They say, ‘Focus on the GPU; that’s what the games use!’
But, honestly, there’s no point in a powerful graphics unit if the CPU in your computer is of poor quality.
A CPU acts as the heart of the computer. Also called the central processing unit, it receives your command, processes it, and ensures its implementation. So, the CPU determines the performance of your gaming pc.
The better the CPU is, the faster computer will perform. And the less lagging you will have to experience when gaming. Well, if you’ve been searching for the best CPU for gaming, you’re in luck!
In today’s article, we have brought together the very best gaming processors. There’s also a detailed guide to help you in the purchasing process. Read more!
List Of Best Processor For Gaming
| Best Processor For Gaming | Clock Speed | Purpose | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| AMD 5000 Series Ryzen 9 – 5900X | 3.7GHz | Gaming & Streaming & Editing | Check Price |
| Intel Core i7-10700K Desktop Processor 8 | 5.1 GHz | Gaming & Streaming & Editing | Check Price |
| AMD 5000 Series Ryzen 5 5600X | 4.6 GHz | Gaming & Streaming | Check Price |
| AMD Ryzen 7 3700X Desktop Processor | 4.4 GHz | Gaming & Streaming | Check Price |
| Intel Core i9-11900F 11th Generation | 5.1 GHz | Gaming & Streaming & Editing | Check Price |
| Intel Core i5-10400 Processor | 4.3 GHz | Gaming & Streaming | Check Price |
| AMD Ryzen 5 3600 Desktop Processor 6 Cores | 4.2 GHz | Gaming & Streaming | Check Price |
| AMD Ryzen 5 2600 Desktop Processor 6 Cores | 4.4 GHz | Gaming & Streaming | Check Price |
1.AMD 5000 Series Ryzen 9 – 5900X
Launched back in November of 2020, the AMD 5000 series Ryzen 9 5900X has certainly turned the tables for Intel. It is a power-packed beast that makes gaming the most enjoyable experience of your life!
The Ryzen 9 5900X, supported by PCle 4.0, doubles the processing speed. So, the data transfers quickly from the CPU to linked devices and vice versa.
What’s more, the processor uses a new Zen 3 architecture with a CCD design. This particular CCD design ties two CCX cores together to form one CCD. Hence, adding physical distance between the cores and improving latency.
So, the 12-core CCD configuration of Ryzen 9 5900X features one 8-core CCX and 4-core CCX. You can expect the processer to make your gameplay the smoothest one yet!
The Ryzen 9 5900X comes with 24-threads and 12-cores. It means it offers two threads per core. As a result, when multitasking, the processor performs efficiently.
You can play games, browse the web, and even play music without the computer slowing down the tiniest bit. How amazing!
AMD has also done a phenomenal job by increasing clock rates across the board. The Ryzen 9 5900X features a base clock of 3.7GHz and a max boost clock of 4.8GHz.
Although the clock rate is fast enough, you can take one step ahead by pairing the processor with a quality cooling unit and robust motherboard. Benchmarks have also recorded the 5900X to offer a peak of 5GHz!
One thing all over-clocking enthusiasts must note is the TDP is 105W. While this means a speedier performance, the CPU can reach temperatures as high as 86-degree Celsius. But do not worry because AMD has designed the processor like that.
The temperatures will vary depending on the load. And so, you will experience it only when doing intensive tasks, like over-clocking. Since it does not include a cooler, you will have to invest in one. Purchase a better cooler if you wish to push the processor harder.
On the other hand, 5900X saves you the hassle of investing hundreds onto a new motherboard with AM4 socket compatibility. It can pair well with the existing one!
All in all, the Ryzen 9 5900X’s unbeatable profile makes it the best processor for gaming 2021. It is the ultimate solution to a lag-free gaming experience!
2.Intel Core i7-10700K Desktop Processor 8
Priced at an affordable tag, the Intel Corei7-10700K Desktop Processor is the best bet pc gamers have got right now. But why? Well, this budget-friendly processor offers a gaming performance equal to the flagship level Intel Corei9!
Sounds unbelievable, right? We did as well until we unraveled the magic packed inside this chip.
The Intel Corei7-10700K processor packs 8-cores and 16-threads. Similar to Ryzen 9, it allows the usage of two threads per core. Hence, the processor pulls off amazingly on both single and multi-threaded tasks.
Plus, this CPU features the Turbo Boost Max 3.0 technology. It enhances the overall functionality by pushing the workload to the fastest cores. So, you can get single-threaded operations, like gaming, done smoothly.
Also, the Intel Corei7-10700K uses the same architecture as the previous model (Comet Lake S). So, you won’t be getting much increase in IPC (instructions per clock). However, Intel has compensated for this in clock speeds.
The base clock of the Intel Corei7-10700K is 3.6GHz. As an unlocked processor, you can easily overclock it to gain a peak of 5.1GHz. Hence, it will exhibit speedy performance regardless of the complexity of the task.
As for TDP, this processor produces considerable heat. Not as much as AMD Ryzen 9 5900X, but you will still need a quality cooler.
Also, you will have to invest in an updated motherboard if the current one does not have an LG 1200 socket compatibility. Fortunately, you can pair the Intel Corei7 with the older coolers. So, you get to save some money there-phew!
Overall, the Intel Corei7-10700K processor is an efficient, seamless, and budget-friendly option. It enables you to practice light to complex tasks easily. Thus, making it the best processor for gaming and streaming both!
3.AMD 5000 Series Ryzen 5 5600X
Here comes another Zen 3 AMD processor, and it did not let us down too!
The AMD 5000 series Ryzen 5 5600X comes with 6-cores and 12-threads. Using the Zen 3 architecture, this processor houses a single CCD design with all 6-cores enabled. So, it offers a powerful single-core performance.
Also, supported by PCIe Gen 4, the AMD Ryzen 5 5600X processes data in a flash. You can practice both single and multi-threaded applications conveniently using this CPU.
Be it gaming or coding, this particular Zen 3 AMD 5000 series processor can handle anything smoothly!
Moreover, AMD claims the Ryzen 5 5600X to provide a base clock of 3.7GHz with a max boost clock of 4.6GHz. When used intensively, the processor performs at an average clock rate of 4.4GHz that is quite good for most tasks.
But, you won’t get enough juice out of it during manual over-clocking. The max clock rate you will achieve is 4.6 to 4.65Ghz as per benchmarks. So, we wouldn’t recommend using this processor for over-clocking.
If your primary interest lies in gaming and similar tasks, then worry not. The AMD Ryzen 5 5600X may not facilitate over-clocking, but it is exceptionally good at multitasking. It runs several system-intensive programs at once without lagging.
As for power, this CPU has a TDP of 65W that is pretty low. So, it would conserve a lot of power compared to the Zen 3 flagship Ryzen 9 5900X.
Plus, the Ryzen 5 5600X operates at cool temperatures, with the peak being 63-degree Celsius. And, to tackle what little heat gets generated, there is an included cooler.
The processor also uses an AM4 socket, which means a wider connectivity range. You can use it with a diversity of motherboards. So, no need to make investments except for the CPU itself!
To sum it up, the AMD Ryzen 5 5600X is an amazing choice for those seeking a high-quality gaming performance. True, the price to performance ratio of it is too much. You might even consider it pricey, but it’s certainly worth the investment!
4.AMD Ryzen 7 3700X Desktop Processor
If you’re browsing for a CPU that handles multi-threaded workloads smoothly, then the AMD Ryzen 7 3700X desktop processor is an idealistic choice.
From gaming to editing, this Zen 2 architecture-based processor makes the performance completely lag-free!
The AMD Ryzen 7 3700X comes with 8-cores in an innovative 7nm CCD design. Unlike Zen 3, this one comprises 2 CCXs with 4-cores in each. These cores operate to their fullest, bringing a 15-percent increase in the IPC (instructions per clock).
What’s more, the processor has PCle 4.0 support. It accelerates the speed of data transfer between devices and the CPU. So, the overall performance of AMD Ryzen 7 3700X is swift.
Having 16-threads, the processor handles multi-threaded tasks easily. You can launch the most high-end games and switch from one editing tool to another without any glitches.
The Ryzen 7 3700X desktop processor uses a base clock of 3.6GHz. When compared to others, it is an average clock speed that will get most tasks done nicely.
However, if you need to utilize its full potential, over-clock for the max rate of 4.4GHz. The boosted speed may not be the best, but it’s still an upgrade worth noting.
Another aspect where this processor shines the brightest is in the low TDP. Using only 65W, the 3700X delivers great speed and power efficiency. Your CPU will mostly remain cool. Its maximum temperature will not exceed 95-degrees Celsius.
Plus, it has a bundled Wraith PRISM cooler with RGB LED lighting. Not only does this save you from investing in a new cooler but makes your gaming setup look classy!
As for compatibility, this processor pairs well with various AMD motherboards. You can pick anyone from AMD 300, 400, and 500 series. But, make sure these have an AM4 socket.
Well, considering all these features, there’s no denying that the AMD Ryzen 7 3700X is the best processor for gaming and editing!
5.Intel Core i9-11900F 11th Generation
Fast & Efficient-this iconic flagship-level processor comes at way less price. AMD may have won the crown, but it still cannot overthrow Intel as the best processor for gaming pc on a budget!
The Intel Corei9-11900F belongs to the latest 11th generation and uses a Rocket Lake-S architecture 14nm process. So, one can expect an improvement in IPC, clock rates, and power consumption.
On the whole, the Intel Corei9-11900F packs 8-cores and 16-threads. The powerful cores enable the system to operate multiple programs at once. Meanwhile, the 2:1 thread ratio ensures one core can handle all instructions efficiently.
As a result, you can practice multi-tasking conveniently. It allows the system to switch between different programs and apps fluidly.
The processor has PCle 4.0 Express support reduces the time taken to transfer the information between different devices. It also features Intel Optane Memory that caches frequently accessed data. Plus, the 19-percent better IPC adds to the performance.
With all these, this particular Intel CPU won’t let your gaming pc stutter the slightest bit!
Although the base frequency is 2.5GHz, stay prepared for an amazing boost after over-clocking. The unlocked Corei9-11900F processor comes with Turbo Max technology. So, you can push it to the fullest easily.
Once done, this 8-core processor can offer you up to 5.1GHz. It is an ideal clock rate for hard-core gamers and content creators!
Perhaps, the mere drawback of the processor is its high running temperature. It has a low TDP of 65W, yet still, the CPU runs very hotly when used intensively. The processor does come with a quality cooler to tackle the heat. However, you may want to move onto a premium custom cooler.
Also, the 11th Gen Intel Core i9 processor features LGA 1200 compatibility. Since most updated motherboards offer it, you will have to invest in it too.
Nonetheless, the Corei9-11900F processor’s fast speed and overclocking capabilities make it an outstanding CPU for gaming. It even comes with a 3-years warranty!
6.Intel Core i5-10400 Processor
Released back in April 2020, the Intel Corei5-10400 belongs to the low mid-range processors by the company. The CPU is capable of performance equivalent to the high-end Corei7-8700, that too at half the price!
The Intel Corei5-10400 processor uses an older Comet Lake architecture. It houses 6-cores and 12-threads that function on a shared 12MB L3 cache.
What’s more exciting, Intel has incorporated the hyper-threading feature too. So, each core has access to two threads for optimum performance. Overall, the processor runs at a decent speed when compared to the competitors.
You can download and run the latest 3D games on this CPU. A gaming system with this processor is likely to deliver excellent performance for one game at a time. However, if you’re a multitasker, you might feel a little disappointed.
The Intel Corei5-10400 processor has a base clock frequency of 2.90GHz as per benchmarks. Use Turbo Boost frequency, and you can maximize the clock speed up to 4.30GHz. But, there’s no room for over-clocking.
As a locked processor, Intel doesn’t let you optimize Corei5-10400 more than the Turbo Boost frequency feature does. If you wish to achieve those smooth, fluid results, then this processor is not the one for you.
But worry not. The processor can handle light and single-threaded applications. Go easy on the system, and you can enjoy a quality gaming experience on a budget!
Moving further, the Corei5-10400 desktop processor has a low TDP profile of 65W. It runs relatively cool on even the heaviest of applications. Plus, it remains power-efficient throughout the workload.
It also comes with a bundled cooler that is a great bonus. Intel Corei5-10400 processor saves the hassle of purchasing a new one, despite being so lowly priced. Another place you get to save is the presence of integrated graphics!
The CPU features an integrated Intel UHD graphics card that boosts gaming performance. You can play system-intensive games without any lagging issues.
In case you want much high-end performance, you can make a switch to the discrete graphics card. But, remember, it will take the prices up the hill too.
Conclusively, the Intel Corei5-10400 is indeed the best processor for gaming under 20,000. You get good processing speed, lag-free gaming, and lower temperatures. Remarkable for the price!
7.AMD Ryzen 5 3600 Desktop Processor 6 Cores
While Intel does lead the budget-friendly processors, AMD does not let the competition down too. The company has always emphasized more performance to less price ratio. So, don’t get surprised with the features this low mid-range Ryzen 5 3600 desktop processor has to offer!
To begin, this is a 6-core processor based on the Zen 2 architecture. It unlocks the full potential of all the cores, which makes the processing speed faster than ever.
Having 12-threads, the processor provides each core access to two threads. Thus, it handles multi-threaded applications quite well.
Complex games that use more than 4-cores will function smoothly. So, without the lag, you can fully immerse yourself in the gameplay. A great pro for dedicated E-sports gamers!
The Ryzen 5 3600 processor has PCle 4.0 supposed as well. It makes the data available for the CPU to process in little time. Thus, enhancing the overall processing speed.
Even more, the base clock of 3.6GHz is sufficient for most intensive tasks. But, if you want to add a little more juice, then overclocking the processor isn’t difficult at all.
The unlocked Ryzen 5 3600 allows you to push the processor to its maximum conveniently. You can get a 4.2GHz clock rate and even more with slight tweaking.
Altogether, the speediness and innovative design mean you can get phenomenal multitasking done from this system!
Enveloped in 95W TDP, the AMD Ryzen 5 3600 processor remains considerably cool on all workloads. It may run a little hot on the latest high-graphics games. But, the presence of the Wraith Stealth cooler manages the heat well.
The AMD Ryzen 5 3600 is also AM4 compatible. You can use it on a diversity of 300, 400, and 500 series motherboards. Since most gamers already have these motherboards and there’s a bundled cooler, you get the ultimate budget deal!
Plus, you can always avail the 3-years brand warranty when you feel doubtful.
8.AMD Ryzen 5 2600 Desktop Processor 6 Cores
There is indeed no comparison between the X and non-X variants of the AMD Ryzen 5 lineup. The X-variants ace the game with high clock speed, though they cost a fortune too. Well, that’s where the non-X Ryzen 5 processors come into the spotlight!
If you’re starting the thrilling gaming industry and have a tight budget, do not get disheartened by the costly 2600X. Jump onto 2600 to benefit from its powerful performance!
The AMD Ryzen 5 2600 processor uses the same Zen+ architecture. It possesses a similar 6-cores and 12-threads configuration too. All 6-cores utilize their full potential for applications. Hence, you will get to enjoy a smooth, undisrupted functionality.
Moreover, it has a base clock frequency of 3.4GHz. Since it is an unlocked processor, you can easily overclock it to a maximum clock frequency of 3.9GHz. Thus, if you’re into practicing quality over-clocking, then this CPU might be a really good option.
When compared to the 2600X, both have a meager difference of 300Hz. The 2600X starts at 3.9GHz and tops at 4.2GHz. So, there’s little variation between the gaming performance.
Like the 2600X, you can expect a considerably speedy performance from this processor when playing games. But, do not overwork the system.
As it is a low mid-range processor, it won’t be able to handle intensive multitasking. You’re likely to experience a reduction in transfer speed. Thus, it slows down the tasks.
The AMD Ryzen 5 2600 features a low TDP profile too. It operates at 65W, consuming less power. You also get an aluminum Wraith Stealth cooler, which means lowered temperatures.
If you have a motherboard from the AMD 300,400 or 500 series, there’s no need to invest in it either. The Ryzen 5 2600 is AM4 compatible that is the most versatile socket type. It also comes with a 3-years warranty in case of any issues.
What’s The Best GAMING Processor In 2021
Things should I know before buying a CPU for gaming
Hopefully, you must’ve found your idealistic match in the processors reviewed above. In case you haven’t, do not worry.
There’s still a plethora of CPUs yet to discover. But, before you begin the hunt, give these features a read to understand what exactly should you be looking for in your best CPU for gaming.
Cores
Cores are the fundamental units that power the entire CPU. So, the very first aspect that you’ve to assess when buying a gaming CPU is the number of cores it holds.
Ideally, CPUs with four cores also recognized as quad-core processors serve the best. Each core handles its data and processing.
But with that said, you ought to know there’s a variety of units out there holding 2 – 64 cores. Despite that, you will find most companies offering 4-8 cores.
Threads
Theoretically, threads are the same as cores. It basically refers to the count of independent processes that a single chip can handle.
However, it’s best to consider thread as a core’s sub-unit. And that’s because there are no hard and fast rules about one core having one thread only.
At times, some cores have multi-threading, wherein a single-core creates two threads. Different companies name it differently. AMD markets this as SMT or Simultaneous multi-threading while Intel chooses to call it Hyperthreading.
You need to look for a CPU with more threads because that would mean better multi-tasking and better load handling.
Clock Speeds
When choosing the perfect gaming CPU for yourself, always go for higher clock speeds. Why? Well, because these determine how speedy the system will be!
Fundamentally, clock speeds refer to a chip’s operating speed. The higher, the better. Currently, you’ll find most PCs with two clock speeds, i.e., minimum or base clock speed and maximum or turbo clock speed. The system may adjust the speed as per the task & temperature.
Thermal Design Profile (TDP)
The thermal design profile or the TDP refers to the heat that a chip may generate. Generally, you will find it labeled in watts along with other details of a gaming CPU. With that said, you need to look for higher TDP because that would mean higher performance.
In case you’re wondering why do you need to look into then here: you would need to get yourself appropriate accessories beforehand. For CPUs with higher TDP, you will need to arrange proper CPU coolers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which processor is best for laptop
AMD Ryzen 5 4500U is the best processor for the laptop as it consumes less power (26 Watts) and is also suitable for gaming, coding, streaming, and editing as well.
Which processor is best for gaming
AMD Ryzen 9 5900X is the best processor for gaming which has 16 cores and 32 threads enabling you to play “AAA” Games at 4k 100 fps on average. Pair it with RTX 3090 to get max gaming performance.
