INTRODUCTION

Coding involves a series of steps thus programmers need a specific processor for this. If you are into game development or hardcore programming you need to invest in a powerful processor for your PC. One major factor considers when purchasing a programming processor is clock speed. More the number of cores better the core speed of the processor. Faster CPUs with more clock speed are ideal for time-intensive workloads. If you are working on advanced technology like machine learning, artificial intelligence or data science multi-core processors will be a great choice. You can also read Best CPUs for RTX 3070

This guide has the Best Processor for Programming by Intel and AMD at one place so you can compare and decide without any issues. 

Comparison Table

IMAGE	PRODUCT	Rating	PRICE
	Intel Core i9-10900K	9.5	Check on Amazon
	AMD Ryzen 7 3800XT	8.7	Check on Amazon
	Intel Core i5-10400	9.5	Check on Amazon
	Intel Core i7-10700K	9.0	Check on Amazon
	AMD Ryzen 5 3400G	8.9	Check on Amazon
	Intel Core i5-10600K	9.3	Check on Amazon
	AMD Ryzen 3 3200G	9.5	Check on Amazon
	AMD Ryzen 9 3950X	8.8	Check on Amazon

1. Intel Core i9-10900K   

The Intel Core i9-12900K is a powerful performance processor. It has a total of ten cores with each pre overclocking frequency of 4.9 GHz. This implies the frequency can be boosted up to 5.3 GHz when overclocking. This is the best programming and gaming processor. If you want to invest in a high end programming processor this is your product. Intel Core i9-10900K is a solid gaming processor as well. The 5.2 GHz single core frequency makes gaming faster. The turbo frequency of this model has been significantly improved comparing to the predecessor. This processor has a LGA 1200 Socket for which you need 400 series Chipset motherboards. 

Also read: Best CPUs for Gaming

Core i9-10900K is a powerful 10th generation processor with efficiency to handle multiple tasks at a time. This Chipset has full Optane memory support. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned programmer Intel Core i9-10900K with Pcle Gen 4 support and a power rating of 125 watt can handle your task effectively. Despite its high price multiple cores with high base clock speed make it a desired pick. High power demand makes the unit efficient enough to handle the complex job. Thermal solution is not included in this processor and you need to invest in a highly effective one. Without a good thermal solution the temperature can run really high. 

SPECIFICATIONS

Cores	10
Threads	20
Socket	LGA 1200
Boost clock speed	5.3GHz
TDP	125 watts

FEATURES

• Optane memory support 
• Clock speed boost up to 5.3GHz
• Multi core processor 
• Turbo Boost technology 3.0 support 

WHY TO PURCHASE Intel Core i9-10900K ? 

Intel Core i9-12900K with its multiple cores and threads is the most efficient processor in market for Programming or gaming. With overclocking its clock speed boosts up to 5.3 GHz. The base power consumption of this model is 125 watts which increases to 250 watts at peak performance. This high power consumption makes the unit efficient for long hours of complex work. This however results in alot of heat generation. Without a good thermal solution this heat will affect the system. Core i9-10900K has turbo Boost technology which means you will experience high speed and swift response while gaming. 

2. AMD Ryzen 7 3800XT    

Ryzen 7 3800XT has 8 cores and 16 threads. Multiple threads make it a powerful unit for Programming as well as gaming. Considering the performance Ryzen 7 3800XT has a modest score. You get this Ryzen model in a decent price tag with a limited warranty. This processor has an AM4 socket which is compatible with most of motherboards. The 3800XT has a base clock speed of 3.9 GHz which can reach up to 4.7 GHz. This unit has a minimum cache memory of 36 MB. Ryzen 7 3800XT has Pcle 4 support on B550 and X570 series of motherboards. When buying for gaming you can get up to 100 FPS on this processor. 

Also read: Where Does the CPU Store Its Computations?

The 3800XT is one of the fastest AMD processors with 8 cores and 16 threads. The maximum temperature of the unit can rise up to 95°C. To keep it cool you will have to invest a liquid cooler with a large radiator. The incredibly powerful hardware of this unit has high refresh and high response gaming. Do whatever you like with a clock speed of up to 4.7GHz. Leading edge 7nm technology delivers an efficient and quiet performance. If you have the compatible motherboard you need to update BIOS to connect it to your processor. 

SPECIFICATIONS

Cores	8
Threads	16
Socket	AM4
Boost clock speed	4.7 GHz
TDP	105 watts

FEATURES

• Unlocked with high overclocking headroom 
• Maximum speed boost up to 4.7 GHz
• Game cache memory of 36MB
• Maximum temperature reaches up to 95°C

WHY TO PURCHASE AMD Ryzen 7 3800XT? 

Ryzen 7 3800XT is a powerful processing unit by AMD. It will be ideal for your programming setup if you already have an AM4 socket motherboard. This way you won’t have to invest money on a new motherboard. The 3800XT has award winning gaming performance with high FPS rate. This Best Processor for Programming has a cache memory of 36MB which makes it alot faster. The Unlocked Ryzen 7 3800XT can be used for overclocking with speed boost up to 4.7 GHz. Considering it for Programming you can expect to get a decent amount of work done. To get most out of your system you will have to invest in a liquid cooling solution. 

3. Intel Core i5-10400 

Intel Core i5-10400 is a great choice for programmers and software developers considering its low price range. The core i5-10400 offers six cores with 12 threads. This built is enough for even the demanding programming tasks. This unit can tackle multiple projects at one time with advanced proficiency. Intel has made use of Hyper threading technology to enable faster computing speed. Programming involves use of multiple windows at a time, Core i5-10400 delivers a lag free performance in this case. Intel Core i5-10400 has also managed to take the budget crown from AMD. This model costs half the price of Ryzen 3200 G with half the price and two additional cores. 

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

The major drawback will be LGA Socket 1200. LGA 1200 compatible motherboards are expensive and might cost more than the proecssor. Overall Core i5-10400 is a good investment as it consumes less power than other processors in market. This unit can be overclocked up to 4.3 GHz after installing a CPU cooler. Core i5-10400 can greatly enhance the quality of your work if you are a professional programmer. The Core i5-10400 will be an all in one pick for you whether you want to edit videos, play games or do programming. 

SPECIFICATIONS

Cores	6
Threads	12
Socket	LGA 1200
Boost clock speed	4.3 GHz
TDP	65 watts

FEATURES

• Optimized for gaming, programming and creating
• Only compatible with 400 series motherboards 
• Built in cooling unit 
• Intel turbo Boost technology 2 support 

WHY TO PURCHASE Intel Core i5-10400? 

Core i5-10400 is one of the most popular processor for multitasking. Intel Hyper threading technology makes it a performance beast. This model has 6 cores and 12 threads. All this is available in a very competitive price. Core i5-10400 has the budget crown as its available in half the price of Ryzen 3200 G with two more cores. As its a locked processor so you will not get overclocking potential. The core i5-10400 has turbo boost technology with which you can get up to 4.3 GHz speed. Core i5-10400 is an all-rounder as it can handle gaming, programming, content creation all. 

Also check: CPU Hierarchy

4. Intel core i7-10700K      

Are you in search of a processor that along with programming can handle gaming and video editing as well? Intel Core i7-10700K with its eight core and Hyper threading technology is designed to do so. The core i7-10700K has turbo Boost maximum support due to which you can clock speed up to 5.1 GHz. The unlocked 10th generation processor provides competitive performance. New overclocking controls are introduced so you can tune your performance according to your needs. The core i7-10700K is meant for providing performance without braking your bank account. 

Also read: Best GPU for Ryzen 5 3600

We have listed some budget options by Intel already so it’s time for the high end one. This Best Processor for Programming is excellent for handling heavy duty apps. This unit like others has Intel Optane memory support that increases boot time. You will not face any lagging or prolonged loading time issues. When overclocking you get to experience a speed boost of 5.1 GHz which is much faster than any other similar options. The thermal design profile for this processor is 125 watts. This is a high power consumption which is okay considering it efficacy. The only thing is to make sure to pair it up with a great cooler. 

SPECIFICATIONS  

Cores	8
Threads	16
Socket	LGA 1200
Boost clock speed	5.1 GHz
TDP	125 watts

FEATURES

• Speed boost up to 5.1 GHz when overclocking 
• Optane memory support provides increased boot speed 
• Offers 350MHz graphic base frequency 
• Turbo Max boost 3 technology support 

WHY TO PURCHASE Intel core i7-10700K? 

The Intel Core i7-10700K is the most powerful high-end processor for Programming. Though its an expensive unit its performance efficacy makes up for the price. You get 8 cores with 16 threads and a boost speed of 5.1 GHz. Core i7-10700K has the hyper threading architecture that makes it efficient for handling multiple tasks at a time. The core i7-10700K has also Optane memory support. This memory increases the boot speed. Like all other Intel processors this one is also compatible only with 400 series motherboards. If you dont have an Intel motherboard already you need to buy it for the processor along with a cooling system. 

5. AMD Ryzen 5 3400G    

Next up is AMD Ryzen 5 3400G processor. This unit has a combination of four cores and eight threads. Moreover built on multi threading technology you can easily multi-task with this processor. Each core is backed by two threads. This implies peak performance without any lagging issues. When overclocking you can expect a speed boost up to 4.2 GHz. You will cherish this swift speed as your brain and the processor are at same pace. This way you can get most work done in short time. This unit features the old Zen+ 12 nm architecture which is not a standout feature considering the price tag. 

Also read: Best RAM for Ryzen 7 5800X

The graphic performance on Ryzen 5 3400G is unrivaled and makes it standout among other top competitors. This model has Radeon RX Vega 11 GPU which deliver a great picture quality. Ryzen 5 3400G has also a built in wraith spire heatsink fan. This keeps your system cool and optimally running for long. Unlike other top performers you won’t have to invest in a separate cooler for this Best Processor for Programming. This way you can keep your budget in check. AMD has offered a 3 year warranty for this processor model. This way you can place your bid on it without worrying about money loss. With AM4 socket this unit is compatible with 300,400 and 500 series of motherboards. 

SPECIFICATIONS

Cores	4
Threads	8
Socket	AM4
Boost clock speed	4.2GHz
TDP	65 watts

FEATURES

• 6MB cache memory 
• Maximum boost clock up to 4.2 GHz
• Compatible with 300,400 and 500 series of motherboard 
• Built-in wraith spire cooling fan
• 3 year warranty 

WHY TO PURCHASE AMD Ryzen 5 3400G? 

AMD Ryzen 5 3400G is a great options for programmers who are on a tight budget. If you already have an AMD motherboard then making this upgrade will be affordable. This model has a built-in wraith spire cooling fan which means you won’t have to invest heavy amount on buying one. Many high end processors don’t come with a cooler. Performance wise Ryzen 5 3400G has 4 cores and 8 threads. The multi thread architecture can handle multiple tasks at a time like a pro. With built in graphics you will have high picture and video quality. This unit has a three year warranty making it a safe investment. 

6. Intel Core i5-10600K   

Intel Core i5-10600K processor was designed for complex jobs like high end gaming or complex programming. This model offers a faster clock speed with improved graphic performance. The unit has six cores and twelve threads. This model runs at a base speed of 3.9 GHz which increases up to 4.8 GHz when overclocking. The Core i5-10600K has a higher power consumption than other competitors. This means you won’t have to compromise on performance ability. The Core i5-10600K has LGA 1200 type Socket which is compatible with 400 series motherboard. It features Intel Optane memory support which increases the clock speed. 

Also read: Best DDR5 RAM for gaming

Despite the low price tag Intel core i5-10600K is a powerful beast. It can handle multiple tasks like gaming, editing, video streaming and programming. The 10th generation intel processors provide seamless game play performance. Intel turbo boost technology 2 support increases the clock speed to 4.8 GHz. The new overclocking controls offfer greater flexibility to tune your performance according to your needs. The hyper threading technology makes multi tasking easier and swift. If you want Best Processor for Programming that is light on your pocket yet flawless when multitasking investing in Core i5-10600K will be  a great step for you. 

SPECIFICATIONS

Cores	6
Threads	12
Socket	LGA 1200
Boost clock speed	4.1 GHz
TDP	125 watts

FEATURES

• Maximum speed boost up to 4.1 GHz
• Compatible with only 400 series motherboard 
• Base power consumption is 125 watts
• Built on Hyper threading technology for effortless multitasking 

WHY TO PURCHASE Intel Core i5-10600K? 

Core i5-10600K is another powerful processor that was designed for professional users. With six cores and twelve threads this high end processor can take on all your jobs. You will have faster processing and response rate. This 10th generation processor is unlocked for overclocking and boosts the clock speed up to 4.1 GHz. The power consumption amounts to 125 watts which is a little high. Though the performance efficiency justifies the number. Like other high end processors this also needs a great cooling solution to do its work. This cooling solution is not included and needs to be purchased separately. 

7. AMD Ryzen 3 3200 G

Are you a programmer in search of pocket friendly powerful processor? Here is one of the best reviewed pick. The Ryzen 3 3200G packs the performance of four cores and four threads. Coupled with a base clock speed of 3.6 GHz this CPU is a promising option for entry level programmers. This unit has a 12 nm microprocessor that provides high performance speeds. The 12 nm transistor embedded within this model offers more power efficiency. Moreover you will face less issues regarding system overheating or lagging. The Inbuilt 2GB graphics provide you with high quality gaming and programming. 

Also read: Best Motherboards for Mining

On top of all this Ryzen 3 3200G has an inbox cooling solution. This accompanying cooling fan will keep the system cool even if you plan on aggressive working. At the price tag it surely is a great deal. Before you make a decision we want you to know that Ryzen 3 3200G does not support multi threading. Multi threading technology helps to run multiple bars at a time. This way you will not get to open multiple applications at a time. When considering the other unparalleled specs this might not be much of a concern for you. Another great detail is that AMD has offered a 3 year warranty for this unit. This means it is a safe purchase and you can use the warranty incase any issue appears. 

SPECIFICATIONS

Cores	4
Threads	4
Socket	AM4
Boost clock speed	4 GHz
TDP	65 watts

FEATURES

• DDR4 memory support 
• 6 MB cache memory 
• Two memory channels 
• Compatible with 300,400 and 500 series motherboards 

WHY TO PURCHASE AMD Ryzen 3 3200 G? 

AMD Ryzen 3 3200G is a pocket friendly option for beginner programmers. The 3200G has a four core and four thread body that requires only 65 watts power to deliver efficient performance. This 3rd generation processor has built in Vega 8 graphics that provide high picture and video quality. If you want serious high end functioning this processor can deliver the desired results. AMD has included a high performance Wraith Spire cooler that is capable of cool and quiet performance. For gamers this unit is fine tuned for AAA games so be ready for uncompromising smooth performance. 

8. AMD Ryzen 9 3950X

AMD Ryzen 9 3950X is the fastest and powerful processor that beats previous Ryzen 9 3900X in performance. This latest model features 16 core and 32 threads. This premium unit can help you meet all your programming needs. Bases on the 7nm Zen 2 architecture this model has high performance efficacy. The Ryzen 9 3950X has a power demand of 105 watts which makes it capable of use as a high end workstation. You can get up to 100 frame per second when gaming. This Best Processor for Programming has an AM4 socket which makes it compatible with most of AMD motherboards. 

Also read: Best Motherboards for Ryzen 5 5600X

Ryzen 9 3950X also supports PCle 4 on X570 motherboards. When it comes to budget Ryzen 9 3950X is the most expensive processor. High number of cores and threads mean it has a high boost speed up to 4.7 GHz. But this also means it costs alot more. This is an unlocked processor with high headroom for gaming. The unit has a cache memory of 72MB so you don’t experience any performance lagging. To pair this efficient processor get a liquid cooler with 280 millimeter or large radiator. This way you can avoid temperature from reaching extreme of up to 95 degrees. 

SPECIFICATIONS

Cores	16
Threads	32
Socket	AM4
Boost clock speed	4.7 GHz
TDP	105 watts

FEATURES

• High processing power 
• Delivers 100 plus frame per second 
• Unlocked for overclocking with a boost clock speed up to 4.7GHz.
• Temperature reaches up to 95° C

WHY TO PURCHASE AMD Ryzen 9 3950X?

Ryzen 9 3950X is the latest and most powerful AMD processor. If you want to go all in and invest in a high end processor this one can be a good choice. The 16 cores and 32 threads deliver an exceptionally fast speed so you can program or game whenever you want or how long you want. The 3950X has a power demand of 105 watts which is enough for a proficient performance. This also is much less than Intel 10th generation processors. The temperature can reach up to 95°C so dont forget to purchase a liquid solution with it too. 

Also read: Best Motherboards for Ryzen 9 5900X

FAQs About the Best Processor for Programming

1) Does processor matter in programming?

Programming does not need a very high-speed processor. The midrange ones can handle the job well.

2) How much RAM do programmers need?        

For multitasking quick response and fast build, you need to have at least 16GB of memory space. For power-hungry apps or high multi-tasking extending up to 32 GB is recommended. 

3) How many cores are required for Programming?             

For data processors, programmers and video editors six or more cores will be required. 

4) How much clock speed is needed for Programming? 

The ideal clock speed will be 3GHz or above.

5) Are graphic cards important for Programming?      

Dedicated graphic cards for Programming are not necessary. Invest your money in a high-end processor with an integrated GPU. 

6) What to look for when buying a programming processor? 

The most important aspects you need to pay attention to are our size, number of cores, thermal cooling design, power consumption, and frequency of the system. 

Also read: Best Intel Motherboards

CONCLUSION

Below is our recommend Best Processor for Programming.

OVERALL BEST PICK 

Intel Core i9-10900K

The core i9-10900K is one of the most powerful processors in market. It offers a base clock speed of 4.9 GHz which can boost up to 5.3 GHz. This is a very high speed and so you can experience excellent performance. The system has turbo Boost technology support that allows you to level up your performance. This has an LGA 1200 Socket for which you need to get a 400 series motherboard. 

MOST SELLING CPU FOR PROGRAMMING 

Intel core i7-10700K   

Built on the hyper threading technology this performance beast can handle all with ease. It is a powerful system that comes with a affordable price tag. Thus Intel has hit a sweet spot between performance and price with this CPU. Moreover you can experience a speed boost up to 5.1 GHz which is almost near to 5.3 GHz with Intel 9. Less price demand and comparable performance efficiency means you can make a great purchase without breaking your account. 

BEST BUDGET PICK 

AMD Ryzen 5 3400G 

AMD Ryzen 5 3400G has four cores and eight threads that can deliver a satisfying programming performance. This is a budget pick as it comes with a built in wraith cooler. The processor is also compatible with a wide variety of motherboard so you don’t have to invest alot. All this comes with a 3 year warranty so you can make a safe purchase.