10 best cheap cpu

A cheap CPU, or Central Processing Unit, refers to a processor that is relatively affordable compared to high-end or premium CPU options. These processors are commonly used in budget or entry-level computer systems and are designed to provide basic computing functionality without the added features and performance of more expensive CPUs. Here are some key points related to cheap CPUs:

  1. Performance: Cheap CPUs typically offer lower performance compared to their more expensive counterparts. They may have lower clock speeds, fewer cores, and less cache memory.This means they are suitable for basic tasks like web browsing, office work, and media consumption but may struggle with resource-intensive tasks like gaming or video editing.

  2. Price Range: The price range for cheap CPUs can vary, but they are generally more affordable than mid-range or high-end processors. The exact cost will depend on the brand, model, and specific features of the CPU.

  3. Brand and Models: Various CPU manufacturers, such as Intel and AMD, produce budget-friendly processors. Popular models in this category often have designations like "Celeron" (Intel) or "Athlon" (AMD). These processors are frequently used in budget laptops and desktops.

  4. Socket Compatibility: When considering a cheap CPU, it's essential to check if it's compatible with your motherboard's socket. The CPU socket type must match the motherboard socket for the CPU to work.

  5. Integrated Graphics: Some cheap CPUs come with integrated graphics, which can be useful for systems that don't require a dedicated graphics card. Integrated graphics are suitable for everyday tasks and light gaming.

  6. Overclocking: Most cheap CPUs are not designed for overclocking. Overclocking is a technique used to increase the clock speed of a CPU beyond its default specifications to gain extra performance. High-end CPUs are usually more suitable for overclocking.

  7. Energy Efficiency: Many budget CPUs are energy-efficient, which means they consume less power and produce less heat. This can be an advantage for systems that prioritize low energy consumption and quiet operation.

  8. Upgradeability: Cheap CPUs can often be a cost-effective choice for upgrading an older computer. If your motherboard supports a specific socket type, you may be able to replace your existing CPU with a newer, budget-friendly option without having to replace the entire system.

  9. Consider Use Case: Before selecting a cheap CPU, consider your specific use case. If you plan to use your computer for basic tasks like word processing, web browsing, and watching videos, a budget CPU may be sufficient. However, if you require more processing power for tasks like gaming or content creation, you may need to invest in a more powerful CPU.

  10. Warranty and Support: Check the warranty and support options offered with the CPU. Some manufacturers provide longer warranties and better customer support for their products, which can be valuable in case of any issues.

In summary, cheap CPUs are budget-friendly options suitable for basic computing needs. While they may not offer the performance of high-end processors, they can be an excellent choice for users on a tight budget or those with modest computing requirements.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best cheap cpu on the market
  

Intel CPU BX8070110100F Core i3-10100F / 3.6GHz / 6MB LGA1200 4C / 8T

Intel

Based on 194 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Specifications Mfr Part Number: BX8070110100F Essentials: Product Collection: 10th Generation Intel Core i3 Processors Code Name: Products formerly Comet Lake Vertical Segment: Desktop Processor Number: i3-10100F Lithography: 14 nm Use Conditions: PC/Client/Tablet CPU Specifications: # of Cores: 4 # of Threads: 8 Processor Base Frequency: 3.60 GHz Max Turbo Frequency: 4.30 GHz Cache: 6 MB Intel Smart Cache Bus Speed: 8 GT/s Intel Turbo Boost Technology 2.0 Frequency: 4.30 GHz TDP: 65 W Supplemental Information: Embedded Options Available: No Memory Specifications: Max Memory Size (dependent on memory type): 128 GB Memory Types: DDR4-2666 Max # of Memory Channels: 2 Max Memory Bandwidth: 41.6 GB/s ECC Memory Supported: No Expansion Options: Scalability: 1S Only PCI Express Revision: 3.0 PCI Express Configurations: Up to 1x16, 2x8, 1x8+2x4 Max # of PCI Express Lanes: 16 Package Specifications: Sockets Supported: FCLGA1200 Max CPU Configuration: 1 Thermal Solution Specification: PCG 2015C TJUNCTION: 100°C Package Size: 37.5mm x 37.5mm Advanced Technologies: Intel Optane Memory Supported: Yes Intel Thermal Velocity Boost: No Intel Turbo Boost Max Technology 3.0: No Intel Turbo Boost Technology: 2.0 Intel vPro Platform Eligibility: No Intel Hyper-Threading Technology: Yes Intel Virtualization Technology (VT-x): Yes Intel Virtualization Technology for Directed I/O (VT-d): Yes Intel VT-x with Extended Page Tables (EPT): Yes Intel Transactional Synchronization Extensions: No Intel 64: Yes Instruction Set: 64-bit Instruction Set Extensions: Intel SSE4.1, Intel SSE4.2, Intel AVX2 Idle States: Yes Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology: Yes Thermal

  • 14nm Comet Lake 65W
  • 6MB L3 Cache

User questions & answers

Question: Trae disipador
Answer: Have never had that happen. Have had mine for over 2yrs. My dogs are 55lb & 80lb. They love them, they lay on them all day on my front porch.❤️
Question: will this work with a gigabyte am4 motherboard
Answer: Hi, thanks for your question. Yes, you can purchase the mesh seperately to replace. I typed the ASINs and you can find them on Amazon. S: B085C7W3RT M: B085C8CK32 L: B085C7QJCZ
Question: Does this CPU come with thermal paste pre applied
Answer: My husband put our dog cot together and he said to make sure you used all of the poles and it should be tight.
Question: Do u need a cpu cooler
Answer: Hi, the S/M is (6 3/4 - 7 3/8) and the L/XL is (7 3/8 - 7 7/8). Thanks!

AMD Ryzen 7 3700X 8-Core, 16-Thread Unlocked Desktop Processor with Wraith Prism LED Cooler

AMD

Based on 16 reviews Check latest price

Product description

AMD Ryzen 7 3700X 8 core, 16 thread unlocked desktop processor with Wraith Prism LED cooler. Base Clock - 3.6GHz.Default TDP / TDP: 65W.

  • The world's most advanced processor in the desktop PC gaming segment
  • Can deliver ultra-fast 100+ FPS performance in the world's most popular games
  • 8 cores and 16 processing threads, bundled with the AMD Wraith Prism cooler with color controlled LED support
  • 4 4 GHz max boost unlocked for overclocking 36 MB of game cache DDR4 3200 MHz system memory specification
  • For the advanced socket AM4 platform can support PCIe 4 0 on x570 motherboards

User questions & answers

Question: I thought this chip was suppose to retail for 329.99. Why is it showing 499 here
Answer: It's a scam, the MSRP is $329.99. It'll probably take a couple weeks for inventories to catch up to demand.
Question: can you report massive mark ups
Answer: Can't hurt, I am not sure if such practices are against Amazon TOS myself.
Question: for 3700x. Is that a joke
Answer: Best Buy will have them in stock by the week end AztekComputers is over charging by almost $100.00 BEST BUY IS YOUR BEST CHOICE AMD Ryzen 7 3700X Retail Price $329.00
Question: Why $130 over msrp
Answer: Capitalism. They will be restocked in a week or so at MSRP.

Intel Core i7-9700K Desktop Processor 8 Cores up to 4.9 GHz Turbo unlocked LGA1151 300 Series 95W

Intel

Based on 6 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Specifications Mfr Part Number: BX80684I79700K model: Intel Core i7-9700k processor Core name: coffee Lake Core count: 8 thread count: 8 clock speed: 3.6 GHz max Turbo Frequency: 4.9 GHz Smart Cache: 12 MB DMI3: 8.0 gt/s lithography: 14 nm socket: LGA 1151 Max thermal design Power: 95 W memory Type: DDR4-2666 processor graphics: Intel UHD Graphics 630 graphics base frequency: 350 MHz graphics Max dynamic frequency: 1.20 GHz max CPU configuration: 1 advanced technologies: Intel Octane Memory Supported Intel Turbo Boost 2. 0 technology Intel Pro technology Intel virtualization technology (VT-x) Intel virtualization technology for directed I/O (vt-d) Intel tsx-ni Intel 64 instruction set 64-bit instruction set extensions - Intel SSE4. 1, Intel SSE4. 2, Intel Avx2 idle States enhanced Intel speed step Technology thermal monitoring technologies Intel identity protection technology; Intel stable image platform program (SIPP) Intel AES new instructions secure Key Intel software Guard extensions (Intel SGI) Intel memory protection extensions (Intel MPX) Intel OS Guard Intel trusted execution technology execute disable bit Intel boot Guard.

  • 8 Cores / 8 Threads
  • 3.60 GHz up to 4.90 GHz / 12 MB Cache
  • Compatible only with Motherboards based on Intel 300 Series Chipsets
  • Intel Optane Memory Supported
  • Intel UHD Graphics 630
  • Cooling device not included - Processor Only
  • Memory Support Maximum Capacity 64 GB Memory Support DDR4 2666 MHz ECC Memory No Channel Architecture Dual Channel Maximum Memory Bandwidth 41 GB/s

User questions & answers

Question: Can we still use the same motherboard as we used for the 8th gen core i series
Answer: Ami me llegó en una caja que no es su empaque original diría que es usado porque me llego con marcas de presión te recomendaría que mires otros vendedores que te aseguren que es completamente nuevo porque pienso por el precio es lo mínimo. Perdón por el testamento jajaja saludos 😆
Question: When will it be in stock? Anyone else about to settle for the 8700k? (Gaming rig
Answer: No, the Area 51M only supports the 9th gen up to i9-9900K. You would need an Area 51M R2 for i9-10900K support.
Question: Does anyone know if by the time this cpu arrives, if it will be outdated and I'll have to buy a different one
Answer: Yes, the i9-10850k includes Intel UHD Graphics 630.
Question: Can this processor handle notepad
Answer: No

AMD Ryzen 5 2600 Processor with Wraith Stealth Cooler - YD2600BBAFBOX

AMD

Based on 18 reviews Check latest price

Product description

AMD Ryzen 5 2600 Processor with Wraith Stealth Cooler. Base clock 3.4 GHz.

  • System ram type: DDR4_sdram

User questions & answers

Question: What is the max overclock for this cpu but with the stock cooler
Answer: My opinion is that stock coolers are for stock settings. Do yourself a favor and spend a little for a better cooler if you plan on overclocking. I would personally purchase a CoolerMaster 212 for $30 bucks if I were to overclock the 2600.
Question: Will this work with https://www.amazon.com/msi-z370-gaming-pro-carbon/dp/b075gvjggp/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=utf8&qid=1529893942&sr=1-1&keywords=ms
Answer: No... you want the x370 for amd. z370 is intel
Question: does the cooler that comes with the processor also come with thermal paste
Answer: I don't have this exact processor, but I've installed 3 Ryzen processors with similar heat sinks and they all came with generously applied thermal paste that looks high quality (Artic Silver like). It is not a crappy almost rubber type thermal pad. You won't need to replace it unless you really messed up.
Question: Which motherboard can I get to use this cpu without upgrade the bios
Answer: I just built a PC with the ASUS TUFF B450-Plus gaming Motherboard and everything worked right out of the box without updating the BIOS. I used the Ryzen 5 2600 Processer also.

Product features

For people who care about the way their PCs run, sound and look.

We’ve designed our newest coolers to deliver near-silent operation, bolstered with capable thermal hardware – with no increase in pricing when these coolers are packaged with existing processors – for a tremendous value.

Why Buy the AMD Ryzen 5 2600?

Multiprocessing Performance for Gamers and Creators.

Everyone deserves a powerful processor. Uncompromising features and smooth performance are finally the standard for every gamer and artist.

With AMD Ryzen!

The world’s elite esports gamers have uncompromising standards for the processors and graphics cards that power their gear. AMD provides the tools these top-tier teams and players need to compete with confidence against the best.

Intel Core i5-9600K Desktop Processor 6 Cores up to 4.6 GHz Turbo unlocked LGA1151 300 Series 95W

Intel

Based on 5 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Specifications Mfr Part Number: BX80684I59600K model: Intel Core i5-9600k processor Core name: coffee Lake Core count: 6 thread count: 6 clock speed: 3.7 GHz max Turbo Frequency: 4.6 GHz Smart Cache: 9 MB DMI3: 8.0 gt/s lithography: 14 nm socket: LGA 1151 Max thermal design Power: 95 W memory Type: DDR4-2666 processor graphics: Intel UHD Graphics 630 graphics base frequency: 350 MHz graphics Max dynamic frequency: 1.15 GHz max CPU configuration: 1 advanced technologies: Intel Optane Memory Supported Intel Turbo Boost 2.0 technology Intel vPro platform technology Intel virtualization technology (VT-x) Intel virtualization technology for directed I/O (vt-d) Intel tsx-ni Intel 64 instruction set 64-bit instruction set extensions - Intel SSE4.1, Intel‚ SSE4.2, Intel‚ Avx2 idle States enhanced Intel speed step technology thermal monitoring technologies Intel identity protection technology Intel stable image platform program (SIPP) Intel AES new instructions secure Key Intel software Guard extensions (Intel SGX) Intel memory protection extensions (Intel MPX) Intel OS Guard Intel trusted execution technology execute disable bit Intel boot Guard. Max Resolution (HDMI 1.4) = 4096x2304@24Hz; Max resolution (DP) = 4096x2304@60Hz; Max resolution (eDP - Integrated Flat Panel) = 4096x2304@60Hz.

  • 6 Cores / 6 Threads
  • 3.70 GHz up to 4.60 GHz / 9 MB Cache
  • Compatible only with Motherboards based on Intel 300 Series Chipsets
  • Intel Optane Memory Supported
  • Intel UHD Graphics 630

User questions & answers

Question: Is this good for streaming
Answer: This chip will handle anything u can throw at it.
Question: If I put the i5 9600k in a B360 motherboard, would it work if I don't use the overclock
Answer: You'd need a Z series motherboard to overclock easily. Otherwise it's a bit difficult.
Question: So my cpu did not come with the box shown in the picture. Is it supposed to come with just bubble wrap and the cpu in plastic thing
Answer: 3rd party vendors often do NOT explain if you're getting a new sealed un-opened CPU, or a refurb, or a used CPU. There is no one policing any real malicious behavior of 3rd party vendors. Or these things would not happen. Such as paying full retail or higher like ticket scalping. Or mis-representation on products. If you don't know the vendor, wait for amazon to stock the product, and always wait for amazon on items with a huge demand, as 3rd party vendors should have zero reason to have cheaper mass marketed products over a larger, well established, and reputable company. There's no plausible reason a small 3rd party vendor should have better pricing. Period.
Question: Does this come with a fan
Answer: all Intel K Cpu come with Cpu only no heatsink and fan

AMD Ryzen 5 3600 6-Core, 12-Thread Unlocked Desktop Processor with Wraith Stealth Cooler

AMD

Based on 26 reviews Check latest price

Product description

AMD CPU 100 100000031box Ryzen 5 3600 6C 12T 4200MHz 36MB 65W AM4 Wraith Stealth.

  • The world's most advanced processor in the desktop PC gaming segment
  • Can deliver ultra-fast 100+ FPS performance in the world's most popular games
  • 6 cores and 12 processing threads bundled with the quiet AMD wraith stealth cooler max temps 95°C
  • 4 2 GHz max boost unlocked for overclocking 35 MB of game cache DDR4 3200 support
  • For the advanced socket AM4 platform can support PCIe 4 0 on x570 motherboards

User questions & answers

Question: I have the ASUS ROG STRIX B350-F GAMING AMD Ryzen AM4 motherboard, can i pop this in and i am good to go? do i need a 2nd gen ryzen first to set bios
Answer: As others, yes! However,using the 2700x for encodes is fast but not happy with temps with stock Wraith cooler, with all cores at 100%. CPU at 95.1C (Tctl) or 85.1C (Tdie), your choice. The stock fan has a down flow so was cooking MB, RAM and 970 Evo+ located right below the Wraith cooler. I changed out fan only for encodes, ymmv.
Question: does it come with the cooler
Answer: The cooler comes with thermal paste preaplied
Question: Do you need a gpu
Answer: There is nothing on the item to indicate where it came from.
Question: Does the wraith cooler have thermal past on or do i have to manually put it on
Answer: China

Intel Core i9-9900K Desktop Processor 8 Cores up to 5.0GHz Unlocked LGA1151 300 Series 95W (BX806849900K)

Intel

Based on 540 reviews Check latest price

Product description

9th Gen Intel Core i9-9900K unlocked desktop processor. Features Intel Turbo Boost Technology 2.0 and offers Pro-level performance for gaming, creating, and overclocking. Thermal solution NOT included in the box. ONLY compatible with 300 series chipset based motherboard. 95W. Processor Base Frequency 3.60 GHz and Max Turbo Frequency 5.00 GHz.

  • 8 Cores/ 16 Threads
  • Up to 5.0 GHz Unlocked
  • Compatible with Intel 300 Series chipset based motherboards
  • Supports Intel Turbo Boost Technology
  • Supports Intel Optane Memory, no thermal solution included

User questions & answers

Question: How good is it for gaming
Answer: Si señor, al igual puedes mirar la página del fabricante de la board y en especificaciones encuentras la lista de procesadores
Question: Does this have hyperthreading
Answer: It comes with a cooler, with thermal paste pre-applied. It also comes with an AMD Athlon sticker for your case, a certificate of authenticity, installation instructions for the CPU and cooler, and a slip of paper saying that the CPU is compatible with AM4 motherboards with a BIOS update.
Question: Has anyone ordered this last week (Nov. 23-27) Delivery day is today, but have yet to be shipped, label created though
Answer: Yes, I was emailed a code from Amazon with instructions about redemption after the shipping label was created.
Question: So this 9900k with new packaging is still a 9900k correct? the 9900kf is in the same box but their labels don't differentiate from what i've seen
Answer: I received the code from Amazon about the same time I was notified that a shipping label was created (4 days after the order on release day). The product still did not actually "ship" until 4 days after the label was created.

AMD YD200GC6FBBOX Athlon 200GE 2-Core 4-Thread AM4 Socket Desktop Processor with Radeon Vega Graphics

AMD

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Surf the internet smoothly, stream videos without a hiccup, and play the most popular eSports games in high definition 720p. AMD's new Athlon is most advanced entry level processor AMD has ever created, for users who value fast responsiveness and built in Radeon Vega Graphics. Choose Athlon to deliver the cutting edge processor architecture you need today, on a platform built to take advantage of graphics card upgrades tomorrow.

  • AMD Athlon delivers responsive, reliable computing for everyday users
  • Includes Radeon Vega 3 Graphics for smooth videos and gaming
  • 2 Cores / 4 Processing Threads, includes near silent cooler
  • 3.2 GHz Clock Frequency, 5MB cache, DDR4 2667 support
  • Socket AM4, platform upgradable to Ryzen

User questions & answers

Question: are there motherboards who support thos processor
Answer: Full sized HDMI port on it's left side
Question: Does it come thermal paste
Answer: It has an HDMI port, a hi-speed USB 3.0 port, and a headphone port. Some dvd devices might connect thru USB or HDMI.
Question: Im currently on a budget but im planning on getting a ryzen 7 proccesor in a few months so will this cpu work in a ryzen motherboard
Answer: Since it charges through a usb c port any 45 watt usb c charger should work.
Question: Is this a Pro
Answer: It is a 360 degree fold. The screen does not detach.
Question: is this 2-in
Answer: I love this laptop. It has a big screen and is fast.
Question: Product description says 12gb ddr4 ram and product information says 8gb ddr3, which is it
Answer: No, This laptop does not have a backlight keyboard.
Question: what is the model number
Answer: Try to find Quietrock drywall. It is specially made to deaden sound. Assemble a box of two layers of 1/2 inch Quietrock. Caulk corners and seam with sound-reducing sealant. Ten times better than regular 5/8 drywall or soundboard.
Question: does this laptop overheat easily
Answer: Aim 8 is 1" bigger

Product features

AMD Athlon 200GE 2-Core 4-Thread AM4 Socket Desktop Processor with Radeon Vega Graphics

Whether you’re working or playing, you’ll get outstanding performance, incredible gaming, and amazing value with a multicore desktop processor from AMD.

Specifications

  • # of CPU Cores- 2.
  • # of Threads- 4.
  • # of GPU Cores- 3.
  • Compute Cores- 5 (2 CPU + 3 GPU)
  • Base Clock- 3.2GHz
  • Total L1 Cache- 192KB
  • Total L2 Cache- 1MB
  • Total L3 Cache- 4MB

Intel Core i5-9400 Desktop Processor 6 Cores 2. 90 GHz up to 4. 10 GHz Turbo LGA1151 300 Series 65W Processors BX80684I59400

Intel

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Specifications Mfr Part Number: BX80684I59400 Model: Intel Core i5-9400 Processor Core Name: Coffee Lake Core Count: 6 Thread Count: 6 Clock Speed: 2. 9GHz Max Turbo Frequency: 4. 1GHz Smart Cache: 9 MB DMI3: 8. 0 GT/s Lithography: 14nm Socket: LGA 1151 Max Thermal Design Power: 65W Memory Type: DDR4-2666 Max Memory Bandwidth: 41. 6 GB/s Processor Graphics: Intel UHD Graphics 630 Graphics Base Frequency: 350 MHz Graphics Max Dynamic Frequency: 1. 05 GHz Max CPU Configuration: 1 Advanced Technologies: Intel Optane Memory Supported Intel Turbo Boost Technology 2. 0 Intel Virtualization Technology (VT-x) Intel Virtualization Technology for Directed I/O (VT-d) Intel VT-x with Extended Page Tables (EPT) Intel 64 Instruction Set 64-bit Instruction Set Extensions SSE4. 1/4. 2, AVX2 Idle States Enhanced Intel Speed Step Technology Thermal Monitoring Technologies Intel Identity Protection Technology Intel AES New Instructions Secure Key Intel Software Guard Extensions (Intel SGX) with Intel ME Intel Memory Protection Extensions (Intel MPX) Intel OS Guard Execute Disable Bit Intel Boot Guard. Maximum Operating temperature 100 Degrees Celsius.

  • 6 Cores/ 6 Threads
  • 2. 90 GHz up to 4. 10 GHz Max Turbo Frequency/ 9 MB cache
  • Compatible only with Motherboards based on Intel 300 Series chipsets
  • Processor Graphics - Intel UHD Graphics 630
  • Intel Optane Memory supported
  • Note: 2.9 GHz is a base frequency whereas 4.1GHz is a Max turbo frequency

User questions & answers

Question: Product description says "discrete gpu required - no integrated graphics". i thought the i5-9400 had a gpu. am i incorrect? this is not a i5-9400f
Answer: The chip I was shipped is an I5-9400 which has the 630GPU. I think that is a mistake in the description because the product title says it is a i5-9400 not an i5-9400f. With an "F" on the end, it would not have the graphics.
Question: Can you still use another graphics card
Answer: Yes you can use a graphics card. Just be sure to plug your monitor into the graphics card and not the motherboard.
Question: Ad says "discrete gpu required. processor graphics - intel uhd graphics 630" which one is it
Answer: I don’t know why both are listed. That is odd but I think this has uhd graphics. I do know that any intel processor with an “F” suffix needs discreet graphics. It saves some money on the cpu if you plan to use a graphics card anyway. The onboard graphics ports on the motherboard won’t work with an “F” processor though. This article tells what the designations are. It may be helpful. At least scroll down to the chart. https://www.intel.com/content/www/us/en/processors/processor-numbers.html
Question: this good product???? please repply
Answer: This good product

AMD Ryzen 5 3600 3.6GHz 32MB Cache AM4 L3 CPU Desktop Boxed

AMD

Based on 11 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Unlock ultimate control over your AMD Ryzen powered system for personalized overclocking and efficiency. Precision Boost Overdrive4 uses your motherboard’s robust design to boost clock speeds higher and longer, and lets you overclock at the touch of a button.

  • 3.6GHz Operating Frequency, L3Socket
  • Ryzen 5 series
  • AMD Boxed Desktop CPU
  • AMD Ryzen 5 3600 with 8MB cache
  • 6 core / 12 threads

User questions & answers

Question: does it come with a cooler
Answer: Hello, If the MB has a LGA1200 feature, it works. Best regards
Question: Does the boxed CPU come with thermal paste
Answer: The thermal paste is already pre-applied on the cpu cooler. Also the stock cpu cooler is enough for the i3.
Question: What gen is this CPU
Answer: The stock cooler that's comes with the i3 is enough.
Question: what motherboard will this fit
Answer: No really. It's not hard as a rocks but there is very little give to it.

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