Choosing the right CPU for your gaming setup is key to ensuring a smooth experience without overspending. As we move through 2024, there are several affordable CPUs that offer fantastic value for gamers. Below, I’ve reviewed some of the best budget-friendly CPUs, highlighting their pros, cons, and where to find the best deals.
- Price: ~$100
- Specs:
- Cores/Threads: 4/8
- Base Clock: 3.8 GHz
- Boost Clock: Up to 4.3 GHz
- TDP: 65W
- Socket: LGA 1700
- Memory Support: DDR4 & DDR5
- Pros:
- Strong single-threaded performance, ideal for gaming.
- Supports both DDR4 and DDR5 memory.
- Comes with a decent stock cooler, saving additional costs.
- Low power consumption.
- Cons:
- No integrated graphics, requiring a dedicated GPU.
- Limited overclocking potential.
The Intel Core i3-13100F is a great budget option for gamers focused on single-core performance. It’s well-suited for 1080p gaming and handles most modern titles smoothly. However, the lack of integrated graphics means it must be paired with a discrete GPU, making it less suitable for ultra-budget builds without a GPU.
- Price: ~$90
- Specs:
- Cores/Threads: 6/12
- Base Clock: 3.6 GHz
- Boost Clock: Up to 4.2 GHz
- TDP: 65W
- Socket: AM4
- Memory Support: DDR4
- Pros:
- Excellent multi-core performance for the price.
- Low power consumption.
- Compatible with affordable AM4 motherboards.
- Includes a stock cooler.
- Cons:
- Lacks integrated graphics, necessitating a discrete GPU.
- Limited upgrade path beyond the AM4 platform.
The AMD Ryzen 5 5500 offers strong multi-threaded performance, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious gamers who multitask or stream while gaming. While it lacks integrated graphics, which increases the need for a GPU, its overall performance for the price is tough to beat.
- Price: ~$179
- Specs:
- Cores/Threads: 6/12
- Base Clock: 3.8 GHz
- Boost Clock: Up to 4.6 GHz
- TDP: 65W
- Socket: AM5
- Memory Support: DDR5
- Integrated Graphics: Radeon Vega
- Pros:
- Decent integrated Radeon graphics for entry-level gaming.
- 6 cores and 12 threads offer solid performance for multitasking.
- Comes with a reliable stock cooler.
- Cons:
- Integrated graphics may struggle with demanding games at higher settings.
- Limited upgrade path due to the AM5 platform.
The AMD Ryzen 5 8500G is an ideal choice for budget builders who want to avoid the cost of a discrete GPU. Its integrated Radeon graphics are sufficient for light gaming, particularly in eSports titles, though more demanding games may require lowering settings for smooth gameplay.
- Price: ~$140
- Specs:
- Cores/Threads: 6/12
- Base Clock: 4.1 GHz
- Boost Clock: Up to 4.8 GHz
- TDP: 125W
- Socket: LGA 1200
- Memory Support: DDR4
- Pros:
- Strong mid-range performance with high boost clock speeds.
- Great thermal performance, suitable for overclocking.
- Cons:
- No included cooler, requiring an additional purchase.
- Higher power consumption compared to other budget CPUs.
The Intel Core i5-10600K is a fantastic choice for gamers looking for robust mid-range performance with room for overclocking. It’s capable of handling modern games with ease, though its higher power consumption and the need for an aftermarket cooler add to the overall build cost.
Final Thoughts
When choosing a budget CPU for gaming in 2024, your decision should consider whether you need integrated graphics or plan to use a discrete GPU, as well as your desired performance level. The Intel Core i3-13100F and AMD Ryzen 5 5500 are excellent choices for those focusing on single-core and multi-core performance, respectively. Meanwhile, the AMD Ryzen 5 8500G is a great option if you want to skip the GPU purchase initially, and the Intel Core i5-10600K offers solid mid-range performance with overclocking potential.
All these CPUs provide excellent value, ensuring you get the most bang for your buck in 2024. Be sure to check the links provided for the best current prices to complete your gaming rig!
This page was edited and reviewed by Pvpmedics from the thepixelfam.
