The PC CPU (Central Processing Unit) is measured in Gigahertz or GHz and is the core of the computer. The clock speed of the CPU is what you generally look for when building a gaming PC. The clock speed usually ranges from 1GHz to 5GHz. The faster the clock speed the more readily the CPU can process data. The CPU can be a single processor or a multicore processor and it can also be a multi-threaded single processor. Although there is some controversy if gamers prefer a greater number of cores to increased clock speed. Most preferring clock speed. The number of cores and threads available allows for multicore processors to secure additional resources to be available to process data. So yes, clock speed is first on the list but the number of cores and threads is just as important.
Best Selling Processors on Amazon
Overclocking of the PC CPU allows you to increase the clock speed above the manufacturer’s recommended limit. Let’s say you are running at a clock speed of 3.5 GHz but would like to overclock to 3.9 GHz. Not all CPUs allow for overclocking. For Intel look for processors with a “K,†in the name, for example, the Intel Core i3-9350K if you wish to overclock. What about AMD? AMD does not restrict consumers from overclocking. Also, confirm the PC PCU is compatible with the motherboard. For this reason, make sure your motherboard supports overclocking before you purchase. Ranked below are the current best processors based on the number of cores, frequency, and threads.
PC CPUs Hitting the Hardest by Clock Speed, Cores, and Threads
#1. Intel Core i9-10900K
The leader of the pack for 2020 is the i9-10900K from Intel. Featuring 10 cores, 20 threads, and a clock speed base of 3.7GHz with a boost to 5.3GHz. This processor is the current fastest CPU that money can buy. It has 2 additional cores making it that flagship model from Intel. The power consumption is of interest. Intel focused on power users with this CPU. It uses 125W at a baseline and reaching up to 250W at peak levels. In other words, this processor can generate a lot of heat so CPU cooling is paramount.
#2. Intel Core i9-9900K Processor
Intel is in both first and second place on the chart. Next up is the i9-9900K processor featuring 8 Cores, 8 threads, with a base of 3.6GHz and an overclocks to 4.9GHz. Similar to the flagship i9-10900K this model is focused on high-end power users, so CPU cooling and power consumption are of concern with a TDP (thermal design point) of 125W. With a high-end clock speed, this is a great model that comes in second place on the processor hierarchy.
#3. AMD Ryzen 9 3900X
The next offering is gaming backpacks from AMD featuring computer gaming hardware 12 cores, 24 threads with a base of 3.8GHz and a max boost up to 4.6GHz. It supports PCIe 4 interfaces. It uses Wraith PRISM (MRK) for the thermal solution. You are getting a clock speed close to 5GHz with this model and AMD is known to be price competitive. You can usually find the AMD Ryzen 9 3900X at the same price point as the Intel i9-9900K processor with four extra cores to boot.
#4. AMD Ryzen 7 3700X
This processor clocks in with a base of 3.6GHz up to 4.4GHz unlocked. Features 8 cores, 16 threads and utilizes a Wraith PRISM (MRK) thermal solution. AMD is all over the leaderboard this year. It features a TDP of 65W. With the AMD Ryzen 7 3700X you will get a great price point that uses less heat than other processors but still offering up to 4.4GHz. If the price is the main concern this processor is an excellent choice and delivers on a budget.
#5. Intel Core i5-9400F
From the mid-end segment next up is the i5-3700X featuring 2.9GHz – 4.1GHz, 6 cores with hyperthreading. Top gaming frame rates for a mid-end processor. With an excellent thermal cooling system. It is a little more pricy than mid-AMD processors for the number of cores and threads. However, this processor is an excellent mid-range CPU, for those working on a budget with an eye on the power consumption.
#6. AMD Ryzen 5 3600
The AMD Ryzen 5 3600 features 6 Cores, 12 Threads with a base 3.6GHz, and can be overclocked to 4.2GHz. At only 65W it delivers up to 4.2Ghz clock speed. It is a powerful processor with lower-end power consumption. This processor is another mid-range processor from AMD that packs a punch at lower power and it comes in number best gaming desks 6 on the leaderboard.
#7. AMD Ryzen 5 2600
This processor features 6 cores, 12 threads, a base of 3.4GHz with a Max Boost clock of up to 3.9GHz. For the thermal solution (MRK) is Wraith Stealth.
#8 AMD Ryzen 5 3400G
The AMD Ryzen 5 features 4 Cores, 8 Threads, 3.7GHz – 4.2GHz. A great offering with an unlocked clock speed of 4.2GHz. Tuff to beat indeed!
There you have it, the current leader board for 2020 processors. Before you decide on a processor consider clock speed, overclocking, the number of cores, performance, and the price for your next PC CPU before you buy. There are many considerations to look for when building a gaming monster. In the AMD vs Intel processors comparison, the winner depends on your gaming needs. In other words, do you want lots of cores, is hyper-threading the greatest concern or is the price what makes the difference? Both Intel and AMD have advantages in their respective niches. Check out the blog on AMD vs Intel for more info. Also, I found a resource on choosing parts called logical increments. It will make sure all your parts are compatible. Check out logical increments – to confirm compatibility.
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