The best CPU for PC gaming

When it comes to gaming rigs, CPUs can often be overlooked. Getting the best CPU for PC gaming is vital, even if you're more likely to spend more money on a graphics card. While the GPUs on a graphics card take care of rendering, your CPU handles things like enemy AI in a shooter, and is even more evident in 4X and strategy games in which enemy AI utilise a whole host of systems to make tactical decisions to take you out. Your CPU really is the heart of your build too, making everything run much faster and smoother, so picking up a decent core is absolutely essential.

Your CPU acts as the bridge between all of the other kit stuffed into your gaming case (along with your RAM), so it has quite the heavy load to be carrying. With that in mind we’ve selected a handful of the best CPUs you can get right now at competitive prices to meet all of your needs. If you're building your own rig you already know what the best CPU for PC gaming is... but we check the price of all major online retailers to ensure you're getting the parts cheaper, at any given time. On top of that, we recommend higher and lower spec CPUs, to help you manage the budget for your build. With our help you'll have a machine capable of running the best PC games in no time.

Intel Fastest Processor for Games & Streaming

Intel Core i7-8700K

The fastest processor for your system for games & streaming

The Core i7-8700K has the highest stock clockspeeds Intel has ever offered, with the only potential upgrade right now being the higher clocked and limited supply Core i7-8086K. Either way, you get six cores and a huge boost to overall processing power, making this the fastest mainstream Intel processor. Most games don't currently use more than four cores, but that's starting to change, and the additional computational power can be very useful for streaming and other background tasks.

The i7-8700K is basically a response to AMD becoming competitive in the CPU scene again, with Ryzen offering 8-core/16-thread CPUs for under $300. If you're not totally focused on games, AMD's Ryzen 7 parts are a compelling alternative that can often beat the 8700K, but for games and multi-GPU, Intel still reigns supreme.

There are two main complaints against the i7-8700K. First, you'll need to buy your own cooler. Enthusiasts might do that regardless, but I'd love the option to get an appropriate cooler with a boxed CPU. The other complaint is that Intel's TIM (Thermal Interface Material) can limit overclocking potential. I consider delidding and using liquid metal a great investment for long-term overclocking, as it provides a potential 15-20C drop in thermals.

Intel Pentium Extreme Edition 840 3.2 Ghz

Get advanced performance for high-end gaming and the most demanding power applications. The Intel Pentium 4 Processor with HT Technology Extreme Edition is designed specifically for those who know their technology and crave high performance.
Features
Hyper-Threading Technology Streaming SIMD extensions 3 Intel Extended Memory 64 Technology Execute Disable Bit capability 1MB L2 Advanced Transfer Cache for each core Specifications General Product Type Processor Expansion / Connectivity Compatible Slots 1 x processor - LGA775 Socket Miscellaneous Package Type Intel Boxed Processor Type / Form Factor Intel Pentium Extreme Edition Dual-Core 840 Processor Qty 1 Clock Speed 3.2 GHz Bus Speed 800 MHz Processor Socket LGA775 Socket Cache Memory Type Advanced Transfer Cache Installed Size L2 cache - 2 MB What is a PowerLeap adapter? This device from PowerLeap allows socket 7 and socket 5 motherboards to have clock multiplier speeds up to 6.0x, even if you original motherboard has a maximum multiplier that is lower. Additionally, this adapter will also provide you with the proper split voltages for all AMD, CYRIX and Intel MMX processor to work on your system. Once the Powerleap adapter is installed you are only limited by your BIOS.
Because my original motherboard does not support AMD Processors or 6.0x clock multipliers I needed to use the PowerLeap adapter in my tests. But as you can see below this combination has given me a dramatic increase in speed over my original Pentium 133 that came with my system.

Intel Pentium 4 540 3.2GHz

Attract new business and transition existing customers with the latest generation of the Intel Pentium 4 processor.
Desktop platforms based on the Intel Pentium 4 processor supporting Hyper-Threading Technology and the Intel 925X/915 Express chipsets, create a multi-media environment where digital content is shared between devices in both the home and office.
In addition, the Pentium 4 processor with HT Technology gives your customers the power to do more without slowing down.
In fact, HT Technology can provide software performance benefits of up to 25 percent in multitasking situations, delivering advanced performance for both home and business PC users.
Whatever the need, the Intel Pentium 4 processor has the capability to meet your customers computing demands.
Product Type
Processor
Manufacturer
Intel

AMD K6-2 vs. AMD K6-III

Now that the AMD K6-III and AMD K6-2 are both available in 400 MHz from PowerLeap. I was wondering which PowerLeap adapter upgrade performs better. This page contains the results of my testing of both processors on my Packard Bell PB 640 motherboard with a Mr. BIOS upgrade, 64 MB of RAM, Windows 95 and a Stealth II S220 video card. So what is the AMD-K6-III processor with 3DNow! technology? Well, AMD describes it as "the ultimate sixth generation processor for home PC enthusiasts and business power users. The AMD-K6-III processor combines 3DNow! technology with AMD's new TriLevel Cache design to deliver exceptional performance on leading business and consumer software applications. The key to this enhanced performance is our innovative TriLevel Cache design, which provides the largest total system cache for desktop PCs-more than four times the size of other competing system designs." Basically this means that the AMD-K6-III is an AMD K6-2 that has 256 L2 cache on the CPU

Intel Dual-core Xeon Processor 5030 2.67

The Dual-Core Intel Xeon processor 5000 series is a simple purchase decision for a business to make: Dual core performance at single core price. Starting today all dual processor servers should be multi-core, from high-performance to value. Adding to exciting new levels of processor performance come processor features: Intel Virtualization Technology, Intel Hyperthreading Technology, Intel Enhanced Speedstep Technology and Execute Disable Bit.The Dual-Core Intel Xeon processor 5000 series is compatible with Intel 5000P, 5000V and 5000X series of chipsets. Server boards based on these chipsets are optimized for dual core with advanced platform features of Dual Independent Bus and Fully Buffered DIMM memory technology offering up to 4X and 3X available bandwidth of current generation platforms. Improved I/O performance is possible with PCI Express and the option of Intel I/O Acceleration Technology


Specifically designed for and validated with server boards based on the Intel 5000P, 5000V and 5000X chipsets Available in two thermal solution options

AMD (K62433100SK7), 433 MHz

The Mobile AMD-K6-2-P processor is based on an advanced, sixth-generation architecture and offers excellent performance for value priced notebook PCs. Whether you are running standard business applications or graphics-intensive software, the Mobile AMD-K6-2-P processor allows you to get the job done quickly and efficiently.

Intel Celeron D Processor 341 2.93

The Intel Celeron D processor on 90 nm process in the 478-pin package and in the FC-LGA775 Land package expands Intel's processor family into value-priced PC market segments. Celeron D processors offer exciting new technologies at a great value. The Celeron D processors include a larger integrated L2 cache and faster processor system bus when compared to Celeron processors. The Celeron D processor is built on the foundation of Intel's successful engineering and manufacturing leadership with Intel's commitment of technology, quality and reliability to value-priced PC market segments. The Celeron D processors provide customers the capability to affordably get onto the Internet, utilize educational programs, home-office software and productivity applications with great computing and multimedia power

Intel Pentium Processor Extreme Edition 965 3.73 Ghz

The Intel® Pentium® Processor Extreme Edition, with the processing capabilities of four threads, delivers more computing capabilities that enable you to explore new ways to accomplish and enjoy performance-intensive tasks on your PC.
Features
Hyper-Threading Technology: Enables you to run multiple demanding applications at the same time. Execute Disable Bit: Can improve protection against malicious "buffer overflow" attacks when properly enabled with a supporting operating system. Intel® Extended Memory 64 Technology Provides flexibility for future applications that support both 32-bit and 64-bit computing. Dual-Core: Two physical cores in one processor support better system responsiveness and multi-tasking capability than a comparable single core processor. Intel® Virtualization Technology: Intel® Virtualization Technology enables one hardware platform to function as multiple "virtual" platforms. For businesses, it offers improved manageability, limiting downtime and maintaining worker productivity by isolating computing activities into separate partitions. In the home, it allows creating unique user environments for multiple family members looking to use the same platform simultaneously.
Specifications
Processor Frequency 3.73 GHz Package Type 775 pin Bus Speed 1066 MHz L2 Cache Size 4 MB L2 Cache Speed 3.73 GHz CPUID String 0F64h Core Voltage 1.3V Thermal Guideline 130W Thermal Spec 68.6°C Manufacturing Technology 65 nm Bus/Core Ratio 14

IBM Processor Amd Opteron Model 246 2.0 Ghz

This AMD Opteron processor option provides a highly scalable architecture that delivers next-generation performance as well as a flexible upgrade path from 32- to 64-bit computing. With a single architecture designed to meet current and future business needs, the AMD Opteron processor can help to minimize the integration complexities presented by current business environments and answer future business growth needs. This evolutionary processor provides a dramatic leap forward in compatibility, performance and investment protection and can help significantly reduce the total cost of ownership (TCO) variable. The AMD Opteron processor is offered in three models, the 244, 246 and the 248, ranging in processor speeds and is supported by 1MB of L2 cache on all models

Supports large memory addressability for data-intensive applications, allowing for optimal performance and improved productivity in your work environments. Flexibility Minimizes integration complexities by providing simultaneous high performance 32- and 64-bit computing Provides the flexibility and scalability for demanding enterprise-class applications. Provides flexibility with a scalable design, delivering the headroom needed for future applications. Investment Protection Provides lower cost of ownership, helping with long-term IT investment protection Provides an investment with a long-span potential thanks to the performance upgrade capabilities inherent in the AMD Opteron processor Allows you to better manage the transition cost and timing of your application suite's 64-bit migration

IBM Processor Amd Opteron Model 250 2.4 Ghz

This AMD Opteron processor option provides a highly scalable architecture that delivers next-generation performance as well as a flexible upgrade path from 32- to 64-bit computing. With a single architecture designed to meet current and future business needs, the AMD Opteron processor can help to minimize the integration complexities presented by current business environments and answer future business growth needs. This new Model 250 evolutionary processor with 2.4GHz front-side bus frequency and memory support for PC2700 is expected to give an immediate performance boost to the IBM eServer 325. The AMD processor upgrades provide a dramatic leap forward in compatibility, performance and investment protection and can help reduce the total cost of ownership (TCO) variable in 2004 and beyond IT budget projections.
Performance AMD delivers high-performance solutions for today's enterprise community. This AMD Opteron processor delivers ease of transition to 64-bit technology at your desired pace without sacrificing 32-bit performance. With 64-bit capabilities, the AMD Opteron processor supports large memory addressability for data-intensive applications, allowing for optimal performance and improved productivity in your work environments. Flexibility The AMD Opteron processor minimizes integration complexities by giving you simultaneous high performance 32- and 64-bit computing This Opteron processor provides the flexibility and scalability for demanding enterprise-class applications. The AMD Opteron processor's forward-thinking technology provides flexibility with a scalable design, delivering the headroom needed for future applications. Investment Protection Provides lower cost of ownership, helping with long-term IT investment protection The performance upgrade capabilities inherent in the AMD Opteron processor provide an investment with a long-span potential The AMD Opteron processor's innovative design allows you to better manage the transition cost and timing of your application suite's 64-bit migration

IBM Processor Amd Opteron Model 250 2.4 Ghz

This AMD Opteron processor option provides a highly scalable architecture that delivers next-generation performance as well as a flexible upgrade path from 32- to 64-bit computing. With a single architecture designed to meet current and future business needs, the AMD Opteron processor can help to minimize the integration complexities presented by current business environments and answer future business growth needs. This new Model 250 evolutionary processor with 2.4GHz front-side bus frequency and memory support for PC2700 is expected to give an immediate performance boost to the IBM eServer 325. The AMD processor upgrades provide a dramatic leap forward in compatibility, performance and investment protection and can help reduce the total cost of ownership (TCO) variable in 2004 and beyond IT budget projections.
Performance AMD delivers high-performance solutions for today's enterprise community. This AMD Opteron processor delivers ease of transition to 64-bit technology at your desired pace without sacrificing 32-bit performance. With 64-bit capabilities, the AMD Opteron processor supports large memory addressability for data-intensive applications, allowing for optimal performance and improved productivity in your work environments. Flexibility The AMD Opteron processor minimizes integration complexities by giving you simultaneous high performance 32- and 64-bit computing This Opteron processor provides the flexibility and scalability for demanding enterprise-class applications. The AMD Opteron processor's forward-thinking technology provides flexibility with a scalable design, delivering the headroom needed for future applications. Investment Protection Provides lower cost of ownership, helping with long-term IT investment protection The performance upgrade capabilities inherent in the AMD Opteron processor provide an investment with a long-span potential The AMD Opteron processor's innovative design allows you to better manage the transition cost and timing of your application suite's 64-bit migration

IBM Processor Amd Opteron Model 250 2.4 Ghz

This AMD Opteron processor option provides a highly scalable architecture that delivers next-generation performance as well as a flexible upgrade path from 32- to 64-bit computing. With a single architecture designed to meet current and future business needs, the AMD Opteron processor can help to minimize the integration complexities presented by current business environments and answer future business growth needs. This new Model 250 evolutionary processor with 2.4GHz front-side bus frequency and memory support for PC2700 is expected to give an immediate performance boost to the IBM eServer 325. The AMD processor upgrades provide a dramatic leap forward in compatibility, performance and investment protection and can help reduce the total cost of ownership (TCO) variable in 2004 and beyond IT budget projections.
Performance AMD delivers high-performance solutions for today's enterprise community. This AMD Opteron processor delivers ease of transition to 64-bit technology at your desired pace without sacrificing 32-bit performance. With 64-bit capabilities, the AMD Opteron processor supports large memory addressability for data-intensive applications, allowing for optimal performance and improved productivity in your work environments. Flexibility The AMD Opteron processor minimizes integration complexities by giving you simultaneous high performance 32- and 64-bit computing This Opteron processor provides the flexibility and scalability for demanding enterprise-class applications. The AMD Opteron processor's forward-thinking technology provides flexibility with a scalable design, delivering the headroom needed for future applications. Investment Protection Provides lower cost of ownership, helping with long-term IT investment protection The performance upgrade capabilities inherent in the AMD Opteron processor provide an investment with a long-span potential The AMD Opteron processor's innovative design allows you to better manage the transition cost and timing of your application suite's 64-bit migration

AMD Duron processor low-cost

AMD Duron processor is a low-cost CPU based on the K7 architecture. The first generation of Duron processors used Spitfire core, which is similar to the Athlon Thunderbird core with the exception of L2 cache - the Duron had 64 KB L2 cache while the Athlon had 256 KB cache. Having larger L1 cache, faster bus speed and more powerful FPU unit, the Duron Spitfire processors significantly outperformed their competitors - Intel Celeron processors with 66 Mhz FSB. Even after the bus speed on Celeron processors was increased to 100 MHz, they were still lagging behind the Duron CPUs.
The Spitfire core Durons were produced in speeds up to 950 MHz. Faster AMD Duron processors used a Morgan core. Like the Spitfire core is similar to the Thunderbird core, the Morgan core takes most of the features from the Athlon Palomino core. The core was tweaked for greater performance by implementing a full set of SSE instructions, adding a data prefetch mechanism and increasing the size of the Translation Look-aside Buffer.
The next Duron core - Applebred - was used in the last three processors from the Duron family. In these processors the bus speed was increased to 266 MHz, and the core voltage was reduced to 1.5V. The Applebred core was the last Duron core - the Duron CPU family was phased out in favor of new AMD Sempron family.

AMD Duron 650 MHz (D650AST1B) Processor

AMD presents Duron processor, once again setting the standard for business and home users in the value PC space. Optimized for the value-conscious user, the AMD Duron processor reinforces AMD's leadership position in delivering better computing solutions to the value PC space.??The AMD Duron processor offers value conscious buyers access to technology and performance that stands out among other processors in its class. Employing an innovative design, the AMD Duron processor features sophisticated cache architecture, a high-speed front-side bus, and a super-scalar floating-point unit with enhanced 3DNow! technology. Designed to help prolong the life of a buyer's investment, the AMD Duron processor provides the capability and flexibility to meet the computing needs of value conscious users today and tomorrow. AMD Duron processor-based systems are ideal for applications typically employed by such users, including surfing the Internet, business and personal productivity suites

AMD Geode GX S B Comp Refe Design Kit

high-performance

The AMD Geode™ GX Single Board Computer (SBC) Reference Design Kit (RDK) is a compact, low-power, high-performance tool developed to enable the next generation of single-board computing and network appliances. Virtually manufacture-ready, the RDK is designed to deliver low total cost of ownership and provide a complete system design package that gives designers flexibility, versatility, and enhanced capabilities in a small-sized package (approximately 5.5" x 5"). The RDK is driven by the AMD Geode GX 466@0.9W processor and complemented by the CS5536 companion chip which provides general I/O support, including USB 2.0, audio, and ATA 100. The RDK is supported by General Software's industry leading Embedded BIOS® with StrongFrame™ Technology.Embedded BIOS® with StrongFrame™ Technology, provides maximum configurability with high-level firmware tools and full source code for the core BIOS. With modular architecture, custom adaptations of the BIOS can be made with ease, speed, and power.
Embedded BIOS® with StrongFrame™ Technology FEATURES:
· Over 850 configuration options
· Advanced firmware applications, available as options, provide boot security, high availability and platform updates
· USB: USB 2.0, Legacy keyboard and mouse, USB boot (optional)
· Advanced UDMA 5 (ATA 100)

AMD Geode LX DB800 Development Board

The AMD Geode™ LX DB800 Development Board is a low-power, small form factor Computer-On-Module (COM) ideal for embedded or industrial computing products that require low power consumption, high performance, small size, and reliability. The development board measures 170mm x 170mm and includes a 500MHz processor. This x86-compatible development tool is designed to enable developers to quickly create embedded or industrial computing products using the AMD Geode™ LX 800@0.9W processor. Applications include a variety of set-top boxes and thin-client industrial or embedded consumer products.
AMD's Firmware of ChoiceGeneral Software's industry leading Embedded BIOS® with StrongFrame™ Technology is the firmware of choice on the Development Board. Embedded BIOS® with StrongFrame™ Technology, provides maximum configurability with high-level firmware tools and full source code. With modular architecture, custom adaptations of the BIOS can be made with ease, speed, and power.
Current Release - Build 61

AMD Geode LX NAS Reference Design Kit

The AMD Geode™ LX NAS RDK combines small form factor design (170 mm x 170 mm), x86 application compatibility, high processor performance, low power consumption, and multi OS support. This product development solution allows the creation of Network Attached Storage (NAS) products quickly and efficiently. High performance is delivered via its onboard AMD Geode™ LX 800@0.9W processor. The processor is complemented by the AMD Geode™ CS5536 companion chip.
AMD's Onboard BIOS of ChoiceGeneral Software's industry leading Embedded BIOS® with StrongFrame™ Technology is AMD’s onboard BIOS of choice for the AMD Geode™ LX NAS Reference Design Kit. Embedded BIOS® with StrongFrame™ Technology, with Firmbase® Technology, provides maximum configurability with high-level firmware tools and full source code for the BIOS core. With modular architecture, perfect-fit custom adaptations of the BIOS can be made with ease, speed, and power.
The AMD Geode™ LX NAS RDK combined with Embedded BIOS® with StrongFrame™ Technology as the onboard BIOS provide designers a complete solution for their network attached storage and network appliance projects.
Current Release - Build 9

AMD Chipsets And CPU Combinations

Amd chipsts and CPU COMBINATIONS
AMD Geode™ LX NAS Reference Design Kit
AMD Geode™ LX UVC Reference Design Kit
AMD Geode™ LX DB800 Development Board
AMD Geode™ GX Single Board Computer RDK
AMD Geode™ GX DB533 Development Board
AMD Geode™ GX Thin Client RDK
AMD Geode™ NX DB1500 Development Board
AMD Geode™ DBSC1100 Development Board
AMD Geode™ DBSC1200 Development Board
AMD Geode™ SP4GX22 System Platform
AMD Geode™ SP4GX10 System Platform
AMD Geode™ SP4SC40 Development Platform
AMD Geode™ SP4SC31 Development Platform
AMD Geode™ SP4SC30 Development Kit
AMD Geode™ SP1SC21 Development Kit
AMD SC520 Customer Development Platform
AMD SC400 Customer Development Platform
AMD uForCE SC400 Design
AMD SC310 Customer Development Platform
AMD SC300 Customer Development Platform
AMD Am186ES Eval Board
AMD Am186ER Eval Board
AMD Am486 PCI Customer Development Platform
MSI MS5169 K6 Desktop MB
AMD Chipsets And CPU Combinations:
AMD Geode™ GX 533@1.1W Processor
AMD Geode™ GX1
AMD Geode™ LX 800@0.9W Processor
AMD Geode™ NX Processor Family
AMD Opteron™ Processor
AMD Geode™ SC1100
AMD Geode™ SC1200
AMD Geode™ SC2200
AMD Geode™ SC3200
CHIPSETS:
AMD SC520
AMD SC410
AMD SC400
AMD SC310
AMD SC300
DEEPLY EMBEDDED CPUs:
AMD Am186ES
AMD Am186ER

General Software and AMD

“General Software has been a great partner for AMD. The company's excellent technology and solid support of the Geode family of processors makes them an ideal partner."
- Gino Giannotti, Vice President and General Manager, Value Platforms AMD
General Software has provided firmware to AMD for nearly a decade. With excellent technology and solid support of the Elan and Geode family of processors, General Software is the ideal development partner for AMD and their embedded customers. You will find Embedded BIOS® to be the pre-installed BIOS firmware on AMD's leading embedded evaluation platforms.
Free Sample or Update Request We offer ready-to-run, binary samples of Embedded BIOS® with StrongFrame™ Technology via email.
For more information about the AMD customer development platforms, chipsets, and CPUs,