The processor is arguably the most important component in any desktop computer, so it's tricky to pick out. Check out our roundup of the best budget CPUs.

Best overall budget CPU cooler – BeQuiet Pure Rock 2. BeQuiet Pure Rock 2. Socket. Intel 115x, 1200, 1700, 2011x, 2066 and AM3(+) or AM4 . Fan Dimension. 120x25mm. Fan Speed. 1500rpm (100%) ...

With this AMD processor, we’re looking at six cores and 12 threads. It’s capable of speeds of 4.7GHz. It’s unlocked so you ...

Since they pack more cores that run at higher frequencies, high-end CPUs use more power when under load compared to budget options. For example, the four-core Intel Core i3-14100 CPU sips less ...

If you're looking for the best CPUs for gaming or the best workstation CPU, or just one of the best budget CPUs, there are only two choices: AMD and Intel. That fact has spawned an almost ...

With a very low price, but capable performance and RGB lighting, this CPU cooler is an ideal cheap option for any AMD or ...

Your CPU, or Central Processing Unit, is basically the brain of your computer. It handles everything from running games to editing videos. In 2025, AMD and Intel are still the big players in the ...

Best Budget CPU for Gaming. AMD Ryzen 7 5700G. 6. Grab this budget CPU that’s power efficient, has solid integrated graphics, and features AMD’s Zen 3 architecture, so it’s ready for basic ...

I actually tested the 5600 back at the start of this year to see how well the CPU holds up, as so many people have bought and reviewed one. In short, it works surprisingly well for gaming ...

Zen 5 based. The dark satanic rumour mill has manufactured a hell-on-earth yarn, claiming that AMD is building a budget X3D gaming CPU based on its latest Zen 5 architecture.