Quick Answer

Path of Exile 2 can be demanding in late-game with dense effects and large monster packs, so target a mid-to-upper GPU around the RTX 4070 class, a strong 6-or-8-core CPU and 32GB of RAM for smooth 1440p high; budget roughly R22,000-R30,000 in SA. The CPU and RAM matter more here than in lighter ARPGs.

Why PoE 2 Needs More Than It Looks

Early areas run easily, but PoE 2's endgame throws huge numbers of enemies, projectiles and effects on screen, which stresses the CPU heavily and pushes the GPU. That makes a strong CPU and ample RAM as important as the graphics card. A mid-to-upper GPU holds 1440p high above 60 fps in most content, while a capable 6-or-8-core CPU prevents the stutter that dense packs cause.

32GB of RAM gives headroom for the late-game's memory demands, where 16GB can feel tight during the busiest encounters.

Recommended Build Tiers

For 1080p high, a mid build with a current mid GPU, a 6-core CPU and 16-32GB of RAM runs PoE 2 well around R18,000. For smooth 1440p high in the endgame, step to an RTX 4070-class GPU, a strong 6-or-8-core CPU and 32GB of RAM near R26,000. A fast NVMe SSD speeds zone loading. Use quality upscaling to hold frames in the most chaotic fights, and fit a 650-750W PSU.

FAQ

What PC do I need for Path of Exile 2?

For smooth 1440p high in the endgame, a mid-to-upper GPU like the RTX 4070 class, a strong 6-or-8-core CPU and 32GB of RAM, costing roughly R22,000-R30,000 in SA.

Is PoE 2 CPU or GPU heavy?

Both, but the CPU matters more in the endgame than in lighter ARPGs. Dense monster packs and effects stress the CPU, so a strong 6-or-8-core chip prevents stutter in busy fights.

Is 16GB of RAM enough for PoE 2?

For early play, yes, but the endgame is memory-hungry. 32GB gives headroom during the busiest encounters, so it is the recommended capacity for smooth late-game performance.

TIP

of Exile 2's endgame, prioritise a strong CPU and 32GB of RAM, not just the GPU. Dense monster packs stress the processor, where lighter ARPGs do not.