Best CPUs According to 64 Experts

Updated Jul 30, 2026

Best for most

Intel

Core i5-12600K

$230

critic score

89

based on 8
critic reviews

Upgrade pick

AMD

Ryzen 7 9800X3D

$700

critic score

88

based on 9
critic reviews

Low cost

Intel

Core i3-12100F

$75

critic score

89

based on 5
critic reviews