Best Desktop CPUs

AMD Performance - FX-8150

After what seemed like an eternity, AMD has finally released the first of its new Bulldozer processors. As with their past models, AMD has really stuck with the more processors is better approach. The new FX-8150 features eight processor cores which is two more than their previous desktop Phenom II X6 models. It also features a faster 3.6GHz processing speed which should help it out. Unfortunately, the performance gains are actually quite minimal and only best suited for the extreme applications that can take advantage of so many cores. In fact, most gamers would probably benefit more from the value series model. Still, if you are heavily into crunching numbers or serious video work, then this processor might help you for a price under $300. The best part, it uses the same Socket AM3+ motherboards as the past Phenom models.

Intel Performance - Core i7-3930K

Technically, the new Intel Core i7-3960X is the fastest processor from Intel for a desktop PC, but the $1100 price tag compared to the i7-3930K at $600 for just 100MHz speed difference just doesn't make sense. Both of these chips use the new Socket X79 platform that is Intel's latest performance chipset. This gives some tangible benefits to the new Sandy Bridge-E processor with the inclusion of quad channel memory for some incredible memory bandwidth. The i7-3930K also features a hexa or six core design unlike the more common quad core designs of the traditional Sandy Bridge. This helps it achieve better performance for those with extremely demanding computing needs. Unlike the other Sandy Bridge models, there is no integrated graphics built into the chip requiring a dedicated graphics card. It should also be noted that this processor runs quite hot and does not come with a supplied cooling solution. It is advised to use a high performance option to ensure a properly running system.

AMD Value - A8-3870K

AMD seems to be backing away from the Phenom architecture in favor of the newer APU designs that integrated the CPU and the GPU. While past models have had limited performance gains from being clock locked particularly in the GPU segment, the new K series of APUs opens a greatly level of flexibility for those willing to overclock for some extra performance. The highest of the models is the new A8-3870K that is a quad core processor design with a 3.0 GHz clock speed. The graphics component is a fairly robust Radeon HD 6550G that provides sufficient performance for some PC gaming at lower resolution and detail levels which Intel certainly can't provide. The processor does require an FM1 chipset and isn't compatible with the venerable AM socket. Pricing is very reasonable though around $150.

Intel Value - Core i5-2550K

The much anticipated Ivy Bridge seems to be delayed yet again leaving Intel with its still popular Sandy Bridge for the majority of its systems. Rather than relying on existing stock, Intel has made a small speed bump in their i5 lineup to the new i5-2550K to fill the gap. This is essentially the same as the past i5-2500k but bumped up from the 3.3 GHz speed to 3.4 GHz. It uses the LGA 1155 socket design and comes with the new Intel HD Graphics 3000 on-processor graphics. It features quad cores with 6MB of cache and best of all is fully clock unlocked. Even without overlocking, this processor can top the older i7 generations in many tasks. Pair this processor up with a P67 or Z68 based motherboard and this processor can easily overclock a full gigahertz over the base speed with little effort. With so much performance, there is almost no reason to spend more unless you need Hyper-Threading support.

AMD Budget - A6-3500

AMD has made a huge push for their Fusion APU processors. This is a melding of their central processor along with AMD's Radeon graphics core. This offers a very affordable entry for desktop computers with better than average integrated graphics. The A6-3500 is a triple core processor that adds an extra core to help improve performance over a traditional dual core processor when it comes to multitasking and demanding tasks like digital video which tend to be multithreaded. The graphics are the Radeon HD 6530D that can handle Direct X 11 graphics and casual PC gaming. The one downside is that it uses the newer FM1 socket design so it doesn't work well as an upgrade from the previous Phenom/Athlon motherboards.

Intel Budget - Pentium G860

Intel's primary socket design right now is the LGA 1155 used with the Sandy Bridge based Core i processors. The only problem here is that even the most affordable Core i3 processor is over $100. To resolve this problem, Intel has introduced a new series of Pentium G processors to offer the most affordable processors. These processors are based on the Sandy Bridge with its Intel HD Graphics 2000. It is a dual core design with a 3.0 GHz clock speed. It does not feature Hyper-Threading and has a limited 3MB of cache but the efficiency of the new core gives it a good boost over the past Pentium G6950/G6951 for best Intel budget processor.