Processors under $500

2 processors under $500 from Intel and AMD. Prices run $405 to $479.

IntelSpec score 8.8

16 Cores, Intel, Core i7, Yes

+16 cores with 24 threads

+Integrated graphics included

+Unlocked for manual overclocking

$479.99

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

AMDSpec score 9.1

16 Cores, AM4, AMD, Ryzen 9

+16 cores and 32 threads for heavy workloads

+Unlocked for manual overclocking

+AM4 socket uses an older platform

−AM4 socket is an older platform

$404.95

as of 11/04/2026 12:07 PST - Details

Compare specs

processor	Cores	Socket	TDP	Maker	Processor line	Spec score	Price
	16			Intel	Core i7	8.8	$479.99 as of 11/04/2026 16:08 PST - Details
	16	AM4		AMD	Ryzen 9	9.1	$404.95 as of 11/04/2026 12:07 PST - Details

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