What’s better than an intense race against your friends and others to get a single micro-second lead? Only F1 fans would understand. What makes this better is being immersed in the serene graphical and audio details of the car, track, and background visuals, which take the experience to the next level.
However, to get that experience, the game must run at a high resolution while delivering a stable framerate, and for that, you need the right components, namely, the CPU and GPU. That said, it’s understandable if you don’t know which CPU to get your hands on for F1 24, as there are a plethora of options available, and that can get confusing as fast as Formula 1 cars accelerate.
To that end, we’ve put together this guide that lists different CPU options for you to choose from, along with their details, reviews, and pros and cons so you can make an informed decision and invest your money wisely.
- Best CPU for F1 24 overall
Intel Core i5-13600K
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Best high-end CPU for F1 24AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D
- Cores: 8
- Threads: 16
- Boost speed : up to 5 GHz
- Base speed: 4.2 GHz
- L3 Cache: 96 MB
- TDP: 120 W
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Best mid-range CPU for F1 24Intel Core i5-12600K
- Cores: 10 (6P + 4E)
- Threads: 16
- Boost Clock Speed: 4.9 GHz P / 3.6 GHz E
- Base Clock Speed: 3.7 GHz P / 2.8 GHz E
- L3 Cache: 20 MB (shared)
- TDP: 125W
- Best budget CPU for F1 24
AMD Ryzen 5 5600X
- Cores: 6
- Threads : 12
- Boost speed : up to 4.6 GHz
- Base speed: 3.7 GHz
- L3 Cache: 32 MB
- TDP: 65W
How we picked
There are various aspects you need to consider while pairing any CPU with a GPU for F1 24. For a game like this, which would have the latest graphics and tons of in-game elements to process, we need to look at various factors like the brand, architecture, cores, threads, base and boost frequencies, motherboard compatibility, and other important factors into account. This helps us filter our options and also gives us an idea of which CPU and GPU pairing would be the closest to ideal.
However, other than specifications that anyone can read, we take a more hands-on approach by thoroughly testing the CPUs for synthetic and real-world performance. If you’re interested in learning more about that, we recommend you head to our PCWer Testing Lab, which will show the process in detail.
Our top picks
- Cores: 14 (6P-8E)
- Threads: 20
- Boost speed : P-Core 5.1GHz / E-Core 3.5GHz
- Base speed: P-Core 3.5GHz / E-Core 2.6GHz
- L3 Cache: 24MB
- TDP: 181W
- Platform: Intel (LGA 1700)
- Its performance is on par with the i5-14600K
- Excellent gaming and productivity results on a budget
- Great for creators and gamers alike
- An LGA 1700 motherboard is a must to run this CPU
- It has a high TDP of 181W
- Energy efficiency could’ve been better
For our top option, we went with the Intel Core i5-13600K, a solid processor for gaming and productivity tasks. In our i5-13600K review, it performed excellently in our gaming and synthetic benchmarks, earning it the top spot.
This CPU managed 179 and 162 FPS, respectively, in Cyberpunk 2077 and Elden Ring, paired with an RTX 3080. This means that it is more than capable of handling demanding titles with ease, and our gaming tests are done natively, making it even more impressive.
As for its synthetic results, it managed 830 and 9,846 points in CPU Z single- and multi-core tests, respectively. These impressive numbers further showcase its ability to handle gaming workloads and multitasking capabilities, meaning it should also be able to run resource-intensive applications in parallel without compromising performance.
An excellent CPU through and through with fierce single and multi-core performance for the money.
PCWer
Regarding its specifications, it has six performance (P-cores), eight efficient cores (E-cores), 20 threads, a base clock of 2.6 GHz, a boost clock of 5.1 GHz, and a 24 MB Intel Smart Cache. The P-cores are responsible for handling the tasks that require heavy lifting, while the E-cores handle minor and background tasks. This dynamic ensures efficient resource and power utilization.
In addition, the 24 MB L3 cache is accessible to all cores, which should reduce access times and enhance the CPU’s processing speed and efficiency. It also features a 20 MB L2 cache, which is closer to the CPU but still has an impressive capacity.
A neat aspect of this CPU is that it is compatible with PCIe 4.0 and 5.0, meaning you can use it with a new build or slap it on your previous-generation motherboard, and it’ll work fine without any compatibility or stability issues. So, pair it with the best DDR4 or DDR5 RAM and take the overall performance of your build to the next level.
One thing to note is that while it delivered impressive results it has a maximum TDP of 181W. So, if the workload is high or if you’ve overclocked it, it’ll generate a good amount of heat. So, we recommend using the best CPU cooler to keep it running at an ideal temperature.
Overall, the Intel Core i5-13600K is an excellent option with impressive results that make it a worthwhile investment. You should be able to run F1 24, and other games, and work on professional tasks without a hitch with this CPU powering your rig. On top of that, if you want to experience everything F1 24 has to offer, we recommend giving the best racing seat a shot, which should further add to the immersiveness.
What users say
According to Amazon reviews, this CPU is a “powerhouse” capable of handling demanding gaming titles and professional workloads. One reviewer stated: “beast for gaming you’ll never feel any bottlenecks with 99.9 % of any titles,” followed by, “beast for gaming you’ll never feel any bottlenecks with 99.9 % of any titles.”
- Cores: 8
- Threads: 16
- Boost speed : up to 5 GHz
- Base speed: 4.2 GHz
- L3 Cache: 96 MB
- TDP: 120 W
- Platform: AMD (AM5)
- Incredible gaming performance
- Almost double the synthetic performance from the previous generation
- Comes at a relatively affordable price point
- The 7900X has better productive performance
- The AM5 is an expensive platform to shift to
Now we’ll switch over to Team Red, and we went with one of these best gaming CPUs, the Ryzen 7 7800X3D. This processor is better than the 7900X3D and even the 7950X3D in most scenarios, and in our 7800X3D review, it had almost double the performance of the Ryzen 7 5800X3D.
We see a clear difference when we compare its synthetic performance to that of its predecessors in tests like CPU Z. In single-core, the 7800X3D managed 643 points, whereas the 5800X3D managed 461. In multi-core, the results were 7,085 and 4,889 points, respectively. So, the AM5 CPU blows the previous generation out of the water, but compared to the 7900X, its productivity is lacking.
However, due to the 3D V-cache technology, which stacks an additional L3 cache on top of the CPU, its gaming performance is like nothing else. It features 96MB of L3 cache, meaning more game elements can be directly stored and accessed by the cores. This eliminates the need for the CPU to make calls to fetch data as it is already there and increases efficiency and output.
The 7800X3D is a fantastic chip and much improved over the previous generation. This CPU will smash through any gaming workload you throw at it.
PCWer
On top of that, it has eight cores, 16 threads, a base clock of 4.2 GHz, and a boost clock of 5 GHz. That said, what gives it a boost in gaming is the design that enables all cores to access the cache, whereas, in the 7900X3D, only six cores can access it at a time due to the 6+6 configuration. So, the 7800X3D outperforms the 7900X3D because of this.
Despite its next-level gaming output, it has a TDP of 120W, making it a powerful yet efficient processor. That said, it only runs on the AM5 socket and requires compatible DDR5 memory.
So, you’ll have to purchase an AM5 motherboard and DDR5 memory to run this CPU; the shift to the new platform can be expensive but worth it, as it’ll last you a good while and give you plenty of options to upgrade. If you’re interested in exploring some options, check out our best AM5 motherboard and gaming RAM guides, which have the top picks available.
All in all, this is one of the best CPUs to get your hands on if you’re primarily gaming, and it should be able to run F1 24 with a smile on its face. However, to thoroughly enjoy every second of F1 24, we recommend trying out the best PC racing wheel so you can feel every sharp turn and bump on the road with real-time feedback.
What users say
According to Amazon reviews, it has excellent quality, efficiency, value, stability, and thermal output. One user said: “Nothing much to say that hasn’t been said before but this chip is easy to cool, easy to run, and performs better than basically everything on the market.” This basically summarizes everything there is to know about this CPU and how the general populace feels about it.
- It comes bundled with a CPU cooler
- It has a low TDP of 125W
- Better single and multi-core performance than the 7800X3D
- Not the best option for workstation-level tasks
- Tends to run hot during heavy loads
- The 13600K has better performance at a higher price
For our best mid-range pick, we’re shifting back to Team Blue with their Intel Core i5-12600K as the main attraction. In our i5-12600K review, it performed stellarly in gaming and synthetic benchmarks.
In our CPU Z single- and multi-core tests, it managed 764 and 7,120 points, respectively. For comparison, it had 121 and 35 more points than the 7800X3D, which should give you an idea about its gaming and multitasking prowess.
The 12600K is no slouch in gaming, as it delivered 222 and 301 FPS in Days Gone and Cyberpunk 2077, respectively. These tests were conducted at 1080p low settings to challenge the CPU and take the load away from the RTX 4070 Ti Super GPU. These results are more than impressive, and it should be able to run F1 24 in various resolutions with ease paired with a GPU that complements its performance.
This CPU has six performance cores, four efficient cores, and a 20 MB L3 cache. It also has an E-core base clock of 2.8 GHz and a P-core base clock of 3.7 GHz. The E—and P-core boost clocks are 3.6 and 4.9 GHz, respectively. Thus, depending on the task in the queue, you should get the right amount of processing power.
For example, if it’s casual tasks like working on a Word document or browsing, the E-core could handle that, which would keep the power draw and thermal out low, resulting in efficient working. However, if you’re running resource-heavy applications like Adobe Premier, the P-core would take over and handle that with their faster frequencies and larger physical size.
It effortlessly combines power efficiency with single-core performance to make for one fierce competitor in the budget CPU space.
PCWer
Despite being an older CPU, it has a maximum TDP of 150W and a base TDP of 125W. However, since it comes unlocked for overclocking from the manufacturer, doing so might increase the TDP and result in a greater heat output as well. So, if you plan on doing that, we recommend using the best thermal paste combined with the best AIO cooler to keep it running optimally and at comfortable temperatures. If you’re interested in learning how to remove and apply thermal paste properly, we’ve also got you covered there.
This processor also comes with Intel UHD Graphics 770, which isn’t enough to run games, but having integrated graphics has other uses. For example, suppose your GPU stops working, or you’re waiting for a replacement. In that case, the integrated graphics enable your PC to boot and handle basic tasks like displaying the desktop, working on documents, etc.
Overall, the Intel Core i5-12600K is a solid CPU for gaming and professional work that doesn’t burn a hole in your pocket. While it might be two generations old now, its performance speaks for itself, and that is nothing short of impressive.
What users say
According to Amazon reviews, it has stable performance, good thermal design, and provides excellent value for the price point. One reviewer stated: “The 12600K CPU has been an outstanding upgrade from my previous setup, delivering a remarkable boost in performance. I’ve been particularly impressed by its cool operation, maintaining a stable 64 degrees even during rigorous stress tests and extended gaming sessions.”
- Cores: 6
- Threads : 12
- Boost speed : up to 4.6 GHz
- Base speed: 3.7 GHz
- L3 Cache: 32 MB
- TDP: 65W
- Platform: AMD (AM4)
- Provides an excellent balance between performance and value
- Comes bundled with a CPU cooler
- It is very power efficient as it has a TDP of 65W
- Not the best option for server-level workloads
- 7600X has better performance with a slight price hike
- The upgrade path is limited to AM4 CPUs
For our last pick, we stuck with AMD and decided to go with the Ryzen 5 5600X for the pocket-friendly picks. In our Ryzen 5 5600X review, it had pretty good results in our gaming and synthetic benchmarks.
In Days Gone and Cyberpunk 2077, it managed 177 and 282 FPS at 1080p low settings, respectively. While the Days Gone result looks comparatively less, we need to factor in that this is a budget CPU, and 177 framerates are more than playable.
As for its synthetic performance, it scores 2,138 and 8,456 FPS in Geekbench single- and multi-core, respectively. This is a decent score and showcases this CPU’s ability to handle gaming and productive tasks alike, but it isn’t the best option for really heavy applications like running a server.
This CPU has six cores, 12 threads, a base clock of 3.7 GHz, a boost clock of 4.6 GHz, and a 32 MB L3 cache. While its specifications are humble compared to other options on this list, it still delivers excellent results. It also has a low TDP of 65W, which not only makes it pocket-friendly but also an efficient processor option.
The Ryzen 5 5600X is a fantastic budget CPU that can bring you a lot of power if you don’t need the cutting edge in your system.
PCWer
A great aspect of this CPU is that it runs on the AM4 socket, which means you won’t have to make the shift to the AM5 platform, and that will also save you cost. So, you can direct those funds toward the best gaming RAM and have a pleasant experience racing against others or the clock in F1 24.
Overall, the 5600X provides an excellent price-to-performance ratio, and while you might not be able to move to AM5, there are plenty of AM4 CPUs you could upgrade to, like the 5950X or the 5800X3D, which are still viable options in 2024.
What users say
According to Amazon reviews, its performance is “nothing short of impressive,” and it has excellent power efficiency. One reviewer said: “The AMD Ryzen 5 5600X processor has revolutionized my PC gaming experience, and I couldn’t be happier with my purchase. This little gem packs a powerful punch, significantly boosting my computer’s performance.”
How to pick the best CPU for F1 24
There are a handful of factors that you need to consider before choosing a CPU. We’ve listed some of those factors below so you can make an informed decision on your next CPU, regardless of application.
Budget
Your budget is the first thing you need to consider, as it’ll help you filter the options available and give you a list of CPUs that offer the best balance between performance and value. This is important as it’ll also help you avoid overspending on a CPU that you won’t be able to utilize fully. For example, if you want a CPU solely for gaming and don’t have any professional tasks that require a high-end CPU, then a chip like the Ryzen 7 5800X3D would be better suited for you as compared to the Intel Core i9-13900K, both of which we’ve reviewed in-depth.
However, if you plan on gaming and working on the same rig, AMD’s “X” CPUs, like the Ryzen 9 5900X, would be better suited for you.
Performance
The second thing you need to look at is the level of performance you want out of your system. A powerful and fast processor is important if you’re gaming at lower resolutions because the CPU must churn out more instructions per cycle. So, if you have a 1080p gaming monitor, that means you’ll be playing F1 24 in 1080p, and for that, your GPU won’t be under as much load as your CPU because 1080p is easy for the GPU to process.
On the other hand, as you increase the resolution, the GPU starts to take over more, taking the load away from the CPU. So, consider the resolution you want to play in and any tasks other than gaming, and then opt for a CPU that covers these bases. Perhaps our best graphics settings for F1 24 guide can do some further explaining.
Temperature
Modern CPUs are very powerful and efficient, but that performance comes at a cost: a high power draw and thermal output. So, if you’re opting for a chipset with a high TDP, and we recommend you check these specifications from the manufacturer’s website, you’ll need to invest in robust cooling solutions as well.
This is particularly true if you’re located in a hot region because the ambient temperature will increase the base temperature of all your components. So, keep this in mind, as you’ll have to budget accordingly to purchase better case fans or a CPU cooler or risk the processor overheating.
