What processor should I buy? What to choose with prices ranging from 500 PLN to 3000 PLN? Intel or AMD better? Processor buying guide

We often start building a computer by choosing the processor, which is the heart of the hardware platform and the main factor affecting the overall performance of the kit. However, despite the fact that desktop units are offered by only two manufacturers, the decision is not always clear. Regardless of whether we have a budget of PLN 500, PLN 1,000 or PLN 2,000, the dilemma remains the same and we have to choose the best available option. This guide will serve as a guide to the current market for AMD Ryzen and Intel Core desktop processors, suggesting the most profitable models in specific price ranges. If you're planning to change your gear soon, you've come to the right place…

Author: Sebastian Oktaba

Each platform has its own strengths and weaknesses, which are best verified by looking at different reviews and at the same time analyzing the purchasing process from a broader perspective. It is worth remembering the possibility of updating the future collection. For example, Intel chipsets usually support a maximum of two generations of processors (I ignore updates), and then another socket appears and the scenario repeats itself. In the case of Intel, there are also limitations in functionality, for example regarding processor overclocking. AMD is much less restrictive in its approach, with most processors having an unlocked multiplier, while motherboards (except the A-models) allow free overclocking. AMD also provides longer support for its sockets. However, there are a number of nuances that cannot be overlooked when discussing recommended treatments…

Although there is one budget and two goals, the choice is not always simple and clear. The processor itself is one thing, the platform is another, and only when we sum up all the pros and cons, we can choose a favorite.

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Compatibility of individual processors with specific chipsets or motherboards is a very complex issue that a potential buyer must check himself by visiting the manufacturer's website (tab: Support). There are also some general guidelines to follow when choosing the popular AM4 platform for example. For example – models with AMD A320 / B350 / X370 systems do not officially support processors of a series higher than Ryzen 3000, while AMD B550 / In the case of Intel, it is not worth paying attention to the LGA1200 platform, focusing only on the newer LGA1700, which offers a number of much newer technological solutions, including: PCI-Express 5.0 or a more efficient architecture of the processors themselves. Possible support for newer modules on older motherboards (such as H610) depends only on the BIOS version.

• Overclocking – All consumer AMD Ryzen processors (except X3D) have an open multiplier, allowing free overclocking, which is an indisputable advantage for AM4/AM5 platforms. The Intel ecosystem has models with a locked multiplexer (K/KF) and a locked multiplexer, where the former is of course more expensive and additionally requires a motherboard with a more expensive chipset (Z).
• ram – Faster modules often improve performance in places where the processor is a bottleneck. This is best seen in computer games. Therefore, it is not worth saving a lot of RAM, but choose the optimal option for the processor you buy. Intel's 12/13/14 generation models support DDR4/DDR5 standards depending on the motherboard used, while AMD Ryzen 7000 absolutely requires DDR5
• BCI Express – Support for this standard depends mainly on the processor, which must have an integrated controller, although we must also have a motherboard with appropriate slots. Popular processors that support PCI-Express 4.0 are currently AMD Ryzen 3000 (non-3000G), AMD Ryzen 5000, and Intel Core 12/13/14 Gen. PCI-Express 5.0 standard is only available on Intel Core 12/13/14 and AMD Ryzen 7000 generation processors.
• Integrated graphics chip – If you have low requirements, an iGPU may be enough for typical work and multimedia. AMD Ryzen processors (except G and Ryzen 7000 versions) do not have an iGPU, while Intel offers two types of processors, including models with integrated graphics and without this element (F/KF).

This guide has been divided into price categories that include at least two competitive offers within the assumed budget. If there is an interesting alternative to the first choice processors, it is indicated in the very important box titled: Alternative. Almost all models or their close cousins ​​have been tested in PurePC, so the list also includes direct links to articles about specific CPUs. Also pay attention to the processor equipment – the top models aimed at enthusiasts do not have a factory cooling system, even in BOX versions, so the cooler will have to be purchased separately. On the one hand, it is an additional cost, although it is often necessary in the case of more powerful units, because even if we get a box cooling system, its efficiency and work culture will leave much to be desired.