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How to Choose the Best Processor for your Gaming PC or Laptop – 2024 Guide

If you play games and spend most of your time playing 4k games like mass effect: Andromeda or Neon chrome. Then you must be aware that playing on PC pushes the level of graphics quality more than any gaming console.

If you want to play 4k games that run smoothly on your computer and can support virtual reality (VR) then you must buy a processor that helps support all that. This blog will help you go through several steps on how to choose a process and what to consider before buying that processor.

First, let’s discuss what a processor is? A central processing unit is a computer’s brain. It processes the inflow and outflow of information and sends signals to the other components in your system.

You need a processing system that won’t drain your device battery or won’t hang in the middle of the processes. It means that you need a strong processor that can process all your graphic and other data without any glitch.

So the question is; what is the best processor for a gaming laptop, you can read the answer in thenewsandviews.com. There are only to major processor makers: Intel and AMD. Both of them make processor for a variety of machines including office PCs and for gaming computers as well.

  1. Intel vs. AMD

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AMD processors are relatively less expensive than Intel, while Intel offers a better core performance and efficiency.

Hence, most gamers rate Intel as a better gaming experience than AMD. However, practically speaking AMD processors and Intel processors don’t have much difference when it comes to gaming, the difference is pretty narrow.

Both AMD and Intel processors have expensive and powerful desktop chips that would result in a great gaming experience and productivity. In the end, your decision comes down to other factors as well, for example, the type of games wills you are playing on your PC, the budget you have, ranked, and performance.

  1. Budget

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A factor to consider before buying a processor is the budget you can afford. Processors lie from low-end ranges to high-end lower-end processors does not mean a poor gaming experience or a poor performance.

You can find many powerful options with lower prices of both intel and AMD processors. For instance, in the intel’s lineup, Core i5 10600KF is an affordable option for gamers. It costs around $287 and has 6 cores with 12 threads. Plus, it has a 12MB of cache memory.

All these features are great for a good gaming experience. An option in AMD’s lineup could be AMD Ryzen 3 3300X. it will cost you from around $100-$130 and has 4 cores and 8 threads.

Some high-end processors in the market right now are:

  • AMD Ryzen Threadripper 3990X ($3,599.99)
  • AMD EPYC 7702 ($6,040.00)
  • AMD EPYC 7742 ($7,399.00)
  • AMD EPYC 7702P ($4,895.95)
  1. Overclocking

Overclocking is increasing the computer’s speed beyond the manufacturer’s specifications to increase the computer’s performance. There a few ways to do it, one of them is through the BIOS setup by changing the clock’s FSB.

So, when you’re looking to buy a processor does check if it can overclock. However, clocking isn’t necessarily for the majority of the users unless their work requires heavy graphic designing or 3D modeling. They might reconsider buying an unlocked processor. It is to note that locked CPUs are relatively less expensive the unlocked CPUs.

The last tip, if you’re looking to only buy a CPU rather than building a computer, make sure the CPU is compatible with the motherboard. And not pair a strong CPU with weak storage.

  1. The right socket

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As discussed earlier, it is highly important to get a CPU that not only is paired with good storage but has a compatible motherboard. The motherboard not only helps accommodate the CPU but works as a connector for input and output devices of the computer. And to understand what CPU socket is intended to work.

When you go to buy your CPU to match with your motherboard, make sure it has a correct CPU socket. The CPU socket is the socket on the motherboard that the CPU gets plugged into.

You can find your CPU socket in a few ways. One way is by opening your gaming laptop the other is without opening it. In the former, turn off your PC, remove the cover and locate the CPU. There will be a socket type written underneath the motherboard’s socket.

In the latter case, go to the control panel, click “systems” and type in the model of your computer’s processor. And search for your processor in the CPU database. This will help you determine what socket you use and the need for up-gradation.

So, to remember that Intel CPU cannot fit into AMD based sockets. Also, both lineups whenever they come with new processors, they come with their CPU sockets. Hence, not compatible with their older versions so do keep this point in mind.

  1. CPU Coolers

Another important factor to keep in mind when buying a processor is to get a cooling fan along with it. If you’re overclocking your processor that means its working harder and putting in more force to run faster and take the load.

This eventually means that it’s consuming more energy and power, which will heat the system. Hence, if your computer is getting overclocked make sure to have a great cooling system that will lower your CPUs temperature and keep it at a moderate range.

However, if you’re not overclocking your computer it isn’t necessary to get a specific cooling system you can stick with the stock cooler.

So, if you’re considering buying a third-party CPU cooler. Do check that it’s compatible with your motherboard. Since some have brackets that are not compatible with most modern motherboards.

About Suzan Vega