CPU database & comparison tool

Compare specifications for over 500 Intel and AMD processors. Our free CPU comparison tool provides detailed information on core counts, thread counts, clock speeds, cache sizes, TDP, and more. Find the perfect processor for gaming, content creation, productivity, or server workloads.

Why use our CPU database?

• ✅ Compare up to 3 CPUs side-by-side
• ✅ Complete technical specifications for 500+ processors
• ✅ Latest Intel 14th Gen & AMD Ryzen 7000/9000 series
• ✅ Search by model, architecture, or manufacturer
• ✅ Mobile-optimized comparison tool
• ✅ Regularly updated with new CPU releases

Browse & compare processors

How to use the CPU comparison tool

1. Browse – Scroll through our database of 500+ Intel and AMD CPUs
2. Search – Type a model name (e.g., “Core i9-14900K”) or architecture (e.g., “Raptor Lake”)
3. Filter – Select Intel or AMD from the manufacturer dropdown
4. Compare – Check the boxes next to 2-3 CPUs and click the Compare button
5. Details – Click any CPU row for complete specifications and technical details

CPU buying guide 2025

Best CPUs for gaming (Budget: £100-£600)

Budget gaming (£100-£200)

• Intel Core i3-14100F – 4 cores, 8 threads, excellent 1080p gaming on a budget
• AMD Ryzen 5 5600 – 6 cores, 12 threads, great value for mid-range gaming
• Intel Core i5-12400F – 6 cores, 12 threads, strong 1080p/1440p performance

Mid-Range gaming (£200-£350)

• AMD Ryzen 5 7600X – 6 cores, 12 threads, excellent single-thread for high FPS
• Intel Core i5-14600K – 14 cores (6P+8E), 20 threads, versatile gaming & productivity
• AMD Ryzen 7 7700X – 8 cores, 16 threads, perfect for gaming and streaming

High-End gaming (£350-£600)

• Intel Core i7-14700K – 20 cores (8P+12E), 28 threads, top-tier gaming performance
• AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D – 8 cores, 16 threads, 3D V-Cache for exceptional gaming
• Intel Core i9-14900K – 24 cores (8P+16E), 32 threads, ultimate gaming CPU

Best CPUs for content creation (£200-£800)

• AMD Ryzen 9 7900X – 12 cores, 24 threads, excellent for video editing
• AMD Ryzen 9 7950X – 16 cores, 32 threads, workstation-class performance
• Intel Core i9-14900K – 24 cores, 32 threads, exceptional multi-threaded workloads
• AMD Ryzen 9 9950X – 16 cores, 32 threads, latest Zen 5 architecture

Best CPUs for productivity & office work (£50-£200)

• Intel Core i3-12100 – 4 cores, 8 threads, perfect for office tasks
• AMD Ryzen 5 5600G – 6 cores, 12 threads, integrated graphics included
• Intel Core i5-13400 – 10 cores, 16 threads, excellent multitasking

Understanding CPU specifications

Cores and threads

Cores: Physical processing units in a CPU. More cores allow for better multitasking and multi-threaded application performance. Modern CPUs range from 4 cores (budget) to 32+ cores (workstation).

Threads: Virtual cores created through technologies like Intel’s Hyper-Threading or AMD’s SMT (Simultaneous Multi-Threading). A 6-core CPU with SMT becomes 12 threads, allowing it to handle more tasks simultaneously.

Performance vs Efficiency Cores (Intel): Intel’s 12th Gen and newer use hybrid architecture. Performance cores (P-cores) handle demanding tasks, while Efficiency cores (E-cores) manage background processes, improving overall efficiency.

Clock speed

Base Clock: The guaranteed minimum frequency your CPU will run at. This ensures stable operation under all conditions.

Boost Clock: Maximum frequency the CPU can reach when needed. Modern CPUs dynamically boost based on temperature, power limits, and workload. Gaming CPUs can boost from 3.5 GHz base to 5.5+ GHz boost.

Single-Thread vs Multi-Thread: Gaming performance depends heavily on single-thread speed (boost clock), while video rendering and 3D work benefit from multi-thread performance (total core/thread count).

Cache memory

CPU cache is ultra-fast memory built into the processor for quick data access:

• L1 Cache: Smallest (32-64KB per core) but fastest. Stores frequently used instructions.
• L2 Cache: Medium size (512KB-1MB per core). Balances speed and capacity.
• L3 Cache: Largest (8-144MB total). Shared between cores, crucial for gaming.
• 3D V-Cache (AMD): Extra L3 cache stacked on top of CPU die. Significantly improves gaming performance (Ryzen 7800X3D, 9800X3D).

TDP (thermal design power)

TDP indicates power consumption and heat generation. This determines your cooling requirements:

• 35-65W: Low-power CPUs for compact builds, stock cooler sufficient
• 65-125W: Mainstream CPUs, tower air cooler or budget AIO recommended
• 125-170W: High-performance CPUs, quality air cooler or 240mm+ AIO required
• 170-253W+: Extreme CPUs (i9-14900K, R9 7950X), 280mm+ AIO strongly recommended

Integrated graphics

Some CPUs include integrated graphics (iGPU):

• Intel: Models without “F” suffix have Intel UHD Graphics (e.g., i5-14600K has iGPU, i5-14600KF doesn’t)
• AMD: Models with “G” suffix have Radeon Graphics (e.g., Ryzen 5 5600G, Ryzen 7 8700G)
• Use Cases: Office work, light gaming, troubleshooting GPU issues, or waiting to buy a GPU

Architecture and process node

Architecture: The design blueprint of the CPU. Newer architectures offer better performance and efficiency:

• Intel: Raptor Lake (13th Gen), Raptor Lake Refresh (14th Gen), Arrow Lake (15th Gen – 2024)
• AMD: Zen 4 (Ryzen 7000), Zen 5 (Ryzen 9000 – 2024)

Process Node: Manufacturing size (7nm, 5nm, 3nm). Smaller = more transistors, better efficiency. Intel uses “Intel 7” (10nm class), AMD uses TSMC 5nm/4nm.

Socket and platform

CPU socket determines motherboard compatibility:

• Intel LGA 1700: 12th, 13th, 14th Gen (DDR4 or DDR5)
• Intel LGA 1851: 15th Gen Arrow Lake (DDR5 only)
• AMD AM4: Ryzen 1000-5000 series (DDR4 only, budget option)
• AMD AM5: Ryzen 7000/9000 series (DDR5 only, latest platform)

Latest CPU releases

Intel 14th Gen (Raptor Lake Refresh)

Intel’s 14th Generation CPUs launched in 2023-2024, offering incremental improvements over 13th Gen:

• Higher boost clocks (up to 6.0 GHz on i9-14900KS)
• Improved efficiency for E-cores
• Better overclocking headroom
• Same LGA 1700 socket (backwards compatible with 600/700 series motherboards)
• Support for DDR4-3200 and DDR5-5600 memory

Top Models: i9-14900K/KS (24 cores), i7-14700K (20 cores), i5-14600K (14 cores)

AMD Ryzen 9000 Series (Zen 5)

AMD’s Ryzen 9000 series launched in 2024 with the new Zen 5 architecture:

• Up to 16% IPC (Instructions Per Clock) improvement over Zen 4
• Better power efficiency (same performance at lower TDP)
• Improved AI acceleration capabilities
• AM5 socket (compatible with existing AM5 motherboards with BIOS update)
• DDR5 memory support (up to DDR5-5600 official)

Top Models: Ryzen 9 9950X (16 cores), Ryzen 9 9900X (12 cores), Ryzen 7 9700X (8 cores)

AMD Ryzen 7000X3D Series (Gaming focus)

AMD’s X3D processors feature 3D V-Cache technology for exceptional gaming performance:

• Ryzen 7 7800X3D: 8 cores, 96MB L3 cache, best gaming CPU in most titles
• Ryzen 9 7950X3D: 16 cores, 128MB L3 cache, ultimate gaming + productivity
• Ryzen 9 9800X3D: Latest X3D with Zen 5 architecture (2024)
• 3D V-Cache reduces latency, improving frame rates by 10-30% in CPU-bound games

Intel vs AMD: Which should you choose?

Choose Intel If:

• You want the absolute highest clock speeds (6.0+ GHz)
• You need integrated graphics (more options with Intel)
• You prefer a more mature platform (LGA 1700)
• You do a lot of single-threaded work
• You want DDR4 compatibility (budget builds)

Choose AMD If:

• You want better multi-threaded performance per dollar
• You prioritize power efficiency
• You want the best gaming CPU (7800X3D, 9800X3D)
• You want longer platform support (AM5 until 2027+)
• You do heavy content creation or 3D rendering

CPU cooling requirements

Stock coolers (Free with CPU)

Some CPUs include coolers:

• AMD: Non-X Ryzen CPUs (5600, 7600) include Wraith coolers (adequate for stock speeds)
• Intel: Non-K CPUs (i5-13400) include basic coolers (sufficient but loud under load)
• Not Included: K/KF/X/X3D models require separate cooler purchase

Air Coolers

• Budget (£20-40): Suitable for 65W CPUs (i5-12400, Ryzen 5 5600)
• Mid-Range (£40-80): Handles 125W CPUs (i5-14600K, Ryzen 7 7700X)
• High-End (£80-120): Cools 170W+ CPUs (i9-14900K, R9 7950X) – Noctua NH-D15, be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 4

All-in-One (AIO) Liquid Coolers

• 240mm: Good for 125-150W CPUs (i7-14700K, Ryzen 7 7700X)
• 280mm: Better for high-power CPUs (i9-14900K, R9 7950X)
• 360mm: Overkill for most, best for overclocking or aesthetics
• Recommended: Arctic Liquid Freezer II, Corsair iCUE H150i, NZXT Kraken

Memory compatibility

DDR4 vs DDR5

DDR4: Mature, affordable technology. Speeds up to DDR4-3600 offer great gaming performance. Compatible with Intel 12th-14th Gen and AMD AM4.

DDR5: Newer, faster, more expensive. Starting at DDR5-4800, with enthusiast kits reaching DDR5-7200+. Required for Intel 15th Gen and AMD AM5 (Ryzen 7000/9000).

Memory Recommendations

• Budget Gaming: 16GB DDR4-3200 or DDR5-5200
• Gaming + Streaming: 32GB DDR4-3600 or DDR5-6000
• Content Creation: 32-64GB DDR4-3600 or DDR5-6000
• Workstation: 64-128GB DDR5-5600+ (ECC if supported)

Frequently asked questions

How do I compare CPUs on Techsavant?

To compare processors, simply check the boxes next to 2-3 CPUs you’re interested in from the database above. Once selected, click the “Compare” button that appears. You’ll see a side-by-side comparison showing core counts, thread counts, clock speeds, cache sizes, TDP, and all other key specifications to help you make an informed decision.

Which CPU is best for gaming in 2025?

For pure gaming, the AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D and 9800X3D are currently the best CPUs, offering exceptional frame rates thanks to 3D V-Cache technology. For high-FPS competitive gaming, the Intel Core i9-14900K or i7-14700K provide excellent single-thread performance. Budget gamers should consider the Intel Core i5-14600K or AMD Ryzen 5 7600X for best value.

How many cores do I need?

For gaming only, 6 cores is the minimum, with 8 cores being ideal for modern AAA titles. For gaming plus streaming or multitasking, 8-12 cores is recommended. Content creators working with video editing should aim for 12-16 cores. Productivity and office work runs perfectly fine on 4-6 cores.

What’s the difference between Intel K, KF, and F CPUs?

Standard (e.g., i5-14600): Locked multiplier (no overclocking), includes integrated graphics, comes with stock cooler. K (e.g., i5-14600K): Unlocked for overclocking, includes integrated graphics, no stock cooler. KF (e.g., i5-14600KF): Unlocked for overclocking, NO integrated graphics (requires dedicated GPU), no stock cooler, usually £10-20 cheaper. F (e.g., i5-14400F): Locked multiplier, NO integrated graphics, slightly cheaper.

What’s the difference between AMD X, X3D, and non-X CPUs?

Non-X (e.g., Ryzen 5 7600): Lower TDP (65W), lower clocks, includes stock cooler, great value. X (e.g., Ryzen 5 7600X): Higher TDP (105-170W), higher boost clocks, better performance, no stock cooler. X3D (e.g., 7800X3D): Special gaming-focused variant with extra 3D V-Cache, exceptional gaming performance, lower clocks but higher FPS in games.

Do I need to upgrade my CPU for gaming?

Upgrade if you’re CPU-bottlenecked: 100% CPU usage while GPU is underutilized, low FPS in CPU-intensive games (strategy, simulation), or you have a CPU older than 5-6 years (pre-2019). If you have an Intel 10th Gen or newer, or AMD Ryzen 3000 series or newer, you likely don’t need an upgrade for 1080p/1440p gaming unless you have a high-end GPU (RTX 4080+).

What CPU cooler do I need?

Match your cooler to CPU TDP: 65W CPUs can use stock or budget coolers (£20-40). 125W CPUs need mid-range air or 240mm AIO (£40-80). 170W+ CPUs require high-end air (£80-120) or 280mm+ AIO (£100-180). Always check cooler compatibility with your CPU socket (LGA 1700, LGA 1851, AM4, or AM5).

Should I wait for the next generation?

There’s always something new coming. Buy now if: you need a PC urgently, current prices are good (sales), or your current CPU severely limits performance. Wait if: next-gen launches in 1-2 months, major architecture change coming (like Zen 6 or Intel Arrow Lake), or you can wait 3-6 months for prices to drop. Current CPUs (Intel 14th Gen, AMD Ryzen 9000) are excellent and will remain relevant for 4-5 years.

💡 Pro tip

Don’t just compare core counts between Intel and AMD. Intel’s hybrid architecture means an 8P+16E (24 cores) i9-14900K has different characteristics than AMD’s 16-core Ryzen 9 7950X. Use our comparison tool to check single-thread performance (gaming), multi-thread scores (productivity), and TDP (power/cooling requirements) to make the right choice for YOUR workload.

Related Resources

• GPU Comparison Database

Disclaimer: While we strive to provide accurate CPU specifications, some details may be incomplete or vary by manufacturer/model variant. For the most accurate information, always check the official manufacturer’s website (Intel ARK, AMD specifications). We are not affiliated with Intel, AMD, or any CPU manufacturers. All product names and trademarks are property of their respective owners.