Best Pick

Intel Core Ultra 7 270K Plus 24-core LGA1851

84 Servers Score
24C/24T5.5GHz36MB L3LGA1851125W
Why we recommend this

The 24-core Arrow Lake Refresh architecture on a 3nm process delivers a 64,360 PassMark multi-core score, making it a standout for heavily threaded workloads. Its unlocked multiplier and support for PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 memory on the new LGA1851 socket provide a strong foundation for future upgrades. This processor is best for AI/LLM developers and productivity users who need high parallel processing power but don't prioritize top-tier gaming frame rates.

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Great Alternatives

These options also score highly and may better suit your specific needs

AMD 100-000001015

73.3 Servers Score
6C/12T5.1GHz32MB L3AM465W
Why we recommend this ▼

The 5nm Ryzen 5 7600 delivers 6 cores and 12 threads with a 5.1GHz boost, plus a Radeon iGPU and PCIe 5.0 support, all within a 65W TDP. Its unlocked multiplier and DDR5/ECC memory support make it a flexible choice for budget builders, though the tray version lacks a cooler and retail packaging. Best for gamers and productivity users on a budget who want modern platform features without paying for a high-end chip.

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Intel Core i9 14900KS 24-core Intel Socket 1700

81.2 Servers Score
24C/32T6.2GHz36MB L3LGA 1700150W
Why we recommend this ▼

A 5.9GHz boost clock across 24 cores and Thermal Velocity Boost deliver the highest single-threaded speed available on the LGA 1700 socket for latency-sensitive tasks. Its unlocked multiplier and support for both DDR4 and DDR5 memory offer flexible overclocking headroom without forcing a full platform rebuild. This processor is best for extreme overclockers and single-threaded application users who prioritize peak frequency over multi-core efficiency.

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Intel Core i7 14700 20-core LGA1700

79.7 Servers Score
20C/28T5.4GHz33MB L3LGA 170065W
Why we recommend this ▼

The 20-core hybrid architecture with 8 P-cores and 12 E-cores delivers a 40,845 PassMark multi-threaded score, making it a standout for heavy productivity at a 65W base power. Its generous 33MB of L3 cache and support for both DDR5 and DDR4 memory provide flexible platform compatibility and strong data throughput. This processor is best for content creators and workstation users who prioritize rendering and multitasking efficiency over peak gaming frame rates.

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Intel BX80768235

79.1 Servers Score
14C/14T5.0GHz24MB L3LGA185165W
Why we recommend this ▼

The 14-core Arrow Lake chip (6P+8E) hits 5.0 GHz boost with 24MB L3 cache, and its 65W TDP keeps power draw low for a desktop CPU. It includes integrated Intel Graphics and a 3.5 TOPS NPU, plus PCIe 5.0 support, making it a solid all-rounder for productivity and light gaming. Best for budget-conscious builders who want a modern LGA1851 processor for everyday tasks and office work without a dedicated GPU.

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Intel Core i5 13600K 14-core LGA1700

77.3 Servers Score
14C/20T5.1GHz24MB L3LGA 1700125W
Why we recommend this ▼

The hybrid 14-core architecture with 6 P-cores boosting to 5.1GHz delivers a PassMark multi-core score of 37,580, rivaling previous-generation high-end chips for productivity. Its unlocked multiplier and PCIe 5.0 support provide a clear upgrade path and overclocking flexibility on existing LGA1700 motherboards. This processor is best for budget-conscious gamers and streamers who need high frame rates and strong multi-tasking without stepping up to a Core i7.

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Intel CD8067303405500

71.7 Servers Score
18C/36T3.7GHz24.75MB L3LGA 3647140W
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