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03Best CPU for CS2 at max settingsBest CPU for CS2 at max settings
If you’re looking for the best CPU for CS2, then you’re in the right place.
With the release date of Counter-Strike 2 , it’s time to enjoy the new and exciting features of the highly anticipated combat game. So you’ll need a CPU like the Intel Core i7 9700k or AMD Ryzen 7 2700X (or better) that meets the recommended Counter Strike 2 system requirements.
That said, we’ve selected the best CPUs based on our expertise and experience running such fairly demanding games. Whether you’re prioritising budget or being able to play at max settings, we’ve got an option for you.
Best CPU for CS2 at a glance
AMD Ryzen 9 7900X
Cores
12
Threads
24
Base speed
4.7GHz
Boost speed
5.6Ghz
Cache
L3 64MB
TDP
170W
Intel Core i9-12900K
Cores
16
Threads
24
Base speed
3.0GHz
Boost speed
5.2GHz
Cache
L3 30MB
TDP
125W
Intel Core i9-13900K
Cores
24
Threads
32
Base speed
3.0GHz
Boost speed
5.8GHz
Cache
L3 36MB
TDP
125W
For those who are prioritising affordability then do not worry, we have included a budget friendly option. However, if you are seeking a cheaper CPU then we’d recommend checking out the best budget CPUs. Alternatively, if you are unsure about upgrading your CPU just yet and think your current one might still have more life, why not give it some affordable TLC with the best budget CPU cooler.
For our fellow CS2 fans, we’re here to make sure you are as ready to enter combat as you can be. Whether it’s filling you in on the best monitors for CS2 or the best laptops for CS2, we’ve got you covered.
Best overall CPU for CS2
AMD Ryzen 9 7900X
Cores
12
Threads
24
Base speed
4.7GHz
Boost speed
5.6Ghz
Cache
L3 64MB
TDP
170W
- Reliable performance
- Higher boost frequencies
- Fast processing speed
- CPU can run hot
The best overall CPU for CS2 has to be the AMD Ryzen 9 7900X. With 12 cores, 24 threads, and a boost speed of 5.6GHz, this CPU delivers the best possible performance when gaming intensively or multitasking between demanding programs.
Even with the base speed of 4.7GHz, you can smoothly run Counter-Strike 2 on your gaming desktop and still have enough processing power for other games or tasks. This CPU is a bit much for running the game, but it’s a good investment if you plan to play more demanding AAA titles and want to experience smooth gameplay.
The only downside we can’t fail to mention is the TDP of 170W, making it a power-hungry CPU that can become hot over extended gaming sessions. It’s nothing that the best CPU cooler can’t fix though. According to WePC’s benchmarks of the AMD Ryzen 9 7900X, the CPU brings an increase of around 23% in performance over the last generation Ryzen 9 5900X.
Best budget CPU for CS2
Intel Core i9-12900K
Cores
16
Threads
24
Base speed
3.0GHz
Boost speed
5.2GHz
Cache
L3 30MB
TDP
125W
- Unlocked and overclockable
- Support for PCle Gen 5 and DDR5
- Significantly cheaper
- High peak temperature
The best budget CPU for CS2 is the Intel Core i9-12900K. You’ll save a decent amount, but you may need a complete upgrade if you have an outdated motherboard, which is not an Intel 600 series or 700 series chipset-based motherboard. If this is the case, take a look at the best motherboard and CPU combinations to ensure that you have a high quality set-up.
But that should be fine if you intend to pair this 12th-generation processor with a compatible Intel motherboard. It comes equipped with 16 cores and 24 threads, divided into Performance-cores and Efficient-cores for next-generation gaming and multitasking.
This CPU has a TDP of 125W, which is quite fair compared to the AMD Ryzen 9 CPU series on our list, saving on power consumption. Thanks to the maximum clock speeds of up to 5.2GHz, you can play Counter-Strike 2 at the highest possible settings and multitask seamlessly.
Best CPU for CS2 at max settings
Intel Core i9-13900K
Cores
24
Threads
32
Base speed
3.0GHz
Boost speed
5.8GHz
Cache
L3 36MB
TDP
125W
- Latest hybrid architecture
- Powerful single and multi-core performance
- High max turbo frequency
- More expensive
The Intel Core i9-13900k is the best CPU for CS2 at max settings because it has 24 cores and 32 threads, allowing you to play games like Counter-Strike 2 and multitask without compromise. It’s an upgrade from 12900K by adding more Efficient-cores for better gaming performance and minimal interruptions from secondary tasks.
This CPU processor records maximum boost speeds of 5.8GHz, making it one of the fastest CPUs on the market today. You can anticipate that it will cost more than its predecessor, 12900K, but it will be a wise choice for running the most taxing AAA titles and programs. It’s no doubt a strong contender for the best CPU for 4K gaming.
It has the same base TDP of 125W as the 12900K. However, the maximum TDP can reach 253W under high stress, meaning your CPU can run very hot. If that’s a sacrifice you’re willing to take for a significant boost in performance under extreme load, it would be a great idea to pair it with a powerful CPU cooler.
Is Counter-Strike 2 GPU or CPU intensive?
Counter-Strike 2 is more CPU-intensive when playing at a higher resolution but GPU-intensive on the highest graphical settings. You need both CPU and GPU capabilities for a better gaming experience. With a decent CPU like an Intel Core i5-2500K or AMD FX-6300 and a GPU like NVIDIA GeForce GTX 660 or AMD Radeon HD 7850, you can play Counter-Strike 2 with no issues as long as you’re pushing it on the lowest settings.
Can you play CS2 with only a CPU?
You can play CS2 with only a CPU because the latest-generation processors have integrated graphics cards, and the game will do well on lower settings. Using only the CPU won’t deliver the optimal gaming experience since you’ll sacrifice the picture quality and frame rates. For a better gaming experience with quick visuals and decent frame rates, we recommend pairing your high-end CPU processor with a superior graphics card to run the game, and other modern AAA titles.
