There are a lot of different gaming CPUs on the market, and it can be tough to figure out which one is the best for your needs. In this article, we will take a look at some of the top gaming CPUs available right now and discuss what makes them great choices for gamers. Whether you are looking for a budget CPU or something more high-end, we have you covered. So without further ado, let’s get started!
We all know that the heart of any good PC build is its processor (CPU). When it comes to finding the best CPU for gaming, there are a few things you need to consider. Firstly, how much money do you want to spend? And secondly, what kind of games do you.
At a Glance:
8. AMD Ryzen 3 3300X 4-Core
- Great Built
- Excellent single-core performance
- Good multi-core scaling
- Competitive pricing
6. AMD Ryzen 3 3300X 4-Core
- 4 cores/8 threads
- Very good single and multi-core performance
- Wraith Stealth cooler included
- Unlocked multiplier for easy overclocking
3. Intel Core i9-12900K Desktop Processor 16
- The fastest gaming processor in the world
- Unlocked for overclocking
- 16 cores for ultimate multi-tasking
- Supports PCIe 4.0 for the latest graphics cards and storage devices
- 8 Best CPUs – Top Gaming CPUs for the Money
- 1. Intel Core i5-12600K Desktop Processor 10
- 2. Intel Core i5-10400 Desktop Processor 6
- 3. Intel Core i9-12900K Desktop Processor 16
- 4. Intel® Core™ i5-11600K Desktop Processor 6 Cores
- 5. AMD Ryzen 5 5600G 6-Core
- 6. AMD Ryzen 3 3300X 4-Core
- 7. AMD Ryzen 5 5600G 6-Core
- 8. AMD Ryzen 3 3300X 4-Core
- Buying Guide
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Thoughts
8 Best CPUs – Top Gaming CPUs for the Money
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1. Intel Core i5-12600K Desktop Processor 10
The Intel Core i5-12600K Desktop Processor is a powerful 10-core processor that can handle even the most demanding tasks. With a base clock speed of 4.9 GHz, this processor can easily keep up with the most demanding software and games.
Additionally, the unlocked multiplier allows for overclocking potential, letting you push your system to its limits. With a 125W TDP, this processor is also power-efficient, making it a great choice for both gaming and workstation PCs. Lastly, the LGA1700 socket is compatible with a range of 600 Series chipsets, giving you plenty of flexibility when building your system.
The Intel Core i5-12600K Desktop Processor is one of the best processors on the market because it offers 10 (6P+4E) cores, a clock speed of up to 4.9 GHz, and an unlocked multiplier. This allows for excellent performance when gaming or running other demanding applications.
The processor also has a 125W TDP, which is relatively low for a desktop processor. Overall, the Intel Core i5-12600K Desktop Processor is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a powerful and efficient processor. The Intel Core i5-12600K Desktop Processor is a powerful processor that offers great value for money. It has 10 (6P+4E) cores and can reach speeds of up to 4.9 GHz, making it a great choice for gamers and other power users.
Additionally, the unlocked design means that it can be overclocked for even more performance. Finally, the 125W power rating means that it won’t tax your power supply too much. Overall, the Intel Core i5-12600K Desktop Processor is a great choice for anyone looking for a powerful and affordable processor.
Pros
- Fantastic single-core and multi-core performance
- Very good gaming performance
- Overclockable
- Good value for money
Cons
- Cooling may be required for high-end overclocks
2. Intel Core i5-10400 Desktop Processor 6
The Intel Core i5-10400 Desktop Processor is a powerful 6-core processor that can handle demanding tasks effortlessly. With a maximum clock speed of 4.3 GHz, this processor is capable of delivering exceptional performance when needed.
Additionally, the 65W power consumption makes it an energy-efficient choice for your desktop PC. Furthermore, the Intel 400 Series Chipset compatibility ensures seamless integration with a wide range of motherboards. Lastly, the included heat sink and fan keep the processor cool even during extended use.
The Intel Core i5-10400 Desktop Processor is one of the best processors on the market because it offers six cores, up to 4.3 GHz of speed, and a 65W power rating. Additionally, this processor is compatible with the Intel 400 Series Chipset, making it a great option for those who need a reliable and powerful processor.
The Intel Core i5-10400 Desktop Processor is a powerful processor that offers six cores and up to 4.3 GHz of processing power. This makes it a great choice for gamers and other demanding users who need a fast and reliable processor. The LGA1200 socket is compatible with the Intel 400 Series Chipset, so you can be sure that this processor will work with your existing motherboard.
This processor has a 65W TDP and comes with a cooling fan, making it a great choice for use on a desktop PC. If you are looking for a powerful and reliable processor, the Intel Core i5-10400 Desktop Processor is a great option.
Pros
- Fantastic value for a 6-core/12-thread processor
- Good single-threaded performance
- Very power efficient
- Supports DDR4-2666 memory
Cons
- Lacks integrated graphics (requires a dedicated GPU)
3. Intel Core i9-12900K Desktop Processor 16
Budget PickThe Intel Core i9-12900K Desktop Processor is a powerful 16-core processor that can handle even the most demanding tasks. With a clock speed of up to 5.2 GHz, this processor is capable of delivering smooth and responsive performance.
It also comes with an unlocked multiplier, allowing you to overclock it for even more speed. The 125W TDP makes this processor ideal for high-end gaming PCs and workstations. It also comes with Intel’s latest 600 Series Chipset, providing support for the latest technologies.
The Intel Core i9-12900K Desktop Processor is one of the best processors on the market because it has 16 cores and can reach speeds of up to 5.2 GHz. It is also unlocked, meaning that it can be overclocked to even higher speeds if needed.
Additionally, the 600 series chipset provides excellent compatibility with a wide range of motherboards and other components. Finally, the 125W power rating ensures that this processor will be able to handle even the most demanding tasks without overloading your system.
The Intel Core i9-12900K Desktop Processor is a powerful processor that offers 16 (8P+8E) cores and up to 5.2 GHz of clock speed. It is also unlocked, meaning that it can be overclocked for even more performance. Additionally, it features a 600 Series Chipset and supports 125W of power. So, if you’re looking for a powerful processor for your desktop computer, the Intel Core i9-12900K is a great option.
Pros
- The fastest gaming processor in the world
- Unlocked for overclocking
- 16 cores for ultimate multi-tasking
- Supports PCIe 4.0 for the latest graphics cards and storage devices
Cons
- Intel Core i9 CPUs are expensive
4. Intel® Core™ i5-11600K Desktop Processor 6 Cores
The Intel® Core™ i5-11600K Desktop Processor is a powerful 6-core processor with a base clock speed of 3.9 GHz and a maximum turbo frequency of 4.9 GHz. It supports DDR4-2933 memory and is compatible with Intel® 500 Series & Select 400 Series Chipsets. This processor has a TDP of 125W and comes with a cooling solution.
The Intel Core i5-11600K Desktop Processor is one of the best processors on the market because it offers 6 cores, up to 4.9 GHz of speed, and is unlocked for easy overclocking. This processor also comes with a 125W TDP, making it well suited for gaming and other power-hungry applications.
In addition, the Intel Core i5-11600K Desktop Processor is compatible with the Intel 500 Series and select 400 Series Chipsets, making it a great choice for a new or upgrade build. The Intel Core i5-11600K Desktop Processor is a powerful processor that offers 6 cores and up to 4.9 GHz of processing speed.
It is also unlocked, meaning that it can be overclocked for even more power. Additionally, it comes with a 125W TDP, making it ideal for high-performance PCs. Finally, it is compatible with the Intel 500 Series and selects 400 Series chipsets.
The Intel Core i5-11600K is a powerful desktop processor that offers six cores and up to 4.9 GHz of speed. It is unlocked for overclocking and comes with a 125W TDP. It is compatible with the Intel 500 series and selected 400 series chipsets. This processor is a great choice for gamers and power users who need extra performance.
Pros
- Fantastic single-core performance
- Good multi-core performance
- Decent overclocking potential
- Low TDP of 125W
Cons
- Expensive compared to the competition
5. AMD Ryzen 5 5600G 6-Core
The AMD Ryzen 5 5600G is a 6-core, 12-thread unlocked desktop processor with Radeon Graphics. This processor is based on the Zen 3 architecture and offers high performance for gaming and other demanding tasks. The GPU is based on the Navi 10 architecture and offers excellent gaming performance. This processor also comes with a Wraith Stealth cooler.
The best thing about the AMD Ryzen 5 5600G 6-core 12-thread unlocked desktop processor with Radeon graphics is that it is very fast and efficient. It has a base clock speed of 3.9 GHz and can boost up to 4.4 GHz. It also has a very good thermal design power (TDP) of 65 watts. This means that it will not consume a lot of power and will not generate too much heat.
Another good thing about this processor is that it is very affordable. It is one of the most affordable processors in the market right now. Overall, the AMD Ryzen 5 5600G 6-core 12-thread unlocked desktop processor with Radeon graphics is a great choice for those who are looking for a fast and efficient processor. It is also a great choice for those who are looking for an affordable processor.
The AMD Ryzen 5 5600G 6-Core 12-Thread Unlocked Desktop Processor with Radeon Graphics is one of the best values on the market for a mid-range processor. It offers great performance for the price and includes features that are normally found only on high-end processors. This makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking to build a new mid-range gaming PC.
The 5600G includes AMD’s Radeon graphics, which are some of the best-integrated graphics on the market. This gives it the ability to handle most modern games at medium to high settings. It also has a very good amount of horsepower for multitasking and productivity applications.
Pros
- 6 cores/12 threads
- Unlocked for overclocking
- Radeon integrated graphics
- High performance
Cons
- It May require a separate graphics card for some games/applications
6. AMD Ryzen 3 3300X 4-Core
Staff PickThe AMD Ryzen 3 3300X 4-core, the 8-thread unlocked desktop processor with Wraith Stealth cooler offers incredible performance for the price. This chip is an excellent choice for gamers and power users alike, offering a significant increase in performance over previous generation CPUs.
The only drawback of this processor is that it does not come with a stock cooler, so you’ll need to purchase one separately. Overall, the AMD Ryzen 3 3300X is an excellent value for the money and should be on your shortlist if you’re looking for a powerful CPU on a budget.
The AMD Ryzen 3 3300X 4-Core, 8-Thread Unlocked Desktop Processor with Wraith Stealth Cooler is one of the best processors on the market because of its high performance and top-of-the-line features. Its eight cores and sixteen threads make it capable of handling even the most demanding tasks quickly and easily.
Additionally, its Wraith Stealth cooler ensures that your system stays cool and quiet, even when under heavy load. Overall, the AMD Ryzen 3 3300X is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a powerful and reliable processor.
The AMD Ryzen 3 3300X 4-Core, 8-Thread Unlocked Desktop Processor with Wraith Stealth Cooler is one of the best processors on the market and offers excellent value for money. It has a base clock speed of 3.5 GHz and a boost clock speed of 4.0 GHz, making it one of the fastest processors available. It also comes with a Wraith Stealth cooler, which helps to keep the processor cool and quiet.
Pros
- 4 cores/8 threads
- Very good single and multi-core performance
- Wraith Stealth cooler included
- Unlocked multiplier for easy overclocking
Cons
- It May require a BIOS update for compatibility with some motherboards
7. AMD Ryzen 5 5600G 6-Core
The AMD Ryzen 5 5600G 6-Core 12-Thread Unlocked Desktop Processor with Radeon Graphics is a powerful processor that is perfect for gaming and other demanding tasks. It has a base clock speed of 3.9 GHz and a boost clock speed of 4.2 GHz. It also comes with 24 MB of total cache memory. This processor also has a thermal design power of 65 watts. It is compatible with AMD’s AM4 socket type. Additionally, this processor comes with a one-year warranty.
The AMD Ryzen 5 5600G 6-Core 12-Thread Unlocked Desktop Processor with Radeon Graphics is one of the best processors on the market because it offers amazing performance and value for money. It has 6 cores and 12 threads, making it a great choice for gamers and power users who need a lot of processing power.
It also has a high clock speed of 3.8 GHz, making it one of the fastest processors available. The AMD Ryzen 5 5600G also comes with a built-in Radeon RX Vega 8 graphics card, which is capable of playing most games at medium to high settings. Overall, the AMD Ryzen 5 5600G is an excellent choice for anyone who needs a powerful and affordable processor.
There are several compelling reasons to consider buying the AMD Ryzen 5 5600G 6-Core 12-Thread Unlocked Desktop Processor with Radeon Graphics. First, it offers an impressive six cores and twelve threads, making it a powerful option for multitasking and demanding workloads.
The integrated Radeon graphics offer great performance for gaming and other graphics-intensive tasks. Finally, the unlocked design allows for easy overclocking, giving you the potential to squeeze even more performance out of the processor. Overall, the AMD Ryzen 5 5600G is a great option for anyone looking for a powerful and versatile desktop processor.
Pros
- Unlocked for overclocking
- Built-in Radeon graphics
- 6 cores/12 threads
- Excellent value
Cons
- No integrated memory controller
8. AMD Ryzen 3 3300X 4-Core
Best PickThe AMD Ryzen 3 3300X is a high-performance 4-core, 8-thread unlocked desktop processor with a Wraith Stealth cooler. Built with Zen 2 architecture, the 3300X delivers exceptional speed and power for gaming, streaming, and creating.
Its high core and thread count make it perfect for multitasking, while its low TDP and power-efficient design enable it to run cool and quiet. Combine all that with a competitive price, and the 3300X is an excellent choice for budget-conscious gamers and content creators.
The AMD Ryzen 3 3300X 4-Core, 8-Thread Unlocked Desktop Processor with Wraith Stealth Cooler is one of the best processors on the market because it offers an excellent balance of performance and price. It has four cores and eight threads, making it a powerful option for gaming or other demanding tasks.
Additionally, its unlocked multiplier allows for easy overclocking, and its Wraith Stealth cooler keeps things running quietly and cool. Overall, the AMD Ryzen 3 3300X is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a powerful yet affordable processor.
The AMD Ryzen 3 3300X 4-Core, 8-Thread Unlocked Desktop Processor with Wraith Stealth Cooler is a great choice for anyone looking for a powerful yet affordable processor. It offers excellent performance and comes with a cool and quiet Wraith Stealth cooler. Additionally, it is unlocked for easy overclocking, making it even more versatile.
Pros
- Great Built
- Excellent single-core performance
- Good multi-core scaling
- Competitive pricing
Cons
- Limited overclocking potential
Buying Guide
The CPU is the most important factor in a gaming PC. It dictates how well your games will run and how fast your system will be able to process information. With that said, you need to make sure you’re getting the best gaming CPU for the money. Here’s a quick guide on how to do just that:
1) Know your games’ requirements.
The first step is to check what kind of CPU your games require. Games these days are becoming increasingly demanding, so you’ll need to make sure your CPU can handle them. Check the game’s system requirements and see what CPU it recommends.
2) Compare CPUs.
Once you know what kind of CPU you need, it’s time to start comparing different models. Pay attention to things like clock speed, cores, and cache size. These will all affect how well the CPU performs.
3) Read reviews.
Another important step is to read reviews of the CPUs you’re considering. This will give you a good idea of what other people think about the performance of the CPU.
4) Choose the right brand.
There are a lot of different CPU brands out there, so you’ll need to choose the one that’s right for you. Some brands are better than others when it comes to gaming CPUs. Do some research and pick a brand that you trust.
5) Consider your budget.
Finally, you’ll need to consider your budget when choosing a gaming CPU. There are a lot of great options out there, so you’ll need to find one that fits within your price range.
By following these steps, you can be sure that you’re getting the best gaming CPU for the money. Make sure you do your research and pick the right one for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a good CPU for a gaming budget?
A good CPU for a gaming budget is an Intel Core i5 or an AMD Ryzen 5. These CPUs offer the best performance per dollar and will allow you to play the latest games on high settings.
What makes a CPU good for gaming?
A CPU needs to have a high single-threaded performance to be good for gaming. This is because most games are not heavily multithreaded and can therefore only make use of a single CPU core. High single-threaded performance means that the CPU can handle demanding tasks such as gaming, rendering, and video editing.
What CPU do most gamers use?
The most popular CPU among gamers is the Intel Core i5. This is because it offers a good mix of performance and price. The AMD Ryzen 5 is also a popular choice among gamers as it offers similar performance to the Intel Core i5 but at a lower price point.
How many cores do you need for gaming?
You only need a single core for gaming. However, more cores can be helpful if you also do other CPU-intensive tasks such as video editing or 3D rendering.
Why are CPU prices so high?
CPU prices have been rising in recent years due to increasing demand from the gaming and cryptocurrency mining industries. However, prices are still relatively low compared to historical highs.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to gaming, the most important factor is your CPU. If you want to make sure you’re getting the best performance for your money, check out our list of the top gaming CPUs for 2019. We’ll help you find the perfect processor for your budget and needs so you can dominate in all your favorite games. Have we missed a great option? Let us know in the comments below!
