Best CPUs for Manor Lords in 2024 – Our top picks

Ready to play Manor Lords? Well, you made need a CPU first...

Best CPUs for Manor Lords

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Looking to travel back in time to the world of Manor Lords? Well, you are going to need a sufficient and reliable CPU to pair with the game for smooth graphics and top-notch gameplay. While the minimum system requirements for Manor Lords are not too demanding, we don’t recommend settling for the minimum – especially when there are viable CPU options just waiting to be snatched up. In this article, we’ll delve into the best CPUs for Manor Lords, and talk a little bit more about what you can expect from one of the newest games on the market.

Manor Lords system requirements

This upcoming medieval open-world strategy game is finally hitting stores on April 26, 2024. However, like always, we want you to be prepared before this game drops, and part of that process is dissecting the system requirements. These minimum system requirements are provided by game manufacturer Slavic Magic and Steam. Firstly, Manor Lords requires a 64-bit processor and operating system, 8GB VRAM memory, 16GB of storage, and a graphics card in the vein of a Nvidia GeForce GTX 1050 (2GB) or the AMD Radeon RX-460 (4GB). These GPUs certainly provide a baseline of gameplay for Manor Lords but it’s not what we would recommend in today’s market for wider use. For more on GPUs for Manor Lords, check out our additional guide.

It is a similar case when it comes to CPUs. The minimum requirements / suggested CPUs are the Intel Core i5-4670 (quad-core) or the AMD FX-Series FX-4350 (quad-core). Now some of you may be shocked to see an AMD bulldozer chip in the suggested CPU section, especially for such a modern game. But it seems to bode well for those who may not have the need, budget, or desire to purchase a top-of-the-range CPU. We agree that this was certainly a surprise, but we do have some alternatives waiting which are a little bit more…current, available, and well-suited to a modern setup.

A person in a red cloak and hood walking down a dirt road in a medieval village with timber-framed buildings and flat fields under a clear sky, pondering the best CPUs for Manor Lords.
Gameplay from Manor Lords – Image © BGFG

Best CPUs for Manor Lords

BEST CPU FOR MANOR LORDS
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  • Product packaging of an AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D processor featuring 3D V-Cache technology, with an orange and black color scheme.
Best in Class
Specifications
  • 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)
What We Think

The AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D is a solid CPU for gamers due to its large amount of cache, and for a game that does not require a lot of additional power, like Manor Lords, it’s a perfect choice.

Reasons to Buy
  • Large amount of L3 Cache
  • Appropriate performance level for most modern titles and games
  • Widely available for gamers to purchase
Reasons to Avoid
  • Lower core count than some modern CPUs
  • The 7800X3D requires an AM5 motherboard, which can also be pricier than AM4

Our top pick for the best CPU for Manor Lords is the AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D. A strong contender in most categories, this CPU delivers an excellent gameplay standard for most modern games and titles. The card sports an impressive 96 MB of L3 Cache and 5 GHz boost speed which makes gameplay smooth and more effective. While other features such as cores and threads may appear lower than some other CPUs on the market, it does not diminish its overall charm. Additionally, for a game that is less graphically demanding, like Manor Lords, you needn’t worry too much about it. This is important as buying a CPU just for Manor Lords isn’t the best way to go here. We advise buying a CPU that can handle this game and beyond; Buying a versatile CPU that can handle a wide variety of games is important because it is more cost-effective in the long run.

The Ryzen 7 7800X3D is a powerful and versatile CPU that offers excellent performance for gaming and content creation.

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What users say

According to user reviews on Amazon, the processor is praised for its stability, value, and contribution to overall productivity and efficiency. In one review, a user stated “Simply put this is the best CPU for gaming. The uplift in performance is enormous”. Reviewers also highlight its excellent gaming performance and exceptional value, making it a great choice for budget-minded users, but some raise concerns about quality control.

BEST INTEL CPU FOR MANOR LORDS
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  • An Intel Core i7-14700K processor displayed in front of its packaging box with an "unlocked" label, ready to go in a machine.
  • An Intel Core i7-14700K processor on a white background.
  • A computer processor chip, specifically the Intel Core i7-14700K, centered on a plain white background with the word "guide" in the corner.
  • Intel Core i7-14700K
Specifications
  • Cores: 20
  • Threads: 28
  • Base Speed: 100 MHz
  • Boost Speed: 5.6 GHz
  • L3 Cache: 33 MB
  • TDP: 125 W
  • Platform: LGA 1700 (Raptor Lake)
What We Think

The Intel Core i7-1400K is a top contender for our picks for best CPU for Manor Lords. This is because of its extremely large core and thread count, allowing it to handle demanding graphics and games with ease.

Reasons to Buy
  • Intel Core i7-14700K remains a top contender for high frame rates and smooth gameplay
  • 20 cores (8 performance + 12 efficiency) and 28 threads means it effortlessly handles demanding applications
  • Can be used for more than just Manor Lords, such as creative and work-related tasks
Reasons to Avoid
  • Not quite as strong as Intel 14900K (though this model is more appropriate here)
  • Gaming performance improvements not hugely noticeable over previous gen either

Another top pick is the Intel Core i7-1400K. In a similar vein to the Ryzen 7 7800X3D, this CPU is an all-rounder. Intel is known for providing performance processing for high FPS and smooth gameplay, crucial for all modern games. Similarly, its improvement in cores and threads, 20 and 28 respectively, over the Ryzen 7 7800X3D is impressive, to say the least. It too can be incredibly versatile, with the brand often favoured for creative tasks like Photoshop or video editing. However, for Manor Lords, this CPU will do more than enough. While this may appear as overkill given the low minimum system requirements of Manor Lords, it would be a disservice to omit it from this list if you’re looking to build a system to last. Make sure to check out more from this CPU with our Intel Core i7-14700K review.

The Core i7-14700K, a prominent member of Intel’s 14th generation, carries a promise of exceptional performance, especially when stacked against its predecessor, the i9-12900K. 

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What user say

Customer reviews praise this processor’s value, performance, and gaming prowess, citing its affordability, smooth operation, and ability to handle tough games. On the other hand, opinions are divided on its temperature control, stability, and overall build quality. In a positive review, one user noted “From the moment I installed the i7-14700K, it was clear that my apprehension was unfounded”. It’s pretty impressive if you ask us.

BEST MID-RANGE CPU FOR MANOR LORDS
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  • A boxed AMD Ryzen 5 7600X processor, featuring prominent branding and an orange geometric design on a dark background.
What We Think

The AMD Ryzen 5 7600X is a step down in performance from the Ryzen 7 7800X3D and the i7-14700K, but still delivers solid gaming experiences across the board. For a game such as Manor Lords, it is certainly a viable option.

Reasons to Buy
  • High clock speeds (up to 5.3 GHz boost) and strong single-threaded performance
  • Competitive pricing means most users won’t need to break the bank for it
  • Supports the latest DDR5 memory and PCIe 5.0 technology
Reasons to Avoid
  • CPU struggles with running multiple demanding applications simultaneously
  • AM5 motherboard and no stock cooler will provide an additional cost
  • Older generation AMD CPU may need upgrading sooner

We now move on to our options which provide a little more cost-effectiveness. Our top mid-range choice is the Ryzen 5 7600X. Providing high clock speeds of up to 5.3 GHz boost and strong single-threaded performance, you won’t notice that this product is a generation behind today’s top AMD lineup. You will notice it in price because it is much cheaper than our previous Ryzen 7 suggestion. Its support of DDR5 memory and PCIe 5.0 is also well appreciated by most users. However, this CPU has been reported to struggle with running multiple applications at once. Furthermore, this CPU needs an AM5 motherboard solid cooling, all of which require additional purchases – perhaps knocking a little of the value of the CPU overall. Still, an able and solid choice for many looking for an affordable current-gen option.

The Ryzen 5 7600X is the first of the brand’s mainstream processors to push well beyond the 5 GHz mark.

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What users say

Users on Amazon have praised the value, easy installation, gaming capabilities, and overall performance of the Ryzen 7600X. Reviews highlight its power, mentioning it tackles any individual computer task effortlessly and crushes demanding games with ease. For example, a user noted, “…the AMD Ryzen 5 7600X stands out as an excellent choice for gamers seeking a powerful and cost-effective desktop processor”. With that being said, some users have mixed feelings about its temperature control and build quality.

BEST ENTRY-LEVEL CPU FOR MANOR LORDS
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Specifications
  • 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)
What We Think

While not performing quite as strong as our other options, the AMD Ryzen 5 5600X is a reliable, budget-friendly, and well-proven CPU that will get the job done.

Reasons to Buy
  • A proven and reliable CPU for gaming
  • Excellent value for money in todays market
  • With a 65W TDP, the 5600X is considered a power-efficient CPU
Reasons to Avoid
  • Limited core and thread count in comparison to other options
  • Newer Ryzen CPUs on the market provide substantially better performance
  • Stock issues with older-gen products

Our final option is the Ryzen 5 5600X, an entry-level CPU perfect for you if you’re just starting with PC builds, or if you are content with moderate performance. As the oldest gen CPU on this list, the processor has proven reliability – many still consider the AM4 platform not worth upgrading from. It is also the best-priced CPU on this list, meaning it is excellent value for money. As part of the cost-performance analysis, it is also worth pointing out that this option is the closest (in our list) to resembling the very modest minimum system requirements provided for Manor Lords. So, if you want to cover the minimum and aren’t looking to play the latest triple-A games at big frame rates then the 5600X makes sense.

However, this CPU certainly has its problems. Its limited core and thread count do diminish its overall performance, while newer Ryzen products outshine and out-perform in nearly every major category. Lastly, its availability on the market is sparse given its dip in popularity compared to other processors, even of the same generation – like the higher-spec Ryzen 7 5800X, 5800X3D and 5900X. While it may be a struggle to find, it’s still build-worthy if you’re not keen on top-of-the-range CPUs.

What users say

Amazon reviewers praise the Ryzen 5 5600X’s performance, value, and gaming abilities. They highlight its impressive speed, smooth handling of multiple tasks, and affordability, all while excelling at games. Users also appreciate the processor’s build quality, stability, and ease of installation. In a more negative light, some customers received theirs in less-than-ideal condition, and opinions are divided on its cooling capabilities – though these opinions were few and far between.

Aerial view of a medieval village with thatched-roof houses, dirt roads, and surrounding fields, optimized for the best CPUs for Manor Lords, in a forested landscape.
Gameplay from Manor Lords – Image © BGFG

Considerations for the best CPUs for Manor Lords

There are a couple of major things to consider when buying a CPU for Manor Lords. Let’s dive into a few of them and go through the best way to manage them:

Price

When buying a CPU for your desktop PC, you should consider the asking price and the performance offered. Typically speaking, if you’re someone who wants to push games to their limit, then an Intel or AMD Ryzen 7 CPU would be a smarter choice than the weaker alternatives. Additionally, to achieve the best price for your chosen CPU, make sure to purchase during seasonal sale periods. These times will provide the best overall prices. Lastly, use price tracker applications like Camelcamelcamel to find the best times and prices for your product. It could be the key you need. Check out our best budget CPUs for more cost-effective models and low prices.

Clock speed and TDP

Clock speeds are important, too, so if you want to overclock, shop for those processors that are pushing the 5.0 GHz rate. What’s more, TDP is an essential consideration as well, as Intel currently goes up to 125W, and AMD’s upcoming line will have a power draw of up to 170W base TDP. All considerations for the PSU required and overall system requirements.

Socket type and Motherboard

Don’t forget about the CPU socket. This determines which motherboards are compatible. Currently, Intel CPUs use LGA 1700 sockets, while AMD uses AM4 and AM5. Remember, some motherboard features, like DDR5 support, can significantly inflate the price. If you aim for a high-performance system, factor in the motherboard cost and related components when choosing your CPU.

How much storage is needed for Manor Lords?

Fortunately for most fans, Manor Lords won’t take up a huge chunk of storage space on your PC. At only 16 GB of storage required, it’s a manageable download in today’s landscape. Even after installation, the game itself is surprisingly light, clocking in at around 12 GB. Certainly a win-win for everyone.