We are used to thinking that the main component of a gaming PC is the graphics card, as it largely determines the graphics settings and frame rate we can play with. However, the central processor is also very important. If its power is insufficient, even the most powerful graphics card won’t be able to provide high and stable FPS in games. Let’s find out what kind of processor is needed in 2025 and list the best models you can buy.
Which generation of processor should be in a gaming PC in 2025?
New generations of central processors are released every 1-2 years. Intel and AMD continuously improve their architecture, add support for new technologies, and increase the overall power of their devices.
For modern gaming, the following processor generations are suitable:
Intel Core 12000 – released in 2021;
Intel Core 13000 – released in 2022;
Intel Core 14000 – released in 2023;
Intel Core Ultra – released in 2024;
AMD Ryzen 5000 – released in 2020;
AMD Ryzen 7000 – released in 2022;
AMD Ryzen 9000 – released in 2024.
Processors from previous generations are significantly weaker than those listed above. Their power is insufficient to provide high frame rates in games. Only the most powerful models from older generations, such as the Intel Core i7-11700 or i9-11900, can handle modern demanding games. Weaker devices cannot.
Generation isn’t the only characteristic that determines a processor's power. Another important parameter is the number of cores.
How many cores are needed for gaming in 2025?
For modern gaming, you need:
At least 6 performance cores. This will be enough to play any game in 2025 with good performance.
8 performance cores are recommended. With this number of computing blocks, you’ll be able to play at very high frame rates and have a good performance reserve for the future.
You shouldn’t choose 4-core processors, such as the Intel Core i3-12100. Their price is only slightly lower than that of 6-core models. It’s better to spend a bit more and choose, for example, the Intel Core i5-12400. This chip will be much more powerful.
Choosing processors with more than 8 cores for gaming is also not advisable. Video games are simply not optimized for multi-core models. For example, if you compare the frame rate of the 8-core AMD Ryzen 7 9700X with the 16-core Ryzen 9 9950X, it will be almost the same. Top-tier processors are needed not for gaming, but for professional work in demanding programs and applications.
Why do Intel processors have two types of cores?
With the release of the 12th generation, Intel Core processors transitioned to a hybrid architecture. Their design includes two types of cores: performance and efficiency cores. The first type is very powerful and functions like traditional cores we are all familiar with. Efficiency cores, on the other hand, are weaker but more numerous. For example, the Intel Core i7-14700K has 8 performance cores and 12 efficiency cores.
Intel's hybrid architecture was a response to AMD’s chiplet technology. This approach helped reduce Intel’s performance gap compared to its competitor.
Best Processors for Modern Gaming
Now, let's list specific processor models and categorize them by price.
Best Budget Option
If you need an affordable processor that can handle all modern games, the best choice is the Intel Core i5-12400(F). The power of this 6-core processor is enough for all current games, but it has limited future-proofing. If you want a gaming processor that will last for many years, it’s worth considering more powerful models.
Best Mid-Range Models
The following processors fall into this category:
Intel Core i5-14400;
Intel Core i5-14600K;
AMD Ryzen 5 7600X.
These processors are very powerful and will provide excellent performance even in the most demanding games.
Best High-End Models
If you want to solve the central processor issue for many years ahead, the best choice would be top-tier models such as:
Intel Core i7-14700K;
Intel Core i9-14900K;
AMD Ryzen 7 7700X;
AMD Ryzen 7 9700X.
Best Flagship CPUs
If you're looking for maximum gaming performance, the best choice would be AMD’s 8-core processors with increased 3rd-level cache:
AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D;
AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D.
The Best CPU for Gaming in 2025: summary
In 2025, gaming processors should have at least 6 performance cores, but 8 cores are preferred.
It's important to choose the latest generation processors: Intel Core 12000, 13000, 14000, and Ultra, as well as AMD Ryzen 5000, 7000, and 9000.
More than 8 cores are unnecessary for gaming, as games are not optimized for a high core count.
Intel processors with hybrid architecture (performance and efficiency cores) offer excellent performance and energy efficiency.
For a long-term gaming solution, it's best to choose Intel Core i7/i9 or AMD Ryzen 7/9 models, especially those with an increased L3 cache.
Processors in HYPERPC Computers
Our computers are equipped with the latest-generation processors, ensuring not only high FPS in games but also exceptional performance for professional work with resource-intensive applications. You can be confident that your HYPERPC will always be at the cutting edge of technology, featuring high-performance processors capable of handling any task for years to come.
Every HYPERPC computer is the result of 15 years of experience and expertise. Our experts know exactly what a gaming PC, workstation, or server should be like.
To get started, we just need to talk. Tell us about your tasks, timelines, and budget, and we will offer the best solution.
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