You need the best 1150 CPU for gaming to keep your PC in top shape while you are playing your favorite games. Finding the right one is not easy, but don't worry because we have tested and shortlisted some of the best 1150 CPUs today.
Quick Summary: Our Top 5 Picks
Product | Features | Benefits | Header |
|---|---|---|---|
3600 to 4000 MHz clock rate; 4/8 cores/thread, 84W maximum power consumption; 64 GB physical memory; Intel HD Graphics 4600 | compatible with LGA 1150 socket; Quick Sync Video allows for fast conversion of videos; can handle most games without being overwhelmed | ||
8/8 cores/threads; Intel UHD Graphics 630; supports Intel Optane Memory; 3.6 GHz clock speed; 64 GB maximum memory support | perfect for multitasking due to its 8 cores; can be overclocked;comes with Intel graphics | ||
3300 to 3700 MHz clock rate; 4/8 cores/thread, 80W maximum power consumption; 64GB physical memory | supports 3.9 GHz Turbo Boost frequency and 64 GB dual-channel memory; comes with virtualization support | ||
3500 to 3900 MHz clock rate; 4/8 cores/thread; 32GB physical memory; 88W maximum power consumption; Intel HD Graphics 4600 | excellentpower efficiency; scalable;supports high-speed devices | ||
3600 to 4000 MHz clock rate; 84W maximum power consumption; Intel HD Graphics 4600 | affordable; comes with integrated graphics that can deal with low settings gaming |
Top-rated LGA 1150 CPU for Gaming in 2021
We picked the CPUs on this list based on several factors, including performance, customer service, market share, and reliability. These processors are some of the most innovative options today.
1. Intel Core i7-4790K
Best LGA 1150 CPU for Gaming
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The Intel Core i7-4790K is equipped with a hyper-threading function, which allows the 4 cores to be divided into 8 cores. This helps boost the CPU's performance and multi-tasking capability. It also improves the chipset's performance when it comes to multi-threaded applications like video editing and music production.
The i7-4790K uses Intel HD Graphics 4600 and comes with 8MB of L3 cache and 4 to 4.4GHz clock speed. Since it is unlocked, you can overclock it anytime. The CPU uses 22nm processes, so it has better temperatures compared to the Ivy Bridge series. It runs a bit hotter than its predecessors because it uses more power.
The Intel Core i7-4790K works with Socket LGA1150 motherboards as well as Z97 and Z87 motherboards. A firmware update is necessary in order to run it properly. You can also play older 3D games as long as you can handle the resolution and graphics quality.
Pros
Cons
Conclusion
The Intel Core i7-4790K is Intel's first all-core processor for 4GHz. It also supports up to 32 GB RAM. Although it runs a bit hotter than its predecessors, it has more overclocking capability. Just use a good cooling solution, and everything will be fine.
2. Intel Core i7-9700K
Good Option for Hardcore Gaming
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The Intel Core i7-9700K is perfect for those who love playing AAA games. The 8-core chipoffers superb single-core performance thanks to its highly efficient architecture. Its base clock frequency is 3.6GHz, but it can be boosted to 4.9GHz. The Intel Core i7-9700K is built on a 14nm production process. Since it doesn't have hyper-threading, the chip can handle 8 instructions simultaneously.
The i7-9700K has 95W TDP and 16 PCI Express lanes, so it can handle both add-in cards and GPU. It works with Z390 motherboards and other older generation chipsets such as B365, Z370, H310, Q370, B360, and H370. The chip has 12MB total cache and comes with 128GB DDR4-2666 memory and Intel UHD Graphics 630.
The LGA 1150 processor can be overclocked as well. Just remember that overclocking cancels the warranty, so you shouldn't do it unless you really know what you are doing. Since the Core i7-9700K doesn't have a stock fan cooler, you may want to consider installing a liquid cooler to prevent it from overheating. The Intel Core i7-9700K comes with Extreme Tuning Utility, which you can use to test, monitor, and overclock your system.
Related: Best Motherboard for I7 9700k
Pros
Cons
Conclusion
The Intel Core i7-9700K is also perfect for amateur video editors because it can handle multiple tasks at once. For instance, you can play games while streaming or edit several videos simultaneously. There's no need to buy a video card because the socket 1150 CPU comes with an integrated video chip.
3. Intel Xeon E3-1230
Best for Content Creation
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The Intel Xeon E3-1230 is a quad-core processor for 1150 socket with 4additionalPCle 3.0 lanes and ECC memory support. Also known as Sandy Bridge, the Intel Xeon E3-1230 has amazing fast memory and CPU horsepower. The chip's clock speed range is between 3.2 and 3.6GHz.
The Xeon E3-1230 consumes less power than the Haswell generation processors. It is perfect for server setups because it supports high-speed devices without any problem. The Xeon E3-1230 is built on the 14nm+ process and supports 64GB of dual-channel memory. It has 8 threads and 4 cores, so it can run popular games, including Apex Legends, Rainbow Six Siege, GTA V,Overwatch, League of Legends, and Fortnite.
Pros
Cons
Conclusion
The Xeon E3-1230 has less idle power consumption compared to other existing chips. It can deal with loads that are shared among the cores efficiently. The CPU is particularly beneficial to those who want to create content because of these features.
4. Intel Core i5-4690K
Excellent Mid-Range CPU for Gaming
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The Intel Core i5-4690Kfeatures 8 threads and 4 cores and a clock speed range between 3.5 and3.9GHz. It can be overclocked since it is unlocked. The 1150 socket CPU is equipped with several capacitors to improve power delivery and consumption. It also comes with an HD 4600 engine, so it can support popular games and allow users to perform a wide range of tasks like video encoding.
The i5-4690K's 88WTDP is also higher than the 4670K's 84WTDP. It is perfect for those who need a CPU with high gaming and multitasking performance. The i5-4690K is the go-to option for heavy users who want to do their tasks effectively and efficiently.
The processor has 1MB of L2 cache,1.5 MB of L3 cache and 256 KB of L1 cache. It also offers VT-d and TSX-NI support. The i5-4690K is equipped with Intel HD Graphics 4600 and LGA1150 socket, so it works with 8 and 9 series motherboards. The processor also offers hardware-assisted virtualization support, improved Intel 64 Technology, Intel TSX-NI,and Anti-Theft Technology.
Pros
Cons
Conclusion
The Intel Core i5-4690K is a good option for those with a limited budget. It is reliable and can be overclocked, so it can perform at higher clock speeds. The Intel processor LGA 1150 also features high quality air coolers and a liquid cooler.
5. Intel Core i5-4570
Best for Light/Medium Gaming
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The Intel Core i5-4570 is ideal for those who need a moderately powerful device, but have a limited budget. It provides most of what the more expensive Intel Core i7 offers. If you want to edit photos in Photoshop or edit videos, you should consider getting thei5-4570.It has 4 threads and 4 cores. The CPU can also support up to 32GB DDR3 RAM.
It lacks hyper-threading support, so you can't overclock it. The i5-4570 consumes the same power (85W) as the more expensive chips. It is equipped with Intel HD Graphics 4600, so it can support modern gamesPros
Cons
Conclusion
The Intel Core i5-4570 is a great option for those who want to do their tasks efficiently. Although it doesn't have hyper-threading, it can still be a good option for gaming. The i5-4570 is perfect for medium and light gaming as well as moderate tasks.
LGA 1150 CPU for Gaming Buyer's Guide
LGA 1150 CPUs have high processing speeds, allowing them to process tasks faster and reduce waiting time intervals. The CPU offers greater multitasking ability, allowing you to do several tasks at once. However, not all LGA 1150 CPUs are the same. That is why you should be careful when buying a CPU for an 1150 socket.
Here are some of the most important factors that you should consider when looking for the best socket 1150 CPU.
Casual Gaming
A quad-core CPU is ideal for those who love playing games once in a while. A casual gaming setup doesn't require the latest hardware. It doesn't have to be extremely fast as well. For the high-end build, look for a 6-core, 12-thread CPU with a clock speed of 3.0 GHz or even higher. If you're on a budget, find 4-core, 4-thread CPU with a clock speed of 2.5 GHz. A CPU with 4 cores, 8 threads,and a clock speed of 3.0 GHz is enough for a mid-range build.
Hardcore Gaming
If you're a hardcore gamer, you should look for a CPU with high FPS numbers. Many games today require a quad-core CPU or higher. Speed is important for hardcore gamers. If you want to set up a high-end gaming rig, look for a 6-core, 12-thread CPU with a clock speed of 4.0 GHz or even higher.
For a mid-range build, find a 4-core, 8-thread CPU with a clock speed of 3.5GHz. If you want to create a budget build gaming rig, look for a CPU with 2 cores, 4 threads as well as the clock speed of 3.0 GHz.
Content Creation
A computer that is capable of streaming, content creation, and gaming needs a lot of computing power. You need a CPU with a high thread and core count, as well as fast speeds. If you want to set up
Streaming
Twitch and YouTube are popular channels where you can share gaming content. If you want to stream your content, you need to get a CPU with more threads and cores than the usual hardcore gaming build.
Find a CPU with 8 cores, 16 threads, and a clock speed of 4.0 GHz in order to build a high-end computer for streaming and gaming. If you have a limited budget, go for a 5-core, 8-thread CPU with a clock speed of 3.0 GHz. A mid-range build requires a CPU with 6 cores, 12 threads, and a clock speed of 3.5 GHz. With a higher thread and core count, your computer can handle multitasking activities more efficiently. It can record your games and everything you are doing without lag.
Clock Speed
Clock speed or frequency shows how many clock cycles the CPU will do per second. The clock speed of modern-day CPUs is measured in gigahertz. Look for a CPU with the highest clock speed possible. You also need to make sure that you have the threads and cores necessary for your workload.
Socket Type
The socket connects the CPU and the motherboard. You should know what kind of socket you have, especially if you're considering an upgrade. That is because the CPU socket doesn't work with the motherboard of a different socket. For example, an LGA 1150 socket is not compatible with the motherboard of LGA 1155 sockets.
Thermal Design Power
Thermal design power pertains to the amount of heat produced by the CPU. Just keep in mind that no device is 100% efficient, so its power output and power draw won't be the same. The consumed power of a device is usually higher than its thermal design power.
Core and Thread Count
CPUs with a higher number of cores have greater multitasking capabilities. The core works like a microprocessor that allows the CPU to multitask and run efficiently. The thread pertains to the commands that the core works on. Each app or program has at least one thread. A hyper-threaded CPU can have up to 2 threads per core. Most games need only 2 or 4 cores. If you're going to use CPU-heavy applications, you should find a CPU with a higher core and thread count.
Architecture and Lithography
The CPU's architecture pertains to the system transistor's layout, technology, and design.
Overclocking
Overclocking can improve clock speed. Sending more voltage to the GPU or CPU improves increase and reduces response times within apps. Overclocking, however, should be done properly. Sending more voltage gradually damages the GPU or CPU. If your CPU overheats, your computer might crash. You have to replace the CPU eventually. This component is expensive, and it's also hard to find a CPU that works with older motherboards.
Cache Size and Level
The cache works like a bridge between the RAM and the CPU. It helps expedite the execution of a program.
Processor Family
If you see a "K" in the name of the processor, it means that the CPU can be overclocked. With the right hardware, you can enjoy faster clock speeds and improved gaming performance. If you want to use an unlocked processor, make sure that your motherboard supports overclocking, and you have a good cooling solution.
Integrated Graphics
CPUs with integrated graphics are capable of displaying graphics without a separate GPU. It's particularly beneficial if you stream or edit videos or troubleshoot issues with a dedicated GPU. If you're going to use a dedicated GPU, look for a CPU with an "F" in its name. CPUs with the "F"label are not equipped with integrated graphics.
If you're going to use a gaming laptop, look for CPUs with an "H." CPUs with this designation as designed specifically for gaming laptops or portable PCs. The best LGA 1150 CPU can process data within a short period of time. This can help you save a lot of time and energy because the apps or programs will open immediately.
Final Words – Wrapping It Up
Choosing the best LGA 1150 CPU for gaming can be a challenging experience, but it's also fun and extremely rewarding. Our LGA1150 CPU list consists of affordable and reliable CPUs for gaming. The best one ultimately depends on your needs and budget. Consider what you really need, and you will certainly pick the right LGA1150 CPU for you.
Sources:
https://www.intel.com/content/www/us/en/gaming/resources/gaming-cpu.html
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