The debate about how much CPU cache is needed for an optimal PC experience is still ongoing.
But lets not delve into that debate anymore.
What is CPU Cache & Why Is It Needed?
The CPU cache is a small amount of memory built within the processor die.
That makes theCPU and the RAM function synchronously.
Hence, yourPC will run into a bottleneck.
This is where the CPU cache comes into play.
Each level has a different amount of memory clocked at different speeds.
Level 1 or L1 cache is the fastest onboard memory that the CPU hits first to retrieve data.
Level 2 or L2 cache is slower than the L1 cache but offers a bit more memory.
The processor hits the Level 2 cache when it fails to retrieve data from L1.
L2 cache can range from a few hundred kilobytes to 16 megabytes.
Level 3 or L3 cache is the slowest of the bunch but has a much higher memory pool.
The amount of L3 cache in a CPU can range from 1 MB to 128 MB.
Condensing the information above should give you a clear notion about the cache memory.
But that should not confuse you with the register.
Remember, theres adissimilarity between the cache and register.
How Much CPU Cache is Needed?
Which can create confusion among users about what is the ideal amount of cache.
Unfortunately, its a very difficult question to answer.
So for answer the question at hand, we need to categorize it depending on the use case scenario.
How Much CPU cache is Needed for Gaming?
To play all current-gen titles, youll need 8-16MB CPU cache.
But, does having more CPU cache mean more frames per second?
Lets find out together.
For this, Im going to use 4 almost identical test benches, the only difference being the CPU.
All the builds have MSI RTX 3060 Ventus, 16GB DDR4 RAM, and 512GB Samsung NVMe SSD.
Each processor comes from a different SKU and offers a different amount of cache.
Among the 4 CPUs, the first two are from Intel & the other two are from AMD.
The second one is Core i5 12400F clocked at 4.40GHz, 6 cores/6 threads, and 18MB L3 cache.
In the AMD builds, I used Ryzen 5 5600X(Zen 3 architecture).
It has 6 cores/12 threads clocked at 4.6GHz and 32MB L3 cache.
Not only that, both AMD processors have the exact same amount of cache onboard.
So yeah, thegigahertz number in CPU matterswhile gaming.
But anyway, we cant judge a CPUs gaming performance based on its cache memory.
Different brands offer different amounts of cache in their chip architecture.
Not to mention, AMD processors generally come with a much higher L3 cache than Intels.
How Much CPU Cache is Needed for Productivity?
Around 8MB CPU cache is ideal for productivity.
But, can we get more performance if the CPU has more cache memory?
Were going to use the same CPU builds that we had for our gaming test.
So, you shouldnt take your CPU purchase decision based solely on the cache amount.
How to Check CPU Cache Size on My PC?
Windows users can easily check the amount of CPU cache they have in their computers.
Thiscache memory cant be cleanedlike other cache files on your PC.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a good CPU cache size?
The ideal CPU cache size is around 8 MB to 16 MB.
Does cache size affect performance?
Cache memory has a huge impact on overall system performance.
What is the highest CPU cache?
How much cache do I need for programming?
For basic programming, 1-3MB L3 cache is more than enough.
Wrapping Up
Thats about it.
Hopefully, this guide has provided you with the answer and all the necessary information you were looking for.
