Processors under $250

2 processors under $250 from Intel and AMD. Prices run $194 to $240.

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

Intel

LGA1151, Intel, Core i5, No

+6 cores and 6 threads for everyday desktop tasks

+Boost clock of 4.0 to 4.9 GHz

+65W TDP for a moderate power envelope

−No integrated graphics means a discrete graphics card is needed

$194.03

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

Compare specs

processor	Cores	Socket	Maker	Processor line	Spec score	Price
	6	LGA1151	Intel	Core i5	7.9	$240.70 as of 11/04/2026 16:08 PST - Details
		LGA1151	Intel	Core i5	n/a	$194.03 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.