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It is important that your CPU is up to the task if you want to get the most out of your desktop PC or laptop.
In spite of the durability of CPUs, PC technology is constantly evolving. When paired with compatible modern hardware, newer gaming CPUs provide faster clock speeds, larger caches, and more threads.
You should choose a gaming processor based on what you want to get out of your PC and how you plan to use it.
Choosing the right system is the first step.
What You Need in a High Performing CPU
Consider your PC’s intended use before choosing the best CPU. If you prefer a desktop experience, are you looking for portability?
Take a moment to think about your plan for using the new system. While we will assume in this article you are using your PC for gaming, tasks like streaming, video editing, and even professional applications can have an impact on the hardware you purchase.
As we discuss CPU terms including core count and clock speed, keep these considerations in mind.
CPU Core Count
CPUs with multiple cores are common in modern gaming systems. The CPU can process multiple instructions simultaneously with the help of these cores.
The task of encoding video or using complex programs for high-level content creation is one example of CPU-intensive tasks beyond gaming that make multiple cores increasingly important.
CPU Clock Speed
When a CPU clocks up, it is executing a certain number of cycles per second also called frequency or clock rate. If you are choosing a CPU, it is a basic, but a fundamental factor to consider. The clock speed of modern CPUs is measured in gigahertz (GHz). The following article explains how clock speed and CPU cycles can potentially affect your gameplay experience.
Overclocking
If you plan to overclock your CPU, that is another factor to take into account when choosing one.
A stable overclock can also be achieved by overclocking, and tools like Intel Performance Maximizer can help you do this.
Integrated Graphics
As a result of their integrated graphics, Intel CPUs can display graphics on screen without a discrete GPU. When troubleshooting a dedicated GPU, integrated graphics can be useful.
You can also benefit from integrated graphics if you edit or stream video. In the Intel Quick Sync Video feature, video clips are encoded and decoded quickly, thus freeing up potential system resources which can be used elsewhere.
Intel CoreTM i7-10700KF is the only CoreTM processor without integrated graphics, along with all other CoreTM CPUs without an F designation. Unless otherwise stated, these are meant for people planning to use a discrete graphics card in their system.
Specification
If you play games on your laptop, you might be surprised to learn that many laptops are capable of desktop-like performance. Modern laptops are built to handle demanding gaming workloads, even if you prioritize performance over everything else.
The Intel CoreTM i7-10750H is specifically designed to maximize battery life for portable PCs. These processors are specially sized to reduce power consumption and improve battery life.
Check the Benchmarks
These principles should help you to choose a CPU, but there are very likely to be some particular CPU models that meet your needs within your budget.
Looking for benchmarks that mirror how you are planning to use your PC is an excellent way to help narrow things down further. If you are interested in a specific gaming CPU, search for the specific game you will be playing and check out performance metrics like FPS, so you can find one that meets your expectations and meets your needs. While the CPU is not the most important piece of hardware, other components, such as the GPU and RAM, should be taken into account.
To learn more about CPU benchmarking, check out the guides on how to understand and apply thermal paste on your own new CPU.
