Searching for the ultimate gaming CPU? Your processor is the beating heart of your PC, directly influencing your in-game frame rates. Selecting the right one is crucial when building a new system. It’s the CPU’s job to prepare frames for your graphics card to render, making it the foundational component of your gaming hardware.
Our top recommendation for gamers right now is the AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D. It stands out as the fastest chip for gaming, offering plenty of power for other demanding tasks as well. If you’re on a tighter budget, the AMD Ryzen 5 9600X delivers solid gaming performance, or for an even more economical choice, the Intel Core i5 12400F is available for under $110. Dive into our detailed list below for more options, including high-end processors, and consult our “How to Choose” and “FAQ” sections to find the perfect CPU. We also cover other chips we’ve tested that didn’t quite make our top recommendations.
AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D: Best Overall Gaming CPU
The AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D currently holds the crown as the best gaming CPU. While it comes with a premium price tag, this eight-core powerhouse builds on the success of its predecessor, the 7800X3D, to deliver unparalleled gaming speeds and robust performance for other tasks.
In our rigorous tests, the 9800X3D consistently outpaces Intel’s current offerings, dominating frame rate charts in demanding titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and Far Cry 6. It also boasts significant speed improvements over the 7800X3D in non-gaming applications.
This impressive performance stems from its 2nd-gen AMD 3D V-cache, a substantial 64MB silicon layer beneath the CPU cores. This large cache dramatically reduces the need for the CPU to access slower system RAM, resulting in massive boosts to gaming performance.
A key innovation in the 9800X3D is the placement of this cache directly beneath the CPU cores, rather than on top (as seen in the 7800X3D). This design allows for more effective cooling of the cores, leading to lower operating temperatures and enabling AMD to push clock speeds higher, with a boost clock reaching an impressive 5.2GHz.
Coupled with AMD’s efficient Zen 5 architecture, the 9800X3D is a formidable gaming CPU capable of handling multi-threaded software with ease. While it might not offer the sheer core count for extreme workstation applications (for which you’d consider options like the 9950X or 7950X), it more than satisfies the needs of most users and excels as a dedicated gaming processor. (A full review is available for more in-depth details).
AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D: Best Value AMD X3D
The AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D has been succeeded by the more powerful 9800X3D, but it remains a strong contender, especially if you’re looking for an excellent gaming chip at a slightly lower price point. Opting for the 7800X3D could save you around $100 while still delivering impressive performance, and it offers a clear upgrade path to a 9800X3D in the future.
Like its successor, the 7800X3D’s 96MB of L3 cache works wonders for frame rates, ensuring your graphics card can push out maximum pixels. This benefit is most pronounced at resolutions like 1080p, making it perfect for competitive gamers. If you primarily game at higher resolutions where your GPU is the main bottleneck, the performance difference compared to a 9800X3D will be negligible.
While not as potent as the 9800X3D for non-gaming tasks, the 7800X3D is still more than capable for most users. Furthermore, its AM5 motherboard platform ensures future compatibility, allowing for upgrades to newer 9800X3D or 16-core AMD chips like the 9950X3D, as AMD is committed to supporting AM5 for at least another generation of processors. (A full review is available for more in-depth details).
AMD Ryzen 5 9600X: Best Budget Gaming CPU
For gamers planning a new PC build on a strict budget, the AMD Ryzen 5 9600X is an excellent choice. It delivers solid gaming performance at an attractive sub-$200 price point.
This Zen 5 processor features six cores, which are ample for most gaming scenarios, especially backed by AMD’s latest architectural advancements. The main drawback is that it trails Intel’s similarly priced chips, such as the Core i5 14600K, in multi-threaded applications, though it offers superior gaming performance.
The chip is also remarkably power-efficient, making it economical to run and easy to cool. With a default TDP of just 65W, it can be managed by a modest CPU cooler, yet it also offers a 105W mode for a boost in multi-threading software.
Crucially, as this CPU uses AMD’s AM5 socket, investing in a motherboard now provides an upgrade path to future AMD processors, including higher-end 9800X3D chips. While its original launch price was $279, it’s now a fantastic value under $200. It’s more powerful than the Intel Core i5 12400F, and the AM5 platform offers significant longevity for future upgrades. (A full review is available for more in-depth details).
Intel Core i9 14900K: Best Intel Gaming CPU
At the pinnacle of Intel’s gaming CPU lineup sits the Core i9 14900K, one of the few processors capable of reaching scorching 6GHz clock speeds.
It features the familiar configuration of 24 cores and 32 threads, consistent with the last three generations of Core i9. Its only real competitor in the LGA 1700 ecosystem is the Core i9 13900KS, but the 14900K is virtually identical to that more expensive CPU.
The Core i9 14900K is ideal for systems that pull double duty as both a gaming powerhouse and a workstation, as its true strengths shine in multi-core workloads. Just be prepared with a robust power supply and a high-end cooling solution, as this chip is notoriously power-hungry.
A word of caution regarding this CPU: there have been reports of voltage fluctuations leading to game crashes and even permanent damage. If you plan to use this processor, ensure you update your motherboard’s BIOS to the latest microcode as a precautionary measure. (A full review is available for more in-depth details).
Intel Core i5 14600K: Best Mid-Range Intel Gaming CPU
The 14600K is a highly capable mid-range chip, combining six performance cores with eight efficiency cores for a total of 14 cores, all available for under $190. This makes it an excellent choice for multi-tasking and demanding applications.
Its gaming speed is also respectable. While it may not match the higher-clocked 14900K or AMD’s cutting-edge X3D chips, it’s still a fast CPU. The ‘K’ in its name signifies that it’s easily overclockable, potentially offering free performance gains if your CPU cooler can handle the extra heat.
For a brand-new system, Intel’s LGA 1700 platform is not our primary recommendation, as it’s already two generations old with no further CPU upgrade options. However, if you possess an older LGA 1700 motherboard or can acquire one affordably secondhand, the 14600K is a superb partner. You also have the option to upgrade to higher-tier chips like the 14700K or 14900K later. (A full review is available for more in-depth details).
Intel Core i5 13400F: Best Value Gaming Intel CPU
If you’re seeking a solid gaming CPU on a tight budget that also offers a boost in multi-threaded tasks like video encoding and rendering, the Core i5 13400F is a strong contender. It boasts six of Intel’s latest Raptor Lake P-Cores and a 4.6GHz boost clock, making it slightly faster than the 12400F for gaming, with an additional advantage.
Unlike its predecessor, the 13400F includes four of Intel’s low-power E-Cores, totaling ten cores, which provides a notable performance uplift in multi-threaded software. This makes it an ideal choice for users who engage in more than just gaming but are working with a limited budget.
Similar to the 12400F, the lack of a ‘K’ in its model name means it cannot be officially overclocked via multiplier changes, and the ‘F’ indicates it lacks an integrated GPU. However, the latter allows for cost savings if you’re already planning to purchase a dedicated graphics card.
You won’t need an expensive CPU cooler to keep this chip in check; a budget air cooler will suffice. Moreover, the retail version even includes an adequate Intel stock air cooler in the box. For just $30 more than the 12400F, it represents a significant upgrade. (A full review is available for more in-depth details).
Intel Core i5 12400F: Best Budget Intel Gaming CPU
For those with older PC hardware looking for an affordable upgrade that still delivers solid gaming performance, the Intel Core i5 12400F is an excellent purchase. Priced at around $110, it’s one of the most economical modern CPUs available. Its compatibility with older Intel motherboards and DDR4 RAM means you might be able to reuse a significant portion of your existing components.
Specifically, if you have an Intel LGA 1700 motherboard (or can find one cheaply secondhand) and 16GB or more of DDR4 RAM (less than that, and a jump to new DDR5 might be wiser), this CPU is a straightforward drop-in upgrade. It provides six of Intel’s capable, performance-oriented P-Cores—two more than some newer budget Intel CPUs—and these P-Cores are crucial for gaming performance.
Don’t let the ’12’ in its model number mislead you; the Alder Lake architecture used by this chip is quite similar to the Raptor Lake architecture found in Intel’s latest 14th-gen CPUs, and we’ve found it to be more than capable for gaming.
With a TDP of just 65W, this CPU doesn’t demand an expensive AIO cooler; a budget air cooler will handle it perfectly. There are a few trade-offs, however. The ‘F’ model lacks an integrated GPU, but this isn’t an issue for a gaming PC, as a dedicated graphics card is recommended anyway (only AMD offers integrated GPUs powerful enough for gaming). It also lacks Intel’s E-Cores, which boost multi-threaded performance, but these are largely irrelevant for most games.
The peak clock speed of 4.4GHz could be higher, and as a non-K series CPU, it’s not easily overclockable. But at this price, you can’t have everything. It’s the best option for a cheap, easy upgrade, though slightly better choices exist if you’re building a completely new system. (A full review is available for more in-depth details).
AMD Ryzen 9 7950X: Best 16-Core AMD Gaming CPU
If you require a seriously powerful CPU for heavy processing tasks that demand a high core count, but wish to avoid completely breaking your budget, the AMD Ryzen 9 7950X is an ideal choice. This 16-core chip offers double the cores of the 9800X3D, providing immense multi-core processing power.
While it can be slightly outmatched by chips like the Intel Core i9-14900K in some workloads, the difference is marginal. Crucially, AMD’s chip achieves its performance with impressively low power consumption. It even features an ‘eco mode’ that reduces the chip’s TDP to just 65W (from its default 170W). This subtly lowers peak performance but drastically cuts power usage.
This low-power mode is particularly appealing for versatility. For example, you could run your CPU in eco mode for most of your workday, then switch to full power for maximum frame rates during evening gaming sessions. A reboot is necessary for this switch, but it’s a minor inconvenience for such flexibility.
Although the AMD Ryzen 9 7950X isn’t exactly cheap, it’s competitively priced for such a potent chip, now widely available for under $450, a significant drop from its original price closer to $600. Furthermore, it supports AMD’s latest 9000 series CPUs and will be compatible with future generations, as all utilize the same motherboard platform. (A full review is available for more in-depth details).
AMD Ryzen 5 8600G: Best CPU with Integrated Graphics
For those seeking a single chip capable of both CPU and GPU duties, perhaps for a compact system build, or if a dedicated graphics card isn’t an option due to budget constraints, the Ryzen 5 8600G is your answer. With six Zen 4 cores and an integrated Radeon 760M GPU, it delivers vibrant performance as both a processor and a capable standalone graphics solution.
The 8600G excels in less demanding games but can still manage titles like Cyberpunk 2077 at 30 frames per second if you’re comfortable with 1080p resolution and low settings. It’s also compatible with FidelityFX Super Resolution, which can further boost frame rates through upscaling and frame generation techniques.
To extract the most performance from its integrated graphics, you’ll need to pair the 8600G with DDR5 RAM clocked at 6,000MHz or higher. While this adds to the overall system cost, the same RAM can be carried over if you decide to upgrade your CPU in the future, and even fast DDR5 is becoming increasingly affordable.
If you plan to upgrade to a dedicated graphics card soon, the 8600G might not be the most ideal processor. It isn’t as fast as equivalently priced CPUs without powerful integrated graphics and offers fewer PCIe lanes. However, unless you’re moving to a particularly high-end graphics card, the GPU will likely remain the primary performance bottleneck, not this CPU. (A full review is available for more in-depth details).
Also Considered
Intel Core Ultra 7 265K: Intel’s newest generation of CPUs didn’t initially impress us for raw gaming performance, as they couldn’t quite match AMD’s X3D chips. However, with recent price reductions for these Core Ultra 200 series processors, they’ve become a compelling option if blistering frame rates aren’t your absolute top priority. Remember, CPU speed primarily impacts performance at lower resolutions and high frame rates; at higher resolutions and graphical settings, your GPU typically becomes the limiting factor. Therefore, a Core Ultra 200 system, especially at a favorable price, is worth considering. These chips are otherwise powerful and remarkably energy-efficient.
How to Choose Your Next Gaming CPU
When selecting a new CPU, your first step should be to determine whether you’re upgrading an existing system or building a brand new one. For those with older PCs, several smart upgrade paths might still be available. If you’re running an older AMD AM4 system, you could significantly boost performance by upgrading to the last generation of compatible chips, such as the excellent AMD Ryzen 5 5600X or Ryzen 7 5800X3D.
Similarly, owners of older Intel systems may find that CPUs from the 12th through 14th generations of Intel Core i processors are compatible with their existing motherboards. While generational leaps in performance weren’t always massive, moving from an Intel Core i5 12600K to an Intel Core i7-14700K, for instance, could offer a noticeable improvement.
Beyond these upgrade considerations, if you’re building a new PC, your budget is paramount. Opting for mid-range or high-end chips isn’t always the wisest choice on a tight budget. Instead, invest in an affordable CPU and allocate more of your funds towards a powerful graphics card—you can always upgrade your CPU later. Entry-level CPUs can be found for just over $100, while mid-range options range from $200-$400, and premium chips can exceed $700.
Once your budget is set, your CPU choice depends on your primary use. If gaming is your main focus, with only casual web browsing, email, and video watching otherwise, an eight-core CPU is more than sufficient, and even six-core chips often prove ample. For dedicated gaming, we highly recommend AMD’s X3D chips. Their unique 3D V-cache technology consistently delivers significant gaming performance boosts in our tests. The AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D is currently the top contender, with the 7800X3D remaining an excellent alternative. For older AM4 systems, the 5800X3D is the go-to gaming CPU.
However, if budget is a major concern, X3D chips can be costly. In such cases, the six-core AMD Ryzen 9600X or the six-performance-core Intel Core i5 14600K offer strong alternatives. If you need a versatile powerhouse for demanding multi-core tasks beyond gaming, consider a CPU with more than eight cores. The 16-core AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D is a superb all-rounder, and the Intel Core i9 14900K is another exceptionally powerful option.
For those looking to save even more, an AMD APU is a compelling choice. These chips integrate both a CPU and a capable Radeon GPU, eliminating the need for a separate graphics card. Chips like the Ryzen 5 8600G can handle basic gaming at 1080p with low settings. However, be aware they won’t offer the same raw CPU performance as AMD’s dedicated processors if you eventually upgrade to a high-end graphics card.
Gaming CPU Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is a CPU?
The Central Processing Unit, or CPU, is the primary computational engine of your PC. It handles almost all calculations that allow applications and games to function. While graphics cards assist with rendering 2D and 3D visuals, the CPU manages everything else. It resides on your motherboard, facilitating communication with your RAM, graphics card, and other components, all powered by your power supply. Without a CPU, your PC simply wouldn’t operate.
A CPU with more processing cores and a higher clock speed can execute more tasks faster, leading to a snappier system. However, there’s a point where a faster CPU won’t significantly boost your in-game frame rates. Once a game runs smoothly at lower graphics settings and resolutions, achieving higher frame rates at enhanced graphical settings becomes primarily the graphics card’s responsibility.
How We Test the Best Gaming CPUs
Navigating the vast market of gaming CPUs to find genuinely worthwhile processors can be challenging. To assist you in selecting the ideal CPU for your system and budget, we rigorously evaluate each chip’s gaming capabilities using a robust test rig. This setup typically includes a high-end graphics card (such as an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4080 Founders Edition), a capable AIO cooler (like a Corsair H100x Elite 240mm), a powerful PSU (e.g., Corsair RM1000x), ample high-speed RAM (32GB of G.Skill TridentZ 5 Neo RGB 6,000MHz, CL28), and a fast SSD (a 2TB WD Black SN850X). All testing is performed on the very latest version of Windows.
Our gaming CPU benchmarks incorporate a suite of popular PC games, including Cyberpunk 2077, Far Cry 6, F1 24, and Total War: Warhammer 3. We also assess application performance using tools like Handbrake for video encoding and Cinebench R24 for rendering. Furthermore, we closely monitor processor temperatures under load and observe how long each chip can maintain its advertised boost clock speeds.
Can I Upgrade My CPU?
Upgrading the CPU in your gaming PC involves physically replacing your existing processor with a more powerful, compatible model. This process is often simpler than you might expect, provided you have a compatible chip, an adequate cooling solution, and the necessary tools.
Before purchasing, always verify that your new CPU is compatible with your motherboard. Tools from manufacturers like Intel and AMD allow you to check processor compatibility against specific motherboards, and some upgrades may require a BIOS update. You can usually find a list of supported CPUs and BIOS updates on your motherboard manufacturer’s website.
Once compatibility is confirmed, installing a new CPU typically involves removing your old cooler, opening the locking mechanism around the CPU socket on your motherboard, gently placing the new CPU, ensuring correct alignment, and then securing the locking clip. Afterward, you’ll need to install a CPU cooler. Detailed instructions for fitting a CPU cooler and a comprehensive guide on CPU upgrades are available in our other resources.
How Do You Install a CPU?
CPU installation is relatively straightforward but carries some risk if not done carefully. First, ensure your chosen CPU is compatible with your motherboard’s socket (e.g., LGA 1700 or AM5) and that the motherboard firmware (BIOS) supports it. Motherboard manufacturers usually provide a compatibility list on their websites, along with any necessary BIOS updates.
Once compatibility is confirmed, the process usually involves: gently removing your current CPU cooler (which is typically screwed or clipped in place), releasing the locking arm or clip around the CPU socket on the motherboard, carefully aligning the new CPU with the socket (paying attention to alignment marks), and then closing the locking mechanism. The final step is to install a suitable CPU cooler. Our dedicated guides provide more in-depth instructions for both CPU and CPU cooler installation.
When Should I Upgrade a Gaming CPU?
There’s no fixed lifespan for a CPU, but several indicators can signal the right time for an upgrade. You might notice your system performing sluggishly, failing to meet your current gaming or productivity needs, or you might simply want to future-proof your setup with the latest technology.
To determine if your CPU is the bottleneck in your gaming rig, monitoring tools like CapFrameX and Rivatuner Statistics Server can display CPU and GPU loads while you play. If your GPU isn’t consistently hitting near 100% utilization, but you’re experiencing stutters or overall slow performance, your CPU (or possibly RAM) is likely holding you back. However, if your graphics card usage hovers around 90-100%, investing in a superior graphics card would likely yield better results than a CPU upgrade.
What Should CPU Usage Be When Gaming?
In a balanced system—one where the CPU and GPU are well-matched, such as an RX 7700 XT with a Ryzen 5 7600, or an RTX 4090 with a Core i9 14900K—your CPU usage during gaming will largely depend on the specific game genre. Real-time strategy (RTS) games, for instance, tend to be more CPU-intensive due to the extensive computational demands of managing hundreds of units and their AI.
Generally, your GPU usage should be close to 100% before your processor is. However, pushing for very high frame rates (240 FPS and above) will place a greater strain on your CPU. To further optimize your gaming PC’s performance, explore our guides on the best gaming motherboards and gaming RAM to perfectly complement your new processor.