CPU for Gaming

3 CPU for gaming from Intel and AMD. Price: $898.

Desktop processors whose title names a Ryzen 3, 5, 7 or 9, a Core i3, i5, i7 or i9, or a Core Ultra line. Threadripper, Celeron, Pentium and Athlon chips are left out.

We do not pick by hand: a processor is here because its listed specs pass the checks.

Intel

18 Cores, LGA1851, 125W, Intel

+18 cores with 6 performance and 12 efficiency cores

+Boost clock up to 5.3 GHz

+Uses the newer LGA1851 socket

−125 W TDP requires capable cooling

No current price. Check it at the store.

IntelSpec score 9.2

18 Cores, LGA2066, 165W, Intel

+18 cores and 36 threads for heavily multithreaded workloads

+Unlocked for overclocking

+Boost clock of 4.0 to 4.9 GHz

−165W TDP needs robust cooling

−No integrated graphics, so a discrete GPU is required

$898.00

as of 11/04/2026 16:09 PST - Details

IntelSpec score 9.2

18 Cores, 165W, Intel, Core i9

+18 cores and 36 threads for heavy multithreaded workloads

+Overclocking speed listed at 4.60 GHz

+24.75 MB cache

−165 W TDP requires substantial cooling

−14 nm process is older than current Intel desktop chips

No price recorded yet.

Compare specs

Cores	Socket	Maker	Processor line	Spec score	Price
18	LGA1851	Intel	Core Ultra 5	n/a	No current price
18	LGA2066	Intel	Core i9	9.2	$898.00 as of 11/04/2026 16:09 PST - Details
18		Intel	Core i9	9.2	No current price

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Spec scores, pros and cons, and prices are explained in the How it works section of the About page.

CPU for Gaming

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