Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 saw its 3rd season start in the first week of April 2024. It continues to be one of the most-played titles of the year, with a player base for the multiplayer component that completely dwarfs most of its peers. It comes with notable upgrades to Warzone, a new campaign, and new maps that aim to satisfy the nostalgia factor for many users expected to return to the title at launch.
Call of Duty's online component, however, has become increasingly demanding. That's especially true for high-fidelity, high-resolution competitive gamers, who often see their PCs struggling to keep up with the burgeoning hardware requirements that are now a mainstay for the franchise. COD is particularly notorious for its large storage footprint and equally large patches on both modern consoles and PCs.
This is in addition to Activision now making the COD HQ launcher mandatory for users looking to play the game at launch, though users who have already been playing Call of Duty: Warzone in the last few months will already be accounted for thanks to a series of updates that added it to their PCs previously.
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 PC Hardware Requirements
Activision Blizzard has published its hardware requirements for Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 with specifications for a minimum multiplayer, single-player, recommended, and competitive specs published accordingly. The title requires a 64-bit version of Windows 10 or 11 in the latest update, plenty of SSD space, and modest CPU, GPU, and RAM requirements.
With a stated 150 GB SSD requirement that can swell further with higher resolution assets, different game modes, new patches, and updates across seasons, users might be advised to push for at least a 500 GB SSD, though it does seem that a 1 TB SSD should be a more de facto choice for users. This seems to be on the lower side of the storage spectrum versus the PS5 version, which can clock in as much as 235 GB when all is said and done.
The competitive hardware specs do push for at least an RTX 3080/4070 or Radeon RX6800XT, making it more GPU-dependent even as CPU requirements stay constant. These essentially do, by and large, mirror those of Modern Warfare 2's own published requirements, which means that users who are currently able to run COD: MW2 on their PCs well at certain presets should expect similar performance with COD: MW3.
The Best Gaming Laptops For Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 is one of the most anticipated titles of the year. Here are some of the best laptops you can play it on at launch.
Game ZXC has assembled three builds that aim to maximize performance and value for gamers looking to build their own PC. These builds maximize frame rate, quality, and playability with a focus on removing bottlenecks, upgradability, and performance during multiplayer, as well as Warzone and DMZ.
The Competitive Spec PC Build For COD: MW3 And Warzone
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Intel Core i7 14700KF 20-Core, 28-Thread CPU
The Intel Core i7 14700KF is the iGPU-less version of the unlocked Intel Core i7 14700K CPU, offering four additional efficiency cores and a lower price thanks to it skipping the integrated Intel UHD 770 that the latter offers. It requires a discrete graphics card for display and adequate cooling for one of the most power-hungry CPUs.
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MSI MEG CoreLiquid S360 Cooler
The MSI MEG CoreLiquid S360 Cooler will unlock the overclocking potential of AMD and Intel CPUs, with cooling that far surpasses any conventional fan/heatstink combination. Compatible with the most recent Intel LGA 1700 processors, the CoreLiquid S360 features a 7th generation Asetek pump, a 60 mm VRM fan to cool adjacent components, and 3 Silent Gale P12 fans. A beautiful 2.4-inch IPS display keeps gamers and system builders constantly aware of CPU temps, pump and radiator fan speeds, and much more.
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Gigabyte Z790 Gaming X AX
Gigabyte Z790 Gaming X AX is a fantastic $200 board that supports CPU and memory overclocking. Ideal for users who own mid-range Intel CPUs, it is a cost-effective solution to build a budget or mid-range gaming build. WiFi 6E, fast 2.5G LAN, multiple USB ports, and good component compatibility are among its notable features.
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CORSAIR VENGEANCE RGB DDR5 6400MHz 32GB
Corsair's Vengeance RGB DDR5 RAM kit features dual RAM modules, each having 16GB memory capacity. It has built-in XMP 3.0 profiles, offering a blend of a high-rated frequency, low latency, and a reasonable price tag in tow.
For aesthetics, the RAM sticks look gorgeous as a result of the RGB LEDs on top of its dedicated aluminum heat spreaders. -
SAMSUNG 990 PRO w/ Heatsink SSD
The Samsung 990 Pro is the fastest PCI-E Gen 4 SSD that Samsung has to offer, and it comes with a new, bold design on the heatsink that should blend in with most gaming PCs and allow the PlayStation 5 to use it optimally. Trading at an impressive discount over MSRP, the Samsung 990 Pro is pretty much the maximum performance that users can eke out on most modern gaming PCs from the 2TB SSD.
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ASUS TUF Gaming RTX 4080 SUPER OC
The ASUS TUF Gaming RTX 4080 SUPER OC is an excellent aftermarket take on the RTX 4080 SUPER, offering a higher boost clock than the stock option even as it clocks in an additional $100 on MSRP. It offers excellent reliability, power delivery, and one of the best aftermarket coolers one can get for Nvidia's higher-end RTX 4000 series GPUs.
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MSI MPG A1000G PCIE5 PSU
$170 $180 Save $10The MSI MPG A1000G PCIE5 PSU is built from the ground up to support the ATX 3.0 spec while also being PCI-E 5.0 compatible in a fully modular design without costing an arm and a leg unlike some of its nearest competitors, making it a viable contender for a gaming PC.
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MSI MPG Gungnir 300R Airflow
$150 $170 Save $20The MSI MPG Gungnir 300R is a mid-tower case that emphasizes promoting a steady stream of airflow through its chassis. The front panel features a single-piece mesh design with the case allowing for up to two 360 mm AIO liquid coolers or 12 fans. An adjustable omnidirectional graphics card holder makes vertically mounting even RTX 4000 series GPUs simple and secure.
Performance Target: QHD/UHD (2K/4K) quality presets with a high refresh rate (165 Hz+)
The performance-centric Competitive Spec build aims to allow users to dominate others in online multiplayer. This means a beefed-up CPU and GPU combination, coupled with components that prevent any performance limitations whatsoever. The iGPU-less 20-core, 28-thread Intel Core i7 14700KF offers high single-core performance out of the box that translates to better in-game performance for users.
When paired with the newly-released RTX 4080 SUPER, it can take on some of the best games in the business and deliver stable performance, even as it leverages liquid cooling to maximize its performance thanks to its high boost clocks even as the 16GB of VRAM on offer allows users to game at higher resolution with maxed out quality with ease.
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To build on that advantage, it provides plenty of fast RAM even as the RTX 4080's 16 GB of VRAM exceeds expectations for the 2K/4K target resolution that most gamers would be looking to play the game at. The system goes overboard on SSD storage, taking full advantage of the recent slump in SSD prices to grab arguably the best PCI-E 4.0 SSD in the market while leveraging a budget-centric Gigabyte Z790-based motherboard to allow for medium overclocking potential and connectivity.
The bundled MSI MPG Gungnir 300R Airflow case provides plenty of airflow and support for another 360 mm radiator if needed with a matching gold-rated 1000W MPG PSU that can handle as much as an RTX 4090. Potential upgrades include the Nvidia RTX 4090 which would add about $700 or more (depending on the SKU) and the Intel Core i9 14900K (which would also require a significantly better liquid cooling investment from prospective gamers looking to push their budget).
One can read Game ZXC's detailed review of the recommended MSI MEG Core Liquid S360 AIO to understand the choice of a premium cooler to keep temperatures on the 14700KF in check.
Estimated Build Cost : $2,544
The Recommended Spec PC Build For COD: MW3 And Warzone
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Intel Core i5 14600KF 14-Core, 20-Thread CPU
The Intel Core i5 14600KF 14-Core, 20-Thread CPU is a powerful mid-range CPU that replaces the last generation Intel Core i5 13600KF with higher clocks on both its performance and efficiency cores.
Like all its siblings, it does offer better performance out-of-the-box versus its predecessors but replaces them at the same price points they sold last year. Unlike the Intel Core i5 14600K, this model trades at a small discount thanks to it skipping out on integrated graphics. -
DeepCool Liquid Cooler LS720 360MM ARGB Liquid Cooler
The DeepCool Liquid Cooler LS720 360MM ARGB Liquid Cooler is one of the best-looking ARGB liquid coolers available on the market, and it delivers excellent cooling that can handle some of the most powerful CPUs on the market without costing the part as some of the more premium ARGB liquid coolers.
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GIGABYTE Z790 UD AC Gaming Motherboard
$170 $200 Save $30The GIGABYTE Z790 UD AC Gaming Motherboard is an entry-level Z790 Motherboard that offers DDR5, Wi-Fi AC bundled with 3 M2 slots. Priced around the same range as most B760 motherboards, it promises exceptional value from a price-to-performance perspective.
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G.Skill Ripjaws DDR5 6000 MHz CL30
The G.Skill Ripjaws DDR5 RAM kit offers impressive performance as it caps off its price tag to one lower than most of its competition. It is rated for speeds of up to 6000 MT/s while retaining a low CAS latency of 30 out of the box, making it a great low-cost, but high performance pick for gamers looking to get the best value for their money.
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MSI RTX 4070 SUPER 12G Gaming X Slim
The MSI RTX 4070 SUPER 12G Gaming X Slim is an excellent tri-fan take on Nvidia's newest RTX 4070 GPU that offers a high boost overclock, the new Tri-Frozr 3 cooler to keep temperatures low and a metal backplate.
It also features a dual-slot design, making it an excellent GPU for gamers looking to fit one in their PC without covering the bulk of their motherboard or case area in addition to keeping temperatures low thanks to its tri-fan offerings. -
XPG 1TB GAMMIX S70 Blade SSD
The XPG 1TB GAMMIX S70 Blade SSD is an excellent value-added SSD that offers some of the fastest possible speeds one can get on PCI-E 4.0 making it a great addition to both PCs and game consoles for those looking to spruce up their PS5's storage this summer. With a heat spreader that the company states works well for the PS5 console and a powerful controller able to handle the highest possible read/write speeds one could need as a consumer, the Gammix S70 Blade is a complete package with a price no one can argue with.
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GIGABYTE GP-UD1000GM PG5 Rev2.0 1000W PSU
$168 $227 Save $59The GIGABYTE GP-UD1000GM PG5 Rev2.0 1000W is the second revision of the successful PG5 PSU with the addition of a native 16-pin PCI-E 5.0 power connector and compliance with Intel's new ATX 3.0 PSU standards in a fully modular design backed by as much as 10 years of warranty at an affordable price.
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LIAN LI LANCOOL 216 PC Case
$100 $103 Save $3The LANCOOL 216 is a mid-tower case with all-around mesh panels for optimal airflow. Thanks to its modular rear panel, it can be optimized for air or water cooling. It includes 2 x 160mm and 1 x 140mm pre-installed PWM fans and an innovative rear PCIe fan bracket to maximize airflow.
Performance Target: FHD/QHD (1K/2K) quality presets with a high refresh rate (100 Hz+)
The Recommended Spec build aims to max out the game at a decent frame rate at a resolution of QHD or lower with a respectable refresh rate. This allows gamers to experience the game as intended. It leverages Intel's value-centric unlocked Core i5 14600KF CPU and Nvidia's newly released RTX 4070 SUPER GPU to do so while aiming to adhere to a price range of approximately $1500, slightly exceeding it for a performance bias.
Built to both prevent bottlenecks and be completely upgradeable, it invests in a more powerful than required PSU from Gigabyte and a decent Lian Li Lancool 216 case, which can house much larger graphic cards. It also makes use of an excellent entry-level Z790 motherboard from Gigabyte paired with a fast, but inexpensive XPG Blade SSD with 1TB of capacity and 32GB of low-latency G.Skill Ripjaws memory.
With a relatively inexpensive tri-slot liquid cooler from Deepcool to keep up with the unlocked Core i5 Raptor Lake Refresh CPU and upgrades possible across the board regarding internals, the Recommended Spec exceeds the stated requirements. It also allows for easy upgrades to a better CPU, GPU, SSD, RAM, and even motherboard without causing any issues in a build that aims to be as up-to-date as possible.
Estimated Build Cost : $1,642
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The Minimum Spec PC Build For COD: MW3 And Warzone
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AMD Ryzen 5 7600
$199 $230 Save $31The Ryzen 5 7600 is the entry-level, yet very capable, gaming CPU from AMD that features 6 cores, 12 threads, and 32MB of L3 cache. It has a base clock speed of 3.8GHz and a boost clock speed of 5.1GHz. The Ryzen 5 7600 is an unlocked processor with a default TDP of 65W. It also has integrated RDNA 2 graphics and is the cheapest offering in the lineup with an iGPU.
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MSI B650 Gaming Plus WiFi
MSI B650 Gaming Plus is an excellent choice for AMD CPU users who are looking to get the job done without spending over $200. The 15-power phase VRM will be adequate for mid-range CPUs, while the multiple PCI-E slots will allow users to add various expansion cards. There are plenty of connectivity options too, including several fan headers, a built-in WiFi adapter, fast USB headers, and even troubleshooting options.
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G.Skill Flare X5 Series (AMD Expo) 6000MHz 32GB (CL36)
$100 $107 Save $7The G.Skill Flare X5 Series RAM kits are DDR5 RAMs that operate at an overclocked 6000MHz sweet spot for AMD AM5 processors with a lower latency EXPO profile available to allow users to overclock their memory with a push of a button while costing significantly lower than the competition.
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XFX Speedster MERC319 RX 7800 XT Black
The XFX Speedster MERC319 RX 7800 XT Black is a mid-tier offering in the Radeon 7000 series of graphics cards. It features a base clock speed of 1624 MHz and a boost clock speed of 2565 MHz. It has 16GB of VRAM on a 256-bit memory bus with speeds up to 19.5 Gbps.
Targeting 1440p gaming, the XFX Speedster MERC319 RX 7800 XT Black has a triple-fan cooler design and AMD recommends at least a 700W PSU with this card. -
Kingston NV2 1TB M.2 2280 NVMe Internal SSD
This internal solid-state drive from Kingston has 1 TB of digital storage capacity. The NV2 series SSD is designed to be compatible with laptops. It operates on PCIe 4.0 Gen 4x4 technology, features an M.2 2280 form factor, and delivers read speeds of up to 3,500 MB/s. It has lower power requirements, generating minimal heat, which makes it perfect for compact devices.
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Redragon PSU007 80+ Gold 850 Watt PSU
The Redragon PSU007 80+ Gold 850 Watt power supply unit boasts an 80 Plus Gold Certification, which delivers cooler case temperatures by enhanced energy efficiency. It also results in less noise production, thanks to better efficiency. The PSU is constructed with 100% Japanese capacitors which are renowned for their reliability and durability. This component choice ensures optimal powering stability and a consistent high-level performance, making it suitable for the demands of gamers.
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ANTEC AX61
ANTEC AX61 is a gorgeous mid-tower that is priced much lower than cases with similar functionality. It features a spacious interior that is clearly visible through the tempered glass panel and has 4x 120mm RGB fans pre-installed. The front panel is fully meshed and results in a balanced airflow inside the case for better heat dissipation.
Performance Target: FHD/QHD (1K/2K) quality presets with a high refresh rate (60 Hz+)
The Minimum Spec build aims to build a PC that can play Call of Duty Modern Warfare 3 and Warzone with ease at 60 FPS or higher competitively online. With price particularly in focus, this is a relatively budget build compared to its more expensive siblings above. It switches down to the capable but cost-effective AMD Ryzen 7 7600, marrying it to a mid-range B650 motherboard from MSI that offers Wi-Fi 6E, decent memory overclocking, and decent VRMs for future CPU upgrades.
To keep within budget, it leverages the stock cooler from AMD that comes with the CPU while trading down to a powerful AMD RX 7800XT versus Nvidia in the PCs above. This is particularly due to Call of Duty scaling better with AMD's FSR options than Nvidia's DLSS at the time of writing, making it easier to recommend AMD's offerings which are more competent at multiple price points.
More cost cuts followed on the RAM and the SSD end, but both aim to ensure that performance should remain unaffected while gaming. This results in the build opting for an entry-level PCI-E 4.0 SSD from Kingston with 1TB of storage and low latency DDR5 memory from G.Skill that clocks in at the AMD-recommended sweet spot of 6000 MHz to keep things humming.
For power, a gold-rated 850W Redragon PSU takes center stage while the ANTEC AX Series AX61 Elite is picked as a case, offering a well-rounded experience for gamers looking for a good-looking PC that can hold its own during more demanding COD multiplayer sessions.
Estimated Build Cost : $1,224
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FAQ
Q: When did Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 Release of PC?
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 was released on the 10th of November 2023 for PC on both the Activision-Blizzard Battle.net launcher and the Steam store.
Q: How Much Space Does Call of Duty: MW3 Take Up?
For competitive players using high-resolution assets, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 can require north of 200 GB on PC and about 240 GB on PlayStation 5. Future updates might increase this size considerably over time.