz and gets greater overall overclocking capability relative to the guaranteed numbers listed by manufacturers.
Another thing to mention is cooling. While you won’t reach anywhere near 7.7 GHz with even an advanced custom loop (professional overclockers use either liquid helium or liquid nitrogen), it’s essential to have a proper cooling system.
This is common knowledge among overclockers, but if you’re just starting out with overclocking, you are at least going to need an AIO cooler and, ideally, a custom liquid cooling system with an open-air PC case.
To cover the base specs, this processor contains 16 total processors, including 8 performance and 8 efficiency cores. The E-cores run at a base frequency of 2.4 GHz and can be boosted to 3.9 GHz, while the P-cores start at 3.2 GHz with a turbo boost of 5.2 GHz.
The default power consumption of this processor is listed by Intel as 125W, with a max turbo power of 241W. Again, expect this to be even higher when you push the envelope.
Lastly, it is compatible with all LGA 1700 motherboards, including the latest 700-series mobos. This means support for DDR5 RAM, PCIe 5.0 slots, and basically, the latest connectivity–You won’t miss out on anything essential by stepping down to a 12th-generation processor.
Overall, the Intel Core i9-12900K is the best processor for overclocking from the 12th generation of Intel processor, with the highest recorded frequency as well as the biggest percentage improvement over its maximum listed frequency.
And if you’re currently looking to purchase a new processor, we highly recommend it over the 13900K due to the much lower price (around 30% less on average). So, if you don’t plan on breaking overclocking records and using liquid helium, make sure to pick up this one and save yourself some money for other parts of your build.
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3. Intel Core i9-10900K
7.5 GHz Record
Architecture: Comet Lake | Socket: LGA 1200 | Cores: 10 | Threads: 20 | Base Frequency: 3.7 GHz | Max Boost Frequency: 5.3 GHz | TDP: 95 W
REASONS TO BUY
- Better performance than the 11900K
- Fantastic gaming performance
- Outstanding overclocking potential
- 7.5 GHz overclocked frequency record (42% over turbo boost clock)
- Excellent single-core performance
- Solid efficiency and low cooling requirement for an i9
REASONS TO AVOID
- Doesn’t support DDR5 RAM
- More expensive than the 12900K
- Weaker multi-core performance
- PCIe 3.0
Our Rating: 9.7/10
The Intel Core i9 10900K of Intel’s acclaimed 10th generation processor line presents us with an intriguing option for those looking for overclocking potential to consider.
On one hand, the base specifications hold up in comparison to newer Intel models shockingly well. However, the pricing is not much of a discount compared to the 12th generation, which is much more overclocking-friendly and a better chip in general.
This presents us with an interesting question of whether or not it is worth going with this unit if an overclocking capability is a primary feature you are considering.
Arriving on the scene as of May 2020, the i9-10900K shines brightly when compared to the later 11th generation and is even on par with the 12th generation in some regards.
This powerful chip comes equipped with 10 total cores and 20 threads with a base clock of 3.7 GHz and a maximum turbo frequency of 5.3 GHz.
Speaking of which, it holds a record for an overclocked frequency of 7.5 GHz, a feat that is 41% over the maximum turbo frequency listed by Intel.
While this 41% achievement may not look very impressive compared to the 48% and 55% marks of the 12th and 13th generations, respectively, this unit still shines in comparison to the competing AMD line.
Even when looking at the latest 2022 Ryzen 9 model, the 7950X, the i9-10900K still has a higher overclocked frequency record by 200 MHz. That’s not by much, but this CPU is over 3 years old and is available at a significantly cheaper price.
Next, taking a look at how this Intel Core i9-10900K stacks up against a 10th-generation i7 chip with regards to overclocking, the i7-10700K can reach a peak frequency of 7 GHz, which is a 40% improvement from its base maximum.
This is a comparable percentage of improvement to the i9 and a peak performance of 500 less MHz, which demonstrates better results for the i9 but not by a wide margin.
In addition, there exists a particularly crucial metric where this makes a massive difference compared to the newer generations: cooling. This unit runs a bit cooler than the newer models, and you’ll be able to overclock this processor to safe 6 GHz with only a standard air cooler.
Obviously, we still recommend getting a proper liquid cooling system if you plan on pushing this chip to its limits, but if you only plan to overclock mildly, a good air cooler with do just fine.
All things considered, the i9-10900K is still an amazing chip with excellent overclocking capabilities. The funny thing is that while it’s an older-gen processor, you will find it at the same price or even more expensive than the 12th-generation i9.
But still, with the 11th generation being such a letdown, the 10900K is the best CPU for overclocking from both the 10th and 11th generation of Intel processors combined.
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4. Intel Core i9-9900K
7.5 GHz Record
Architecture: Coffee Lake | Socket: LGA 1151 | Cores: 8 | Threads: 16 | Base Frequency: 3.6 GHz | Max Boost Frequency: 5.0 GHz | TDP: 95 W
REASONS TO BUY
- Excellent performance for gaming
- One of the most overclocking-friendly processors
- 7.5 GHz maximum frequency record (50% over max turbo boost)
- Modest requirements for cooling
- Solid power efficiency
REASONS TO AVOID
- Pricing is on par with the newest generations
- Doesn’t support DDR5 memory and PCIe 4.0 interface
- Only 8 cores
Our Rating: 9.6/10
Intel’s 9th generation Core i9-9900K processor posts some impressive overclocking metrics for its time and should be considered a quality alternative option for those looking for high overclocking performance from an older processor.
Intel i9 models have certainly seen increases in base power over the years; however, the i9-9900K can still post excellent numbers despite being 5 years old already. Wow, time really flies.
Becoming available for the first time as of October 2018, this was a hot ticket processor for those looking for state-of-the-art overclocking metrics. The i9-9900K comes equipped with 8 cores, 16 threads, a base frequency of 3.6 GHz, along with a max turbo frequency of 5 GHz.
With proper cooling (liquid nitrogen), the 9900K also can reach overclocking frequencies of up to 7.5 GHz, a profound 50% higher than its listed maximum boost clock.
These performance numbers do not lag far behind those of newer generations whatsoever.
As usual, we compared its overclocking potential to other processors to give you a better idea of its overclocking capabilities. And what a better comparison than the Ryzen 9 5950X.
While the 5950X is over 2 years newer and generally a more well-rounder CPU than the 9900K, the Intel unit still outclasses the Ryzen with regards to overclocking performance and the frequencies it can reach.
Next, with regards to peak overclocking performance, the Intel 9900K can reach a frequency of up to 1.15 GHz higher than the AMD 5950X. Again, newer AMD processors are known for multi-core performance and not so much overclocking potential, but 1.15 GHz is still a big gap.
While this is a massive difference between these Intel and AMD models, the differences in overclocking metrics between Intel’s i9 processor and the i7 and i5 processors from are not nearly as stark.
The i7-9700K is capable of reaching a maximum frequency of merely 200 MHz behind those of the i9 with a 7.3 GHz record, and the i5 9600K lags behind by 800 MHz. Both of these processors are beating the 5950X.
As we already mentioned, these insane numbers were recorded by the most extreme overclockers using extreme cooling, and while it’s impossible to come anywhere near these numbers even with premium liquid cooling systems, it indicates how overclocking-friendly the 9th generation is.
Overall, despite being an older chip, the Intel Core i9-9900K is still one of the absolute best CPUs for overclocking available on the market, as it delivers a 50% increase over its maximum turbo frequency, only 5% behind the 13900K.
And with the i7 and i5 also being very overclocking-friendly, you can’t really go wrong with the 9th generation of Intel processors as an overclocker.
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5. Intel Core i7-8700K
7.4 GHz Record
Architecture: Coffee Lake | Socket: LGA 1151 | Cores: 6 | Threads: 12 | Base Frequency: 3.7 GHz | Max Boost Frequency: 4.7 GHz | TDP: 95 W
REASONS TO BUY
- Extremely overclocking-friendly processor
- 7.4 GHz record (57% increase over the max turbo boost)
- Excellent gaming performance (and other single-core applications)
- Affordable price tag
- Power-efficient with fewer core count
- Easy to cool
REASONS TO AVOID
- Gets blown out of the water for multitasking applications (by newer CPUs)
- Doesn’t support DDR5 memory or PCIe 4.0 interface
- Older chip
Our Rating: 9.5/10
An ‘oldie’ but ‘goodie’ perhaps? When it comes to overclocking, it is undoubtedly the case. Shockingly, this 8th generation Intel Core i7-8700K has an argument for the best value Intel overclocking processor on our list.
This is particularly surprising considering we are now onto the 13th generation already. This could be even more surprising if there was an i9 chip, but the i7-8700K is the highest of the 8th generation. There is no 8900K chip.
The Intel Core i7-8700K Desktop Processor first became available for purchase in October 2017. There is a reason why a processor from all the way back in 2017 is featured on our list. For a processor that is over 6 years old, it has incredible overclocking metrics.
This little beast has overclocked frequencies recorded as high as 7.4 GHz, an incomparable 57% over the listed base maximum turbo. Having only 6 total cores and 12 threads, along with a maximum turbo frequency of 4.70 GHz, we are truly blown away by this overclocking data.
To further drive the point of this powerful i7’s overclocking potential, let us observe its peak performance metrics to a comparable processor in the AMD Ryzen 7 2700X. This Ryzen model is a year newer yet can only reach overclocking frequencies of 6 GHz, a full 1.4 Ghz less than the Intel i7-8700K.
Moreover, the i7-8700K looks even better when compared to more modern Intel models. When we look at peak recorded overclocking frequencies from the i9-9900K and the i9-10900K, this i7 soldier is only 100 MHz behind.
In addition to that, it is less prone to overheating than the most powerful chips. However, we will stress once more that it is good practice to always provide ample cooling when overclocking any processor.
What you put into your cooling system is directly correlated with what you get out of overclocking your processor. With this being said, this processor requires the least intensive cooling system of any of our other Intel options to safely overclock.
Overall, this chip is both a very underrated and good-performing option. If you’re looking for an older processor for overclocking to save money, you may have just struck gold with the Intel Core i7-8700K.
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Best AMD CPUs for Overclocking
While AMD is a great option for heavy workloads, given their high thread counts and relatively cheaper cost compared to Intel, they don’t overclock quite as well as Intel chips.
Generally, while having a higher thread count, AMD can match or exceed Intel’s performance by providing less single-core power in favor of more cores and threads carrying the load.
While this makes for the ultimate experience in multi-threaded applications, it can mean lesser performance for single-threaded applications, like most video games are.
So, while the percentage of individual core power increase is less than Intel, AMD will prevail with professional workloads or server loads that utilize multi-threaded applications by processing more information at one time.
The table below will give you a quick look at the five best AMD CPUs for overclocking currently available on the market. To read the full review, simply click on ‘review>>’ in the respective row.
Product | Image | Rating | |
1. AMD Ryzen 9 7950X ''Best AMD CPU for overclocking in 2024'' |  | 9.9 | |
2. AMD Ryzen 9 5950X ''Best 5000-series CPU for overclocking'' |  | 9.8 | |
3. AMD Ryzen 5 3600 ''Best 3000-series CPU for overclocking'' |  | 9.7 | |
4. AMD Ryzen 7 2700X ''Best 2000-series CPU for overclocking'' |  | 9.6 | |
5. AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2950X ''Best Threadripper CPU for overclocking'' |  | 9.5 |
1. AMD Ryzen 9 7950X
7.3 GHz Record
Architecture: Zen 4 | Socket: AM5 | Cores: 16 | Threads: 32 | Base Frequency: 4.5 GHz | Max Boost Frequency: 5.7 GHz | TDP: 170 W
REASONS TO BUY
- Best Ryzen CPU available on the market
- Superior multi-core performance
- Excellent gaming performance
- Highest frequency record of 7.3 GHz out of any Ryzen processor
- More affordable launching price than its predecessor
- Supports DDR5 and PCIe 5.0
REASONS TO AVOID
- Power-hungry even at base clock speeds
- Not as overclocking-friendly as Intel chips
- The max overclocked frequency is only 28% higher than the one listed by the manufacturer
Our Rating: 9.9/10
For those that don’t know, the AMD Ryzen 9 7950X is AMD’s flagship CPU that crushes all previous chips thanks to the new Zen 4 architecture and increased single and multi-core performance.
And while it’s an absolute beast for all but the most demanding applications and can be overclocked to the highest frequency out of any modern AMD processor, it’s not nearly as overclockable as AMD chips once were.
Compared to the competition from Intel, and even when lined up against overclocking boosts found in older AMD models (most notably the AMD FX-8000 line-up), this processor leaves a lot to be desired with regard to overclocking data.
This AMD 7950X was just released somewhat recently, being available for purchase only since September 2022, and the base specifications of this CPU are excellent.
It has a base clock speed of 4.5 GHz and a boost clock frequency of 5.7 GHz on all 16 cores and 32 threads–This is a massive improvement over the rest of the line-up.
While the i9-13900K is still ahead, you can expect peak performance from this chip with no overclock needed.
But when comparing it to the 13900K in regards to overclocking, this processor stands no chance with a frequency record of 1.7 GHz behind Intel’s 13900K. But even then, the 7.3 GHz record overclocking ceiling of this processor is nothing to scoff at.
However, it looks particularly underwhelming when comparing it to its max boost clock frequency of 5.7 GHz, rendering this record as only a 28% improvement–The lowest percentage increase on this list.
Although this may seem like a rough start and likely comes as a disappointment to those looking for large increases from overclocking, with 32 threads processing more data at once, it can still rival the performance of its Intel counterpart in multi-threaded applications and heavy workloads, thus still a contender for the best processor of 2024.
We stand by our cooling advice from modern Intel i9 processors for this AMD unit as well. It is essential to invest in a high-end cooling system when overclocking this unit, even with its total overclocking potential capped much lower than the previously described Intel processors.
Overall, the AMD Ryzen 9 7950X provides excellent performance for users of all varieties, ranging from hardcore gamers to everyday users, content creators, and everyone in between.
And even though the 7.3 GHz world record is the highest out of any modern AMD processor, this processor is lacking in a proper overclocking capability, with Intel processors upwards of 5 years older still outclassing it in this regard.
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2. AMD Ryzen 9 5950X
6.4 GHz Record
Architecture: Zen 3 | Socket: AM4 | Cores: 16 | Threads: 32 | Base Frequency: 3.4 GHz | Max Boost Frequency: 4.9 GHz | TDP: 105 W
REASONS TO BUY
- Exceptional multi-core performance
- Excellent gaming performance
- Highest overclocked frequency out of the 5000-series (6.4 GHz)
- Low TDP for a 16-core CPU
- Beats intel in multi-threaded applications
REASONS TO AVOID
- Dominated by Intel for overclocking
- Worse overclocking potential and overall performance than the 7950X at the same price
- 6.4 GHz overclock record is nothing to write home about
Our Rating: 9.8/10
Acclaimed by AMD as “the best processor for gamers meets the best processor for creators” upon release in November 2020, the Ryzen 5 5950X is the top offering from the Ryzen 5000-series of CPUs and provides strong performance for both gaming and professional workloads.
Both the utilization of its massive thread count and having a respectable overclock range make this CPU a good choice for a high-end system carrying any type of load while also not going overboard and breaking the bank on one of the Threadripper CPUs.
When it comes to overclocking, the Ryzen 9 5950X has reached heights of 6.35 GHz. Even though this is nearly a full GHz less than the R9 7950X processor, proportionally, this is still a higher percentage improvement from its boost frequency.
With a base clock speed of 3.4 GHz and a boost clock of 4.9 GHz, we find this overclocking potential to be modest, however, more impressive than that of the 7950X.
Where this processor truly shines in contrast to its competition is its core and thread count, thus excellent multitasking performance. The 5950X comes with an impressive 16 total cores and 32 threads, making short work of any multi-threaded application.
Moreover, these metrics are especially high when compared to the 10th-generation Intel processors, a direct competitor of this chip. The Intel 10900K comes equipped with only 10 cores and 20 threads, which is why this CPU was such a hit at the time of its release.
So while the overclocking potential isn’t as big when compared to the Intel chips (the 30% increase is still the highest out of any 5000-series chip), this processor shines in multi-threaded applications and offers the best multitasking performance along with its successor, the 7950X.
As with all the chips on this list, make sure to have a well-ventilated case and a strong cooling system in place if you plan on overclocking.
Overall, the clear choice here is Intel if overclocking is the priority. If you’re set on an AMD chip, we still can’t recommend this one–It’s currently the same price as the 7950X with a full GHz less peak frequency and overall worse performance. Only buy this one on sale.
3. AMD Ryzen 5 3600
6.4 GHz Record
Architecture: Zen 2 | Socket: AM4 | Cores: 6 | Threads: 12 | Base Frequency: 3.6 GHz | Max Boost Frequency: 4.2 GHz | TDP: 65 W
REASONS TO BUY
- Affordable price
- Best for overclockers on a budget
- Great gaming performance
- Its max recorded frequency (6.4 GHz) is a 52% increase over the max boost clock
- Power-efficient
- Compatible with a wide range of AM4 motherboards
- Ships with a cooler
REASONS TO AVOID
- Lacks raw processing power
- Outperformed by Intel at the same price point
- No integrated graphics
- Older model
Our Rating: 9.7/10
Relative to cost and base performance, the Ryzen 5 3600 is likely the best option you have on the AMD side for overclocking, but not for overall performance.
While it is by no means the top-of-the-line processor, you can be sure your money will go the furthest and get the biggest jump from base clock frequencies available from AMD.
The Ryzen 5 3600 is a far more budget-friendly CPU with a much cheaper price tag than its fellow Ryzen 9 & 7 model companions. Yet somehow, it has the potential to overclock better than any of them.
The price point of this Ryzen 5 is even comparable to many Ryzen 3 models. We cannot stress enough that this AMD 3600 processor is truly where value meets peak overclocking capabilities.
First hitting the market in July 2019, this Ryzen’s ability to overclock has undoubtedly withstood the test of time. This processor can reach overclock frequencies of up to 6.4 GHz, an amazing 52% increase from its base power.
To further put this into perspective, it can reach these heights coming from a base frequency of 3.6 GHz and a boost frequency of 4.2 GHz. This is a substantial increase, especially for a more budget processor option.
While the base numbers aren’t particularly exciting, the overclocking potential is truly where the magic happens for the Ryzen 5 3600.
With proper overclocking, this budget unit can reach frequencies that exceed the boost clock speeds of the latest and most top-of-the-line processor options on the market.
The AMD 5 3600 has been recorded getting up to speeds over 500 MHz greater than the boost clock speeds of the 13th generation Intel processors and the acclaimed Ryzen 9 7950X.
By being able to push itself so far, the value of this unique CPU is brought up tremendously. While temperature is a factor to consider here, it is nowhere near the issue we see more commonly with higher-end AMD & Intel processing when overclocking.
Overall, keeping this unit cool is much more manageable in comparison. Even a basic AIO should be enough to push it quite a bit further than base speeds with overclocking. With a more expensive custom cooling system, you will see even further performance increases.
Next, we must point out that while this AMD processor indeed has impressive overclocking, especially for its price and base power levels, it is a budget option for a reason.
Its base specifications do not hold up to higher-end Ryzen models and especially fall short when compared to Intel processors from the same time period.
In short, we may have just stumbled upon the best budget processor for overclocking here. The AMD Ryzen 5 3600 has stolen the show when it comes to the most overclocking at the lowest price point. While it’s not the best-performing CPU out there, you’ll have a lot of fun trying to push this chip to the limit.
- RELATED READING: How Much Extra FPS Can You Get From Overclocking?
4. AMD Ryzen 7 2700X
6.0 GHz Record
Architecture: Zen+ | Socket: AM4 | Cores: 8 | Threads: 16 | Base Frequency: 3.7 GHz | Max Boost Frequency: 4.3 GHz | TDP: 105 W
REASONS TO BUY
- Very affordable price for a Ryzen 7
- Excellent performance for gaming
- Great chip for overclocking (40% frequency increase over max boost clock)
- 6 GHz frequency record
- Fairly power-efficient
- Easy to cool
- Ships with a stock cooler
REASONS TO AVOID
- No DDR5 or PCIe 4.0 support
- Low overclocking peak for a Ryzen 7
- Older chip
- Worse overclocking performance than its Intel counterpart
Our Rating: 9.6/10
This humble CPU is a solid budget choice for any overclocker looking to stretch their money as far as possible. With a quality overclock potential and decent default specs, the AMD Ryzen 7 2700X is an easy choice to add incredible value to a mid-tier build and to get much more for your money than other similarly priced options.
First hitting the market back in April 2018, we grade this processor probably about where you would think based on the introduction; it is a mid-level option.
This octa-core processor has overclocking potential that is admittedly outdone by the shocker value monster in the Ryzen 5 3600; however, its overclocking performance is comparably more impressive when looking at the performance increases offered by the higher end Ryzen 5950X and 7950X models.
With a lower count of cores and threads, containing only 8 and 16, respectively, and having only a default 4.3 GHz boost clock, you may not think a whole lot of this package based on those base metrics alone.
However, with a record set of 6 GHz max overclocks, which is a 40% increase from its base clock, the Ryzen 7 2700X is an excellent processor for users who want to have some fun and push their system to its limits.
Sure, it may not be the shocking overclock improvement of 52% offered by the Ryzen 3600, but it outdoes the 28% and 30% improvements we observe from the more modern and expensive AMD 7950X and 5950X units.
While perhaps not reaching the ceiling of the 5 3600, this AMD 7 2700X can still rival the boost clock speeds of the highest-performing processors on the market via overclocking.
To our delight, the 2700X generally does a very good job of staying cool. You’ll be able to keep it cool at the base and boost speeds with the included cooler.
Of course, if you plan on pushing this CPU to the limit, an extensive water cooling system is a necessity.
Lastly, if you’re thinking about buying this one and are worried about the processor being old, don’t worry. The 2000 series of CPUs is still viable for today’s standard, including high-end gaming and professional workloads.
The best part is that you’ll be able to find both the CPU and a suitable motherboard for it often at a discounted price.
In summary, there is enough going on with this processor for us to determine that it provides good value at the price. The 6 GHz record doesn’t sound too appealing for seasoned overclockers, but if you’re just starting out, the Ryzen 7 2700X is a great option.
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5. AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2950X
5.8 GHz Record
Architecture: Zen+ | Socket: sTR4 | Cores: 16 | Threads: 32 | Base Frequency: 3.5 GHz | Max Boost Frequency: 4.4 GHz | TDP: 180 W
REASONS TO BUY
- Great overall performance
- One of the more affordable Threadrippers
- Great overclocking capability
- Excellent multi-core performance
- Great improvement over the previous generation
REASONS TO AVOID
- Older chip
- Blown out of the water by newer Threadrippers
- A 5.8 GHz record is a bit disappointing
- Poor single-core performance
- Power hungry
Our Rating: 9.5/10
For those that aren’t familiar, Threadripper CPUs are the best workstation processors on the market, followed by the X-series Intel processors. And while they offer superior raw processing power to any other CPU line, they’re also very expensive.
They also aren’t the best for overclocking with low peak frequencies and lower increases over the max boost clocks.
But if you decided on a Threadripper, the 2950X offers the best overclocking potential at a decent price point, thanks to its age.
The 2950X is still a high-performance processor with 16 cores and 32 processing threads, designed for enthusiasts and professionals who demand the most from their computing power, including overclocking capabilities.
With the 2nd Gen Ryzen technology advancements, this processor is equipped with features that enable automatic overclocking, making it a great option for users who are new to overclocking.
When we say that this processor is meant for only the highest-end systems, we are not kidding. The retail price point of this processor is over double that of any other that we have reviewed.
First released in August 2018, this powerhouse has withstood the test of time and has remained a very coveted option for high-end processing.
With a recorded maximum of a 32% increase over the base clock, which gets up to 5.8 GHz, you can certainly push it far past the default performance, resulting in an even greater return from an already very powerful chip.
Consequently, the default performance of the Threadripper gives us a frequency of 4.4 GHz, with a large 40 MB cache and 16 cores running 32 threads.
These are exceptional specifications for large workloads, server loads, and any multi-threaded applications.
While the individual cores may not be as powerful as some of Intel’s greatest chips, the large number of threads makes up for this by processing more information at one time at a slightly slower rate.
Now, when it comes to actually sustaining an overclock, the 2950X has a 180W TDP, which is relatively high for a desktop processor.
As a result, it is important to use an adequate cooling system to prevent overheating even at the base clock, meaning if you plan to overclock this beast, you will need a very high-end cooling system to support it.
Once again, without fail, an ongoing major theme of this article is to prioritize cooling when it comes to overclocking at any level, but most especially when overclocking at the highest levels.
Overall, the AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2950X is a high-performance desktop processor that offers excellent overclocking capabilities. With its 16 cores and 32 processing threads, 4.4 GHz Max Boost Frequency, and automatic overclocking via PBO, it is an excellent choice for enthusiasts and professionals who demand the most from their computing systems.
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Final Words
There you have it; these are the 10 best CPUs for overclocking you’ll be able to find on the market in 2024.
If you found this article helpful, make sure to share it with your friends on your favorite social media.
Besides that, if you have any additional questions or are still not sure which processor is best for your needs, feel free to reach out to us, and we’ll be more than happy to help you out.
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