Gaming enthusiasts know the importance of having the right processor. You can’t get high-end gaming performance if you have an old processor. CPUs designed for gaming have an increased number of threads and cores. This improves their gaming speed and performance. Many leading brands like AMD and Intel have released a new processor range with increased power. Which one to choose then? Well, this is what this guide is for. Here we have listed the top 9 best CPUs for gaming in the market in 2023. With them, you can unleash a new level of gaming efficiency.

Comparison Table

IMAGE	PRODUCT	Rating	PRICE
	Intel Core i5-12600K	9.5	Check on Amazon
	AMD Ryzen 7 5800X	9.1	Check on Amazon
	AMD Ryzen 9 5900X	9.5	Check on Amazon
	Intel Core i9-12900K	9.0	Check on Amazon
	Intel Core i3	8.7	Check on Amazon
	AMD Ryzen 5 5600X	8.5	Check on Amazon
	AMD Ryzen 5 5600G	8.7	Check on Amazon
	Intel Core i5-10400F	9.7	Check on Amazon
	Intel Core i7-12700K	9.3	Check on Amazon

Also read: Best CPUs for RTX 3070

1. Intel Core i5 12600K

Intel Core i5 12600K is a leading choice for gamers who want great performance at a reasonable price point. For just $320 with a mid-range chip, this processor has been able to beat the high ends ones when it came to performance. With Intel, you need to get a specific motherboard. It is not compatible will a wide variety of sockets. The support for PCle 5 makes it a beast when it comes to high-end gaming. This Best CPU for Gaming supports both DDR4 and DDR5 RAM technology. Intel Core i5 12600K comes with six threads P cores. Four E-cores have a total of 16 threads. 

Also read: Best DDR5 RAM for gaming

This chip in total has 16 lanes of Pcle 5 and four Pcle 4 interfaces for M. 2 slots. This high-end connectivity increases game stability. This processor comes with a power rating of 150 watts. This is much lower than the prior generation of Intel. Due to low power consumption, this processor can work with variable fan cooling speeds. To pair it up you will need a 600 series motherboard. Intel Core i5 12600K is a fantastic mid-range option for gaming. This processing unit incorporates hyper threading architecture which means it performs well despite the high-power demanding programs. 

SPECIFICATIONS

• Cores: 6+4
• Threads: 16
• Overclocking potential: yes
• L3 Cache: 20MB
• TDP: 125 watts

FEATURES

• Improved onboard graphic performance 
• Features an LGA 1700 socket 
• Intel 7 architecture for improved performance 
• The built-in graphic controller provides high visual quality. 

WHY BUY Intel Core i5 12600K?

Intel Core i5 12600K is a great choice if you were in search of a budget processor with good speed. A competitive price tag with support for both DDR4 and DDR5 makes it super stable. With this budget price tag, Intel Core i5 manages to defeat Ryzen 5 5600X. The L3 cache value is also really low about 20MB only. Your processor will not need a high-priced fan cooler. This processor has a low power consumption which allows you to work for a long. To pair it up you need an LGA 1700 socket. You will find lots of options for Intel motherboards in the market. 

Also, check What DPI Should I Use For Gaming?

2. AMD Ryzen 7 5800X 

AMD needs no introduction. It has been a giant when it comes to delivering high-quality gaming-related products. This processor is one of the best gaming CPUs by AMD. With the use of the new Zen 3 architecture, this system delivers relentless gaming performance. The Intel Core i7 which is a comparison for this struggle to match the performance. You will get elite 100 plus FPS performance in all the AAA games. The cooler is not included in it. it is recommended to purchase a high-performing cooler with this CPU. 

Also read: Best RAM for Ryzen 7 5800X

Ryzen 7 is one of the fastest processors with 8 core and 16 processing threads. It supports Windows 10. You can overclock with a maximum speed boost of 4.7 GHz. The low cache value of 36MB decreases lagging issues. On X570 and B550 motherboards it supports Pcle 4 for the advanced AM4 socket platform. The unprecedented speed offered by this CPU will make you unstoppable. AMD Ryzen 5000 series processors deliver the ultimate high performance whether you are playing games or processing data. 

SPECIFICATIONS

• Core: 8
• Threads: 16
• Cache: 36 MB
• TDP: 105 watt
• Socket support: AM4 

FEATURES

• Delivers elite 100 FPS performance 
• Needs a high-performance cooler 
• 4.7 GHz maximum boost 
• AM4 socket connectivity 

WHY BUY AMD Ryzen 7 5800X?

In testing Ryzen7 5800X puts up as a powerful challenge to Intel core i9-12900K. It is Zen 3 architecture boosts the performance making it a value pick gaming CPU. For gamers looking for just a 1440 or 1080 P gaming display, this processor will be overkill. However, if you want high-end performance on a budget Ryzen 7 5800X should be on your list. This 8core /16 thread CPU has emerged as one of the top’s most powerful gaming processors. These series of processors can be dropped in to any of the AMD 500 series motherboards with a simple BIOS update. 

Also check: CPU Hierarchy

3. AMD Ryzen 9 5900X 

AMD Zen 3 architecture has gone through constant improvements with each new generation. This way AMD managed to knock out a 19 percent improvement in IPC. This processor call handles all the graphic cards well and provides you with a high FPS rate. The fact that this is a 12-core 24-thread system it can handle any task you throw at it. Multiple cores make it unimaginably faster. Apart from gaming if you want to do video editing, data processing, or any other job you can rely on this beast. The only drawback is the lack of a cooler which you must consider before buying. 

Also read: Best Intel Motherboards

Ryzen 9 5900X is a price-worthy purchase. It does deliver what it claims. If you want to step up a little bit go for Ryzen 5950 X. This is an improvement with 16 cores and 32 threads. It costs about 250$ more though. If you just want to game then Ryzen 9 5900X will be well enough. If you already have a Zen motherboard then AMD Ryzen 9 5900X processor will be compatible with it. This saves you the cost of buying a new motherboard. Once you are sure the motherboard is compatible you just need to update BIOS to connect them. 

SPECIFICATIONS

• Cores: 12
• Threads: 24
• Overclocking: yes 
• TDP: 105 watts
• L3 cache: 64MB

FEATURES

• Cooler not included
• delivers speed boost of up to 4.8 GHz
• Supports AM4 socket 
• Only 70 MB L3 cache 

WHY BUY AMD Ryzen 9 5900X?

Ryzen 9 5900X is the latest generation of the processor by AMD. By purchasing this Best CPU for Gaming, you have increased the number of cores and threads that can handle any task well. Considering the price this unit is on the high budget side. The versatile features though justify the price tag. Like all other AMD processors, this one is also compatible with AMD motherboards. This means you don’t need to get a new one. The only downside is that it doesn’t have a fan. So, you need to invest in one yourself to keep it cool while you game the whole day. 

4. Intel Core i9-12900K 

Are you building a high-end gaming PC that just not serves your 4k gaming purpose but is also powerful enough for video editing and content creation? This processor is a power no doubt about that. To get the most out of it you need to have a powerful PSU with a serious cooler. The fact that you have a high room for overclocking improves your gaming experience. Considering the gaming performance Intel Core i9-12900K is surely the fastest processor but the problem is it has a high price. It offers a few FPS more than our high-end pick and demands a lot for that. 

Also read: Best Motherboards for Ryzen 9 5900X

The 12900K supports improved connectivity with DDR4-3200 or DDR5-4800 memory, with 16 lanes of Pcle 5 and additional four lanes of PCle 4. This chip is equipped with a cache of 30 MB. This 12900K has a 125-watt base and 241-watt peak power rating, but you get high-end performance in return. You will have to buy a high-power cooler and series 600 motherboard with it. Intel 12900K shows great improvement in its performance with the mixed core design and support for DDR5 memory. you just have to expect a high initial cost of installation. 

SPECIFICATIONS

• Cores: 8+8
• Threads: 24
• Overclocking: yes
• L3 cache: 30MB
• TDP: 125 Watt

FEATURES

• Features LGA 1700 socket 
• 30 MB cache memory provides the best hit rate 
• Power-efficient micro architecture 
• 7 architecture enabled improved performance per watt

WHY BUY Intel Core i9-12900K?

The Intel Core i9-12900K is a 12th gen processor with a maximum speed of up to 5.2 GHz. This model features a minimum L3 cache of 30 MB. You get to experience 10nm improved performance per watt thanks to the micro architecture. Intel thread director is designed to coordinate and divide the workload between multiple threads so your system won’t bog down. Intel 12900K has a whooping 16 core and 24 threads. Intel 12900K comes both unlocked and overclockable. Compatible with series 600 motherboards with an LGA 1700 socket. 

5. Intel Core i3-12100 

The core i3-12100 reigns the market as the fastest budget gaming CPU. None of the AMD chips can match core i3 in single-threaded performance. You will have to look for Alder Lake chips to get the same performance. The core i3-12100 has a 60-watt base and 89-watt peak power rating. This Chipset clocks in with a 3.3 GHz speed with a maximum boost up to 4.3 GHz. Intel Core i3-12100 has a low cache that just amounts to 12 MB. Intel Core i3-12100 is a locked chip that implies it is not overclockable. 

Also read: Best Motherboards for Ryzen 5 5600X

AMD does not have a similarly priced processor that can compete with Intel core i3. This unit brings impressive performance to the table. The 1080 p gaming benchmarks have shown that core i3 delivers 88% of the core i5 12400k’s performance. All this for considerably lower cash. This is a winning blend of both economical price and efficient performance. Pairing with a b660 motherboard, i3-12100 will be the cheapest option for PC gaming. It competes with many high-end ones with efficient workload management. 

SPECIFICATIONS

• Socket: LGA 1700 
• Cores: 4
• Threads: 8
• TDP: 60 watt

FEATURES

• Maximum speed boost 4.3 GHz
• The low cache memory 12 MB 
• 60-watt power requirement 

WHY BUY Intel Core i3-12100?

Intel Core i3-12100 is a great budget gaming CPU. If you want to experience impressive gaming speeds a low-cost Intel core i3 will be the right choice. This model comes with a built-in cooler. The efficient cooling system keeps the system fast and cool though it is not designed for overclocking. It offers support for both DDR4 and DDR5 memory. This means you can experience increased bandwidth and low power consumption. To pair it up you need to purchase a b660 motherboard. 

6. AMD Ryzen 5 5600X 

The release of this Best CPU for Gaming has lost its popularity due to the higher gaming performance offered by Intel at a lesser price. The reason Ryzen 5 5600X is still on the top 9 list is, that it’s a cheaper option when upgrading from an old AM4 compatible processor. There is very little difference between Ryzen 5000 series chips when it comes to gaming. This means you can get the same FPS from this unit as the expensive Ryzen 9 5900X. Is not it incredible to get top-tier performance from an affordable Zen 3 architecture CPU? 

Also read: Best Motherboards for Mining

Ryzen 5 5600X has however half the number of core and threads of 5900X. This will only be a concern for those who have a high workload. Ryzen 5600X is shipped with its wraith stealth cooler so you don’t have to spend on some third-party cooler. If you do invest in one you can get a new world of high overclocking potential. This unit is a decent overclocker though not for gaming it can help with other areas. The 5600 is a well-rounded chip that can handle competitive class performance with high FPS to live to stream. 

SPECIFICATIONS 

• Cores: 6
• Threads: 12 
• Overclocking: yes 
• The L3 cache memory: 32 MB
• TDP: 65 watt

FEATURES 

• Compatible with 500 series Chipset 
• Separate graphic cards are necessary 
• Wraith stealth heatsink fan included 
• 3-year-long brand warranty 

WHY BUY AMD Ryzen 5 5600X?

Testing has shown that Ryzen 5 5600X has comparable performance to high-end Ryzen 7 5800X when it comes to gaming. All this in much less price range. Ryzen has offered a wraith stealth cooling system built into this unit so you don’t have to spend more on a cooler. Considering overclocking it offers an average overclocking potential. Though not for gaming overclocking will be enough for other app-related workloads. With a 3-year warranty, it is a highlight pick for many. This unit does not have a graphic card so you will have to purchase one yourself. 

7. AMD Ryzen 5 5600G 

Ryzen 5 5600G has stepped into the market as a high-value champ that comes with an integrated high-performance graphic card. You don’t need another GPU in case of light gaming if you are willing with 720 P. As long as you are willing to keep your expectations in check and accept the resolution, Ryzen 5 5600 G’s graphics have a surprising gaming performance. The 5600’s GPU was great at 720 p gaming but restrictions appear when at 1080p. For 1080p you will have to limit the fidelity settings with most options. 

Also read: How To Use The Laptop As Monitor For Ps4?

With eight cores and 16 performance threads that can maximum boost up to 4.4 GHz, Ryzen 5 5600G offers solid performance in the price range. This Best CPU for Gaming comes with a wraith stealth cooler and pairs up with 400 or 500 series motherboards. When looking for playing games without a GPU, AMD Ryzen 5 5600G with integrated graphics gives a high-value option that Intel can’t match. The 5600G is FSR compatible which means you can boost FPS in supported titles. It combines the performance of Ryzen 5 5600X with higher clock speeds. 

SPECIFICATIONS

• Socket: AM4
• Cores: 6
• Threads: 12
• Overclocking potential: yes
• TDP: 65 watt

FEATURES

• Vega-based integrated graphic card 
• Bundled with Wraith Stealth cooler 
• Unlocked with a great overclocking headroom 
• Maximum frequency boosts up to 4.4 GHz

WHY BUY AMD Ryzen 5 5600G?

The 5600 G is a great option for entry-level gamers. With the integrated GPU it is an affordable model. The unit has better speed and performance compatible with Ryzen 5 5600X. This unit has a built-in wraith cooler that improves the overclocking potential. Though a solid for 720 p gaming you might face low quality with 1080 p gaming. If you are looking for average gaming and are a beginner this will not be an issue. Like all other Ryzen series 5600G is also compatible with 500 series motherboards. 

8. Intel Core i5-10400F

The core i5-10400F is an exceedingly great option for those who want a budget-friendly Intel CPU. The F suffix means it lacks the Intel integrated graphics. This will not be a problem for gamers unless they want to use Quick sync. Overall corei5 is a budget-friendly processor that does not cost much more than its Core i3 counterpart. Although you have to compromise on overclocking as it’s a locked system. But this way you can save money. The 10400F has a built-in cooler which is a feature we need in every CPU.

Also, read: How Much VRAM Do I Need for Gaming?

 Midrange CPUs are a sweet spot for gamers. If you don’t need the increased bandwidth of the pricier CPUs this class of processors can offer the same gaming experience. The question will be how? The computing burden falls onto your GPU. Core i5-10400F has hit the right spot between affordability and performance. Though you do not get the fancy performance and efficiency core it won’t lag or suffer cause of having a power core only. If you are upgrading from an older AM4 motherboard then sticking to AMD will be cost-effective otherwise this is a great chip. 

SPECIFICATIONS

• Cores: 6
• Threads: 12
• Overclocking: no
• L3 cache: 12 MB
• TDP: 65 watt

FEATURES

• LGA 1200 Socket type 
• Compatible with Intel 400 series motherboards 
• Optane memory support 
• Built-in efficient cooler 

WHY BUY Intel Core i5-10400F?

Intel Core i5-10400F is a midrange sweet spot for those who cannot afford a high-end gaming processor. It has Optane memory support which increases gaming stability. The Core i5-10400F has LGA 1200 Socket that is compatible with 400 series motherboards. With a built-in cooler, you can expect high performance with no lagging. Yet this is a locked chip so you cannot overclock. So i5-10400F is the right option for those who are in search of the Best CPU for Gaming.

9. Intel Core i7-12700K 

Core i7-12700K has 8 performance and Four efficiency cores with a total of 20 threads. The p cores boost frequency is 5 GHz while for e cores the value will be 3.8GHz. in addition, this chip has an L3 cache of only 25MB. Core i7-12700K also offers leading-edge connectivity with support for both DDR4 and DDR5 with 16 lanes of Pcle 5 and four lanes of Pcle 4. The 12700K has a 125-watt base and 190-watt peak power rating. This is lower than its prior generation counterpart but high compared to AMD. 

Also read: Where Does the CPU Store Its Computations?

You will have to buy an efficient cooler for this chip along with a 600 series motherboard. To boost graphic quality Intel has introduced a built-in UHD graphic controller. The 12700K has an intel 7 architecture that improves performance per watt. The micro architecture makes the processor power efficient. For installation, onto the PCB this CPU has LGA 1700 socket. Hyper-threading architecture handles high-demand applications well. 

SPECIFICATIONS

• Socket: LGA 1700 
• Cores: 12(8 performance and 4 efficiency) 
• Threads: 20
• Overclocking headroom: yes
• TDP: 125 watt

FEATURES

• Higher cache space 
• Hyper-threading architecture for performance boost 
• Improved performance per watt 
• Increased power efficiency 

 

WHY BUY Intel Core i7-12700K?

Core i7-12700K offers gaming performance compared to the high-end core i9 but at a much cheaper rate. An integrated graphic controller and improved micro architecture make the processor Hyper efficient. With improved power efficiency than the previous generation, it still is high compared to AMD processors. Performance and efficiency core enhance overclocking headroom. The unit supports both DDR4 and DDR5 memory. You can pair it up with a 600 series motherboard as it has LGA 1700 socket. 

Also read: Processor vs. Motherboard

FAQs about the best CPU for Gaming

1) what kind of CPU is best for gaming? 

Multi-core and single-thread CPUs with Inbuilt coolers are great for gaming. Without a cooling system, the temperature runs high affecting the performance. Investing in a quality cooling unit is a must.

2) How important is the CPU for Gaming? 

If you have a low budget prioritize your CPU. It affects your gaming a lot. To have the best graphics you need to pair it up with the best processor. A low-quality processor means a slow speed with high power consumption.

3) How to choose a good processor? 

Look for some key features such as the number of cores, cache memory, Socket compatibility, integrated graphics, and thermal power design. If you are upgrading your processor only then look for socket compatibility.

4) what is a good CPU speed? 

A good speed for a gaming processor is between 3.5 to 4.2. GHz. with less speed than this you will experience lagging issues.

5) what makes a gaming PC different? 

A gaming PC has a powerful CPU with more RAM and data storage capacity. They handle workload better and are designed with overclocking potential.

6) How many cores do games use? 

Games often require multiple cores. Depending on the game it varies between 1 to 8 cores. 

Also read: Red Light on Motherboard

CONCLUSION

OVERALL BEST CPU FOR GAMING

AMD Ryzen 9 5900X

With 12 cores and 24 threads, Ryzen 9 5900X is a powerful processor that can kill any video game or other high-load apps. Though priced higher it’s worth each penny. If you want to build a high-end gaming setup you need to invest in a processor that delivers great boost frequency. The 5900X has a high cache memory of 64 MB. 

BEST VALUE GAMING CPU

AMD Ryzen 7 5800X

The Zen 3 architecture delivers relentless gaming performance. The 5800X has become one of the most sold gaming processors. With 8 cores and 16 threads, this unit is compatible with windows 10. It also has Pcle 4 support along with an AM4 socket. For ultimate high-performance pair it up with 5000 series motherboards 

BEST BUDGET GAMING CPU

Intel Core i3-12100

Core i3-12100 is the fastest budget gaming processor by Intel. AMD has not yet released any competitive product so far in this price range. Proficient single-threaded performance at 60 watts base power is a leading feature. Core i3-12100 is a winning bid when looking for both price and performance in one model. Pair it up with a b660 motherboard and it can handle all the workload efficiently.