Looking for a processor for an upgrade or to build a new platform? Find here 10 of the best processors for 2025. Choosing the ideal processor isn’t within everyone’s reach. There are a large number of choices, and each model meets a specific need. The first step is to opt for one of the two existing manufacturers: AMD or Intel. You’ll also need to define what’s a priority based on the budget allocated to this future processor: speed or value? Multiple cores or high clock speeds?
Best Gaming Processors 2025: More Affordable Prices
The best 2025 gaming processors don’t necessarily require a huge investment. Of course, there’s an obvious appeal to high-end options from the latest generations, such as the Core Ultra or Ryzen 9. However, recent advances have significantly boosted the performance of mid-range CPUs. The key to this selection now lies in identifying a solution that offers the optimal balance between performance and cost. This includes ensuring compatibility with the chosen motherboard. This ensures longevity suited to the demands of gaming for several years.
#1 AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D, Best Overall Gaming Processor
The Ryzen 7 9800X3D is currently one of the fastest chips from AMD and on the market. For its price, it’s a solid value in the high-performance category. This model outperforms Intel’s flagship processors like the Core i9-14900K or the Core Ultra 9 285K. With its eight cores and 16 threads running at up to 5.2 GHz, the chip uses AMD’s 3D V-Cache technology.
With a much lower power consumption (TDP: 120W) than the Intel competition, this processor is easier to cool and therefore does not require an expensive cooling system. This means top-notch gaming performance and a cooler, quieter, and less expensive system than an Ultra 9 or Core i9.
#2 Intel Core Ultra 7 265KF (3.9 GHz/5.5 GHz), boosted performance and energy efficiency
The Intel Core Ultra 7 265KF processor is a high-end CPU from the second generation Core Ultra (Arrow Lake). It is therefore part of the series that features a hybrid architecture. For this specific model, we are talking about 8 performance cores (P-cores) clocked at 3.9 GHz in base mode and capable of reaching 5.5 GHz in turbo mode. The chip also offers 12 efficiency cores (E-cores) with a base frequency of 3.3 GHz and up to 4.6 GHz in boost mode.
It’s optimized for gaming and multitasking thanks to its 20 physical cores without SMT. Supporting DDR5 memory up to 6400 MHz, it has 20 PCIe 5.0 lanes and integrates Intel Turbo Boost Max 3.0 technology. In addition, the unlocked multiplier allows for overclocking. Note that the “F” information in the name indicates the absence of an integrated graphics card. To use it for gaming, you must therefore have a GPU beforehand.
#3 Intel Core i7-14700K: Best Overall Processor
Intel’s Core i7-14700K is one of the best overall processors you can buy right now. It’s a CPU that delivers excellent performance across the board. It also offers significant improvements over the Core i7-13700K. It adds four additional E-cores, bringing the total core count to 20. The processor also boasts slightly higher clock speeds than its predecessor, giving it a slight advantage in single-threaded applications.
Price-wise, it’s within reason, especially when compared to more expensive Intel Core i9 options and AMD’s Ryzen 9 competition. Moreover, the chip manages to deliver these benefits by offering nearly the same level of high-end performance in most situations. Finally, for gamers, gaming performance is exceptional, rivaling the Intel Core i9-13900K in many titles
#4 AMD Ryzen 7 9700X, the processor for gamers who don’t want to compromise
The Ryzen 7 9700X stands out as one of the best gaming processors on the market, combining performance and efficiency. With its Zen 5 architecture and 8 cores/16 threads, it offers a base frequency of 3.8 GHz and a boost of up to 5.5 GHz, rivaling even Intel’s Core i9-14900K in gaming.
Its 65W TDP (optionally 105W via BIOS) ensures controlled power consumption and easy heat dissipation, although a good CPU cooler is required. Compatible with AM5 motherboards, it is ideally suited to the B600 series models, while waiting for the future B850/B840. A smart choice for demanding gamers.
#5 AMD Ryzen 5 7600X, AMD Alternative for Best 2025 Gaming Processors
The AMD Ryzen 5 7600X is a particularly attractive option for gamers looking to upgrade to a newer AMD CPU. With 6 cores, 12 threads, and a base clock speed of 4.7 GHz and a boost clock speed of 5.3 GHz, this processor delivers remarkable single-core performance. It offers impressive value for money. Its compatibility with the latest technologies such as PCI-E 5.0 and DDR5 memory, as well as its move to the AMD AM5 socket, further enhance its appeal. While limited to 6 cores, which can impact productivity tasks, it excels in gaming. It is an affordable and efficient alternative for gamers’ needs. With recent discounts off the recommended price, the Ryzen 5 7600X represents an attractive option for those looking for a powerful processor while anticipating the sustainability of the AM5 socket in 2025.
#6 Intel Core i5-14600K, a solid mid-range gaming machine
The Intel Core i5-14600K processor is part of the 14th generation “Raptor Lake Refresh.” It is primarily aimed at gamers looking for excellent performance/price ratio. This chip has 14 cores in total. The set is divided between 6 performance cores (P-cores) clocked up to 5.3 GHz and 8 efficiency cores (E-cores) reaching 4.0 GHz. The CPU has a total of 20 threads and 24 MB of L3 cache. It remains compatible with DDR5-5600 and DDR4-3200 memory. It is a model that runs on the LGA 1700 socket and integrates an Intel UHD Graphics 770 iGPU for basic graphics tasks. It stands out for its gaming performance, rivaling higher-end models like the Core i7 and i9 in most titles, but with a TDP of 125 W.
#7 AMD Ryzen 5 5600XT, a good price/performance ratio for the tightest budgets
The AMD Ryzen 5 5600XT is an interesting choice for gamers and creators looking for a performance/price compromise on socket AM4. With 6 cores/12 threads, a boost frequency up to 4.7 GHz and a 35 MB cache (L3 + L2), it offers smooth performance in 1080p/1440p especially for recent games. Its Zen 3 architecture optimizes latency and multitasking, making it suitable for streaming, video editing or 3D modeling. In addition, the 65 W TDP and the included Wraith Stealth cooler guarantee efficient thermal management at no additional cost. Although it lacks an iGPU, it pairs perfectly with mid-range graphics cards (RTX 3060 Ti, RX 6600 XT) for balanced configurations. Finally, its competitive price makes it an economical option for AM4 upgrades or builds that don’t require the latest platforms.
#8 Intel Core i5-12400F, a classic choice that is still relevant for the entry level
The Core i5-12400F is a 12th generation processor that delivers versatile performance at a reasonable price. With 6 cores/12 threads, a base frequency of 2.5 GHz and a boost frequency of up to 4.4 GHz, it delivers balanced performance for modern games and light multitasking. Its 10nm architecture and 65W TDP ensure significant power efficiency, while its 18MB L3 cache optimizes responsiveness. It supports DDR4-3200, DDR5-4800, and supports PCIe 5.0. The lack of an iGPU (denoted by “F”) means it must be used with a dedicated graphics card to get the attractive price of the CPU. This is an ideal processor for builds focused on performance and price.
| What we like |
|---|
| – Competitive price/performance ratio – Ideal for 1080p gaming configurations – 65W power consumption – PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 support |
| What we like less |
|---|
| – No iGPU – No E-cores on this model |
#9 Best AMD AM4 Upgrade: AMD Ryzen 7 5700X3D
The Ryzen 7 5700X3D is a smart choice for those looking to upgrade from an AM4-based system. It offers excellent value for money and very satisfying gaming performance thanks to its 3D V-Cache technology. The latter significantly improves minimum frame rates, which is crucial for a smooth experience.
On the other hand, the AMD AM4 motherboard platform was introduced before the launch of Ryzen processors. Therefore, it is very likely that an older PC using Ryzen is based on this platform. Currently, this chip represents the best value for money for the older platform and is an excellent choice for gaming. Its attractive price, more accessible than that of its big brother, the 5800X3D, does not prevent it from offering similar performance in many games.
| What we like |
|---|
| – 3D V-Cache for better gaming performance – More affordable than the 5800X3D – Solid overall performance |
| What we like less |
|---|
| – Can get a little warm – A bit expensive for a last-gen chip – Not all games will benefit from this extra cache |
#10 Best CPU with Integrated Graphics: AMD Ryzen 7 8700G Wraith Spire
The AMD Ryzen 7 8700G processors deliver impressive integrated gaming performance. In some use cases for entry-level platforms, they can make dedicated graphics cards less essential. The 8600G, in particular, offers excellent value for money. These APUs, based on the Zen 4 and RDNA 3 architecture, benefit from AMD’s Hyper-RX feature suite, which improves graphics performance.
The Ryzen 5 8700G is, indeed, a smart choice for gamers on a budget who want to enjoy a 1080p gaming experience without completely sacrificing performance. It offers a perfect balance between price and performance. It’s a compelling alternative to traditional setups with a dedicated graphics card.
| What we like |
|---|
| – Passable in 1080p in some titles, solid in 720p – Hyper-RX support – Coolers included – Power efficient |
| What we like less |
|---|
| – High price of DDR5, no 8GB options – AM5 motherboards remain expensive |
2024 Ranking
#1 Intel Core i9-13900K: The best-performing processor for gaming
The Intel Core i9-13900K is a superb processor that, with the right graphics card, can perform wonders. Its core count is extreme, even by today’s standards. This is coupled with a clock speed that reaches new heights compared to what was previously possible, even at the most extreme overclocks. Compared to a Core i9 or Core i7 from a few generations ago, the performance increase is quite incredible.
You could even say that its power isn’t for all types of users. In fact, the average gamer might not be able to take full advantage of everything this CPU has to offer. So, if you fall into that category, considering processors like Intel’s Core i5-13600K is more interesting. It’s a perfectly capable gaming chip compared to the powerhouse Intel Core i9-13900K. On the other hand, if you dream of having the best of the best, regardless of the price, the 13900K is definitely what you need.
| What we like |
|---|
| – Fastest in games – Stunning multi-threaded performance – Fast and responsive |
| What we like less |
|---|
| – Cheaper 600 series platform available – Not for the majority of users – Needs a good cooler |
#2 Best High-End Processor: AMD Ryzen 9 9950X
The new AMD Ryzen 9 9950X processor outperforms its predecessor, the 7950X, to become the undisputed champion for demanding tasks like content creation. While the 7950X3D remains unbeatable for gaming thanks to its 3D V-Cache, the 9950X excels in multitasking applications. It offers significant performance gains. It is among the most powerful processors for demanding tasks like video creation or 3D rendering. While it gets the job done for gaming, if gaming is a top priority, the 7950X3D remains a better option.
Indeed, the 9950X excels especially at demanding multitasking tasks, like 4K video editing, 3D modeling, or code compilation. Its Zen 5 architecture gives it exceptional raw power. So, if you’re into content creation, the 9950X offers all the performance you could ever need.
| What we like |
|---|
| – Unmatched multi-threaded performance – Eco mode performs well in CPU-intensive tasks – Runs cool for a 170W chip |
| What we like less |
|---|
| – Mixed gaming results in Eco mode – Zen 4 is much better value for money |
#3 Best AMD AM4 Upgrade: AMD Ryzen 7 5700X3D
The Ryzen 7 5700X3D is a smart choice for those looking to upgrade from an AM4-based system. It offers excellent value for money and very satisfying gaming performance thanks to its 3D V-Cache technology. The latter significantly improves minimum frame rates, which is crucial for a smooth experience.
On the other hand, the AMD AM4 motherboard platform was introduced before the launch of Ryzen processors. Therefore, it is very likely that an older PC using Ryzen is based on this platform. Currently, this chip represents the best value for money for the older platform and is an excellent choice for gaming. Its attractive price, more accessible than that of its big brother, the 5800X3D, does not prevent it from offering similar performance in many games.
| What we like |
|---|
| – 3D V-Cache for better gaming performance – More affordable than the 5800X3D – Solid overall performance |
| What we like less |
|---|
| – Can get a little warm – A bit expensive for a last-gen chip – Not all games will benefit from this extra cache |