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7 Best CPU For Warzone According To Game Nerds [2022]
When you press the power button and load up Warzone for a new match, gaming performance is everything.
It allows for smooth shots, better aim, and more wins overall (as well as the high kill count you’ve always wanted).
But how do you get the best performance, and isn’t it all about the graphics card?
What you need is a gaming CPU that is able to cope with and meet those Warzone benchmarks.
Lucky for you, we have an entire guide dedicated to it right here – giving you access to all the gaming CPUs you could want.
While the best CPU for Warzone is definitely the INTEL Core i5-2500K, every model in this guide has something fantastic to offer.
Whether you need a budget CPU that is still able to rock out those high frames or you’re seeking something for competitive settings, it’s all here, ready, and we have tested every single one ourselves just for you.
The best gaming processors are ready, but are you?
Recommended by the developer, this is one of the best processors you will come across. It’s exceptionally fast, the overclocking is beastly (as long as you have a very good cooling system), and it is capable of running powerful modern games like Warzone. With an excellent core count, it meets more than the minimum specifications for CoD’s “Battle Royale”, so you’re in good hands.
Specs
Cores: 4
Thread: 4
Clock Speed: 3.7 GHz
Socket: LGA1155
Pros
Quad-core for fast processing and excelling running
Overclocking capabilities so you can push it further than ever
Combines with a whole host of GPUs effortlessly
Quiet running for peace of mind while playing
Capable of clocking an impressive 4.5GHZ
Cons
Needs a water cooling unit installed for overclocking, or it will conk out
Quiet running is something else that this model is able to boast, giving you the ability to enjoy those important gaming moments without loads of noise coming from your case.
It’s a model that doesn’t fail to deliver, with no signs of bottlenecking even at high speeds. Did I mention that installing it in your PC is a fairly simple task as well?
Certainly one of the easiest I’ve had.
We are aware that this is a pretty pricey CPU, and the good news is there is a cheaper option available. The Intel i3-7100 further down makes the perfect budget alternative.
Here’s a little look at what the Intel Core i5-2500K is like in action. In the video below, it has been combined with an RTX 2060 graphics card. Just look at those incredible Intel UHD graphics.
What we really love about this model is how smooth everything runs when you have this CPU installed. In fact, I frequently use AMD CPUs in my personal builds because they offer such impressive speeds and functionality. For this model, the six cores and 12 threads will ensure exceptional frames as well as some of the crispest gameplay you’re likely to experience.
Specs
Cores: 6
Thread: 12
Clock Speed: 4 GHz
Socket: AM4
Pros
Incredible clock speeds and brilliant overclocking capabilities
Six-core system that will leave you with intense gameplay
High FPs, especially when combined with a good GPU
Ideal for competitive settings
Runs cool in its standard mode to give you less to worry about
Works brilliantly with the GPU to ensure it’s not being overused
Cons
Be warned that it doesn’t come with a stock heatsink fan
The clock speed is another remarkable feature, and its base is actually faster than the Intel i5-2500K above.
Overclocking is easy to achieve as well, but you are going to make sure you buy and install a good cooling system, as nothing is included with this CPU.
However, when running normally we were incredibly impressed with how cool it is, and you will be too.
Once again, this can be a pretty expensive model to invest in (even though it’s worth it).
If you’re searching for a budget model, one of the best gaming CPUs comes in the form of the AMD Ryzen 3700X a little further down. This is also one of the best CPUs for Minecraft too.
Being able to enjoy AAA games on a budget is something we all deserve, and a cheap CPU doesn’t mean it’s going to be a bad one. Intel really did a stellar job with this one, and it offers fantastic speeds and smooth frames considering the low price. The best part is that you won’t find Warzone overloading it either, especially when you have it working with your GPU.
Specs
Cores: 2
Thread: 4
Clock Speed: 3.9 GHz
Socket: LGA1151
Pros
Offers incredible value for money in terms of functionality
Great speeds for a budget processor
Even comes with the fan you’ll need for the cooling process
Works nicely with 8GB GPUs
Provides smooth and reliable frames while playing Warzone
Cons
You’ll get better results from a quad-core CPU, but it’s still better than single core performance and meets the minimum specifications
It comes with a fan as well, which means you’ll be able to keep it cool easily. There are no overclocking features here, but you don’t really need them, and you’ll still hit a good 60 FPS consistently.
Honestly, the functionality is great, and I also found that installation was fairly quick, which is always appreciated and means you can get on with gaming much faster.
It’s a great budget pick, but not the best gaming CPU at an affordable price. If you’re looking for a bit of an upgrade without breaking the bank, we recommend taking a look at the AMD Ryzen 5 3600 below. Or read my article on the bestselling processors under $300.
Honestly, the power this thing provides is unprecedented. You’ll see reviews joking about amassing enough of these to build a time machine, and they aren’t far off the truth. When you consider the price, you’re getting a serious bargain, and I love how crisp and clean gameplay is when using this CPU. Combined with the right GPU, you’ll create an unstoppable machine.
Specs
Cores: 6
Thread: 12
Clock Speed: 4.2 GHz
Socket: AM4
Pros
Has an impressive thread and core count for very smooth operation
Offers excellent speeds and overclocking capabilities
Runs beautifully even in the highest settings without causing lag issues
Combines nicely with graphics cards to avoid overloading
Exceptional value for money when you consider the sheer power it has
Cons
The cooling system it comes with could definitely be better
Offering six cores, the processing power is just chef’s kiss, and you have the option to overclock it as well if you want to really boost its capabilities.
Installation was fantastic as well, and it was recognized pretty much immediately, which meant I could get down to completing a few Warzone matches.
A gaming CPU unlike any other? This model is certainly up there. However, you should definitely take a moment to look at the AMD Ryzen 3700X as a solid alternative for excellent gaming performance.
What you’re getting here is one of the best CPUs that Intel has ever developed, and it is more than compatible with a whole host of graphics cards to give you plenty of versatility. The performance is exceptional, offering smooth and crisp gameplay that gives you one of the most incredible gaming experiences of your life. Check the scope on your sniper, you’ll see.
Specs
Cores: 10
Thread: 20
Clock Speed: 3.7 GHz
Socket: LGA1200
Pros
10 cores and 20 threads? Sign us up
Performance unlike anything you’ve experienced
Easy overclocking and smooth running with high FPS
The overclocking provides you with fantastic tuning flexibility
Hyper-threading technology that allows for seamless multitasking
Cons
It needs an advanced cooling system, otherwise it definitely can’t overclock
Hyper-threading technology means that you get seamless multitasking, giving you the freedom to stream, play, and work as you see fit.
You can also access overclocking effortlessly, and this actually gives you full tuning flexibility so that you can customize your gaming experience.
Not to mention you can unlock speeds of up to 5.3 GHz which is impressive in itself.
We know that this is a pretty expensive model, but it’s worth every penny. However, our top pick in the form of the INTEL i5-2500K is highly recommended and much more affordable as well as the best gaming CPU for Warzone.
Take a deep breath when you load up because this processor offers eight cores and 16 threads, giving you more than enough power to get consistently high frames when you’re playing games like Warzone and maintain them. The speeds will leave you on the edge of your seat as you prep yourself to make that perfect headshot (and succeed in doing so).
Specs
Cores: 8
Thread: 16
Clock Speed: 3.8 GHz
Socket: LGA1200
Pros
You get a lot of bang for your buck with 8 cores and 16 threads
Impressive speeds that only increase for smooth gameplay
Overclocking controls that allow you full access to fine-tuning
Hyper-threading technology that makes multitasking easier than ever
Ideal for competitive gaming and content creation alike
Cons
If you’re going to overclock, you’re going to need a very good cooling system
Just make sure you have a good cooling system in place. Hyper-threading also means you can multitask with ease – ideal for all the streamers out there.
Installation?
It was quick and simple, which means you can get to the fun stuff in no time at all.
Love this but looking for a little more power?
The best CPU for that task, or one of them, can be found in the form of the Intel i9-10900K above.
An excellent model from AMD, you are sure to find some serious smooth frames and a crisp display that leaves you fully immersed in the gameplay. The frame rates are also sure to remain consistently high, hitting a good 90 FPS or higher with a nice GPU, and not dropping below 60. Not to mention, the RGB lights add a little pizzazz to your setup and really bring it to life.
Specs
Cores: 8
Thread: 16
Clock Speed: 4.4 GHz
Socket: AM4
Pros
Brilliant power and capability through the 8 cores and 16 threads
RGB lighting because who doesn’t want their build to look good?
Massive memory included - improving gaming performance
Naturally cool and quiet to keep operation as smooth as possible
Overclocking capabilities so that you can take full control of your gaming experience
Cons
If you want to remove the stock fan, it’s much fiddlier than many other CPUs
The massive included memory will also help to improve game performance, and we found that it really did help keep things running without staggering or lag.
If you want to try out the overclocking to really customize your experience, you’re likely to need a very good cooling system, but in its standard running mode, it is both naturally cool and quiet – perfect.
While this model does boast excellent gaming performance, there are aspects in which the Intel i7-10700K above certainly outshines it, so it’s worth checking both out.
Features to look for when buying a CPU for Call Of Duty Warzone
Pretty nice CPUs, right?
Yeah, we think so too. The thing is, buying a CPU is a pretty major decision, and you want to make sure you’re picking up the right one.
These are some of the questions you should be asking yourself before you click that Buy it Now button.
First things first, when you’re buying a CPU you should never buy it for just one game.
Sure, Warzone is the central focus of the purchase, but you also need to consider future games that are equally, or more, resource-intensive that you want your CPU to be able to handle.
Warzone ideally needs a quad-core or a six-core CPU for the best results.
A dual-core processor can handle the game quite well, but the improved models are definitely a better choice when you are also considering other high-powered games that you enjoy.
A higher clock speed per core is better, and this is a specification you need to keep an eye out for.
Our gaming setup is pretty nice!
This is because it references the number of cycles a CPU can execute in a second – an essential feature that ensures your PC is going to keep running smoothly.
Additional Features
Integrated graphics are commonly found in CPUs developed by companies such as Intel, and they can be pretty handy if you’re having trouble with your GPU, or you’re a dedicated streamer.
It can make resource use more balanced across your system, and many people choose integrated graphics for this reason.
Overclocking is also something to consider. If you want to overclock the system, having the ability to do so in a stable manner can be very useful.
You can only safely overclock a CPU that has been designed for it, and you will need a motherboard that supports it as well as an excellent cooling system.
Is Call of Duty Warzone resource-intensive?
Yes, Warzone is definitely a resource-intensive game. It takes a lot, and it’s powerful, which means you need to ensure your setup is able to cope.
In fact, Activision has several recommended builds that are worth looking at.
Build One
Minimum Specifications
OS*
Windows 10 64-bit (v.1709 or higher)
CPU
Intel Core i3-4340 or AMD FX-6300
RAM
8GB RAM
HDD
175GB HD space
Video
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 670 / GeForce GTX 1650 or Radeon HD 7950
DirectX
Requires DirectX 12 compatible system
Network
Broadband Internet connection
Sound Card
DirectX Compatible
Build Two
Recommended Specifications
OS*
Windows 10 64-bit latest update
CPU
Intel Core i5-2500K or AMD Ryzen R5 1600X processor
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1080 / RTX 2070 SUPER or Radeon RX Vega64 Graphics
DirectX
Requires DirectX 12 compatible system
Network
Broadband Internet connection
Sound Card
DirectX Compatible
Build Four
Ultra RTX Specifications
OS*
Windows 10 64-bit latest update
CPU
Intel i7-9700K or AMD Ryzen 2700X
RAM
16GB RAM
HDD
175GB HD space
Video
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 SUPER
DirectX
Version 11.0 compatible video card or equivalent
Network
Broadband Internet connection
Sound Card
DirectX Compatible
Is it better to spend more money on CPU or on GPU when it comes to playing Warzone?
Both components are very important, especially as an older CPU is going to end up with 100% usage thanks to Warzone, which can cause stuttering in the game.
A CPU and a GPU that are capable of keeping up with the game is essential, but the GPU is the one you should spend more money on and upgrade first.
Even in terms of general gaming, the GPU is the one that you want to upgrade first. This is because a graphics card dictates the quality of the gameplay, and even a CPU intensive game needs a gaming rig that supports solid graphics.
Since you need to ensure you have a great pairing, we’re here to help make things easier with a very quick look at the best GPU to match each of our chosen CPUs.
After all, the graphics card plays a vital role in how your games run.
CPU
GPU
INTEL Core i5-2500K
AMD RX570
AMD Ryzen 5 1600X
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3090
Intel Core i3-7100
Nvidia GTX1060
AMD Ryzen 5 3600
Nvidia GeForce GTX 1070
Intel Core i9-10900K
EVGA GeForce RTX 2080
Intel Core i7-10700K
AMD RX 5700
AMD Ryzen 3700X
ASUS ROG STRIX GeForce RTX 2080Ti
What’s a good FPS that you can achieve playing Call Of Duty Warzone?
Ideally, you are going to want to hit and maintain 60 FPS while playing Warzone.
This is considered a good base level, but a higher FPS will result in smoother movement and a more enjoyable experience overall. To get this, you’re going to need a good CPU and GPU combo.
As a result, rigging your setup to hit 90 or even 120 FPS without causing lag or running issues is what you want to aim for.
With the CPUs in this guide, especially our top recommendations, it is very possible to achieve those higher frame rates.
Trust me, when you hit 90 FPS in Warzone you’ll be downing everyone in your path.
You may have heard about the legendary 240 FPS and are wondering how to get your PC to run it.
Well, you’re going to need an insanely powerful CPU and GPU combo, you’re likely to have to overclock the CPU, (you may be wondering if overclocking reduce CPU lifespan?) and you’ll need a monitor that can actually keep up.
Our advice?
Stick to aiming for 90-120 FPS.
And do check out this cool infographic showcasing the history of “Call Of Duty”:
What other PC components are important for playing Call of Duty Warzone?
The CPU is a pretty essential aspect of your build if you want to make the most out of Warzone, but it’s not the only one.
Here’s a quick look at the other components that are important for playing CoD’s battle royale:
GPU
HDD (but we recommend going with an SSD)
RAM (16GB and higher is what we suggest)
Fans and cooling system
Motherboard (especially if you want to overclock)
Monitor that can cope with high frame rates
FAQs
Is Higher FPS Better for Warzone?
Absolutely, a higher FPS is better for Warzone. This is because the system latency is reduced when the FPS is higher, meaning that your actions in the game, as well as your current condition (dead, alive, running from that fourth grenade), are displayed on your monitor faster. Lower latency means faster reaction times and input, exactly what you need for Warzone.
Does Warzone Depend on CPU?
No, Warzone does not depend on CPU. Even with a dual-core system, you can push an easy 80 FPS – you just need to ensure you have a good GPU that can handle the frames and help balance the processing power required for the game.
How Do I Reduce CPU Usage in Warzone?
Sometimes, users have needed to reduce the CPU usage in Warzone because it can be a resource-intensive game. However, this is really simple to do and there are a few things you can try out: – Update GPU – Check for game updates – Close background programs – Delete temp files – Increase VRAM – Disable fullscreen optimizations – Change priority level – Lower graphics settings for Warzone In addition, you can check out our popular article on how to decrease RAM usage in games.
Final Verdict
Your search for the best CPU for Warzone is finally over, and you have some fantastic options to consider, as well as a detailed guide that is sure to help answer any questions or concerns you have. Once your chosen model is installed, you’ll be having the time of your life in no time.
But which CPU stood out above the rest? Honestly, it’s the INTEL Core i5-2500K Processor.
Top Choice
10/10Our Score
Recommended by the developer, this is one of the best processors you will come across. It’s exceptionally fast, the overclocking is beastly (as long as you have a very good cooling system), and it is capable of running powerful modern games like Warzone. With an excellent core count, it meets more than the minimum specifications for CoD’s “Battle Royale”, so you’re in good hands.
Specs
Cores: 4
Thread: 4
Clock Speed: 3.7 GHz
Socket: LGA1155
It’s fast, impressive, and comes recommended by the developers as the model you need for smooth running. It certainly stands out to us – even though each model here is incredible.
What did you think of our Warzone CPU guide? Did you find the perfect model for that god-tier PC? Make sure you leave us a comment, we’d love to hear more about your ideal Warzone build.
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