When looking for the best CPU for gaming, you need to find a balance between features and performance. It is a constant battle between the top two brands, Intel and AMD, and often users are confused between the two. Your choice should be based on several factors which are necessary for you to be satisfied with the choice.
To make this mammoth task of selecting the CPU easier, we have listed some factors which will help you come to a decision.
- CPU Speed: The CPU speed helps to make sure that there will be no lag or buffering while the user is performing high-demand tasks like gaming or streaming. When looking at this factor, you should go for the CPU which offers more speed.
- Cores and Threads: The cores and threads are also important in determining the usability and multitasking capabilities of the system. So, it is better to go for those systems with more cores and threads.
- CPU Socket: It is important to note that the CPU socket that you are going for is compatible with a wide range of motherboards. This will result in not restricting your choices when it comes to selecting a motherboard.
A detailed “Buying Guide” elaborating more on the features is provided later in the article. In the following section, we have listed the best products with their notable features, advantages and drawbacks. Check them out to make your best choice.
Best CPUs for Gaming 2023 Chart
Best CPUs for Gaming 2023 Table
High-End CPUs
1. Intel Core i9-13900K CPUs
This is the high-end processor by Intel which is ideal for heavy-thread content and high-function games. It is the fastest processor for gaming and has better and more reliable performance than any other Ryzen 7000 series processor.
It features 8 P-cores and 16 E-cores, making it a total of 24 cores with 32 threads. With that, the base frequency of the processor is 3 GHz, and it goes up to a maximum frequency of 5.8 GHz in the Turbo Boost Mode 2.0 algorithm. The chipset offers 36MB of cache for smooth functioning.
Connectivity is enhanced with great compatibility with DDR4-3200 to DDRr5-5600 memory variants, with four slots of PCIe 4.0 and 16 slots of PCIe 5.0 connection for M2 chips.
The processor has considerably low power consumption, with a base power rating of 125 watts and a peak rating of 253 watts.
Best Features:
- Cores and Threads: 24 Cores and 32 Threads
- CPU Speed: 5.8 GHz
- CPU Socket: LGA 1700
- Cache: 36MB
Pros:
- Fastest gaming CPU in the market.
- Superb headroom for overclocking.
- Leading single-thread and multi-thread performance.
- DDR5 and PCIe 5.0 compatibility.
Cons:
- It requires a powerful cooler for optimal performance.
2. AMD Ryzen™ 9 7950X CPUs
AMD Ryzen 9 7950X is their best foot forward as a gaming CPU which is capable of handling high-productivity gaming. It is packed with 16 Zen 4 cores and also features the company’s latest 3D V-cache technology.
With cutting-edge 3D chip technology, the smooth performance of the processor is ensured with high cache support of 80 MB. Also, the SRAM chip that is hybrid bonded with the processor takes the gaming experience to new heights.
The innovative threading-target technology helps to successfully run a broad variety of the most popular games. It supports the latest connectivity technology with DDR5 connectivity, PCIe 5.0 and USB connectivity options.
This processor features a total thermal design performance of 120 watts. It is among the fastest chips that are compatible with gaming.
Best Features:
- Cores and Threads: 16 Cores and 32 Threads
- CPU Speed: 5.7 GHz
- CPU Socket: AM5
- Cache: 80 MB
Pros:
- AMD’s best bet for gaming.
- Great overclocking support.
- Excellent power efficiency with low consumption.
- Modernised platform.
Cons:
- Not compatible with DDR4 memory.
Mid-Range CPUs
3. Intel Core i7-13700K CPUs
In the mid-range category, Intel Core i7-13700K is the king, easily surpassing the performance of Ryzen 7 7700X and in some cases even better than the Ryzen 7050X. Some users have even testified that it is at par in terms of performance with the Intel i9-13900K processor, after overclocking.
This processor is loaded with 8 P-cores and 8 E-cores which equals a total of 16 cores and has 24 threads. It has a base frequency of 2.5 GHz while the top frequency of the processor is 5.4 GHz. The cache offered by the chip is 30 MB which prevents buffering while playing games.
Connectivity is top-notch with DDR4-3200 to DDR5-5600 all-inclusive memory connectivity. It is even more enhanced with the 16 PCIe 5.0 lanes with 4 more PCIe 4.0 lanes.
The power rating is also stable, with a base rating of 125 watts and a maximum rating of 253 watts.
Best Features:
- Cores and Threads: 16 Cores and 24 Threads
- CPU Speed: 5.4 GHz
- CPU Socket: LGA 1700
- Cache: 30 MB
Pros:
- Best performance in the mid-range category.
- Enhanced power efficiency.
- Great single-threaded and multi-threaded performance.
- DDR5 and PCIe 5.0 compatibility.
Cons:
- No cooler is provided with the processor.
4. AMD Ryzen 7 7700X CPUs
This is the mid-range option that is presented by AMD, which is dominant in performance and constantly delivers more than 100 fps in most of the popular games in the world.
It is equipped with 8 cores and 16 threads, which are powerful to successfully and simultaneously perform high-demand tasks. On top of that, the Zen 4 architecture helps to facilitate gaming performance.
This processor is enabled for overclocking and offers 80 MB of cache which prevents all kinds of lag and buffering. The connectivity is enhanced with DDR5 and PCIe 5.0 support.
With the AM5 socket, it is compatible with several coolers, which is great as a cooler is not included with the processor.
Best Features:
- Cores and Threads: 8 Cores and 16 Threads
- CPU Speed: 5.4 GHz
- CPU Socket: AM5
- Cache: 80 MB
Pros:
- Zen 4 architecture.
- DDR5 and PCIe5 connectivity.
- 80MB of cache.
- AM5 socket.
Cons:
Budget CPUs
5. Intel Core i5-13600K CPUs
The Intel Core i5-13600K delivers optimum performance in the budget-friendly price range. Overclocking this processor can enable it to perform better than even some of the processors of the Ryzen 7000 series priced much higher than this.
This processor comes with 6 P-cores and 8 E-cores, making it a total of 14 cores with 20 threads. With that, it also offers 20 MB of cache, which ensures the smooth functioning of the system even when running a high-demand game.
The chip is compatible with both DDR4 and DDR5 memory and features 16 PCIe 5.0 lanes with 4 additional PCIe 4.0 lanes. It has lowered the power consumption feature compared to the last update.
It features a max power rating of 181 watts and is compatible with a wide range of water and air coolers.
Best Features:
- Cores and Threads: 14 Cores and 20 Threads
- CPU Speed: 5.1 GHz
- CPU Socket: LGA 1700
- Cache: 24 M
Pros:
- Budget-friendly pricing.
- Overclocking is permitted.
- Better than the Ryzen competition.
- DDR5 and PCIe compatibility.
Cons:
- The power limits are higher than before.
6. AMD Ryzen 5 7600X CPUs
This is the budget-friendly gaming processor offered by AMD, offering superb performance in the given price range. It is equipped with the Zen 4 architecture combined with a 5 nm TSMC procedure, ensuring huge gains while gaming.
It has 6 cores and 12 threads designed for playing all kinds of games at a single time. However, it is not optimal in its multitasking capabilities. The boost clock speed is 5.3 GHz which is great for the price.
It enables great compatibility with all modern connection technologies. It has DDR5 compatibility with USB connectivity and PCIe 5.0 connectivity.
A dedicated cooler is required for proper function. It has a TDP of 105 watts which is a lot, and needs a dedicated system to cool it down.
Best Features:
- Cores and Threads: 6 Cores and 12 Threads
- CPU Speed: 5.3 GHz
- CPU Socket: AM5
- Cache: 38 MB
Pros:
- Powerful single and multi-thread performance.
- DDR5 and PCIe 5.0 connectivity.
- iGPU feature.
Cons:
- High cooling performance required.
Things to Consider When Buying a CPU for Gaming
Choosing the best CPU for gaming is a challenging task. It can be highly daunting and you can quickly make a wrong choice if you miss any of the key factors. To make things a little easier for you, we have listed all the important considerations you need to consider before finalising the best CPU to cater to all your needs. Check out the following section to know all about it.
1. CPU Speed
No one wants a slow PC while in the middle of a gaming mission. Therefore, CPU speed becomes one of the first things to be considered when looking for a gaming CPU. Core Speed or CPU speed is the speed the CPU offers to complete one instruction. An instruction comprises three different parts, and the speed is calculated to complete the whole process. The three parts are fetch, decode and execute, and the CPU must meet several daily cycles like this.
GHz is the unit of measurement for the speed. To get a perspective, if the CPU speed of the system is 4.0 GHz, then the CPU can complete 4,000,000,000 instructions in each cycle. The faster speed indicates that the CPU works faster. This is an important aspect for all gamers.
2. Cores and Threads
Again, the cores and threads are critical assets that must be looked at before selecting a robust CPU for gaming. When looking at the cores and threads, you just need to keep one thing in mind: the more cores and threads, the more will be the functionality of the CPU.
More cores and threads offer better results for the user while multitasking or handling several things simultaneously. Therefore, it is a good asset for gamers and streamers.
3. CPU Socket
The CPU socket is the slot that connects the motherboard and the CPU. So, it is primary to consider a CPU socket that is compatible with a large variety of modern and last-generation motherboards. Intel and AMD offer different CPU sockets with their system. Intel comes with LGA 1700 sockets, while AMD comes with AM5 sockets. Both of them offer high-range compatibility.
4. Cache
The cache is the memory component that enables the system to run games and other high-intensity tasks easily. It is one of the top factors in increasing the CPU’s productivity and improving the whole system’s performance. Again, more cache supports several daunting tasks; the minimum cache you should settle for is 30 MB.
5. Warranty
We are all aware that the CPU is a hefty investment. Moreover, the users would not like the system to be down in the middle of a quest or while defeating the enemy. So, it is very important that the CPU you settle for is reliable and durable. To determine these qualities, a warranty helps a great deal as more time in warranty will ensure that the product is more long-lasting.
CPUs for Gaming 2023 FAQs
Ans: The best gaming and streaming CPU is Intel Core i9-13900K Desktop Processor. It is the fastest and enables great performance and connectivity.
Ans: The best mid-range version CPU is Intel Core i7-13700K Desktop Processor due to its enhanced power and amazing single and multi-threaded performance.
Ans: Both AMD and Intel have been in the business for a long time and are constantly pitted against each other. When evaluating the two, you must choose the one that fits your price range and required specifications. However, the best one in terms of performance is Intel.
Ans: The best CPU from the list is Intel Core i9-13900K Desktop Processor due to its unparalleled performance. It is the one which is the best for running all kinds of games.
Final Word
With this guide at your disposal, choosing the best CPU for gaming 2023 will be like a walk in the park. We have listed all the criteria you need to know to buy a CPU for gaming 2023. Therefore, you must apply these considerations when buying CPUs. You can write to us in the comments section below if you still have doubts.
- If you are here for the recommendations, we have listed the top three favourites from the list. The first recommendation for the best overall product in the high-end range is Intel Core i9-13900K CPUs. It is the fastest gaming processor in the market.
- The second recommendation if you are on a budget is Intel Core i5-13600K CPUs. It has competitive pricing and much better performance than the AMD counterpart.
- The third and final product in the mid-range is the Intel Core i7-13700K CPUs. It has enhanced power efficiency and DDR5 and PCIe compatibility.
