Some questions that unexpectedly arise when purchasing a new computer processor are as follows: Which of the two major processor manufacturers, AMD or Intel, should you choose? Do you want the most value or speed? Does the maximum number of cores or clock speed matter more? Do you intend to upgrade or create a brand-new PC?
All of these inquiries are essential for landing the proper chip, which means: assuming cost is an issue, no single CPU is the ultimate best for all users. If you’re not constrained by mortal concerns like budget, it’s simple enough to acquire a reasonably clear understanding of what “best” means by objectively evaluating CPU performance across a variety of apps and usage circumstances.
Few Things to Keep in Mind
- Check Generation: Every year, CPUs from AMD and Intel are updated with new architecture and cutting-edge computing functions. To obtain the most value for your money, it’s critical to recognize the differences. The generation is indicated by the first digit of the four-figure model number. 12 in the Core i7-12700K, for instance, or 5 in the Ryzen 5 5600X.
- Recognize Your Workload: It’s crucial to match your CPU budget to the tasks you intend to perform on your PC. For routine daily chores, you do not require a high-performance CPU, but you can’t rely on a cheap processor to push demanding creative workload applications.
- Understanding Overclocking: The process of overclocking enables CPUs to operate at much higher clock speeds than their out-of-the-box specifications. But not all CPUs can be overclocked, nor is overclocking always necessary for the greatest performance. You cannot overclock Intel CPUs unless you buy the K versions. All Ryzen processors are unlocked.
- Sockets on Motherboard: Not all CPUs can be used with every motherboard that is sold today. Choose a chipset and socket that are compatible with your chosen CPU because you will need them. Buy a CPU that fits the socket on your motherboard if you already have one and don’t have the money to buy a new one. A new motherboard is a must if you want one of AMD’s Ryzen 7000 processors because the company just altered its socket. The LGA 1700 socket, which is included on motherboards with chipsets like the Z690, Z790, and B660, is supported by Intel 13th Gen.
- Keeping Up with the Right Components: While CPUs are important for any system, it makes little sense to mix a powerful chip with a mediocre graphics card or a poor storage device. Before choosing a product to purchase, make sure all of your components function properly together. And make sure you always have a power source that is strong enough to drive everything.
- The Speed of the Core: Higher clock speeds enable quick performance in routine, everyday applications. However, having more cores will enable you to complete difficult and time-consuming activities more quickly. While Intel’s 12th and 13th Gen CPUs feature a hybrid design made up of P (performance) and E (efficient) cores, AMD’s CPUs have a more conventional design.
Best Processors of 2022
Intel Core i5 13600K
The most costly and potent CPUs don’t always have the most impact. That was true of the 12th generation Intel Core i5, and now that the 13th generation has arrived, it still holds true. The Intel Core i5-13600K is Intel’s greatest all-around CPU for the majority of users, notably gamers. In fact, it takes the place of its forerunner at the top of the rankings by simply improving upon the original design. A cheap alternative is Intel Xeon SRFPP.
The core count is where we begin. Intel has doubled the number of E-cores on all of its previously released CPUs for the 13th Generation. That translates to 8 E-cores and 6 P-cores for a total of 14 on the Core i5-13600K. The 14-core total ends up having 20 threads because the P-cores are also hyperthreaded, whereas the E-cores are not. Because of their hybrid architecture, Intel’s CPUs always give priority to foreground programs like gaming, using their E-cores only when necessary or for background duties. Simply put, all of this translates to great performance in single-threaded applications like gaming and competitive performance in multi-threaded applications with heavy workloads.
AMD Ryzen 9 7950X
The creators out there will perk up their ears at AMD’s newest, most potent Ryzen CPU. Incredible multi-threaded performance, which is crucial for demanding tasks, has been one of Ryzen’s assets since it first entered the market. With its hybrid designs, Intel has taken a different tack, but AMD is sticking with something a little more conventional, and the Ryzen 9 7950X offers 16 cores and 32 threads of unbridled power.
One of AMD’s first Zen 4, AM5 CPUs, the Ryzen 9 7950X, is the first new socket we’ve seen in a while. You must therefore improve every component of your rig. It only supports DDR5, so a new motherboard is also required. Although there are now only a few use cases for PCIe 5.0, it is designed to support it. However, you may still utilize your current PCIe 4.0 drives with it. A good AMD alternate is AMD 100-000000054 EPYC 7502
Intel Core i9 13900K
Intense workloads, professional programs, transcoding, streaming, and other tasks that typically call for numerous cores are what this CPU excels at. The 13900K now has a massive 16 E-cores thanks to the 13th generation’s doubled E-core count, combined with 8 hyperthreaded P-cores for a total of 32 threads. All of this performance comes at the expense of a potential increase in power consumption and temperature, although that only really becomes a problem when the CPU is being seriously pushed. It can be overclocked without entering severe overclocking territory because it can push all the way up to 100C before thermal throttling, and the 253W maximum TDP is easily blasted past. As a result, make sure your PSU and cooling are both good ones.
Intel Core i5 12400
For individuals who are considering low-cost CPU solutions, we believe the Intel Core i5-12400 is one of the best CPUs. The 12400 is not the cheapest processor available at around $200, but we believe it gives exceptional value for the money. Additionally, a 13th Gen model won’t be taking its place just yet.
However, the Core i5-12400 requires a new CPU socket and chipset. To use this processor, you’ll need a motherboard with an LGA 1700 socket and an Intel 600-series chipset. You no longer need to rely on the pricey Z690 motherboards to use Alder Lake chips because the more economical B660 and H610 chipset-based motherboards have already begun to appear on the market.
Final Words
A good place to start when building a PC is by deciding what you’ll use it for and budgeting money for it. Although a CPU is not the only essential component that can affect performance, it can undoubtedly reduce the entire system’s output. However, the AMD Ryzen 9 7950X or the Intel Core i5-13600K are good general all-around for all needs. Both are reasonably priced “mid-range” CPUs. Both, however, offer some significant performance that will enable continued use. Buyers of workstations, enthusiasts, and creators of content are all well supported, with Intel’s Core i9-13900K standing out. You can check out AMD 100-000000054 EPYC 7502 and Intel Xeon SRFPP.
