Processors are the essential component of gaming. A sound processor can mean the difference between a responsive, immersive gaming experience and one that feels sluggish and unresponsive. It handles all the instructions your computer receives and sends, and it crunches numbers and performs calculations. When you’re playing games, you’re putting a lot of demands on your CPU, and you need a processor that can keep up. However, much like graphics cards, the best processors for gaming can be pretty expensive. If you’re on a budget, you’ll need to find the Best CPU for Gaming Under $500.
Furthermore, While deciding on a processor, It’s not easy to choose which CPU is right for you. Intel and AMD have different options with varying power levels, capabilities, and price tags. These options can be overwhelming, but we’re here to help. This guide will break down everything you need to know about choosing a gaming CPU, including the different types of processors available, what they’re suitable for, and which ones we recommend.
Quick Shopping Tips
When you’re looking for a gaming CPU, there are three things you need to keep in mind:
Core count: Core count is one of the most important specs when shopping for a gaming CPU. The more cores a processor has, the better it will be at handling demanding tasks like gaming. That’s because games are often designed to take advantage of multiple cores. For example, a game might use one core for the main character’s movements while another handles the background scenery. A processor with four or more cores will be able to handle these tasks more efficiently, resulting in smoother gameplay. When shopping for a gaming CPU, aim for a model with at least four cores.
Clock speed: Clock speed is another vital factor when choosing a gaming CPU. Clock speed is measured in GHz, and it refers to how fast a processor can complete one cycle of operations. The higher the clock speed, the quicker a processor can work. For gaming, you’ll want a CPU with a high clock speed to keep up with the demanding requirements of games. A clock speed of 3.5 GHz or higher is ideal for gaming.
Budget: You’ll also need to consider your budget when shopping for a gaming CPU. High-end processors can be pretty expensive, so you’ll need to find a model that offers the best performance per dollar if you’re on a budget. You can expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $500 for a gaming CPU. The specific price will depend on the model, brand, and other factors.
Intel and AMD: Intel and AMD are the two main types of CPUs, or central processing units, on the market today. Intel CPUs are typically more expensive than AMD CPUs, offering better performance. Both the brands offer a wide range of options, so it’s essential to compare CPUs from both brands before deciding.
The Best CPU for Gaming Under $500 2022
AMD Ryzen 9 3900X
Best Premium CPU for Gaming Under $500
REASONS TO BUY
✓Excellent performance
✓Very high thread count
✓PCIe Gen 4.0 support
✓AMD’s first mainstream CPU in years
REASONS TO AVOID
✗Only supports PCIe 4.0 on X570 chipset motherboards
✗High price tag
The AMD Ryzen processor is the world’s most powerful. It comes with 12 cores, and is aimed at elite gamers. Its 12-core architecture makes it perfect for esports and other competitive games. It has many advantages, but it is not for everyone. Here are some pros and cons for those who are planning to buy it. You can make an informed decision after reading this article. And don’t forget to check out our video review to learn how AMD Ryzen 9 3900X works.
The AMD Ryzen 9 3900X is a 12-core, 24-thread processor, with higher thread counts. With this processor, AMD should have a clear lead over consumer parts from Intel, such as the 9th Gen Core i7-9700K and Core i9-9900K. In order to catch up with Intel, however, AMD must bring down its performance differences in gaming. Hopefully, the Ryzen 9 3900X will be able to do so.
PCIe Gen 4.0 support is another feature of the AMD Ryzen 9 3900X. This feature is useful for video cards and storage components that require faster access to data. AMD says that the new chipset supports PCIe 4.0, which should mean a faster system. And AMD has been striving for dominance in the desktop CPU world for years. If it can get there, it will certainly reach its goal. AMD Ryzen 9 3900X may be the ultimate desktop processor.
Overall, the AMD Ryzen 3900X is a solid mainstream processor, and I highly recommend it. It’s the first mainstream CPU to reach this level of performance since the Athlon 64. And as AMD has grown in popularity, Intel has taken a defensive role, lowering prices and bringing out new, faster CPUs. But, for everyday consumers, the AMD Ryzen 9 3900X is a clear winner. Although Intel’s 10900K will be faster than the AMD’s 9900X in a few years, it’s still much better than Intel’s 8-core/16-thread CPU. And the AMD Ryzen 5000 is another excellent choice.
Intel Core i7-10700K
Best Fastest CPU for Gaming Under $500
REASONS TO BUY
✓Outstanding gaming performance
✓Excellent single-core performance
✓Good value for money
✓overclocking potential
REASONS TO AVOID
✗High power consumption
✗Requires a robust power supply
The Intel Core i7-10700K Processer is one of the fastest desktop processors. Its eight cores and Hyper-Threading technology provide advanced multitasking capabilities. The base clock speed is up to 3.1GHz, making it an efficient processor for demanding applications. The unlocked version also features Intel Turbo Boost Max for improved performance. The unlocked version is also capable of achieving speeds of up to 3.8GHz.
The Intel Core i7-10700K Processer is one of the fastest processors in the market. It supports hyper-threading and is one of the best-value CPUs available. It is an eight-core processor with a 3.8GHz base clock and 5.1GHz turbo clock. It also has 16MB of L3 cache and 16MB of DDR4 memory. With its competitive price, it is an excellent value for money.
The Intel Core i7-10700K has 8 cores and 16 threads. Its base/boost clocks are similar to the ones of the Core i9-9900K, but the newer version features a faster boost frequency. The i7-10700K supports a 4.7 GHz all-core turbo. Moreover, it has the same Turbo Boost Max 3.0 technology that increases boost frequency by 100 MHz. It is capable of handling games with a high amount of graphics.
The Intel Core i7-10700K has a 125-watt power target of 30 watts more than the 12-core AMD Ryzen 9 3900X. However, it has a higher TDP than the previous generation. This Processor requires a robust power supply with high-quality fans. Its tau value of two means that it can handle more power than its predecessors, but its speed is still impressive.
AMD Ryzen 7 3800XT
Best Multi-Core CPU for Gaming Under $500
REASONS TO BUY
✓Excellent performance in productivity tasks
✓Good overclocking potential
✓Supports hardware virtualization
✓Supports the newer AVX2 standard
REASONS TO AVOID
✗Not the best choice for gaming
✗Doesn’t support AVX-512
The AMD Ryzen 7 3800XT Process is an incredible multi-core processor designed to deliver ultimate performance. The CPU’s four cores offer a combined total of 14 threads for the ultimate computing experience. The AMD Ryzen 7 processor also boasts a slew of unique features. The following are some of the main benefits of this powerful multi-core CPU. They include a ten-core architecture for optimal performance and efficiency and a super-fast cooling system.
The AMD Ryzen 7 3800XT offers the same performance boost as the 3800X, though not much. Its performance boost is about five to seven percent for productivity tasks, while it is negligible for gaming. The AMD 3800XT’s sustained boost clock is 60MHz higher than its predecessor, which amounts to a 2 percent clock increase. The Processor’s top speed is 4.5GHz, 200MHz, faster than the previous generation.
The AMD Ryzen 7 3800XT’s base clock is unchanged, so it won’t reach 4.7GHz unless you use all 16 threads at once. However, it will likely show improvements in games and applications that use Advanced Vector Extensions (AVX), such as those in video games. The CPU’s unlocked base-clock multiplier allows for improved overclocking. The CPU also supports Hyper-Threading, which is helpful for games and other applications that require high levels of precision.
AMD Ryzen 7 3800XT supports hardware virtualization (HV), which improves virtual machine performance. In addition, this processor supports the newer AVX2 standard. It doesn’t support AVX-512, however. It’s still a great processor for those who use calculation-heavy applications. There are only a few downsides. AMD Ryzen 7 3800XT isn’t the best choice for gaming, but it’s still an excellent option for gaming.
AMD Ryzen 5 3600
Best Flagship CPU for Gaming Under $500
REASONS TO BUY
✓Excellent gaming performance
✓Affordable
✓Comes with a stock cooler
✓Overclockable
REASONS TO AVOID
✗No integrated graphics
✗Budget air coolers may be noisy
✗Lacks overclocking potential
You’ve made the decision to purchase an AMD Ryzen 5 3600 processor, but you’re still not sure which model to buy. This article will provide you with some useful information about this new processor. This processor offers superior performance thanks to the latest AMD technology, such as Precision Boost 2, which automatically increases the processor’s frequency when required. AMD’s latest model features an all-new, innovative fan design, which makes it even cooler.
AMD’s Ryzen 5 3600 processor supports up to 128 GiB of dual-channel DDR4 memory. The processor also supports PC4-25600U (DDR4-3200) memory and 64-bit UDIMMs, and it supports ECC on motherboards. The processor is compatible with multiple types of RAM and has three memory-channel controllers. The processor does not support integrated graphics, so you should purchase separate graphics cards if needed.
AMD’s Ryzen 5 3600 has impressive gaming capabilities, despite being a sub-$200 processor. It managed to average 101fps in our test at high-definition resolutions. It beats its higher-tier siblings, including the Intel Core i9-9900K. While it loses some ground when tested at 4K, the 3600 remained ahead of its three Intel counterparts.
The AMD Ryzen 5 3600 isn’t as powerful as the Ryzen 5 3600X, but it does offer competitive gaming performance for a low price. The AMD Wraith Stealth cooler comes standard with the chip, so it doesn’t need to be reinstalled to make it function. However, you can opt to install a third-party cooler. However, liquid-cooled units can really stretch your budget, so it’s best to buy an entry-level air cooler instead.
Intel Core i9-10850K
Best High-End CPU for Gaming Under $500
REASONS TO BUY
✓Relatively low price
✓Good gaming performance
✓Low power consumption
✓No need to overclock
REASONS TO AVOID
✗Limited warranty
✗No overclocking potential
✗Requires separate purchase of a heatsink
The Intel Core i9-10850K Processor is a high-end gaming processor, introducing innovative architecture for intelligent performance, immersive display, and immersive graphics. Its expanded expandability and tuning capabilities give gamers more control over the gaming experience. The new chip also has two years of warranty and free lifetime tech support. This Processor is one of the best processors available for your PC. It is an excellent choice for people who enjoy gaming on their PC.
It comes with a TDP of 125W, which means that it will use quite a bit of power. It supports DDR4 memory in a dual-channel interface and supports the maximum officially supported memory speed of 2933 MHz. It uses PCI-Express Gen 3 connection to connect to external hard drives. The CPU is equipped with integrated graphics Intel UHD Graphics 630.
The difference in performance isn’t much, though. During our benchmark tests, the Intel Core i9-10850K performed at a high level, with scores that are comparable to the Intel Core i3-8100. Moreover, the i9-10850K’s performance was up to 33% higher than that of the 10900K, making it a better overall value. The only thing holding it back is the fact that it doesn’t have overclocking capabilities.
Power consumption was very similar between the Core i9-10850K and the Core i9-10900K. Although the i9-10850K is unlocked, it’s best not to overclock the processor, as doing so can invalidate its limited warranty. Also, the Core i9-10850K does not include a heatsink, so you’ll need to purchase one separately. The CPU’s base frequency is 95W, which is far lower than the i9-10900K’s 96W.
Intel Core i7-9700K
Best Budget CPU for Gaming Under $500
REASONS TO BUY
✓Excellent single-threaded performance
✓Good value for money
✓Comes with a stock cooler
✓Supports faster DDR4 memory
REASONS TO AVOID
✗No integrated graphics
✗Lower multi-thread
The Intel Core i7-9700K processor has a base clock speed of 3.6 GHz. This chip can reach up to 4.9 GHz with its turbo frequency. It has eight cores and eight threads based on the LGA 1151 socket. It has 12MB of cache memory. It is capable of running many applications simultaneously. Users will appreciate the high performance and low power consumption.
The Intel Core i7-9700K has eight cores and single threads in each core. Its base clock speed is 3.60 GHz, and its multi-threading and hyper-threading capabilities make it an excellent choice for gamers. However, some users are disappointed with the lack of integrated graphics. Despite these shortcomings, this Processor can meet most users’ needs. Its single-threaded performance is slightly lower than its rivals, so it is not an ideal game choice.
While the i9-9900K is the new flagship processor from Intel, the i7-9700K is still a fantastic desktop processor. It is one of the fastest and most efficient processors available. The i7-9700K is based on the Coffee Lake architecture, which allows it to overclock up to 4.8 GHz. It is also compatible with AMD Ryzen 7 2700X and requires a Z390 mainboard.
As with its predecessor, the i7-9700K has eight cores, with an average of four threads per core. This is one of the biggest differences between the two processors. The i7-9700K has two more cores but four fewer threads than the i7-8700K. However, it is still $44 cheaper, comes with a credible cooling fan, and has a better base clock.
AMD Ryzen 7 3800X
Best Performance CPU for Gaming Under $500
REASONS TO BUY
✓Frequently hits its clock frequency
✓Excellent performance in benchmarks
✓Supports AVX2 and AVX-512
REASONS TO AVOID
✗High power consumption
✗Price is a bit high
The AMD Ryzen 7 3800X Processor is a mighty multi-core processor. It’s designed for ultimate performance. If you want a powerful multi-core processor, this is for you. The Ryzen 7 is the best choice for your computer with the new features and a new design. Its unique multi-core features make it easier to work on various applications. With these features, you can run virtually any program on the CPU without worrying about overclocking issues. The AMD Ryzen processor supports AVX2 and AVX-512, which are standards for advanced graphics and physics, which helps boost the performance of applications.
Despite the increased power consumption, the AMD system will cost less than the competition and is a great value. Performance is a big factor in deciding whether to buy a new PC. While the 3700X and 3800X are both capable of handling a wide range of tasks, they each have their own distinct advantages and disadvantages. The 3800X scores higher in some games and is slower in others, so it may be better to choose this model if your gaming needs aren’t centered on multitasking. The price is also a factor to consider, but the difference is minimal.
Compared to other CPUs, the AMD Ryzen 7 3800X is faster than the previous generation. In Cinebench R20 benchmarks, the 3800X outperforms the 3700X in multicore and high-intensity tasks. You can compare AMD Ryzen 7 3800X performance to other popular CPUs to determine which is best for your gaming needs. You can also see how much AMD Ryzen 7 3800X will cost you, depending on where you purchase it.
The AMD Ryzen 7 3800X’s clock frequency is quite ambitious. This CPU had a reputation of rarely hitting its claimed frequency before AMD’s AGESA 1.0.0.3 ABBA update. AMD has addressed these issues, and AMD Ryzen 7 3800X CPUs should reach their claimed frequency, but there is a small chance that the actual frequency might be a bit higher. However, this is still an excellent choice for gamers.
AMD Ryzen 5 3600X
Best Mid-Range CPU for Gaming Under $500
REASONS TO BUY
✓Decent overclocking potential
✓Excellent single-core performance
✓Good IPC performance
✓AMD Zen 2 architecture
✓Unlocked base-clock multiplier
REASONS TO AVOID
✗Underperforms its AMD counterparts
✗Not a good choice for gamers
The AMD Ryzen 5 3600X Processor is a mid-range desktop processor that can be quickly dropped into a motherboard of the AMD 500 series. Its simple BIOS upgrade also makes it compatible with many desktop AMD motherboards. Its high-performance capabilities make it an excellent choice for those who want an affordable yet powerful processor. This is why it’s becoming more popular among PC users than ever.
The AMD Ryzen 5 3600X comes with the new AMD Zen 2 architecture. It’s manufactured using a 7-nanometer process, which pushes performance further. This is especially evident in the IPC performance, in which AMD engineers have increased by 15%. While Intel has consistently outpaced AMD in single-core performance, this chip is the best choice for gamers who don’t need to have more than four cores.
The AMD Ryzen 5 3600X is not a gaming-centric processor, but it does have several great features. Its unlocked base-clock multiplier makes overclocking easier and allows more power to be squeezed out of the CPU. The Processor comes with a fan that lets you control the speed of its fans. This is a welcome addition to any system. The AMD Radeon RX 6000+ is a solid choice if you want to overclock your processor.
The Ryzen 5 3600X Processor is not a good match for gaming. While the graphics card is the primary performance driver, the CPU also plays a role. This is especially true when you play at full HD (1080p). This chip significantly underperforms its AMD counterparts and may not be a good choice for gamers. However, you can upgrade the RAM to make it faster.
Conclusion
Gaming in this era requires a processor that is both powerful and efficient. The best gaming CPUs will offer a great combination of these two qualities. In this guide, we’ve looked at some of the Best CPUs for Gaming Under 500, including options from both Intel and AMD. We’ve also considered essential factors like core count, clock speed, and price. Keep these factors in mind when shopping for a gaming CPU, and you’re sure to find the perfect model for your needs.
Unlike all processors we reviewed, the Intel Core i7-10700K is the best. It is based on the Comet Lake architecture and has a base clock speed of 3.8 GHz. The Intel Core i7-10700K is the successor to the Intel Core i7-8700K and is very similar in its performance. The main difference between the two processors is that the Intel Core i7-10700K has a higher clock speed and supports Intel’s new Turbo Boost Max 3.0 technology. The Intel Core i7-10700K is a potent processor well suited for gaming and other demanding workloads.
