CPU

Choosing a gaming processor (CPU)

The processor (CPU) runs your games, streaming software and work apps, so it decides how smooth your whole PC feels. For a pure gaming PC, AMD Ryzen X3D processors are the popular pick: the Ryzen 7 9800X3D and Ryzen 7 7800X3D use extra 3D V-Cache that lifts frame rates in many games, while the 16-core Ryzen 9 9950X3D suits gamers who also stream, edit video or build a workstation PC. For an AM4 upgrade, the Ryzen 7 5700X3D gives older systems a strong boost. Intel Core i5-14600K, Core i7-14700K and Core Ultra 7 265K are excellent all-round CPUs for gaming and productivity.

Every CPU needs a matching motherboard socket: AMD Ryzen 7000 and 9000 use AM5 with DDR5 RAM, Intel 12th–14th gen use LGA1700, and Intel Core Ultra 200S uses LGA1851. High-end processors also need a good CPU cooler.

Which is the best gaming CPU?

For most gamers the Ryzen 7 9800X3D is the fastest gaming processor right now; for a tighter budget, a Ryzen 5 or Core i5 paired with a stronger graphics card is often the better value.