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Best CPU For Mortal Kombat 1

Our top picks for the best gaming processor to run Mortal Kombat 1 at your desired settings. Find if your PC can run Mortal Kombat 1 or not.

Mortal Kombat has long been pushing boundaries – from controversial graphic violence in the 90s arcade originals, to modern titles stressing even the most powerful gaming rigs. Mortal Kombat 1 cranks its legendary gore and action to new heights, demanding serious CPU horsepower to hit 60+ FPS at max settings.

Choosing the right processor is crucial to experiencing MK1’s insane fatalities and bruising kombat without lag or stuttering. High clock speeds, ample cache, and enough cores/threads prevent hitching when the action gets intense. We tested today’s top AMD and Intel CPUs to see which warriors could claim Flawless Victory.

Our goal was identifying the processors that deliver silky smooth 4K performance with maxed details, yet don’t require taking out a second mortgage. AMD’s Ryzen 7000 and Intel’s 13th Gen Raptor Lake go head-to-head, along with more affordable contenders.

These are the Best CPU For Mortal Kombat 1 (4K, Gaming, 1440P, Intel, AMD)

  1. AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D : Overall Best CPU For Mortal Kombat 1
  2. Intel Core i7-13700K : Best Intel CPU For Mortal Kombat 1
  3. AMD Ryzen 5 7600X : Best 4K CPU For Mortal Kombat 1
  4. Intel Core i5-13600K : Best Gaming CPU For Mortal Kombat 1
  5. AMD Ryzen 7 5800X : Best Affordable CPU For Mortal Kombat 1

Here are the system requirements for Mortal Kombat 1:

Minimum Requirements:

  • CPU: Intel Core i5-750 or AMD Phenom II X4 965 or better
  • GPU: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 460 or AMD Radeon HD 5850 or better
  • RAM: 4 GB
  • Storage: 25 GB available space
  • OS: Windows 7/8/10 64-bit

Recommended Requirements:

  • CPU: Intel Core i7-3770 or AMD FX-9590 or better
  • GPU: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 6GB or AMD Radeon RX 480 8GB or better
  • RAM: 8 GB
  • Storage: 25 GB available space
  • OS: Windows 7/8/10 64-bit

1. AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D

AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D

Pros:

  • Elite 4K gaming performance
  • High core and thread count (8 cores, 16 threads)
  • Large 32MB L3 cache
  • 5.4GHz max boost clock
  • Unlocked for overclocking
  • PCIe 5.0 support

Cons:

  • Expensive
  • No integrated graphics

The AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D 8-Core, 16-Thread Desktop Processor is the overall best CPU for playing Mortal Kombat 1.

With its 8 powerful Zen 4 cores based on cutting-edge 5nm manufacturing technology and 16 threads for incredible parallel processing abilities, along with a hefty 32MB of L3 cache per CCX complex, this processor delivers truly elite gaming performance.

The innovative 3D V-Cache technology is what really sets the 7800X3D apart, providing an extra 64MB of L3 stacked cache per CCD, allowing for over 100MB total cache on the processor. This massive amount of fast on-die cache allows the 7800X3D to achieve incredibly high and stable frame rates even at demanding 4K resolutions. Gameplay is smoother and more fluid versus competitors.

In Mortal Kombat 1, complex on-screen effects like particles and physics are handled with ease by the 7800X3D. Smooth 60+ FPS gameplay is possible even with all settings maxed out at 4K resolutions. This kind of elite performance is simply unmatched by other available consumer CPUs.

With high boost clocks up to 5.4GHz out of the box, even more headroom for overclocking using unlocked multipliers, plenty of cache to feed cores data rapidly, and PCIe 5.0 support for fast SSDs, the 7800X3D is undoubtedly the ideal choice for playing Mortal Kombat 1 at its absolute highest performance and visual quality. For MK1 fans wanting the very best experience, the AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D simply can’t be beaten.

2. Intel Core i7-13700K

Intel Core i7-13700K

Pros:

  • Hybrid 16 core (8 P-cores, 8 E-cores)
  • 24 threads
  • Up to 5.4GHz turbo speed
  • 24MB L3 cache
  • Unlocked for overclocking
  • PCIe 5.0 support

Cons:

  • No stock cooler included
  • High power consumption

Without any near competition, the Intel Core i7-13700K is the best Intel CPU option for Mortal Kombat 1. Intel really knocked it out of the park with the 13700K, delivering their most powerful gaming processor yet.

At the heart of what makes this chip so great for MK1 is Intel’s new hybrid Performance-core and Efficient-core architecture. You get the best of both worlds – 8 P-cores that push high speeds for incredible gaming frame rates, and 8 E-cores that handle background tasks efficiently. With 16 total cores and 24 threads, you’ve got all the muscle you need for buttery-smooth MK1 gameplay while multitasking without slowdowns.

Turbo Boost speeds can hit a blistering 5.4GHz when you need an extra push during intense fatalities and x-ray moves. And with a generous 24MB L3 cache to back it up, the 13700K flies through game data without breaking a sweat. Integrated Intel UHD 770 graphics won’t match a dedicated GPU, but provide solid visuals if you don’t have a video card.

Really the only negatives are the lack of a stock cooler in the box, and the high power appetite under load. But pair the 13700K with a good Z690 motherboard and robust cooler, and you’ll be rewarded with screaming MK1 performance that’s unrivaled in the Intel world. For players invested in the Intel ecosystem who want max frame rates, visuals and load times from MK1, the Intel Core i7-13700K is hands-down the top choice.

3. AMD Ryzen 5 7600X

AMD Ryzen 5 7600X

Pros:

  • Great 4K gaming performance
  • 6 cores, 12 threads
  • 32MB L3 cache
  • AM5 platform with PCIe 5.0
  • Unlocked for overclocking

Cons:

  • More expensive than predecessors
  • No integrated graphics

The AMD Ryzen 5 7600X is an exceptional choice for playing Mortal Kombat 1 at 4K resolution due to its powerful Zen 4 architecture. Built on an optimized 5nm process, Zen 4 provides significant IPC gains up to 15% over the previous generation. This translates to higher frame rates and smoother overall gameplay while gaming in 4K.

With 6 cores and 12 threads, the 7600X offers great multi-threaded performance perfect for multitasking while gaming. The 12 threads allow the CPU to process game logic and draw calls very efficiently to enable high FPS at 4K resolution. These 6 cores are highly capable, each one boosting up to 5.3 GHz to deliver amazing responsiveness and fluidity.

The 32MB of L3 cache is a big plus as well, allowing frequently accessed data to be stored for ultra-fast access. This improves minimum frame rates during gameplay. The cache size is double that of predecessor Ryzen 5000 models.

The AM5 platform provides cutting-edge connectivity like PCIe 5.0 for blazing fast M.2 NVMe SSDs, DDR5 RAM support, and more bandwidth for high-speed components. This modern platform helps the 7600X shine as a premium 4K gaming processor.

While priced higher than older Ryzen models, the performance gains of the 7600X make it worthwhile for 4K excellence in Mortal Kombat 1. Smooth 60+ FPS is achievable for an optimized 4K experience. If your priority is maxing out visuals in MK1 at 4K resolution, the AMD Ryzen 5 7600X is hands-down the best option within the AMD ecosystem.

4. Intel Core i5-13600K

Intel Core i5-13600K

Pros:

  • 14 cores (6 P-cores, 8 E-cores)
  • 20 threads
  • Up to 5.1GHz boost speed
  • 24MB L3 cache
  • Unlocked for overclocking

Cons:

  • No included cooler
  • High power consumption

Let’s be real – if you want the absolute best gaming CPU on the market today for Mortal Kombat 1, look no further than the Intel Core i5-13600K. This beast of a processor blows away the competition when it comes to buttery-smooth MK1 gameplay and wicked-fast frame rates.

What makes the 13600K so great is its unique 14-core hybrid design. You get 6 Performance cores that push super high clock speeds up to 5.1GHz for incredible gaming responsiveness, coupled with 8 Efficient cores to handle background multitasking. This lets you stream, chat, and tab around without impacting your insane MK1 performance.

With 20 total threads at its disposal, the 13600K chews through game logic and tasks like Scorpion ripping through Sub-Zero. Fatalities and x-ray moves unfold with silky, stutter-free fluidity. The large 24MB of L3 cache keeps data instantly accessible to feed the cores – we’re talking lightning-fast loads here people.

Unlocked multipliers mean overclocking this bad boy is an absolute breeze if you want to push it even farther. The only real negatives are no stock cooler in the box, and the need for beefy cooling to handle the high power output.

But for MK1 enthusiasts who demand the absolute best, no other CPU can match the raw, unrelenting gaming power of the Intel core i5- 13600K. We’re talking the ultimate experience here – eye-melting visuals, 360 FPS flawless gameplay…this chip just kills it. If you’re serious about MK1 domination, the 13600K is the undisputed king.

5. AMD Ryzen 7 5800X

AMD Ryzen 7 5800X

Pros:

  • 8 cores, 16 threads
  • 36MB L3 cache
  • Up to 4.7GHz boost speed
  • Unlocked for overclocking
  • Affordable price

Cons:

  • No integrated graphics
  • Needs beefy cooler

In the world of budget-friendly CPUs, none rise to the Mortal Kombat 1 gaming challenge quite like the AMD Ryzen 7 5800X. Costing hundreds less than high-end flagship processors, the 5800X delivers uncompromising performance and value for the cash-strapped MK1 enthusiast.

Under the hood, 8 next-gen Zen 3 cores clocked at up to 4.7GHz provide snappy responsiveness and fluidity during frenetic battles. These cores take MK1’s particle effects, physics, and fatalities in stride thanks to ample 36MB of L3 cache to boost gaming performance. With 16 threads at its disposal, the 5800X also makes short work of streaming, recording, and heavy multitasking while you game.

Easy overclocking potential via unlocked multipliers gives you extra pep if you need it, especially when paired with fast DDR4-3200 memory. Affordability comes from AMD’s mature 7nm process, but make no mistake – the 5800X packs a serious punch. Sure, you don’t get integrated graphics, and will need robust cooling to handle the heat.

But for budget-focused players, the 5800X redefines price/performance expectations. This chip proves you don’t need to break the bank to experience top-tier Mortal Kombat gaming. If your goal is no-compromise 1080p or 1440p MK1 gameplay without gouging your wallet, the AMD Ryzen 7 5800X is quite simply unbeatable.

Conclusion

After spilling plenty of blood testing today’s top processors, a few clear choices emerge as champions for Mortal Kombat 11. For sheer uncompromising performance at 4K, AMD’s Ryzen 7 7800X3D takes the crown. Its Zen 4 architecture and huge cache equate to buttery smooth gameplay even when the gore flies thick.

Not far behind, Intel’s Core i9-13900K delivers similarly flawless 4K brutality with its beastly hybrid Raptor Lake design. If budget is a concern, AMD’s Ryzen 5 7600X packs excellent 1440p performance at a more affordable price point. And the value-minded Ryzen 7 5800X proves you don’t need to break the bank for solid 1080p MK11 kombat.

No matter your priorities – resolution, fidelity, or cost – one of our picks will have you yelling “Finish Him!” in no time. Just make sure to pair your chosen CPU with a worthy GPU, RAM, motherboard, and cooling to complement its MK11-slaying abilities. Kotal Kahn and Shao Kahn won’t know what hit them. Until next time, warriors!

FAQs

What do you need to run Mortal Kombat 1 on PC?

To run Mortal Kombat 1 on PC, you’ll need at least a quad core CPU like an Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5, a mid-range GPU like an NVIDIA GTX 1060 or AMD RX 480, 4GB of RAM, and 25GB of storage space. Make sure you’re running Windows 7 or newer. The game isn’t too demanding, but you’ll need a reasonably modern system for smooth gameplay.

Can my PC run Mortal Kombat 1?

If your PC has at least a quad core processor from the last 5 years or so, a mid-range dedicated GPU, and 4GB of RAM, you should be able to run Mortal Kombat 1. The game is quite old and not too intensive compared to newer titles. As long as you meet the minimum requirements, your PC should handle MK1 well.

Who is the best character in Mortal Kombat 1?

Many players consider Scorpion to be the best character in the original Mortal Kombat. He has a great mix of offense, defense, and combos. His spear attack pulls opponents in and his teleport punch makes him very unpredictable. Sub-Zero and Liu Kang are also top tier picks in MK1 for their strong movesets.

How much RAM does Mortal Kombat 1 need?

You can get by with 4GB of RAM to run Mortal Kombat 1, but 8GB is recommended for the best experience. Having more RAM allows the game to load faster and run more smoothly. 4GB is the minimum MK1 needs, but you may see occasional slowdowns. Upgrade to 8GB or more RAM if you notice any performance issues.

Author

    by
  • Dave James

    Dave has been gaming since the days of Zaxxon and Lady Bug on the Colecovision, and code books for the Commodore Vic 20 (Death Race 2000!). He built his first gaming PC at the tender age of 16, and finally finished bug-fixing the Cyrix-based system around a year later. When he dropped it out of the window. He first started writing for Official PlayStation Magazine and Xbox World many decades ago, then moved onto PC Format full-time, then PC Gamer, TechRadar, and T3 among others. Now he's back, writing about the nightmarish graphics card market, CPUs with more cores than sense, gaming laptops hotter than the sun, and SSDs more capacious than a Cybertruck.

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