You have a powerful RTX 2060 graphics card for gaming. But, you need a good CPU to make it work best. The CPU is like the brain for your graphics card.
There are many CPUs, and picking one can be hard. But don’t worry! This guide will help you. It will show you the 5 high Value CPUs for RTX 2060.
We will talk about cheap options, strong options, and more. This way, you can find the best CPU for your gaming needs and money. Get ready for better gaming!
Consider these Factors before selecting a CPU for rtx 2060
Topic | Description |
---|---|
Bottlenecking | Your RTX 2060 is like a race car engine, and your CPU is the driver. If the CPU is weak, it can slow down your RTX 2060’s performance. This is called bottlenecking. |
Cores and Threads | Cores and threads are like the arms and legs of your CPU. More cores and threads mean it can do more tasks at once. For an RTX 2060, a CPU with at least 6 cores and 6 threads is good. |
Clock Speed | Clock speed is how fast your CPU can think. The higher the GHz, the faster it can process information. A CPU with a clock speed of 3.5 GHz or higher is good for an RTX 2060. |
Price | CPUs can be cheap or expensive. It’s important to find one that fits your budget but still performs well. For an RTX 2060 build, a good price is around $150-$250. |
Brand | The two main CPU brands are AMD and Intel. Both are good, so choose based on your preference and the features you want. |
TOP 5 CPUs For rtx 2060 for high value
If you want to make sure that you are planning to choose a CPU that will deliver you the best performance then we have tested a lot of CPUs
but please Consider all these that we have listed for you to have performance in every multitasking work whether it is gaming or software or watching 4K Video without lag
you can Choose any of the 5 CPU and you Wont Regret also Consider that every CPU has it own Pros and Cons even the Expensive CPUs also
1. Ryzen 5 5600X
The Ryzen 5 5600X has been a hit among PC builders since it came out in 2020. It’s a 6-core, 12-thread processor that’s great for gaming and multitasking,
making it a solid pick for those on a budget. Let’s break down what makes it tick:
Ryzen 5 5600X with RTX 2060 Gaming Benchmarks
Game | Resolution | Graphics Settings | Average FPS |
---|---|---|---|
AAA Titles | |||
Cyberpunk 2077 | 1080p | Medium | 60-70 FPS |
Red Dead Redemption 2 | 1080p | High | 50-60 FPS |
Assassin’s Creed Valhalla | 1080p | High | 55-65 FPS |
Shadow of the Tomb Raider | 1080p | High | 70-80 FPS |
God of War | 1080p | High | 65-75 FPS |
Competitive Titles | |||
Fortnite | 1080p | High | 120-140 FPS |
Apex Legends | 1080p | High | 100-120 FPS |
Overwatch 2 | 1080p | High | 140-160 FPS |
Valorant | 1080p | High | 200+ FPS |
Call of Duty: Warzone 2.0 | 1080p | Medium | 100-120 FPS |
Open World Games | |||
Elden Ring | 1080p | Medium | 50-60 FPS |
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt | 1080p | High | 60-70 FPS |
Grand Theft Auto V | 1080p | High | 70-80 FPS |
Forza Horizon 5 | 1080p | High | 60-70 FPS |
Horizon Zero Dawn | 1080p | High | 65-75 FPS |
Pros and Cons
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Awesome gaming performance | Not enough cores for heavy multitasking |
Solid multitasking | The stock cooler might not cut it for overclocking or heavy workloads |
Good price | |
Energy-efficient |
Features of Ryzen 5 5600x
Feature | Description |
---|---|
Performance | Great for gaming due to high clock speeds (3.7 GHz base, 4.6 GHz boost) and Zen 3 architecture. Good for multitasking with 12 threads, but for heavy-duty tasks like video editing or 3D rendering, processors with more cores might be better. |
Architecture | Uses the 7nm Zen 3 architecture, which offers better performance per clock and memory, leading to more efficiency and speed. |
Clock Speed and Cores/Threads | Has 6 cores and 12 threads. Its architecture and high clock speeds make it efficient for many tasks. However, for tasks that need a lot of threads, more cores could be helpful. |
Cache Size | Has a 35 MB L3 cache, which helps reduce memory latency and boosts overall system speed. This is especially useful in gaming, where data is accessed frequently. |
Power Consumption and TDP | Energy-efficient with a TDP of 65W. Comes with a Wraith Stealth cooler, which is fine for basic use. For overclocking or running heavy workloads, a better cooler might be needed. |
Thoughts | The Ryzen 5 5600X is a balance of performance, price, and power efficiency. It’s ideal for gamers and streamers who want smooth gameplay and the ability to multitask without spending a lot. For content creators or professionals who rely heavily on multithreaded apps, processors with more cores might be worth considering. |
the Ryzen 5 5600X is still a top choice for budget-conscious gamers and streamers in 2024.
2. Intel Core i5-12600K
The Intel Core i5-12600K, which hit the market in 2021, has been a big deal in the gaming and enthusiast community.
It’s got a unique hybrid architecture and some serious performance chops. Here’s the lowdown:
Intel Core i5-12600K with RTX 2060 Gaming Benchmarks
Game | Resolution | Graphics Settings | Average FPS |
---|---|---|---|
AAA Titles | |||
Cyberpunk 2077 | 1080p | Medium | 70-80 FPS |
Red Dead Redemption 2 | 1080p | High | 60-70 FPS |
Assassin’s Creed Valhalla | 1080p | High | 60-70 FPS |
Shadow of the Tomb Raider | 1080p | High | 80-90 FPS |
God of War | 1080p | High | 70-80 FPS |
Competitive Titles | |||
Fortnite | 1080p | High | 140-160 FPS |
Apex Legends | 1080p | High | 120-140 FPS |
Overwatch 2 | 1080p | High | 160-180 FPS |
Valorant | 1080p | High | 250+ FPS |
Call of Duty: Warzone 2.0 | 1080p | Medium | 110-130 FPS |
Open World Games | |||
Elden Ring | 1080p | Medium | 60-70 FPS |
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt | 1080p | High | 70-80 FPS |
Grand Theft Auto V | 1080p | High | 80-90 FPS |
Forza Horizon 5 | 1080p | High | 70-80 FPS |
Horizon Zero Dawn | 1080p | High | 75-85 FPS |
Pros and Cons
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Super-fast gaming performance | Uses more power than some rivals |
Great at multitasking | The stock cooler might not be enough for heavy workloads |
Innovative hybrid architecture | Not the best core count for purely multithreaded tasks |
Good bang for your buck |
Features of Intel Core i5-12600K
Feature | Description |
---|---|
Performance | Excellent for gaming, outperforming many competitors including the Ryzen 5 5600X. It has 6 high-performance cores (P-cores) and 4 efficiency cores (E-cores) that deliver high frame rates in demanding games. The 16 threads (12 from P-cores, 4 from E-cores) make it great for multitasking. For multithreaded workloads, processors with more P-cores might be better. |
Architecture | Uses a hybrid architecture combining high-performance P-cores for heavy tasks and low-power E-cores for background tasks. This makes it more efficient and helps manage heat better. |
Clock Speed and Cores/Threads | Has 6 P-cores and 4 E-cores, giving it 16 threads in total. The P-cores have high clock speeds (3.7 GHz base, 4.5 GHz boost), while the E-cores are slower (2.8 GHz base, 3.6 GHz boost). This mix optimizes performance for a range of tasks. |
Cache Size | Has a 20 MB L3 cache for the P-cores and a 9.6 MB L3 cache for the E-cores. These large caches reduce latency and boost system speed, which is useful in gaming and multitasking. |
Power Consumption and TDP | With a TDP of 125W, it uses more power than some Ryzen rivals. A good cooler is needed for overclocking or running heavy workloads. The included cooler might not be sufficient. |
Thoughts | The Intel Core i5-12600K is a powerhouse for gaming performance and multitasking, thanks to its hybrid architecture. It’s a top pick for enthusiasts and power users, but keep in mind the higher power consumption and cooling needs. For multithreaded tasks, other options with more P-cores might be worth considering. |
the Intel Core i5-12600K is still a strong choice for gamers and enthusiasts looking for top-tier performance in 2024.
But make sure to consider your specific needs, budget, and cooling setup before you decide.
3. AMD Ryzen 7 5800X
The AMD Ryzen 7 5800X, which came out in 2020, is still a solid player in the CPU game. It’s got a good mix of gaming performance and multitasking power. Here’s what you need to know:
AMD Ryzen 7 5800X with RTX 2060 Gaming Benchmarks
Game | Resolution | Graphics Settings | Average FPS |
---|---|---|---|
AAA Titles | |||
Cyberpunk 2077 | 1080p | Medium | 70-80 FPS |
Red Dead Redemption 2 | 1080p | High | 60-70 FPS |
Assassin’s Creed Valhalla | 1080p | High | 65-75 FPS |
Shadow of the Tomb Raider | 1080p | High | 80-90 FPS |
God of War | 1080p | High | 75-85 FPS |
Competitive Titles | |||
Fortnite | 1080p | High | 140-160 FPS |
Apex Legends | 1080p | High | 120-140 FPS |
Overwatch 2 | 1080p | High | 160-180 FPS |
Valorant | 1080p | High | 250+ FPS |
Call of Duty: Warzone 2.0 | 1080p | Medium | 110-130 FPS |
Open World Games | |||
Elden Ring | 1080p | Medium | 65-75 FPS |
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt | 1080p | High | 75-85 FPS |
Grand Theft Auto V | 1080p | High | 80-90 FPS |
Forza Horizon 5 | 1080p | High | 75-85 FPS |
Horizon Zero Dawn | 1080p | High | 80-90 FPS |
Pros and Cons
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Strong gaming performance | Not the top performer in 2024 |
Good at content creation | The included cooler might not be enough for heavy workloads |
Good price-to-performance ratio | Not the best core count for heavily multithreaded tasks |
Mature and well-supported platform |
Features of AMD Ryzen 7 5800X
Feature | Description |
---|---|
Performance | Good for gaming, delivering great performance and smooth frame rates in demanding games. It has 8 cores and 16 threads and uses the Zen 3 architecture. It competes well with the Intel Core i5-12600K in many games but may lag in some heavily multithreaded titles. For content creation tasks like video editing and 3D rendering, it’s competent due to its 16 threads and decent clock speed (3.8 GHz base, 4.7 GHz boost). For heavily multithreaded professional apps, processors with more cores might be better. |
Architecture | Uses the 7nm Zen 3 architecture, which provides high performance per clock and memory performance. This makes it more efficient and responsive than older generations. |
Clock Speed and Cores/Threads | Has 8 cores and 16 threads. While it’s not the highest core count out there, the Zen 3 architecture and high clock speeds make it a good all-rounder for many tasks. |
Cache Size | Has a 36 MB L3 cache, which helps reduce memory latency and boosts overall system speed. This is especially useful in tasks that need to access data frequently. |
Power Consumption and TDP | Has a TDP of 105W, which means it uses more power than some of its Ryzen 5 cousins, but less than the Core i5-12600K. For overclocking or running heavy workloads, a better cooler than the included Wraith Prism might be needed. |
Thoughts | The AMD Ryzen 7 5800X is a versatile pick for gamers and content creators who want a balance of performance and price. It offers smooth gaming and handles moderate multitasking well. For heavily multithreaded professional apps, CPUs with more cores might be worth considering. |
the AMD Ryzen 7 5800X is still a good choice for budget-conscious gamers and content creators who want solid performance without spending a ton. But make sure to consider
your specific needs and budget, especially if you’re mainly working with heavily multithreaded workloads.
4. Intel Core i5-11400F
The Intel Core i5-11400F, which was released in 2021, is a great pick for gamers on a budget who want solid performance and don’t need integrated graphics. Here’s the scoop:
Intel Core i5-11400F with RTX 2060 Gaming Benchmarks
Game | Resolution | Graphics Settings | Average FPS |
---|---|---|---|
AAA Titles | |||
Cyberpunk 2077 | 1080p | Medium | 55-65 FPS |
Red Dead Redemption 2 | 1080p | High | 45-55 FPS |
Assassin’s Creed Valhalla | 1080p | High | 50-60 FPS |
Shadow of the Tomb Raider | 1080p | High | 65-75 FPS |
God of War | 1080p | High | 60-70 FPS |
Competitive Titles | |||
Fortnite | 1080p | High | 100-120 FPS |
Apex Legends | 1080p | High | 80-100 FPS |
Overwatch 2 | 1080p | High | 120-140 FPS |
Valorant | 1080p | High | 180+ FPS |
Call of Duty: Warzone 2.0 | 1080p | Medium | 80-100 FPS |
Open World Games | |||
Elden Ring | 1080p | Medium | 45-55 FPS |
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt | 1080p | High | 55-65 FPS |
Grand Theft Auto V | 1080p | High | 60-70 FPS |
Forza Horizon 5 | 1080p | High | 55-65 FPS |
Horizon Zero Dawn | 1080p | High | 60-70 FPS |
Pros and Cons
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Excellent gaming performance at a competitive price | Not the latest architecture |
Good value for budget-conscious gamers | Limited core count for heavily multithreaded tasks |
Power-efficient with included stock cooler for basic use | The included cooler might not be enough for heavy workloads |
No integrated graphics, saving cost for those who use dedicated GPUs |
Features of Intel Core i5-11400F
Feature | Description |
---|---|
Performance | Strong for gaming, delivering an impressive performance that can rival some newer Ryzen processors. It has 6 cores and 12 threads, and decent clock speeds (2.6 GHz base, 4.4 GHz boost), so it can handle most modern games smoothly. It competes well with the Ryzen 5 5600X in many games. For multitasking, it does a decent job with moderate tasks. For professional apps like video editing or 3D rendering, processors with more cores might be better. |
Architecture | Uses the 14nm Rocket Lake architecture. While it’s not the latest, it still delivers decent performance due to increased performance per clock and faster memory support. |
Clock Speed and Cores/Threads | Has 6 cores and 12 threads. This setup is a sweet spot for many gamers, providing enough processing power for smooth gameplay in most titles. |
Cache Size | Has a 12 MB L3 cache, which helps reduce memory latency and boosts overall system speed. This is especially useful in gaming. |
Power Consumption and TDP | Has a TDP of 65W, which means it’s power-efficient. This makes it a budget-friendly choice in terms of electricity consumption. It comes with a stock cooler, which is usually enough for basic use. For overclocking or running heavy workloads, a better cooler might be needed. |
Thoughts | The Intel Core i5-11400F is a compelling option for budget-conscious gamers who want smooth gaming performance and don’t need integrated graphics. It offers excellent value for the price and delivers performance on par with some newer processors. For heavily multithreaded tasks or professional apps, CPUs with more cores and newer architectures might be worth considering. |
the Intel Core i5-11400F is still a solid choice for budget-minded gamers who want good performance without spending a ton.
But make sure to consider your specific needs and budget, especially if you’re mainly working with heavily multithreaded workloads.
5. AMD Ryzen 5 3600
The AMD Ryzen 5 3600, which launched in 2019, was a game-changer, offering great performance at a really good price. But how does it stack up in 2024? Let’s take a look:
AMD Ryzen 5 3600 with RTX 2060 Gaming Benchmarks
Game | Resolution | Graphics Settings | Average FPS |
---|---|---|---|
AAA Titles | |||
Cyberpunk 2077 | 1080p | Medium | 50-60 FPS |
Red Dead Redemption 2 | 1080p | High | 45-55 FPS |
Assassin’s Creed Valhalla | 1080p | High | 50-60 FPS |
Shadow of the Tomb Raider | 1080p | High | 60-70 FPS |
God of War | 1080p | High | 55-65 FPS |
Competitive Titles | |||
Fortnite | 1080p | High | 100-120 FPS |
Apex Legends | 1080p | High | 80-100 FPS |
Overwatch 2 | 1080p | High | 120-140 FPS |
Valorant | 1080p | High | 160+ FPS |
Call of Duty: Warzone 2.0 | 1080p | Medium | 80-100 FPS |
Open World Games | |||
Elden Ring | 1080p | Medium | 40-50 FPS |
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt | 1080p | High | 50-60 FPS |
Grand Theft Auto V | 1080p | High | 60-70 FPS |
Forza Horizon 5 | 1080p | High | 50-60 FPS |
Horizon Zero Dawn | 1080p | High | 55-65 FPS |
Pros and Cons
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Affordable price point | Older architecture compared to newer processors |
Decent gaming performance for older games and esports titles | Falls behind in more demanding games and heavily multithreaded tasks |
Good at moderate multitasking | Limited core count compared to newer budget options |
Power-efficient with included cooler for basic use |
Features of AMD Ryzen 5 3600
Feature | Description |
---|---|
Performance | Respectable for gaming, with 6 cores and 12 threads, and clock speeds of 3.6 GHz base and 4.2 GHz boost. It can handle most games at decent frame rates, especially with a good graphics card. However, newer processors like the Ryzen 5 5600X offer significantly better performance in CPU-intensive games. For multitasking, it handles moderate tasks well due to its 12 threads. For heavy-duty tasks like video editing or 3D rendering, processors with more cores might be better. |
Architecture | Uses the older 7nm Zen 2 architecture, which still delivers decent performance, especially considering its price. |
Clock Speed and Cores/Threads | Has 6 cores and 12 threads. This setup used to be a sweet spot for budget-conscious users, but newer processors offer more cores and threads for similar or even lower prices. |
Cache Size | Has a 35 MB L3 cache, providing decent responsiveness for most tasks. However, newer processors often offer larger caches. |
Power Consumption and TDP | Has a TDP of 65W, making it power-efficient and keeping energy costs low. It comes with a Wraith Stealth cooler, which is usually enough for basic use. For overclocking or running heavy workloads, a better cooler might be needed. |
Thoughts | The AMD Ryzen 5 3600, while not the top contender anymore, is still a budget-friendly option for moderate gamers and casual users who value affordability over cutting-edge performance. It can still handle many modern games and tasks decently. However, newer processors offer significant performance improvements, especially for multithreaded workloads. |
the AMD Ryzen 5 3600 can still be a good choice for those on a tight budget who value affordability over top-tier performance. But with newer processors offering more cores,
threads, and better performance at similar price points, make sure to consider your needs and compare alternatives before making your final decision.
Is RTX 2060 Still Worth It As of Now?
Let’s see if this GPU still holds its ground in the gaming world!
The Good Stuff
1. Solid 1080p Performance: The RTX 2060 can run most modern games smoothly at 1080p resolution. You can expect clear visuals and smooth gameplay.
2. Decent 1440p Option: If you have a 1440p monitor, the 2060 can run many games on medium to high settings. However, for more demanding games, you might need to lower the settings a bit.
3. Ray Tracing Ready: The RTX 2060 supports ray tracing, which means you can enjoy advanced lighting effects in newer games. But keep in mind, this might result in lower frame rates compared to more expensive cards.
4. More Affordable: The RTX 2060 is often cheaper than the newer RTX 30 and 40 series cards, making it a good choice if you’re on a budget.
The Not-So-Good Stuff
1. Age is Showing: As games become more demanding, the 2060 might struggle to run them at max settings, especially at higher resolutions.
2. VR Ready, But Not VR Master: The RTX 2060 can run VR games, but don’t expect the best performance in all titles.
3. Limited Future-Proofing: With more powerful cards available, the 2060 might not be the best choice if you want a GPU that will last for years.
So, Is It Worth It?
Well, it depends on what you need. The RTX 2060 could be a good fit if you:
- Mostly play games at 1080p
- Are you on a tight budget?
- Want to try ray tracing without spending a lot
But, you might want to consider other options if you:
- Have a 1440p monitor and want high settings in all games
- Are you a VR enthusiast who wants the best performance
- Want a future-proof GPU for upcoming games
Remember, the best GPU for you depends on your specific needs and budget! 🎮
100 Tested Games on RTX 2060 6GB GPU
RTX 2060 6GB Ranking and Score
Is the RTX 2060 a good graphics card?
Yes, the RTX 2060 is a solid choice! It’s perfect for gamers looking to enjoy the latest games with beautiful graphics at 1080p and 1440p. You’ll find the performance smooth and the visuals impressive.
What kind of performance can I expect with an RTX 2060?
Expect amazing graphics! The RTX 2060 will allow you to play most games with high settings and enjoy fluid gameplay. It also supports ray tracing for ultra-realistic lighting.
Do I need a powerful CPU to use an RTX 2060?
A powerful CPU isn’t a must, but pairing the RTX 2060 with a good mid-range CPU will ensure no bottlenecks and smooth gaming.
What’s the difference between Intel and AMD CPUs for gaming?
Intel CPUs are known for their single-core speed, which is great for gaming. AMD CPUs offer more cores at a better price, which is excellent for multitasking and future-proofing for upcoming games.
What are some things to consider when choosing a CPU for gaming?
Look at the number of cores, clock speed, and whether it fits your motherboard and budget. More cores are usually better for gaming.
Which CPU is the best overall for the RTX 2060?
The Ryzen 5 3600 is a favorite due to its balance of price and performance, with 6 cores and 12 threads for smooth gaming.
Ryzen 5 3600 vs. Ryzen 5 5600X?
Both are excellent. The 5600X is newer and faster but costs more. The 3600 offers great value and pairs well with the RTX 2060.
Is the Intel Core i5-9400F a good budget option?
Absolutely! It’s a cost-effective choice that provides good performance for most games without breaking the bank.
Does overclocking make a big difference?
Overclocking can boost performance slightly, but it’s not necessary and comes with risks. It’s not for everyone.
How much RAM do I need?
16GB of RAM is the sweet spot for gaming with the RTX 2060, ensuring your games run smoothly without any hiccups.
Is a specific CPU compatible with the RTX 2060?
Check compatibility before purchasing. Most modern CPUs will work with the RTX 2060, but always confirm on the manufacturer’s website.
What type of motherboard do I need?
You’ll need a motherboard that matches your CPU’s socket type and has a PCI-Express slot for the RTX 2060. If unsure, ask for help at a computer store.
Do I need to update the BIOS?
Sometimes, especially if you’re using a newer CPU. Check the motherboard manufacturer’s website for instructions—it’s usually straightforward.
Best balance between price and performance?
The Ryzen 5 3600 offers a great balance. If you can spend a bit more, the Ryzen 5 5600X provides extra power.
Is spending more on the CPU worth it?
It depends on your gaming needs and plans. A stronger CPU can provide smoother performance for demanding games.
Can I get good gaming with a less powerful CPU?
Yes, but a less powerful CPU may limit the RTX 2060’s potential, leading to possible stuttering in demanding games.
Will a specific CPU be strong enough for future games?
CPUs with 6 or more cores are recommended for futureproofing. More cores and threads will likely handle future games better.
Newer vs. More Powerful Older CPU?
Newer CPUs often have better performance per core. Check benchmarks to compare the CPUs you’re considering.
Recommend a CPU for my RTX 2060 build?
Share your budget and gaming preferences for personalized CPU recommendations for your RTX 2060 build.
Anything else to consider besides the CPU?
Yes, ensure you have 16GB of RAM, sufficient storage, and a quality power supply for the best gaming experience.
Conclusion
To put it simply, if you’re looking for the best CPU to pair with your RTX 2060 graphics card, you have several good options.
The Ryzen 5 5600X is a great choice because it’s powerful and efficient, but still affordable.
The Intel Core i5-12600K is another good option because it’s strong and has advanced features,
but it’s also reasonably priced. If you need something more powerful for demanding tasks,
the AMD Ryzen 7 5800X is a standout choice. For those on a budget, the Intel Core i5-11400F offers
good performance without costing too much. Lastly, the AMD Ryzen 5 3600 is a reliable choice for gamers who want
good performance but are mindful of their budget. In the end, the best CPU for you will depend on what you need and what you can afford.
Each of these CPUs offers a good balance of cost and performance.
FAQs
Which CPU is the absolute best for an RTX 2060?
The “best” CPU depends on your budget, needs, and plans. This guide gives you options for different needs, but the Ryzen 5 5600X is a strong choice for many people.
What is bottlenecking, and how can I avoid it?
Bottlenecking happens when one part slows down another part’s performance. For an RTX 2060, you should choose a CPU that won’t slow it down in your games.
All the CPUs listed here should avoid bottlenecking for most 1080p and 1440p gaming.
Should I prioritize cores, clock speed, or something else?
For gaming, it’s best to have a balance between the number of cores and the clock speed. More cores are better for doing many tasks at once, while a higher clock speed improves
performance for each task. Think about what kind of work you’ll be doing when you decide.
Is the Ryzen 5 5600X worth the extra cost over the Ryzen 5 3600X?
If you can afford it, the 5600X gives better performance and is more future-proof because it uses newer technology. But the 3600X is still a good choice if you’re on a budget.
Is the Intel Core i5-12600K better than the Ryzen 5 5600X?
The 12600K might be slightly better than the 5600X in some games, but you should also think about the cost of the motherboard and possible compatibility issues.
Is the Ryzen 7 5800X overkill for just gaming?
If you mostly play games, the 5600X is probably enough. But if you also stream or do demanding creative work, the extra cores in the 5800X can be very helpful.
Is the Intel Core i5-11400F a good long-term investment?
The 11400F is affordable, but it doesn’t support PCIe 4.0, which might limit your options for future upgrades. Think about your future plans before you choose.