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Best 10th gen Intel CPUs

Last Updated on September 14, 2021

The latest wave of Intel processors for desktop computers are coming out, offering a big performance boost. With the top-end chips offering single-core performance of up to 5.3 GHz, and CPUs offering up to 10 cores, offering 20 threads.

Intel will be hoping that the 10th Generation Intel Core processors will stave off stiff competition from AMD’s impressive lineup of Zen 2 based processors. In general, these Intel Chips offer excellent single-core performance, whereas AMD’s current lineup of processors excel slightly more with multi-threaded performance, and have more budget-friendly pricing.

Products at a Glance

Our Recommended

Best 10th gen Intel CPUs

1
PROS
  • Excellent single-core performance
  • 16 threads
  • Include basic onboard GPU
CONS
  • Fairly expensive
  • Thermal envelope is a little tight
  • Requires LGA 1200 motherboard
2
PROS
  • Relatively modest power requirement for the performance
  • Great value
  • Excellent speeds
CONS
  • Not the highest performance from this lineup
  • Requires LGA 1200 motherboard
  • Some tasks optimized for multi-core performance might do better with a Ryzen.
3
PROS
  • Astonishing multi-core performance
  • Fantastic core speeds
  • Great overclocking headroom
CONS
  • Expensive
  • Power-hungry
  • Requires a high-end motherboard
4

Best 10th gen Intel CPUs

PROS
CONS

Is my motherboard compatible?

The Comet Lake processors all require a motherboard that features an LGA 1200 port. You need to be looking for a 400 series motherboard, such as Z490 series motherboards.

Should I get an Intel or an AMD?

It’s a tricky decision, but the answer will largely depend on what your budget is, and what your intended use is. You may wish to compare and contrast these options with the latest Ryzen processors from AMD.

Our Verdict

We had to pick the i7-10700K as our top choice for a 10th Generation Intel CPU. If it’s within your budget, it’s a massive improvement in performance compared to its predecessor and will be more than capable of handling anything you can throw at it. It’s an ideal CPU for powering a high-end gaming rig, or any system that needs to be able to handle demanding tasks.