The Processor is a very important part of a computer when it comes to gaming. Though other important peripheral like the RAM, Graphics card, Storage, etc. But the usefulness of a CPU can never be overemphasized.
However, there are lots of high-end CPU’s and not everyone can afford to get something above-average price or expensive. But, one will love to get something really good enough to meet their gaming expectations.
We, therefore, did a review on the Top 10 Best Rated Budget CPU for Gaming 2023, as this will help you get the best budget, yet powerful CPUs or processors in the market. This review was made based on user reviews, specifications, clock speed, number of cores, etc.
Best Budget CPU for Gaming 2023
1. Intel Core i3-8100 Desktop Processor
When looking for a CPU with the best performance available, the Intel Core i3-8100 which is an eight-generation model will give you a premium performance on a budget as it is built with more speed, more cores, and better visuals than any other processor in its price range. It has great features which include;
- Hyper-Threading technology
- Speed: 3.6GHz
- Support memory up to 64GB of DDR4 RAM
- 4K Resolution support
Price:
Pros
- Lower power consumption than other CPUs in its class
- Great for games that utilize all four cores
- The processor has 6MB smart cache
Cons
- Does not support turbo boost technology
2. AMD Ryzen 3 1200 Desktop Processor
The Ryzen 3 1200 comes with both Zen architecture and AMD SenseMi technology. It offers excellent multi-core performance for Games that utilize four cores. This is a great buy if you are looking to upgrade your CPU because you won’t need to worry about future upgrades due to its Zen and SenseMi technology.
- Speed: 3.1GHz
- 4K Resolution support
- Zen architecture and AMD SenseMi technology
- Supports dual-channel memory
Price:
Pros
- Has a remarkable cooler that is not noisy
- Can boost up to 3.4GHz XFR speed
- Supports dual-channel DDR4 memory
- Operates USB 3.1 Gen 2
- It resists heating up even in games like C.O.D
Cons
- Video Quality can be improved
3. AMD Ryzen 3 2200G Processor
This is a good start for all Entry-level gamer as it saves them the cost of spending thousands of dollars to build a game rig. The processor provides smooth and fluid performance to most games that feature 1280p resolution.
- Speed: 3.1GHz
- 1280p Resolution support
- Zen architecture
- DDR4 memory control
- Northbridge functionality
- Fixed-function accelerators.
Price:
Pros
- Uses AMD SenseMi technology to accelerate its performance
- Produces 60fps in 720-pixel games
- It has a base clock of 3.5GHz-3.7GHz boost frequency
- Uses Enmotus storage technology
Cons
- Installation is quite complicated
4. AMD Ryzen 3 1300X Desktop Processor
AMD has never disappointed with gaming processors and Ryzen 3 1300X has an excellent speed performance with four cores. This processor works well with more advanced games. Asides its prowess in gaming, it is also good for graphics design and complicated 3D tasks.
- Speed: 3.7GHz
- Zen architecture
- DDR4 memory control
- Fixed-function accelerators
Price:
Pros
- The CPU achieves 60fms gameplay
- Can easily overclock without heating up
- The processor works well with cheap B-350 platforms
- Frequency can go as high as 3.9GHz on XFR
- Excellent cooler and a fan for additional cooling
Cons
- CPU does not support simultaneous multithreading
5. Intel Core i7-2600 Quad-Core Processor
The Intel Core i7-2600 is another powerful one on this list as it can serve the need of most pro gamer though few might still decide to go for high-end CPUs. This processor has the ability to play 3D games without lagging and also has the multi-functioning ability.
- Intel’s Hyper-Threading
- Quad-core 3.4GHz
- 8M Cache
- Intel HD Graphics 2000,
- 95-watt TDP
- Supports DDR4 based RAMs with up to 64GB memory support
Price:
Pros
- Turbo boost 2.0 technology
- Excellent computational performance
- Uses the latest micro-architecture with advanced video upgrades
- Streams in stunning 4k HDR visuals
Cons
- The overclocking speed cannot go beyond 3.8GHz for extreme gaming
6. Intel Core i5 8400
This 8th Generation processor is definitely good value for money as gamers, will find this quite durable and smooth to use. The intel core i5 8400 is unlocked for overclocking, but also gives you 50 percent more cores. It has interesting features such as;
- Processor speed: 4GHz
- Featuring AMD
- Cache: 3 mb/19MB (l2/l3)
Price:
Pros
- Reach clock speeds of up to 4GHz
- Six cores improve gaming performance
- It supports Intel’s Optane Memory
- 4K UHD streaming and 4K video creation
Cons
- CPU needs a new 2370 chipset
7. AMD Ryzen 5 1600
This processor is very energy efficient compared to others on the list and it can tackle high frame rates. The chip is unlocked for overclocking and it has simultaneous multi-threading technology to give you more immersive and jaw-dropping gaming experience.
- Processor speed: 4.7GHz
- 4K Ultra HD for quality streaming
- 65-watt TDP
- Supports DDR4 based RAMs with up to 64GB memory support
Price:
Pros
- 16MB combined shared cache
- Unlocked for better overclocking
- Supports high-resolution games
- 6-core configuration
- Supports XFR technology
Cons
- Needs better GPU for the best experience
8. Intel Core i3-8350K
This processor by intel is amazing because it features four physical cores without hyperthreading. Therefore, the processor can handle more tasks and produces a superior gaming experience. The product is unlocked which allows more speeds and also features Intel Optane Memory. It is better than your average gaming CPU on a budget.
- 4 Cores / 4 Threads
- Processing speed: 4.00 GHz / 8 MB Cache
- Intel Optane Memory Supported
- Intel UHD Graphics 630
Pros
- Gives more overclocking control to your platform
- Unlocked for improved gaming performance
- Hyper-Threading technology gives up to 12-way multitasking support
Cons
- Does not provide turbo speed support
9. Intel Core i7-3770
The intel core i7-3770 Quad-core supports multi-tasking and therefore can take high fps and the gaming capability is excellent. With this processor, users are treated to high clocking speeds which makes it applicable to a variety of computer needs. This is a feature studded processor.
- Clock Speed: 3.4 GHz
- Max Turbo Frequency: 3.9 GHz
- DMI: 5 GT/s
- Intel Smart Cache: 8 MB
- Graphics Base Frequency: 650 MHz
Price:
Pros
- Uses 3D tri-gate transistors
- The processor has support for PCI Express Generation 3.0
- It can run up to three independent displays with excellent audio
- More security enhancements to protect your data
Cons
- CPU is not unlocked for overclocking
10. Intel Core i5-7500
This is good for gamers who want to set up their gaming rigs and this CPU can run several programs simultaneously. The Intel Core i5-7500 is very powerful, but in the ends, it has one major disadvantage because it lacks overclocking ability and therefore might not be suitable for all games.
- Supports up to 64GB of DDR4 2400 RAM
- Quad-Core Processor
- up to 3.8 GHz Turbo Frequency
- 6 MB Cache
Price:
Pros
- Excellent computational performance
- Uses the latest micro-architecture with advanced video upgrades
- Streams in stunning 4k HDR visuals
Cons
- It cannot extend overclocking ability