Best CPU Under $300

Upgrading your PC is always fun, but when it comes to performance, the CPU is really the core of it all—no pun intended. It dictates how smoothly everything runs. But with all the options out there these days, picking the right processor can be tricky. Your budget has to be the top deciding factor. Nobody wants to drop half their overall build budget on just one chip. Building a kickass $1200 gaming rig and spending $500 on a CPU makes no sense.

You have to find that nice balance of price and power. That’s where factoring in things like cores, threads, clock speeds, and integrated graphics comes in. Don’t forget form factor too; mini-ITX builds have less room than full-size towers, so chip size matters there. As long as you focus first on your budget and pick chips that fit within it, all those other specs will make the choice much easier. Your games and programs will thank you.

Choosing a processor can definitely get pricey, but don’t stress if your budget is $300 or less. You absolutely do not need to spend a ton to get an awesome performance. We know not everyone has unlimited funds, so we put in the work testing tons of CPUs below that $300 price point. The goal was to find chips that don’t sacrifice specs, features, or speed, even at a lower cost. After all, why pay extra for things you don’t truly need?

With so many options out there from all the major brands, it wasn’t easy to narrow it down. But we think we’ve picked out some great candidates. So before making your decision, be sure to read through our full analysis and reviews of the top performers under $300. Focus on the important specs rather than just brand names. I’m confident you’ll find something that perfectly fits your budget without compromising.

Quick shopping tips

Usage is super important—is it for gaming, coding, or content creation? Consider what tasks it’ll handle most. Gamers likely don’t need tons of cores but should aim for 6–8. Coders may want higher single-core speeds and more cores for large datasets. Budget dictates a lot, so finalize your price range upfront. Don’t compromise on needed specs just to save a few bucks. Focus on base clock speed (measured in GHz) for standard performance. Bonus if it’s unlocked for easy overclocking to boost speeds even higher.

More cores and threads typically mean more power for multi-tasking. Consider the core/thread count based on intended usage. Compatibility is key too; CPUs have specific sockets that must match your motherboard socket. AMD uses AM4, and Intel uses LGA. Take your time matching usage needs, budget, specs, and socket compatibility. That combo will lead you to the perfect CPU!

The Best CPU Under $300 You Can Buy Today

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Intel Core i5-12600K

Best Flagship CPU Under $300

Brand: Intel | Series/Family: 12th Generation Intel Core i5 Processors | Lithography: Intel 7nm | Cores: 10 | Threads: 16 | Cache: 20MB Intel Smart Cache | Hyper-Threading: Yes | Unlocked Multiplier: Yes | Integrated graphics: Intel UHD Graphics 770 | Socket: LGA1700 | Base clock: Efficient core: 2.8GHz, Performance core: 3.7GHz  | Boost clock: Efficient core: 3.6GHz, Performance core: 4.9GHz, Maximum Boost: 4.9GHz | Rated TDP: 150W maximum | Bundled cooler: No

REASONS TO BUY

✓PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 support

✓Lower price than the competition

✓Excellent gaming performance

✓Unlocked for overclocking

REASONS TO AVOID

✗No bundled cooler

This Intel Core i5-12600K is an absolute beast of a mid-range chip. In benchmarks, it blew past CPUs we’d consider high-end, like AMD’s 5600X, and even traded blows with Intel’s top dog, the 12900K. It’s got a hybrid design with 6 performance cores and 4 efficient cores to deliver serious multitasking muscle. The P-cores clock up to 4.9 GHz, while the E-cores hit 3.6 GHz. It is backed by a healthy 9.5MB of L2 cache and 20MB of L3, so it has the goods to back up those speeds. It really could be an ideal chip for everything from gaming to content creation.

Connectivity is top-notch with PCIe 5.0 and support for either DDR4 or DDR5 RAM, as you prefer. It fits the new LGA1700 socket too. It runs efficiently at just 150 W TDP to keep power bills down. Pair it with a Z690 board and a nice cooler, and you’re gaming in style for less cash. Overall, I think it competes with “high-end” rivals at a mid-range price. Killer chip for the money hands down.

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AMD Ryzen 5 5600G

Best Integrated Graphics CPU under $300

Brand: AMD | Series/Family: AMD Ryzen 5 5000 G-Series Desktop Processors | Lithography: 7nm | Cores: 6 | Threads: 12 | Cache: 3MB L2, 16MB L3 | Multi-Threading: Yes | Unlocked Multiplier: Yes | Integrated graphics: Radeon Graphics | Graphics cores: 7 | Graphics frequency: 1900MHz | Socket: AMD AM4 | Base clock: 3.9GHz | Boost clock: 4.4GHz | Rated TDP: 65W | Bundled cooler: Wraith Stealth cooling solution

REASONS TO BUY

✓Good-quality performance

✓Outstanding graphics

✓Power-efficient

✓Bundled cooler

✓Fastest Zen 3 CPU cores

REASONS TO AVOID

✗PCIe 3.0 instead of PCIe 4.0

This AMD Ryzen 5 5600G packs a lot of punch for the price. Even gives some pricier chips a run for their money in benchmarks. It uses AMD’s latest Zen 3 architecture, delivering 19% faster performance than previous chips. Great for gaming, productivity, whatever you throw at it. And like most AMD chips, it’s unlocked for easy overclocking. Boost those speeds and adjust power levels. You’re getting AMD’s usual excellent mid-range formula: 6 cores, 12 threads, plus healthy cache sizes.

The only downside is a slight 0.5 GHz gap between base and boost clocks, but overclocking can help close that. It comes with AMD’s integrated Radeon graphics too, perfect for light gaming or work when you don’t have a separate graphics card yet. It runs cool and efficient too, with a 65W TDP. Pair it with a nice motherboard and graphics card, and you’ve got a killer budget setup! For the price, it’s seriously hard to beat the value and performance of this AMD Zen 3 chip.

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Intel Core i5-10500

Best Value CPU Under $300

Brand: Intel | Series/Family: 10th Generation Intel Core i5 Processors | Lithography: 14nm | Cores: 6 | Threads: 12 | Cache: 12MB Intel Smart Cache | Hyper-Threading: Yes | Unlocked Multiplier: No | Integrated graphics: No | Socket: LGA1200 | Base clock: 3.1GHz | Boost clock: 4.5GHz | Rated TDP: 65W | Bundled cooler: Yes

REASONS TO BUY

✓Hyper Threading

✓Box includes CPU cooler

✓Integrated graphics

✓Increased performance over previous-gen

REASONS TO AVOID

✗No support for PCIe 4.0

When it comes to CPUs, AMD and Intel are really the two main players these days. While AMD used to dominate, Intel has been steadily improving with chips like the Core i5-10500. This 10th generation chip holds its own against AMD’s Ryzen 3600 and 3600X, bringing some solid features to the table like integrated graphics. It’s built on Intel’s proven 14nm Comet Lake architecture with enhancements like hyper-threading. You’re getting 6 cores and 12 threads, backed by 12MB of cache. Clock speeds are no slouch either: 3.1GHz base up to 4.5GHz boost, which is better than Intel’s i5-10400.

For the affordable price, multi-tasking performance is seriously impressive. Handles games, edits, and productivity like a champ. Efficiency is on point too, with a 65W TDP that runs cooler than some rivals. And a bundled cooler means no extra costs. If you’re on a budget but still want great gaming performance, this Intel chip is a killer choice all around. It is hard to beat the value.

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Intel Core i5-9400F

Best All-Rounder CPU Under $300

Brand: Intel | Series/Family: 9th Generation Intel Core i5 Processors | Lithography: 14nm | Cores: 6 | Threads: 6 | Cache: 9MB Intel Smart Cache | Hyper-Threading: No | Unlocked Multiplier: No | Integrated graphics: Intel UHD Graphics 630 | Socket: LGA1151 | Base clock: 2.9GHz | Boost clock: 4.1GHz | Rated TDP: 65W | Bundled cooler: Yes

REASONS TO BUY

✓3D inbuilt graphics

✓Leading gaming performance

✓Extra affordable

✓Power-efficient

REASONS TO AVOID

✗No PCIe 4.0 support

✗Locked processor

The Intel Core i5-9400F proves you don’t need to spend a ton to get solid mid-range CPU performance. Sure, it’s locked, so there’s no overclocking, but the integrated graphics make up for that. Coming from Intel’s proven 9th generation Coffee Lake family using their 14nm process, you know it’s tried and tested. Specs include 6 cores and 6 threads, backed by 9MB of smart cache. It clocks up to 4.1 GHz on its 2.9 GHz base for ample speeds. multicore workloads, it performs just as well as pricier chips. And integrated graphics let you play games or do light editing without problem.

Connectivity is still solid with PCIe 3.0 support. Handles up to 128GB of DDR4 RAM too. It runs very efficiently with just a 65W TDP. Cooler and uses less power than competitors. If you’re on a budget but still want high-end performance, this is an absolute beast of a value chip. Hard to beat for the cash.

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Intel Core i5-11600K

Best Intel CPU under $300

Brand: Intel | Series/Family: 9th Generation Intel Core i5 Processors | Lithography: 14nm | Cores: 6 | Threads: 12 | Cache: 12MB Intel Smart Cache | Hyper-Threading: Yes | Unlocked Multiplier: Yes | Integrated graphics: Intel UHD Graphics 750 | Socket: LGA1200 | Base clock: 3.9GHz | Boost clock: 4.9GHz | Rated TDP: 95W | Bundled cooler: No

REASONS TO BUY

✓Much more affordable than Ryzen 5 5600x

✓Unlocked for overclocking

✓Strong single-core efficiency

✓Excellent multithreading performance

REASONS TO AVOID

✗Weak PCIe 4.0 support

✗Power-inefficient

The Intel Core i5-11600K brings Intel’s top-shelf Rocket Lake architecture down to the mid-range at an affordable price. It gives AMD’s highly-rated Ryzen 5600X a run for its money in performance while costing less. Specs are solid, with 6 cores, 12 threads, and 12MB of smart cache to handle workloads smoothly. Clock speeds are no slouch either at 3.9GHz base up to 4.6GHz boost thanks to Intel’s refined HyperThreading. Built-in Intel UHD graphics let you game or multitask without a dedicated GPU if needed.

It does run hotter than AMD rivals at its 125W TDP. Make sure to pair it with a beefy cooler. PCIe 4.0 support is technically there, but Z590 boards don’t utilize it well yet. If you can keep it cool, the performance per dollar outweighs the efficiency concerns. Killer all-around chip. For gamers on a budget, it’s tough to beat the raw power crammed into this mid-range Rocket Lake chip.

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AMD Ryzen 5 5600X

Best Enthusiast CPU Under $300

Brand: AMD | Series/Family: AMD Ryzen 5 Desktop Processors | Lithography: 7nm | Cores: 6 | Threads: 12 | Cache: 3MB L2, 32MB L3 | Multi-Threading: Yes | Unlocked Multiplier: Yes | Integrated graphics: No | Socket: AMD AM4 | Base clock: 3.7GHz | Boost clock: 4.6GHz | Rated TDP: 65W | Bundled cooler: Wraith Stealth cooling solution

REASONS TO BUY

✓Bundled cooler

✓Power-efficient

✓PCIe 4.0 support

✓Easy to cool

✓Best-in-class performance

REASONS TO AVOID

✗No integrated graphics

The AMD Ryzen 5 5600X is simply killing it, even outperforming much pricier Intel chips while staying under $300. This thing is a beast. It’s packing AMD’s latest Zen 3 architecture on a 7nm process for top-notch performance at an affordable price. Specs include 6 cores and 12 threads, backed by decent cache sizes. Clocks up to 4.6 GHz boost while staying cooler than competitors. Pair it with a nice motherboard and cooler, and you can push it even farther in overclocking too. Just keep temperatures below 95 °C. Connectivity features like PCIe 4.0 and DDR4-3200 support future-proofing it against today’s best gear.

It fits AMD’s AM4 socket for compatibility with lots of affordable X500 series and older B450 boards too. Handles any games, programs, or workflows you throw at it like a champ. It’s easily one of the best-performing “value” CPUs out there. Simply put, if you’re after the best performance for under $300, don’t overlook this gem of a chip from AMD. Flawless choice.

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Intel Core i5-11400F

Best Overall CPU Under $300

Brand: Intel | Series/Family: 10th Generation Intel Core i5 Processors | Lithography: 14nm | Cores: 6 | Threads: 12 | Cache: 12MB Intel Smart Cache | Hyper-Threading: Yes | Unlocked Multiplier: No | Integrated graphics: No | Socket: LGA1200 | Base clock: 2.9GHz | Boost clock: 4.3GHz | Rated TDP: 65W | Bundled cooler: Yes

REASONS TO BUY

✓Affordable price

✓Excellent performance

✓Power-efficient

✓Bundled cooler included

REASONS TO AVOID

✗A locked chip

The Intel Core i5-11400F brings killer value to Intel’s 11th-generation chips. While it’s half the price of AMD’s 5600X, gaming performance is very comparable. You’re getting 6 cores, 12 threads, and 12MB of cache on a decent 2.6 GHz base clock up to 4.4 GHz boost. While it’s locked, there’s no overclocking. Pair it with a nice graphics card and enjoy smooth gameplay on a budget. Handles up to 128GB of DDR4-3200 RAM with good bandwidth too. Integrated graphics hold you over if needed.

PCIe 4.0 connectivity provides ample lanes for upgrades. Cooler included, but may need upgrading for heavy use. It runs very efficiently with 65W of typical power, only peaking at 154W under heavy loads. Simply put, incredible price to performance here. Solid 1080p gaming rig without breaking the bank. Killer intro to PC gaming chips. For those looking to game without spending a fortune, the 11400F is an absolute no-brainer choice.

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AMD Ryzen 5 3600

Best AMD CPU Under $300

Brand: AMD | Series/Family: AMD Ryzen 5 Desktop Processors | Lithography: 7nm | Cores: 6 | Threads: 12 | Cache: 384KB L1, 3MB L2, 32MB L3 | Multi-Threading: Yes | Unlocked Multiplier: Yes | Integrated graphics: No | Socket: AMD AM4 | Base clock: 3.6GHz | Boost clock: 4.2GHz | Rated TDP: 65W | Bundled cooler: Wraith Stealth

REASONS TO BUY

✓PCIe 4.0 support

✓Low price

✓Unlocked multiplier

✓Low power consumption

✓Bundled cooler

REASONS TO AVOID

✗No integrated graphics

✗Zen 2 architecture

The AMD Ryzen 5 3600 continues their stellar line of mid-range CPUs with incredible price-to-performance value. It’s built on their proven Zen 2 architecture, giving solid performance just below the beefier Zen 3 chips. The specs are great: 6 cores, 12 threads, and ample cache sizes. It clocks up to 4.2 GHz out of the box. AMD makes overclocking a breeze too with their one-click auto-OC feature for easy speed boosts. Virtually identical specs to the barely pricier 3600X sibling too. It’s hard to go wrong here.

Connectivity like PCIe 4.0 and DDR4-3200 support keeps it current. Unlocked for easy custom tweaking as well. Cooling is handled by their trusty Wraith stealth cooler; just stay under 95 °C like all AMD chips. While not their highest-end chip, it packs enough power for any casual gamers or workloads in a killer compact package. Outstanding value champion.

Conclusion

When you get down to it, a CPU is kind of like the brain of your computer. It’s controlling everything that happens and making sure all the parts are communicating smoothly. So obviously, having a powerful processor is going to make a huge difference in how quickly and smoothly your system runs. These days, there are just so many CPU options out there from all the different brands. It can definitely get overwhelming trying to figure out which one is best for you. But don’t stress; I’m going to break down some of the most important things to consider into easy-to-digest points. Price is definitely one of the big ones. Just because something is cheaper doesn’t mean the performance has to suck. We’ve put together a list of some really solid CPU options that crush it for the money without breaking the bank.

Things like cores, threads, clock speeds, graphics support, connectivity—all that good stuff is covered. We even included different processor types so you can zero in on what specifically fits your needs and setup. So take a look through, see what kinds of features appeal to you, and don’t be afraid to go for something a little cheaper if it still does the job. Matching the right CPU to your usage and budget is key.