Amazon is offering the Intel Core i7-10700K 8-core 3.8GHz Unlocked Processor for $387 shipped. Normally closer to $450, this is the first major price drop that we’ve seen, and subsequently, is a new all-time low. Offering 8-cores and 16-threads, this processor is perfect for higher-end gaming computers or workstation setups. It has a base clock of 3.8GHz and boosts up to 5.1GHz. However, since this is an unlocked processor, it can be overclocked if you have a supported motherboard and ample cooling. You’ll need an LGA1200 motherboard to use this processor, and given that it’s an unlocked CPU, we’d suggest opting for a Z490 model. Intel is well-rated overall.
With your savings, you’ll absolutely need to pick up a cooler, given that Intel’s unlocked processors don’t include one in the box. The Cooler Master Hyper 212 Evo is a tried and true cooler for those on a budget. Coming in at $35 shipped on Amazon, nearly 13,000 happy customers have left a collective 4.5/5 star rating.
Not ready to drop nearly $400 on a processor? AMD’s Ryzen 5 3600 is a great alternative. When I decided to build a new gaming computer after several years of not having one, I chose Ryzen 5 3600. It’s unlocked, overclockable, and offers 6-cores and 12-thread of processing power. At just $172 shipped, and being a #1 best-seller, it’s over 50% below today’s lead deal, and will still give ample power for both gaming and workstation-style tasks.
Intel Core i7-10700K CPU features:
- 8 Cores / 16 Threads
- Socket Type LGA 1200
- Up to 5.1 GHz Unlocked
- Compatible with Intel 400 series chipset based motherboards
- Intel Turbo Boost Max Technology 3.0 Support
- Intel Optane Memory Support
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