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AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D is a top-tier chip for high-end gaming performance, but you don’t need to spend nearly $500 to achieve good frame rates. Here are three budget CPU options that offer excellent value for the money:
### Achieve High Gaming Performance Without Spending Over $400 on a CPU
If your GPU isn’t in the top tier, it’s more sensible to invest less in a CPU and more in a GPU. This way, you can avoid bottlenecks and get better performance overall.
#### AMD Ryzen 5 9600X
– **Architecture:** Zen 5
– **Cores/Threads:** 6/12
– **Base/Boost Clock:** Up to 5.4 GHz
– **L3 Cache:** 32 MB
– **TDP:** 65W
– **Socket:** AM5
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The Ryzen 5 9600X is one of the fastest sub-$200 gaming CPUs from AMD. Despite being cheaper than the 9700X, it offers similar gaming performance. It’s a solid choice for most modern gaming builds and competes well with higher-core-count Intel processors.
While it doesn’t bring significant generational improvements over its predecessor, it generates less heat than the 7600X, making it easier to cool. If you also use rendering programs, this CPU offers decent single-core and multi-core performance uplifts.
[Buy AMD Ryzen 5 9600X from Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D6NN6TM7/?tag=wccftech0a9-20)
#### AMD Ryzen 5 7600X3D
– **Architecture:** Zen 4
– **Cores/Threads:** 6/12
– **Base/Boost Clock:** Up to 4.7 GHz
– **L3 Cache:** 96 MB
– **TDP:** 65W
– **Socket:** AM5
By adding the X3D V-Cache chiplet, the Ryzen 5 7600X3D outperforms both the non-X3D variant and higher-end 9000 series CPUs in gaming. This CPU brings the same 6-core/12-thread configuration as the 9600X but offers an additional 64 MB of L3 cache, delivering better performance.
This CPU uses the AM5 platform, making it easier to upgrade later without changing the motherboard. However, at $299, it is one of the priciest 6-core/12-thread processors available. While not offering the best fps per dollar, it’s the cheapest AM5-compatible X3D CPU.
[Buy AMD Ryzen 5 7600X3D from Micro Center](https://www.microcenter.com/product/684484/amd-ryzen-5-7600x3d-raphael-am5-41ghz-6-core-boxed-processor-heatsink-not-included)
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Intel Core i5 14600K
Despite the release of Arrow Lake, Raptor Lake Refresh continues to dominate in gaming. The Intel Core i5 14600K is a strong budget CPU that performs well against the Ryzen 9600X and occasionally outperforms it. This LGA 1700 platform offers a 14-core/20-thread configuration, making it suitable for demanding applications.
The 14600K handles modern intensive applications effectively, thanks to its high core count. Whether you’re a content creator or working on CPU-intensive tasks, this CPU will get the job done efficiently.
[Buy Intel Core i5 14600K from Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/i5-14600K-Desktop-Processor-Integrated-Graphics/dp/B0CGJ9STNF/)
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### Things to Consider When Buying a Budget Gaming CPU
#### Cooling Solution
None of the CPUs come with stock coolers. The Ryzen 5 9600X runs cooler, while the Core i5 14600K requires better cooling for its 14 cores. A 240mm AIO or dual-tower air cooler will work well. The Ryzen 5 7600X3D also benefits from a decent cooler.
#### GPU Choice
Balancing your CPU and GPU is crucial to avoid bottlenecks. Most of the recommended CPUs can handle high-end graphics cards, but spending $200 or more on a CPU like the Ryzen 9800X3D or 7800X3D will ensure compatibility with flagship GPUs like RTX 5090.
For mid-range GPUs (70 or 60 series), our recommended CPUs are perfectly matched.
#### Motherboard Chipset
Choose a motherboard chipset that allows increasing core clocks and RAM speeds, which can boost performance. While not essential, overclocking all three components—CPU, GPU, and RAM—can yield noticeable gains in gaming and applications.
📚 Reading Comprehension Quiz
Which AMD CPU is known for offering excellent value for money and competitive gaming performance without spending over $400 on a CPU?
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