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10 Best 1151 CPU Picks for 2025: Top Choices Under $100
In 2025, the quest for the best 1151 CPU continues to be a central topic for gamers, content creators, and tech enthusiasts alike. The 1151 socket, primarily used by Intel for its sixth to ninth generation processors, has seen robust options that can meet a variety of computing needs. If you are searching for the best best 1151 CPU that combines performance, efficiency, and value, you have landed in the right spot.
Whether you’re into gaming or need a processor for CPU-intensive tasks, there’s a suitable 1151 CPU out there for you. Below, we delve into the top ten 1151 CPUs currently available on Amazon, providing a detailed review of their features, pros, and cons.
Intel Core i7-8700K
Intel Core i7-8700K
- 4 Cores / 8 Threads. Intel Optane Memory Supported. Intel UHD Graphics 630
- 4.20 GHz up to 4.50 GHz Max Turbo Frequency / 8 MB Cache.
- Compatible only with Motherboards based on Intel 100 or 200 Series Chipsets.
- Intel Optane Memory Supported.
- Instruction set is 64 bit and instruction set extensions is intel sse4.1, intel sse4.2, intel avx2. Features intel hyper threading technology
The Intel Core i7-8700K is one of the most popular choices among users looking for the best 1151 CPU. This processor comes equipped with six cores and 12 threads, making it perfect for high-performance gaming and content creation. Its base clock speed of 3.7 GHz and a turbo boost capability of up to 4.7 GHz means it can handle demanding applications with ease.
Best For: Gamers and content creators.
Product Review:
The i7-8700K offers substantial performance for both single-threaded and multi-threaded tasks thanks to its architecture. Overclocking is also made easy with this chip, providing that extra edge for enthusiasts who want to push their system’s limits. Its integrated Intel UHD Graphics 630 can handle light gaming and graphical tasks.
Pros:
- Exceptional performance for gaming and multitasking
- Unlocked for overclocking
- Strong single-thread and multi-thread performance
Cons:
- Requires a good cooling solution
- Can be more expensive than similar models
Intel Core i5-9600K
Intel Core i5-9600K
−$13.78
- 6 Cores / 6 Threads
- 3.70 GHz up to 4.60 GHz / 9 MB Cache
- Compatible only with Motherboards based on Intel 300 Series Chipsets
- Intel Optane Memory Supported
- Intel UHD Graphics 630
The Intel Core i5-9600K is a solid mid-range option that is known for its balance between price and performance. With six cores and a turbo boost clock speed of up to 4.6 GHz, it is ideal for gamers looking for a reliable option without breaking the bank.
Best For: Budget-conscious gamers.
Product Review:
While the i5-9600K does not support hyper-threading, its six cores are sufficient for most modern gaming titles and general computing. Its overclockable nature allows for tuning to achieve higher speeds, making it a favourite among budget gamers who still want great performance.
Pros:
- Great price-to-performance ratio
- Good gaming performance for the price
- Overclockable
Cons:
- Lacks hyper-threading
- Performance may lag behind higher-end models
Intel Core i5-11400F
Intel Core i5-11400F
−$40.00
- Compatible with Intel 500 series & select Intel 400 series chipset based motherboards
- Intel Optane Memory Support
- PCIe Gen 4.0 Support
- Thermal solution included
- English (Publication Language)
The Intel Core i5-11400F is another great addition to the 1151 CPU list. With a base clock of 2.6 GHz and a turbo boost of up to 4.4 GHz, it offers excellent performance for budget systems.
Best For: Budget builds and general use.
Product Review:
The i5-11400F’s lack of integrated graphics makes it a cost-effective choice for builds that will rely on dedicated GPUs. It also features six cores and offers good gaming performance, making it an excellent option for casual and competitive gamers alike.
Pros:
- Excellent price
- Good performance in gaming and productivity
- Compatible with affordable motherboards
Cons:
- No integrated graphics
- Lower clock speed than some competitors
Intel Core i7-7700K
Intel Core i7-7700K
- 4 Cores / 8 Threads. Intel Optane Memory Supported. Intel UHD Graphics 630
- 4.20 GHz up to 4.50 GHz Max Turbo Frequency / 8 MB Cache.
- Compatible only with Motherboards based on Intel 100 or 200 Series Chipsets.
- Intel Optane Memory Supported.
- Instruction set is 64 bit and instruction set extensions is intel sse4.1, intel sse4.2, intel avx2. Features intel hyper threading technology
The Intel Core i7-7700K remains a staple in the 1151 lineup, even in 2025. With four cores and eight threads, this processor delivers solid gaming performance and multitasking capabilities.
Best For: Gamers who prioritize single-threaded performance.
Product Review:
The i7-7700K boasts a base clock of 4.2 GHz and can boost up to 4.5 GHz, excelling in scenarios that require strong single-core performance. While it may seem dated compared to newer CPUs, it still holds its ground well in gaming scenarios.
Pros:
- Strong single-thread performance
- Suitable for high-end gaming
- Overclockable
Cons:
- Fewer cores than more modern options
- Older architecture might lag in multi-threaded applications
Intel Core i3-10100
Intel Core i3-10100
−$8.79
- 4 Cores / 8 Threads
- Socket Type LGA 1200
- Up to 4.3 GHz
- Compatible with Intel 400 series chipset based motherboards
- Intel Optane Memory Support
An affordable entry-level option, the Intel Core i3-10100 features four cores and a clock speed of 3.6 GHz, turbo boosting to 4.3 GHz. It is perfect for basic computing tasks and light gaming.
Best For: Basic users and casual gamers.
Product Review:
The i3-10100 is a good starter processor for those looking to build a budget-friendly system. Its integrated Intel UHD Graphics 630 provides enough power for everyday tasks and casual gaming, making it a versatile entry-level CPU.
Pros:
- Very affordable
- Good for everyday tasks
- Integrated graphics available
Cons:
- Limited performance for demanding applications
- Four cores may not be sufficient for modern gaming
Intel Core i7-9700K
Intel Core i7-9700K
- 8 Cores / 8 Threads
- 3.60 GHz up to 4.90 GHz / 12 MB Cache
- Compatible only with Motherboards based on Intel 300 Series Chipsets
- Intel Optane Memory Supported
- Intel UHD Graphics 630
The Intel Core i7-9700K features eight cores, making it an excellent choice for users who require substantial multi-threading performance. With a base clock of 3.6 GHz and a turbo boost of up to 4.9 GHz, it excels in both gaming and productivity tasks.
Best For: High-performance gaming and content creation.
Product Review:
This processor is an excellent performer for realistic rendering in video games and demanding applications. Its eight cores and overclocking capabilities provide users with plenty of horsepower for multitasking without gameplay lag.
Pros:
- Great performance for gaming and productivity
- Overclockable for extra speed
- Plenty of cores for multi-threaded applications
Cons:
- More expensive than lower tier models
- Power hungry, may require better cooling
Intel Core i5-12600K
Intel Core i5-12600K
- Game and multitask without compromise powered by Intel’s performance hybrid architecture on an unlocked processor.
- Integrated Intel UHD 770 Graphics
- Compatible with Intel 600 series and 700 series chipset-based motherboards
- Intel Core i5 Deca-core (10 Core) 3.70 GHz processor offers hyper-threading architecture that delivers high performance for demanding applications with improved onboard graphics and turbo boost
- The Socket LGA-1700 socket allows processor to be placed on the PCB without soldering 16 MB of L3 cache rapidly retrieves the most used data available to improve system performance
The Intel Core i5-12600K is from the newer generation of processors and offers six performance cores and eight efficiency cores, making it a powerhouse for gaming and multitasking.
Best For: Versatile gaming and productivity.
Product Review:
With a base clock of 3.7 GHz and turbo capabilities up to 4.9 GHz, this CPU shines in gaming and multitasking scenarios. It balances both single-thread and multi-thread performance, making it a flexible choice for diverse needs.
Pros:
- Excellent multi-tasking capabilities
- Great gaming performance
- Future-proof for newer applications
Cons:
- Requires a robust PSU
- Price may be steep for budget builders
Intel Core i9-9900K
Intel Core i9-9900K
- 8 Cores/ 16 Threads
- 3.60 GHz up to 5.00 GHz/ 16 MB Cache
- Compatible only with Motherboards based on Intel 300 Series Chipsets
- Intel Optane Memory supported
- Intel UHD Graphics 630
The Intel Core i9-9900K is one of the most advanced 1151 CPUs available, featuring eight cores and a turbo boost clock of up to 5.0 GHz. This CPU is specifically engineered for gamers and professionals needing the utmost power.
Best For: High-end gaming and extensive workloads.
Product Review:
The i9-9900K shines when it comes to high-performance tasks such as 4K gaming and content rendering, effectively handling demanding applications with its robust architecture. Overclocking opportunities further enhance its capabilities.
Pros:
- Unmatched gaming and multitasking performance
- Overclockable for maximum efficiency
- Robust architecture
Cons:
- Higher heat output requires substantial cooling
- Price may not fit every budget
Intel Core i5-10400
Intel Core i5-10400
−$21.01
- 6 Cores / 12 Threads
- Socket Type LGA 1200
- Up to 4. 3 GHz
- Compatible with Intel 400 series chipset based motherboards
- Intel Optane Memory Support
The Intel Core i5-10400 is a practical choice for users seeking solid performance at a low price point. With six cores and a base clock of 2.9 GHz, it turbo boosts up to 4.3 GHz, making it suitable for everyday tasks and casual gaming.
Best For: Entry-level gaming and general use.
Product Review:
This CPU allows users to put together a capable budget system without sacrificing too much in terms of performance. While it may not satisfy hardcore gamers, it shines in casual gaming and productivity tasks.
Pros:
- Affordable and accessible price
- Good for everyday tasks
- Efficient power consumption
Cons:
- Limited performance for high-end gaming
- No integrated graphics in some models
These are the top ten choices for the best 1151 CPUs on Amazon. Each processor has its unique strengths and weaknesses, catering to different audiences—from budget gamers to content creators who demand high performance. As the market continues to evolve, these 1151 CPUs still maintain their relevance in the ever-competitive landscape of computing hardware.
Buying Guide: Best 1151 CPUs
If you’re looking to upgrade your CPU for an LGA 1151 socket motherboard, you have various options depending on your needs, whether you’re gaming, content creation, or just need a reliable processor for everyday tasks. This guide will help you navigate through the choices to find the best 1151 CPU for you.
1. Understand the LGA 1151 Socket Versions
There are two versions of the LGA 1151 socket:
- Skylake/Kaby Lake (1st and 2nd Gen): Compatible with 6th Gen (Skylake) and 7th Gen (Kaby Lake) Intel processors.
- Coffee Lake (8th and 9th Gen): Introduced an updated chipset but still uses the LGA 1151 socket. Compatible with 8th Gen (Coffee Lake) and, in most cases, 9th Gen processors.
2. Determine Your Needs
- Gaming: Look for higher clock speeds and more cores. A balance between single-core performance and multi-core capabilities is essential.
- Content Creation: Consider CPUs with more cores and threads for better performance in tasks like video rendering and multitasking.
- General Use: An entry-level or mid-tier processor often suffices for basic tasks like browsing, office applications, and media consumption.
3. Key Specifications to Consider
- Core Count: A higher core count (4, 6, or even 8 cores) provides better multitasking and performance in demanding applications.
- Threads: CPUs with Hyper-Threading can handle more simultaneous tasks, improving performance in multi-threaded workloads.
- Clock Speed: Higher base and boost clock speeds lead to better performance, especially in gaming.
- Thermal Design Power (TDP): A lower TDP is typically better for efficiency and ensures that your cooling solution will suffice.
4. Popular CPUs for LGA 1151
Here are some of the best options available:
1. Intel Core i9-9900K
- Cores/Threads: 8/16
- Base/Boost Clock: 3.6 GHz / 5.0 GHz
- TDP: 95W
- Pros: Top-tier performance for gaming and productivity; great for multi-threaded applications.
- Cons: Can run hot; requires a good cooling solution.
2. Intel Core i7-8700K
- Cores/Threads: 6/12
- Base/Boost Clock: 3.7 GHz / 4.7 GHz
- TDP: 95W
- Pros: Excellent gaming performance and strong multitasking capabilities, a great balance of price to performance.
- Cons: Slightly older architecture compared to newer options.
3. Intel Core i5-9600K
- Cores/Threads: 6/6
- Base/Boost Clock: 3.7 GHz / 4.6 GHz
- TDP: 95W
- Pros: Great performance for gaming at a more affordable price point; good overclocking potential.
- Cons: Lacks hyper-threading; may not be ideal for heavy multitasking.
4. Intel Core i5-9400F
- Cores/Threads: 6/6
- Base/Boost Clock: 2.9 GHz / 4.1 GHz
- TDP: 65W
- Pros: Budget-friendly; solid performance for gaming and general use.
- Cons: No overclocking; fewer features compared to unlocked versions.
5. Compatibility Considerations
- Motherboard: Ensure your motherboard supports the CPU you are considering; check for BIOS updates.
- Cooling Solution: Depending on the CPU you select, you may need an aftermarket cooler, especially for higher-end options.
6. Budget
Set a clear budget before starting your research. Prices can vary widely based on the model and seller. Aim for the best value within your budget.
7. Future-Proofing
Consider how long you plan to use the CPU. Higher-end models may be more beneficial in terms of longevity, especially for gaming and content creation.
8. Check Reviews and Benchmarks
Before making your final decision, check benchmarks and community reviews to see how the CPU performs in real-world scenarios.
Conclusion
Choosing the right LGA 1151 CPU depends on your specific needs, budget, and existing hardware. By considering the factors outlined in this guide, you can make a more informed decision and select a CPU that best fits your requirements. Happy upgrading!
