Processors under $250

3 processors under $250 from Intel and AMD. Prices run $229 to $245.

IntelSpec score 8.1

8 Cores, LGA1151, 95W, Intel

+8 cores and 8 threads for multitasking

+Boost clock of 4.0 to 4.9 GHz

+Includes integrated graphics

−Higher 95W thermal design power than the F model

−Socket LGA1151 limits upgrades to older boards

$229.00-12%Was: ~~$259.00~~

as of 11/04/2026 16:08 PST - Details

IntelSpec score 7.9

6 Cores, LGA1151, 95W, Intel

+6 cores for everyday desktop computing

+Boost clock of 4.0 to 4.9 GHz

+Unlocked for manual overclocking

−No integrated graphics, so a discrete graphics card is required

$240.70

as of 11/04/2026 16:08 PST - Details

IntelSpec score 8.2

6 Cores, LGA1151, 95W, Intel

+6 cores with 12 threads for multitasking

+Boost clock of 4.0 to 4.9 GHz

+Integrated graphics included

$245.83

as of 11/04/2026 16:08 PST - Details

Compare specs

Cores	Socket	Maker	Processor line	Spec score	Price
8	LGA1151	Intel	Core i7	8.1	$229.00 as of 11/04/2026 16:08 PST - Details
6	LGA1151	Intel	Core i5	7.9	$240.70 as of 11/04/2026 16:08 PST - Details
6	LGA1151	Intel	Core i5	8.2	$245.83 as of 11/04/2026 16:08 PST - Details

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