Choosing the right processor is crucial for any gaming PC, as it directly impacts your frame rates and overall system performance. The CPU acts as the foundation, preparing frames for your graphics card to render, making it a cornerstone of your build. Our expertly compiled guide helps you navigate the options from AMD Ryzen and Intel Core, ensuring you select the best CPU for your gaming needs.
Our top recommendation for overall gaming performance is the AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D, a powerhouse that also excels in other tasks. If you’re on a tighter budget, the AMD Ryzen 5 9600X offers solid gaming capabilities without breaking the bank, or consider the even more affordable Intel Core i5 12400F. For those who demand peak performance across gaming and productivity, the AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D stands out.
Explore our detailed breakdowns below, including specifications, pros, and cons for each recommended chip. We also provide insights into how to choose your next CPU and answer common questions in our FAQ section.
Best Gaming CPUs of 2025: Our Top Picks
- AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D – Best overall gaming CPU
- AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D – Best value AMD X3D
- AMD Ryzen 5 9600X – Best budget CPU
- AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D – Best for gaming and productivity
- Intel Core i9 14900K – Best Intel gaming CPU
- Intel Core i5 14600K – Best mid-range Intel
- Intel Core i5 13400F – Best value Intel
- Intel Core i5 12400F – Best budget Intel
- AMD Ryzen 5 8600G – Best integrated graphics
AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D
Best gaming CPU overall
AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D specifications:
| Socket | AM5 |
| Cores | 8 |
| Threads | 16 |
| Base clock | 4.7GHz |
| Boost clock | 5.2GHz |
| L3 cache | 96MB |
| TDP | 120W |
Pros
- Phenomenal gaming performance
- Overclockable
- Much faster than 7800X3D in multi-threaded software
Cons
- High price
- Only eight cores
- Draws more power than 7800X3D
The AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D currently holds the crown as the best gaming CPU available. While it comes with a premium price tag, this eight-core processor refines the successful formula of its predecessor, the 7800X3D. It delivers unparalleled gaming speeds and significant power for other demanding applications.
Our tests confirm the 9800X3D as the fastest gaming CPU we’ve ever encountered, consistently outperforming Intel’s current offerings in titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and Far Cry 6. It also shows a substantial improvement over its predecessor in non-gaming benchmarks.
This CPU’s outstanding performance stems from its 2nd-gen AMD 3D V-cache, a substantial 64MB silicon layer positioned beneath the CPU cores. This innovative design provides a massive cache boost, reducing the need for the CPU to access slower RAM. This not only dramatically improves gaming performance but also allows for cooler operating temperatures and higher clock speeds, reaching up to 5.2GHz, because the cooler now directly interacts with the cores.
Combining AMD’s efficient Zen 5 architecture with this enhanced cache, the 9800X3D is a formidable gaming CPU capable of handling multi-threaded software with ease. While it might not boast the sheer core count for extremely heavy workstation applications (for which the 9950X or 7950X are better suited), it offers more than enough power for most users, making it a fantastic choice for any serious gaming setup.
AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D
Best value AMD X3D
AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D specifications:
| Socket | AM5 |
| Cores (P+E) | 8 |
| Threads | 16 |
| Base clock | 4.20GHz |
| Boost clock | Up to 5.00GHz |
| L3 cache | 96MB |
| TDP | 120W |
Pros
- Flagship performance for under $500
- Extremely efficient
- AM5 platform offers rich features and future longevity
Cons
- Relatively slow clock speeds compared to newer models
- No stock cooler included
- L3 cache doesn’t always guarantee higher frame rates in all scenarios
While the AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D has been succeeded by the more powerful 9800X3D, it remains a compelling option, especially for those looking to save some money. Choosing the 7800X3D can save you around $100, with only a marginal drop in performance, and you still have the flexibility to upgrade to a 9800X3D later on the same motherboard.
Similar to the 9800X3D, the 7800X3D’s 96MB of L3 cache significantly boosts frame rates, ensuring your graphics card can perform at its best. This benefit is most noticeable at lower resolutions like 1080p, making it ideal for competitive gamers. If you primarily game at higher resolutions where your GPU is typically the bottleneck, the difference in game performance compared to a 9800X3D will be barely perceptible.
For non-gaming tasks, the 7800X3D may not be as competitive as the 9800X3D, but it still provides ample power for most users’ needs. Furthermore, its AM5 motherboard platform ensures future upgradeability, allowing you to easily drop in a 9800X3D or even a 16-core AMD chip like the 9950X3D down the line, as AMD is committed to supporting AM5 for at least another generation of processors.
AMD Ryzen 5 9600X
Best budget gaming CPU
AMD Ryzen 5 9600X specifications:
| Socket | AM5 |
| Cores (P+E) | 6 |
| Threads | 12 |
| Base clock | 3.9GHz |
| Boost clock | 5.4GHz |
| L3 cache | 32MB |
| TDP | 65W or 105W |
Pros
- Solid gaming frame rates
- Excellent value at its current price
- Runs cool and efficiently
Cons
- Not as fast as X3D CPUs in games
- Only six cores
- Intel 14600K is quicker at multi-threading
The AMD Ryzen 5 9600X is a superb choice for gamers building a new PC on a tight budget. It delivers robust gaming performance at a sub-$200 price point, making it highly attractive.
This Zen 5 processor features six cores, which are more than sufficient for most gaming scenarios, especially with the efficiency and power of AMD’s latest architecture. Its primary drawback is that it’s not quite as fast as Intel’s similarly priced chips, such as the Core i5 14600K, in multi-threaded applications, although it generally offers superior gaming performance.
The chip is also remarkably power-efficient, contributing to lower running costs and easier cooling requirements. With a default TDP of just 65W, it can be easily managed with a modest CPU cooler. For tasks requiring more multi-threading power, a 105W mode can be unlocked.
Crucially, the 9600X utilizes AMD’s AM5 socket, meaning you can invest in a compatible motherboard now that will support future upgrades, including more powerful current CPUs like the renowned 9800X3D. Originally priced at $279 in 2024, its current sub-$200 price makes it an excellent value. While still more expensive than the Core i5 12400F, it offers significantly more gaming power and better long-term upgrade potential with the Socket AM5 platform.
AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D
Best CPU for gaming and productivity
AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D specifications:
| Socket | AM5 | ||
| Cores (P+E) | 16 | ||
| Threads | 32 | ||
| Base clock | 4.3GHz | Boost clock | 5.7GHz |
| L3 cache | 128MB | ||
| TDP | 170W |
Pros
- Incredible multi-threaded power
- Amazing gaming pace
- Runs surprisingly cool
Cons
- Very expensive
- Needs a decent CPU cooler
If you’re seeking a CPU that excels in every demanding task, AMD’s latest flagship, the Ryzen 9 9950X3D, is simply unmatched. Its 16 Zen 5 cores effortlessly handle multi-threaded workloads, even surpassing the 24-core Intel Core i9 14900K in benchmarks like Cinebench.
The best part is that this doesn’t come at the cost of gaming performance. Eight of this CPU’s cores are equipped with a 64MB slice of AMD’s 3D V-cache, delivering incredible gaming performance. Essentially, it’s like having a Ryzen 7 9800X3D combined with an additional eight cores dedicated to multi-threaded work.
These extra eight (non-X3D) cores can boost up to 5.7GHz, which is 500MHz faster than the 9800X3D. Our tests show this translates to faster performance in both single and multi-threaded applications compared to the eight-core chip. All of this is achieved while running surprisingly cool, especially when contrasted with Intel’s 14th-gen Raptor Lake processors.
The only real drawback of this CPU is its hefty price, typically around $670. While steep, if you require both barnstorming gaming performance and top-tier multi-threading capabilities for productivity, the 9950X3D is undeniably the CPU to buy. If gaming is your sole focus, the 9800X3D offers better value.
Intel Core i9 14900K
Best Intel gaming CPU
Intel Core i9 14900K specifications:
| Socket | LGA 1700 |
| Cores (P+E) | 24 (8+16) |
| Threads | 32 |
| Base clock | 3.20GHz / 2.40GHz |
| Boost clock | Up to 5.60GHz / 4.40GHz |
| L3 cache | 36MB |
| TDP | 125W |
Pros
- Great frame rate consistency
- 6GHz maximum turbo frequency
- Unrivalled multi-threaded capabilities
Cons
- Extraordinarily power hungry
- Requires a high-end cooler
- Often falls behind cheaper AMD X3D CPUs in games
At the pinnacle of Intel’s gaming CPU lineup sits the Core i9 14900K, a rare chip capable of reaching impressive 6GHz clock speeds.
It features the familiar configuration of 24 cores and 32 threads that has defined Core i9 processors for the last three generations. While the Core i9 13900KS is its closest LGA 1700 competitor, the 14900K is essentially an identical, albeit more affordable, alternative to that high-end CPU.
The Core i9 14900K is best suited for systems that serve dual purposes as both a gaming rig and a powerful workstation, as its strengths truly shine in multi-core workloads. However, be prepared with a robust power supply and an excellent 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 CPU damage. It is highly recommended to update your motherboard’s BIOS with the latest microcode before running this processor to mitigate these potential issues.
Intel Core i5 14600K
Best mid-range Intel gaming CPU
Intel Core i5 14600K specifications:
| Socket | LGA 1700 |
| Cores (P+E) | 16 (6+8) |
| Threads | 14 |
| Base clock | 3.5GHz / 2.6GHz |
| Boost clock | Up to 5.3GHz / 4.0GHz |
| L3 cache | 24MB |
| TDP | 125W |
Pros
- Easily handles 120fps ‘x264 Slower’ encoding in real time
- Great gaming and creative application performance
Cons
- Can be beaten by AMD Ryzen 7000 processors
- Runs a touch hot
The 14600K is an exceptionally capable mid-range chip, boasting six Intel performance cores paired with eight efficiency cores, totaling 14 cores for under $190. This makes it a fantastic choice for multitasking and a balanced performer for both work and play.
Its gaming speed is commendable; while it may trail behind the higher-clocked 14900K and AMD’s latest X3D chips, it remains a fast and responsive CPU. The ‘K’ in its name signifies that it’s easily overclockable, offering the potential for free extra performance if your CPU cooler can handle the increased thermal output.
For a brand-new system, we typically don’t recommend Intel’s LGA 1700 platform as it’s now two generations old with no future CPU upgrade path. However, if you already own an older LGA 1700 motherboard or can find one affordably secondhand, the 14600K is an excellent partner. Moreover, it leaves you the option to upgrade to more powerful chips like the 14700K or 14900K down the line.
Intel Core i5 13400F
Best value gaming Intel CPU
Intel Core i5 13400F specifications:
| Socket | LGA 1700 |
| Cores (P+E) | 10 (6+4) |
| Threads | 16 |
| Base clock | 2.50GHz / 1.80GHz |
| Boost clock | Up to 4.60GHz / 3.30GHz |
| L3 cache | 18MB |
| TDP | 65W |
Pros
- Generous price point
- Slightly higher clock speed than 12400F
- Includes four E-Cores, unlike the 12400F
Cons
- No overclocking capabilities
- Limited boost clock speed
- No integrated GPU
For those 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 features six of Intel’s efficient Raptor Lake P-Cores and a 4.6GHz boost clock, making it slightly faster than the 12400F for gaming, with an added advantage.
Unlike its predecessor, the 13400F incorporates four of Intel’s low-power E-Cores under its heat spreader, bringing the total core count to ten. This provides a noticeable boost in multi-threaded software, making it an ideal choice for users who engage in more than just gaming but are working with a limited budget.
Similar to the 12400F, this chip lacks the ‘K’ designation, meaning it cannot be officially overclocked by altering the multiplier. The ‘F’ indicates the absence of an integrated GPU, which isn’t a concern for a gaming PC since a dedicated graphics card is recommended anyway, and it can save you some money on the CPU itself.
You won’t need a high-end CPU cooler to manage this chip; a budget-friendly air cooler will suffice. The retail version even includes an adequate Intel stock air cooler in the box. For just about $30 more than the 12400F, it represents a significant upgrade.
Intel Core i5 12400F
Best budget Intel gaming CPU
Intel Core i5 12400F specifications:
| Socket | LGA 1700 |
| Cores (P+E) | 6 (6+0) |
| Threads | 12 |
| Base clock | 2.5GHz |
| Boost clock | 4.4GHz |
| L3 cache | 18MB |
| TDP | 65W |
Pros
- Six P-Cores for solid performance
- Amazing price point
- Reliable gaming performance
Cons
- Clock speed could be higher
- No E-Cores for multi-threaded boost
- No integrated GPU
If you’re looking for an affordable upgrade for an existing PC, or simply building on a tight budget while still wanting reliable gaming performance, the Intel Core i5 12400F is an excellent choice. Priced at around $110, it’s one of the most cost-effective modern CPUs available. Its compatibility with older Intel motherboards and DDR4 RAM means you might be able to repurpose many 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 new DDR5 would be a better investment), this CPU is a straightforward drop-in. It provides six of Intel’s capable, performance-oriented P-Cores, two more than some of Intel’s newer budget CPUs, and these P-Cores are key for gaming performance.
Don’t be misled by the ’12’ in its model number, suggesting it’s much older. The Alder Lake architecture used by this chip is quite similar to the Raptor Lake architecture found in Intel’s latest 14th-gen CPUs, proving more than capable for gaming. With a TDP of just 65W, this CPU doesn’t demand a massive liquid cooler; a modest air cooler will keep it in check.
There are a few minor trade-offs. The ‘F’ model lacks an integrated GPU, but this is a non-issue for a gaming PC that will use a dedicated graphics card (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 insignificant for most gaming scenarios. The peak clock speed of 4.4GHz could be higher, and it’s not a ‘K-series’ CPU, meaning it’s not easily overclockable. However, at this price point, it’s a compromise worth making. It’s the best option for a cheap, easy upgrade, though for a new build, slightly more expensive options might offer better long-term value.
AMD Ryzen 5 8600G
Best CPU with integrated graphics
AMD Ryzen 5 8600G specifications:
| Socket | AM5 |
| Cores (P+E) | 6 |
| Threads | 12 |
| Base clock | 4.3GHz |
| Boost clock | 5GHz |
| L3 cache | 16MB |
| TDP | 65W |
Pros
- Best value integrated GPU on the market
- Includes an air cooler
- Good CPU performance in games
Cons
- 6,000MHz+ RAM is essential for optimal integrated GPU performance
- Value can be debatable compared to a cheap dedicated graphics card
- Does not offer 16x PCIe 4.0 lanes
For those who need a single chip to handle both CPU and GPU duties, perhaps for a compact system build or if a dedicated graphics card isn’t an immediate option, the Ryzen 5 8600G is an outstanding choice. With six Zen 4 cores and a potent Radeon 760M integrated GPU, it delivers vibrant performance as both a processor and a built-in graphics solution.
The 8600G particularly shines in less demanding games, but it’s also capable of playing more intensive titles like Cyberpunk 2077 at 30fps if you’re comfortable with 1080p resolution and low settings. It supports FidelityFX Super Resolution, which can further boost frame rates through upscaling and frame generation.
To extract the best 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. Moreover, even high-speed DDR5 RAM is now becoming increasingly affordable.
If you plan to add a dedicated graphics card in the near future, the 8600G might not be the most ideal processor, as it’s not as fast as equivalently priced CPUs without powerful integrated graphics and offers a limited number of PCIe lanes. However, unless you’re moving to a very high-end graphics card, it’s likely your GPU will still be the bottleneck in gaming performance, rather than this CPU.
Also Tested
Intel Core Ultra 7 265K: Intel’s latest generation of CPUs initially didn’t impress with its gaming performance compared to AMD’s X3D chips. However, with recent price reductions, Core Ultra 200 series CPUs are now worth considering if absolute peak frame rates aren’t your top priority. CPU speed primarily impacts performance at lower resolutions and high frame rates; for higher resolutions and graphical settings, the GPU is usually the limiting factor. Therefore, a Core Ultra 200 system, when priced right, offers a powerful yet energy-efficient chip that could be a smart investment.
How to choose a CPU for gaming
When selecting a new CPU, begin by considering whether you are upgrading an existing system or building a new one from scratch. For older systems, particularly AMD AM4 platforms, upgrading to a last-generation chip like the AMD Ryzen 5 5600X or Ryzen 7 5800X3D can be a very sensible and cost-effective option. If you have an older Intel system, many 12th through 14th-gen Intel Core i CPUs might fit the same motherboards, offering incremental performance boosts, such as upgrading from an Intel Core i5 12600K to an Intel Core i7-14700K.
For new system builds, your budget is the next crucial factor. Mid-range and high-end chips are not always the best choice if money is tight. In such cases, opt for a budget CPU and allocate your savings towards the best graphics card you can afford. You can always upgrade your CPU later. Entry-level CPUs start just over $100, mid-range options typically range from $200-$400, and high-end chips can exceed $700.
Once your budget is set, consider your primary use for the PC. If gaming is the main focus, with only casual web browsing, email, and video streaming otherwise, an eight-core CPU is more than sufficient, and even six-core chips are often ample. We highly recommend AMD’s X3D chips for these scenarios, as their stacked cache significantly boosts gaming performance in our tests. The 9800X3D is the current top X3D gaming chip, with the 7800X3D also being an excellent choice. For those on older AM4 systems, the 5800X3D remains the top gaming CPU option.
If you’re on a stricter budget, X3D chips might be too expensive. In this case, the six-core AMD Ryzen 9600X or the Intel Core i5 14600K with its six performance cores are smart alternatives.
For users who need an all-around powerhouse for both gaming and intensive multi-core tasks like video editing or 3D rendering, consider a CPU with more than eight cores. The 16-core AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D is currently the best overall CPU, with the Intel Core i9 14900K also offering immense power.
Finally, if saving money is paramount, consider an AMD APU. These chips include both a CPU and a basic 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, though they won’t match the performance of AMD’s full-fat CPUs if you eventually add a dedicated graphics card.
Gaming CPU frequently asked questions (FAQs)
What is a CPU?
The Central Processing Unit, or CPU, is the primary computational component of your PC. It performs nearly all calculations necessary for applications and games to run. While graphics cards assist with rendering 2D and 3D graphics, the CPU handles everything else. It sits in the motherboard, connecting to RAM, the graphics card, and other components, facilitating communication and power delivery. Your PC cannot function without a CPU.
A CPU with more processing cores and a higher clock speed can complete more tasks faster. However, beyond a certain point, a faster CPU won’t necessarily yield higher frame rates in games. Once a game runs smoothly at lower graphics settings and resolutions, achieving higher frame rates at more demanding graphical settings primarily depends on the graphics card.
How we test the best gaming CPUs
With numerous gaming CPUs available, determining which ones offer genuine value can be challenging. To assist you in making an informed decision, we rigorously evaluate each chip’s gaming capabilities using a standardized test rig.
Our test setup includes an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4080 Founders Edition graphics card, a Corsair H100x Elite 240mm AIO cooler, a Corsair RM1000x PSU, 32GB of G.Skill TridentZ 5 Neo RGB 6,000MHz, CL28 RAM, and a 2TB WD Black SN850X SSD. All tests are conducted using the very latest version of Windows.
Our gaming CPU benchmarks encompass 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 Handbrake for video encoding and Cinebench R24 for rendering performance. Furthermore, we monitor the processor’s temperatures under load and track how long it can sustain its advertised boost clock speeds to provide a comprehensive performance overview.
Can I upgrade my CPU?
Upgrading the CPU in your gaming PC involves physically replacing your current processor with a more powerful one. This process is generally straightforward, provided you have a compatible chip, an adequate cooling system, and the right tools.
Before upgrading, always verify that your new CPU is compatible with your motherboard. Intel and AMD both offer compatibility tools on their websites where you can look up specific processors and view compatible motherboards. Some motherboards might physically fit a CPU but require a BIOS update to support it, so checking the manufacturer’s website for compatible CPU lists and BIOS updates is essential.
Once confirmed, installing a new CPU typically involves removing your existing CPU cooler (usually screwed or clipped to the motherboard), opening the locking clip around the CPU socket on the motherboard, gently placing the new CPU in the socket, ensuring correct alignment, and then closing the clip. After this, you’ll reinstall or install a new CPU cooler.
How do you install a CPU?
Installing a CPU is a relatively simple procedure, but it’s not without potential risks. First, you must confirm that your chosen CPU and motherboard are compatible, meaning they use the same socket type (e.g., LGA 1700 or AM5) and that your motherboard’s firmware supports the specific CPU. Some motherboards might physically accommodate a CPU but require a BIOS update to function correctly with it. You can usually find a list of compatible CPUs and any necessary BIOS updates on your motherboard manufacturer’s website.
Once compatibility is confirmed, the installation process typically involves removing your old CPU cooler, opening the locking clip or lever on the CPU socket, and then carefully placing the new CPU into the socket, ensuring it’s correctly oriented (usually indicated by a small triangle or arrow on the CPU and socket). After seating the CPU, close the locking mechanism. The final step is to install a CPU cooler to manage the processor’s heat. Detailed instructions for fitting a CPU cooler can be found in our comprehensive guide on how to build a gaming PC, and a full explanation of CPU installation is available in our dedicated CPU upgrade guide.
When to upgrade a gaming CPU?
There’s no fixed lifespan for a CPU, but several indicators can help you determine the optimal time for an upgrade. You might notice your current system slowing down and no longer meeting your performance needs, or you may specifically want to boost the speed of certain tasks, or perhaps you’re looking to future-proof your setup with the latest processor technology.
If you’re uncertain whether your CPU is the bottleneck in your gaming machine, tools like CapFrameX and Rivatuner Statistics Server can display CPU and GPU loads while you play. If your GPU isn’t consistently hitting close to 100% usage but you’re still experiencing stutters or generally slow performance, your CPU (or possibly RAM) is likely holding you back. Conversely, if your graphics card usage hovers around 90-100%, upgrading to a better graphics card would probably yield more significant improvements than a CPU upgrade.
What should CPU usage be when gaming?
In a well-balanced system (where the CPU and GPU are similarly capable, 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 game genre. Real-time strategy (RTS) games, for instance, tend to be more CPU-intensive due to the computational demands of managing hundreds of units and their AI.
However, in most gaming scenarios, your GPU usage should be consistently near 100% well before your processor reaches its maximum capacity. That being said, achieving very high frame rates (e.g., 240fps and above) will place a greater strain on your CPU.
For further enhancements to your gaming PC’s performance, consult our guides on the best gaming motherboards to find the perfect foundation for your new CPU, and the best gaming RAM to select memory that optimally complements your processor.