Building a new PC or giving your current rig a significant performance boost doesn’t have to break the bank. The sub-$300 CPU market is incredibly competitive, offering fantastic value for both gamers and content creators. Whether you prioritize raw single-core speed for high frame rates or need more cores for streaming and productivity, there is a perfect processor waiting for you.
Navigating the choices between Intel and AMD, along with different generations and architectures, can be challenging. This roundup simplifies that process by highlighting the best options available. We have evaluated performance, features, and platform considerations to help you find the ideal CPU that delivers maximum performance for your budget without compromise.
The Best CPUs Under $300 for Your Next Build
- Intel Core i5-12600K Desktop Processor
- Intel Core i5-13500 Desktop Processor
- AMD Ryzen 5 5600X 6-core unlocked processor
- Intel Core i5-13400 Desktop Processor
- Intel Core i5 (12th Gen) i5-12500
- AMD Ryzen 7 3700X 8-Core Desktop Processor
- Intel Core i7-10700F Desktop Processor
- Intel Core i5-11600K Desktop Processor
- AMD Ryzen 5 7600 6-Core Desktop Processor
- AMD Ryzen 5 7600X 4.7 GHz AM5 Processor
Intel Core i5-12600K Desktop Processor
The Intel Core i5-12600K stands as a performance hybrid powerhouse, featuring 10 cores split into 6 Performance-cores and 4 Efficient-cores. This architecture allows it to intelligently handle demanding games and multitasking workloads with ease. With a maximum turbo frequency of 4.9 GHz and an unlocked multiplier for overclocking, it provides significant headroom for enthusiasts to push its limits.
This processor comes with integrated Intel UHD 770 Graphics, which is a great backup for troubleshooting or for builds that don’t require a dedicated graphics card immediately. Its compatibility with both Intel 600 and 700 series motherboards offers excellent flexibility for your build, allowing you to choose a platform that fits your budget.
Intel Core i5-13500 Desktop Processor
For those who need more multithreaded muscle, the Intel Core i5-13500 is an exceptional choice. It packs 14 cores—6 Performance-cores and 8 Efficient-cores—for a total of 20 threads, making it remarkably capable for productivity tasks like video editing and 3D rendering. Its 24MB Intel Smart Cache ensures that data is readily available for smooth and responsive performance across all applications.
Reaching speeds of up to 4.8 GHz, this CPU balances high-frequency performance with core count efficiency. The included Intel UHD Graphics 770 provides solid integrated graphics performance. This processor is a smart selection for a powerful all-around system that excels in both work and play without requiring a separate graphics card.
AMD Ryzen 5 5600X
The AMD Ryzen 5 5600X is a legendary processor known for its incredible gaming performance and value. With 6 cores and 12 processing threads based on AMD’s “Zen 3” architecture, it consistently delivers elite 100+ FPS performance in popular games. Its high efficiency and strong single-core performance made it a favorite for build guides and a staple in the gaming community.
This chip is unlocked for overclocking, giving you the freedom to extract even more performance. AMD includes a capable Wraith Stealth cooler in the box, which means you can start building right away without an additional purchase. For a high-performance gaming build on the mature AM4 platform with widespread DDR4 memory support, the Ryzen 5 5600X remains a compelling option.
Intel Core i5-13400 Desktop Processor
The Intel Core i5-13400 is a balanced and budget-friendly CPU that brings the performance hybrid architecture to an even more accessible price point. It features 10 cores (6 P-cores and 4 E-cores) and 16 threads, providing a substantial multitasking advantage over previous generation processors. With a max turbo frequency of 4.6 GHz and 20MB of cache, it handles everyday computing and gaming with proficiency.
Like its sibling, it includes integrated Intel UHD Graphics 770, adding to its versatility for office builds or as a reliable stopgap. The i5-13400 represents a significant generational improvement, offering modern features and efficiency that make it an ideal foundation for a cost-effective yet powerful desktop computer.
Intel Core i5-12500
The Intel Core i5-12500 is a solid 12th-generation option that provides a great blend of performance and value. Its hyper-threading architecture allows its 6 performance cores to handle 12 threads simultaneously, delivering strong performance for demanding applications. With 18MB of L3 cache, the processor can quickly access frequently used data, resulting in a snappy and responsive system.
Utilizing the LGA-1700 socket, this CPU is part of a modern platform with good upgrade options. It also features improved onboard graphics compared to older Intel processors, which is beneficial for users who do not need a discrete GPU. For a reliable and efficient build, the i5-12500 is a dependable choice.
AMD Ryzen 7 3700X
The AMD Ryzen 7 3700X brings 8 cores and 16 threads to the table, offering exceptional multithreading performance for its class. Based on the “Zen 2” architecture, it is capable of handling heavy workloads like content creation and streaming while still providing excellent gaming performance. It was designed to deliver ultra-fast 100+ FPS in popular games, making it a well-rounded performer.
This processor comes bundled with the AMD Wraith Prism cooler, which not only provides effective cooling but also features color-controlled LED support for added style in your build. For users on the AM4 platform looking for a high core count without sacrificing single-threaded performance, the Ryzen 7 3700X continues to be a very attractive option.
Intel Core i7-10700F
The Intel Core i7-10700F offers the core count of an i7 at a very competitive price. This processor features 8 cores and 16 threads, capable of reaching turbo frequencies up to 4.8 GHz. As an “F”-series SKU, it does not include integrated graphics, which makes it an ideal pairing with a dedicated graphics card for a gaming or workstation build.
Using the LGA 1200 socket, it provides a proven platform with wide motherboard availability. The lack of integrated graphics often translates to a lower cost, directing the budget towards the raw CPU power that gamers and power users need. For a pure performance-focused build with a discrete GPU, the i7-10700F presents great value.
Intel Core i5-11600K
The Intel Core i5-11600K is an unlocked 11th-generation processor that brings PCIe 4.0 support to the LGA1200 platform. With 6 cores and the ability to reach up to 4.9 GHz, it provides strong single-threaded performance that is beneficial for gaming. Its unlocked nature invites enthusiasts to overclock and push for even higher performance levels.
This CPU is compatible with Intel 500 series and select 400 series chipset motherboards, offering some flexibility for your build. It also supports Intel Optane Memory for accelerated storage performance. For users who want to build on the LGA1200 platform with modern features like PCIe 4.0, the i5-11600K is a capable and overclocking-friendly choice.
AMD Ryzen 5 7600
The AMD Ryzen 5 7600 is your entry point into the modern AM5 platform and the powerful “Zen 4” architecture. This 6-core, 12-thread processor boasts a max boost clock of 5.2 GHz and a large 38 MB total cache, providing exceptional gaming and application performance. It is unlocked for overclocking, giving you control to fine-tune its performance.
This CPU requires DDR5 memory and a 600-series motherboard, future-proofing your build with the latest standards. It represents a significant leap in instructions per cycle (IPC) over previous generations, making it an excellent foundation for a new system that you plan to upgrade for years to come.
AMD Ryzen 5 7600X
The AMD Ryzen 5 7600X is a performance-oriented chip for the new AM5 platform. With a base clock of 4.7 GHz and 6 cores based on the “Zen 4” architecture, it is built to deliver high frame rates in games and responsive performance in applications. It supports PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 memory, placing it at the forefront of current technology.
This processor is designed for users who are building a new, forward-looking system and want top-tier single-threaded performance. The Ryzen 5 7600X offers a great balance of speed and efficiency, making it a strong contender for a gaming rig that will remain relevant for the foreseeable future.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best CPUs Under $300 in 2025
When I’m looking for a new CPU with a budget of $300, I know this is the sweet spot for performance. You get a ton of power without breaking the bank. But with so many options from AMD and Intel, making the right choice comes down to a few key things. Let’s talk about what I always consider before clicking the buy button.
First, I think about the primary use case. Am I building a pure gaming rig, or do I need a workstation for streaming, video editing, or coding? For gaming, I prioritize high clock speeds and strong single-core performance. This is what makes games feel smooth and responsive. If I’m doing more multi-threaded work like rendering videos or running virtual machines, then I look for a CPU with more cores and threads. In 2025, chips like the AMD Ryzen 7 8700F or the Intel Core i5-14600K are fantastic examples that balance both, but they lean in different directions.
Next, the platform and socket are a big deal. This determines which motherboard I have to buy. An AMD AM5 socket means I’m on a newer platform with a longer upgrade path, but DDR5 memory is mandatory, which can add to the initial cost. An Intel LGA 1700 socket might be a bit more mature and sometimes allow for cheaper DDR4 memory, but its upgrade future is more limited. I always check what kind of memory (DDR4 or DDR5) the CPU supports, as this impacts my total budget.
I never forget about the cooler. Some CPUs come with a decent stock cooler that is good enough for basic use. Others, especially the more powerful K-series Intel chips or higher-tier Ryzens, do not include one. I have to factor in the cost of a good aftermarket air cooler, which can be another $30 to $50. A good cooler is not an optional extra; it’s essential for maintaining performance and the longevity of my investment.
Finally, I look at the real-world performance, not just the specs on the box. I spend time watching benchmark comparisons for the specific games and applications I use. A CPU might have a high core count but slower cores, making it worse for my gaming needs. Power consumption (TDP) is another quiet consideration. A more efficient CPU generates less heat and can save on electricity bills over time, which is a nice bonus. By balancing these factors—use case, platform, cooling, and real-world benchmarks—I can confidently pick one of the best CPUs under $300 in 2025 that fits my exact needs.
FAQ
Is an AMD or Intel CPU a better value under $300?
In 2025, the competition is incredibly tight. Both companies offer excellent options in this price bracket. AMD’s Ryzen 7000 and 8000 series often provide more cores and threads for the money, which is great for productivity tasks. Intel’s 14th Gen Core i5 and i7 chips frequently have an edge in pure gaming performance due to their very high clock speeds. The “better” choice really depends on whether your primary focus is gaming or multi-threaded applications. I recommend looking at recent head-to-head comparisons for the specific software you use.
Do I need to buy a separate CPU cooler?
It depends on the specific model you choose. Many CPUs in this price range, especially the non-X variants from AMD and non-K variants from Intel, come with a capable stock cooler. These are perfectly fine for getting started and for systems with decent airflow. However, if you plan on overclocking or if you want to keep noise levels down and temperatures optimal for sustained performance, investing in a $30-$50 aftermarket air cooler is a very good idea. Always check the product listing to see if a cooler is included.
Can I use my old DDR4 RAM with a new CPU under $300?
This is entirely determined by the motherboard platform. For the latest AMD AM5 platform, the answer is no; it exclusively requires DDR5 memory. For some Intel LGA 1700 motherboards, you have a choice. Many boards are built for either DDR4 or DDR5, but not both. So, if you want to reuse your existing DDR4 kit to save money, you must specifically seek out an LGA 1700 motherboard that supports DDR4. Be sure to double-check the motherboard’s specifications before you buy.
How important are cores versus clock speed for gaming?
For gaming, clock speed (measured in GHz) and the resulting single-core performance are generally more important than having a massive number of cores. Most games still rely heavily on one or two primary threads to handle the main game logic. This is why you’ll see CPUs with fewer but faster cores often outperforming CPUs with more, slower cores in gaming benchmarks. That said, modern games are starting to use more cores, and having extra cores is beneficial for running other applications in the background, like Discord or a browser.
Will a $300 CPU be a bottleneck for a powerful graphics card?
A modern CPU in the $300 range is very powerful and will pair excellently with almost any high-end graphics card on the market, especially when gaming at 1440p or 4K resolutions. At these higher resolutions, the workload shifts more heavily onto the GPU. You might see a slight bottleneck at 1080p with a top-tier card, but that scenario often results in such high frame rates that it’s not a practical concern. When selecting from the list of the best CPUs under $300 in 2025, you can be confident that any of them will form a solid foundation for a high-performance gaming PC.
Is it worth waiting for next-generation CPUs?
This is the eternal question in tech! There is always something new on the horizon. If you need a computer now, the current options under $300 are fantastic and will provide great performance for years to come. If your current system is still functional and you’re not in a rush, waiting for a new launch can sometimes lead to price drops on current-generation parts or give you access to even better performance. However, you can end up in a perpetual waiting cycle. My advice is to buy when you need it, as today’s best CPUs under $300 offer tremendous value.