The CPU is the “brain” of the computer. It performs all calculations, fetches and stores data to/from RAM (Random Access Memory), decodes and executes program instructions, etc. The power of a processor can be measured in megahertz (MHz) or gigahertz (GHz). The gigahertz (GHz) unit describes the number of operations per second that a processor can perform. The number of megahertz (MHz) refers to the speed at which the processor operates.
Depending on what the base model of your PC requires, it could be difficult to find an affordable option. Luckily, there are plenty of CPUs that will meet most needs at a reasonable price. These processors have a wide range of cores and frequencies and can run applications with ease.
Best Cheap CPUs 2025
1. AMD Ryzen 5 3400G – Best Performing CPU
The Ryzen 5 3400G processor is the latest upgrade designed for the highest multiprocessing performance. It is part of AMD’s new third-generation Ryzen CPU family and comes with the Radeon RX Vega 11 graphics card, which ensures that this processor gets the most out of itself.
This processor’s high performance and smooth operation are designed for both gamers and streamers. Applications such as web browsers, web servers, and games can be rendered, and content produced seamlessly in no time.
It is an excellent choice for entry-level users who are looking for new CPUs without needing a graphics card for additional features.
This is a four-core processor with an 11-unit GPU. This processor is designed to handle 2 threads per core. Each core can work at up to 7GHZ, which is quite fast. This processor has a lot of power and speed, making it great for gaming. The built-in Vega GPU boosts performance up to 4G HRX and has a 6MB cache, a considerable amount of data storage. This process is manufactured with a 12nm production microarchitecture.
The Wraith Spire cooling system is an attractive feature of the processor. This cooling system ensures the stable performance of the processor, which runs at up to 2933 MHz. The Ryzen 5 2600 is powerful and features 2 channels and DDR4 pins. It is considered an upgrade from its predecessor.
2. AMD Ryzen 5 1500X
The 1500x is a quad-core CPU with the SMT as mentioned above. This provides an entire eight threads to boost performance per core. The R5 and R7 processors under their respective heat spreaders are also octa-core crisps. Compared to Intel’s i5 parts, this was all true until it was realized that multiple SMTs segments the processor, resulting in fewer individual processing units that inhibit performance and cannot compete with Intel’s other unlocked CPUs.
To produce their first-generation Ryzen crisps, they used an entire eight processing blocks, known as CCXs, which make up the whole 16-core design. There is a small six-core design for each CPU complex that runs with fewer L3 memory channels and a scaled-down four-core design with no HT or L3 cache life.
The 1500X has the 65W X series CPU, which remains the first in this segment. The AMD Zen architecture is what powers the quad-core and octa threaded 1500X. It runs on a base clock frequency of 5 GHz with 65 W of TDP and has a boost of 3.7 GHz. It offers a RAM size of around 4 GB.
3. Intel Core i5-9400F
This is one of the best and most affordable CPUs from Intel. The i5-9400F models are based on Broadwell architecture. It is designed for high performance and multitasking. These processors are ideal for laptops, mini PCs, and tablets that need powerful performance but can’t spend too much money for it, especially when compared to the Core i7 models.
The model comes with a 2.9 GHz base clock speed, and it can go up to 4.10 GHz in Turbo mode and has a 9M cache memory. It is the latest flagship chip from Intel’s range of U-series processors, packed with some advanced features and design. The CPU also features the AVX-512 technology that can compress video files without other software, improving the overall performance and providing another level of stability.
4. AMD Ryzen 5 3600
If you have to buy the Ryzen 5 CPU for gaming, it is a great choice. It is based on the latest X-Series architecture, which means it has higher frequencies and better performance than previous models. The Ryzen 5 comes at a competitive price and can be bought at a low cost making it the best budget CPU.
This processor has a 3.6 GHz base clock speed and can go up to 3.8 GHz in Turbo mode, making it the perfect choice for all gamers who want to play games without breaking their budgets. It also offers 35 MB cache memory, which takes care of high-level data calculation processes such as software for gaming or multimedia applications, etc. It also comes with the Heatsink Fan, keeping the processor cool and stable during heavy load and prolonged usage.
5. Intel Core i7-7820X
The i7-7820X is very much a competitor for AMD’s eight-core Threadripper chips. It does not feature an unlocked multiplier, but it has four Hyperthreaded cores, which means you have access to 16 threads of processing power at your fingertips. The i7-7820X is a great processor for video editors, 3D designers, and anyone who needs many lines for demanding applications. This is a very popular CPU for those who want to handle 4K video editing along with other multitasking tasks. It works well with PC games, although it’s not great for single- and multi-threaded coding applications.
It has a base clock speed of 4.30 GHz and can go up to an impressive 4.50 GHz, which means you can squeeze more from this cheaper processor than the Intel i7. It also comes with 11MB L3 cache memory. This is an excellent choice for professionals and gamers alike as it offers high performance at a competitive price.
6. Intel Core i7-8700K
The Intel i7 is the best budget CPU for gaming in the mainstream segment. It features 6 cores that operate at 3.7 GHz, making it an attractive choice for many gamers. It also has 12 threads resulting from hyperthreading technology, which allows you to run more applications and games smoothly simultaneously. The base frequency of 3.70 GHz is boosted up to 4.70 GHz in Turbo mode.
These processors work great with the latest gaming titles and even multi-core threaded applications. It also comes with an LGA 1151 socket and has a base frequency of 3.70 GHz. It has an Intel Core i7 Core microarchitecture and features a 12 MB Intel® Smart Cache memory with 12 threads processing power at its disposal.
7. AMD Ryzen 7 1800X – Best Gaming CPU
The Ryzen 7 family is all about a high-performance percent at maximum core clock speed, and that is the case with the brand new Ryzen 5 series. The Ryzen 5 series is the high-end mainstream model, and the Ryzen 7 is the premium model. The new AMD processors are similar to their Intel counterparts, with a similar core performance but an eight-core maximum at the top end.
The Ryzen 7 1800X is one of the most powerful processors in this segment. It has a 3.6 GHz base clock speed and can go up to 4 GHz in Turbo mode, making it an ideal choice for gamers who want to enjoy state-of-the-art gaming at maximum settings. You will also get 16 MB L3 cache memory, 16 threads of processing power, and a CPU cooler that runs quietly even under intense load conditions.
Conclusion
In this article, we have explained the 7 best CPUs for gaming and video editing under budget. Each CPU has its own features and features. Try to get one according to your needs, budget, and performance for a better experience.
