Given that they act as the “brains” of the system, the best processors are the most crucial component of any PC. The best AMD and Intel processors even include integrated graphics processors in addition to performing the essential tasks that enable the machine to function. This is a significant cost saving given that the most expensive graphics cards can run into the hundreds. When it comes to creating content or playing the best PC games at high frame rates, the best CPUs will offer outstanding performance levels. With the impending release of AMD Ryzen 7000-series and Intel Raptor Lake processors, the best processors currently on the market are also seeing some significant price reductions, making them an even better value. Saving money on your next processor will allow you to spend a little bit more on a faster SSD or a more potent graphics card, making a more noticeable difference to your computer. However, this cannot be said of a turning video card on your computer instead of the RTX 30 series, which offers significantly better performance across the board. While you are unlikely to bottleneck your setup with a CPU a generation behind, it is possible. These are our top picks for the best processors currently on the market that will work with most preferences and budgets.
10. Intel Core i5-11600K
The best value-for-money Intel CPU for gaming
Spending obscene sums of money is not necessary to play games in Quad HD (1440p) at high refresh rates or in 4K60 on a PC. By selecting a, you can save money just as-capable 11th-gen i5 rather than an i7. For that matter, an i9 monster. The i5-11600faster K’s clock speed allows it to compete successfully (on a fundamental level) with some 11th-generation i7 CPUs and Ryzen alternatives from a pure gaming standpoint. Not to mention the overclocking potential offered by the aforementioned higher clock speed, which has the potential to be increased the way to 4.90GHz.
SPECIFICATIONS-
Cores: 6 Threads: 12 Base clock: 3.9GHz Boost clock: 4.90GHz
9. Intel Core i7-12700K
The best all-around current generation Intel CPU
Due to its impressive real-world processing power for both everyday tasks and the most recent games, the Intel Core i7-12700K is, without a doubt, one of the best CPUs for gaming. The Intel Core i5-12600K is more than sufficient for that purpose if all you need is a chipset that can keep up with the most recent games. However, if you want to use your computer for all purposes, the i7-12700K is the best option.
SPECIFICATIONS-
Cores: 6 Threads: 20 Base clock: 3.6GHz Boost clock: 4.9GHz
8. AMD Threadripper 3990X
Best Workstation Processor
The 3990X is no different from previous models in the AMD Threadripper series, which have always been more expensive and less efficient. The Threadripper’s exorbitant price will catch your attention right away. The worst option for this CPU is gaming computers or casual home users due to its high price. However, the additional cost might be acceptable for workstation usage.
SPECIFICATIONS-
Cores: 64 Threads: 128 Base clock: —– Boost clock: 4.3GHz L3 cache: 288MB TDP: 280W
7. Intel Xeon Gold 6226R
Best Server Processor
Servers have long utilized the Intel Xeon series of processors. The Intel Xeon Gold 6226R is a shining example of the best server processor available today, and the most recent offerings from Intel are compelling. The Xeon Gold 6226R has 16 cores and 32 threads, sufficient power for advanced high-performance computing, artificial intelligence, and machine learning tasks. Additionally, this CPU is speedy for single-core and multicore applications, thanks to a max boost clock speed of 3.90GHz.
SPECIFICATIONS-
Cores: 16 Threads: 32 Base clock: —– Boost clock: 3.90GHz L3 cache: 22MB TDP: 105W
6. AMD Ryzen 5 5500U
Best Budget Processor (Laptop)
An “ultrabook” series processor from AMD, the Ryzen 5 5500U, is made for laptops. The Ryzen 5 5500U will provide the best value for your money if you want a computer with a respectable processor. This CPU easily outperforms other models in this price range in terms of performance, dependability, and energy efficiency for those working with a tight budget.
SPECIFICATIONS-
Cores: 6 Threads: 12 Base clock: 3.8GHz Boost clock: 4.0GHz L3 cache size: 8MB
5. AMD Ryzen 7 5800X
A newly affordable choice
Since the release of its brand-new X3D sibling, the 5800X has experienced a significant price reduction that brings it closer to the already excellent-value Intel Core i5-12600K, a much newer chip. It may have increased in price generationally compared to the Ryzen 7 3800X. The Ryzen 7 5800X is currently one of the best processors for gaming and mid-level content creation, sporting eight cores and 16 threads as well as single-core solid performance. With this CPU, Team Red competes on performance with Intel’s mid-range options without having to sacrifice price, which is good news for AMD fans.
SPECIFICATIONS-
Cores: 8 Threads: 16 Base clock: 3.8GHz Boost clock: 4.7GHz L3 cache size: 32MB TDP: 105W
4. AMD Ryzen 9 5900X
A 12-core monster
The AMD Ryzen 9 5900X is an excellent improvement over the AMD Ryzen 9 3900X because it offers the most significant generation-on-generation performance jump in years. However, it’s not just a more powerful processor overall; it also has a remarkably powerful CPU for gaming and creative tasks that hasn’t necessitated a rise in power consumption from the previous model. A nice bonus is that if you’re replacing an older AM4-socket chip, you won’t need a new motherboard. The Intel Core i9-12900K has since ignominiously dethroned the 5900X in terms of pure performance. However, considering how much less expensive this processor is than Intel’s top-tier model, it’s still nothing to discredit.
SPECIFICATIONS-
Cores: 12 Threads: 24 Base clock: 3.7GHz Boost clock: 4.8GHz L3 cache size: 64MB TDP: 105W
3. AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3D
The best processor for gaming
Without a doubt, the AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3D is one of the top gaming processors available. Compared to its class, the 5800X3D punches way above its weight and competes favorably with the more expensive Core i9-12900K in gaming performance, thanks to AMD’s new 3D V-Cache technology. This AMD Ryzen 7 5800X retains the same AM4 motherboard socket as earlier Ryzen chips, so if you already have an AMD system, you won’t need to spend extra money to upgrade your motherboard. It is possible thanks to a new microarchitecture that enables AMD to “stack” cache on the CPU die.
SPECIFICATIONS-
Cores: 8 Threads: 16 Base clock: 3.7GHz Boost clock: 4.7GHz L3 cache size: 100MB TDP: 105W
2. Intel Core i5-12600K
The best value for money
The Intel Core i5-12600K completely dominates every other CPU in its price range, which is something you don’t see very often. It is currently priced at just $260 for a 3.7GHz base clock speed, ten cores, 6 of which are multi-threaded Performance Cores, making it one of the best options if you want excellent value. The other four cores are efficient, whereas these are traditional CPU cores. In other words, you still get the most recent Intel technology even though this chip is much less expensive than the i9-12900K.
SPECIFICATIONS-
Cores: 10 Threads: 16 Base clock: 3.7GHz Boost clock: 4.9GHz L3 cache size: 20MB TDP: 125W
1. Intel Core i9-12900K
The very best processor available right now
An actual return to form for Intel, the Core i9-12900K is an incredibly potent processor. Desktop CPUs from the 12th generation use a clever new architecture that pairs established “performance cores” with brand-new efficiency cores made to handle background tasks without interfering with core processes. It is great for various reasons, including maintaining top-notch power efficiency and enabling simple multitasking, such as running streaming software while you’re playing a game. Intel has finally taken back the CPU throne that it lost to AMD’s Ryzen line five years ago with the Core i9-12900K. This chip will easily handle any challenging tasks you throw at it, but be prepared to spend a little more on your CPU cooler because all that power makes this silicon slab run hot.
SPECIFICATIONS-
Cores: 16 Threads: 24 Base clock: 3.20GHz Boost clock: 5.2GHz L3 cache size: 30MB TDP: 125W
