Thinking of building a new gaming rig this Q3 2010? Tom’s Hardware recommends these gaming CPUs from AMD and Intel as best picks:
CPUs:
- Athlon II X3 435 (US$70)
- Athlon II X3 445 ($85)
- Core i3-530 ($115)
- Phenom II X4 945 ($140)
- Phenom II X4 955 Black Edition ($160)
- Phenom II X4 965 Black Edition ($180)
- Core i5-750 ($200)
- Core i7-930 ($295)
- Core i7-980X Extreme ($999)
The current best value gaming processor is the AMD Athlon II X3 435, with the Athlon II X3 445 breathing down its neck. If the actual street price difference between the two is not that much, it’s probably best to get the latter instead.
Not an AMD fan? The Intel Core i3-530 would be the value gaming processor for you. Yes, the Core i5 models may be tempting, but it would cost you almost double for the i3.
For better performance picks, you could take a look at the AMD Phenom II X4 965 Black Edition or the Intel Core i5-750.
