Best LGA 1150 CPUs for Gaming & Upgrades

Best LGA 1150 CPUs for Gaming & Upgrades

ByHiron Ahmed

The best best 1150 cpu for most builders is the Core i5 i5-4570 3.20 GHz Processor. It hits the sweet spot between everyday performance and budget value for anyone reviving an older LGA 1150 motherboard.

Want maximum multi-threaded power instead? The intel Core i7-4770 Quad-Core Desktop Processor gets you eight threads for heavier workloads, as long as you are comfortable buying a renewed chip.

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This guide tells you which LGA 1150 processor fits your specific rebuild before you spend a cent. It also names the buyers who should skip this socket generation entirely and move to a newer platform.

Everything below comes from current Amazon product data, official Intel specifications, and the detailed owner track record for each chip. I have not lab-tested these processors myself.

Quick Answer: The Best 1150 Cpu

The Core i5 i5-4570 is the best best 1150 cpu value overall for a balanced everyday PC. Here is how the full lineup stacks up:

Thinking about building a brand-new system instead? Jump to Who Should NOT Buy below before you spend anything.

Comparison Table

Here is the lineup at a glance: photo, product, who it's built for, and our /10 score.

PhotoProductBest forScoreBuy
Core i5 i5-4570 3.20 GHz ProcessorCore i5 i5-4570 3.20 GHz ProcessorValue for Everyday Builds8.4/10Check price →
intel Core i7-4770 Quad-Core Desktop Processorintel Core i7-4770 Quad-Core Desktop ProcessorHeavy Multitasking Power8.6/10Check price →
Intel Core i5-4570 Processor 3.2GHz 6MBIntel Core i5-4570 Processor 3.2GHz 6MBBudget-Friendly Core i58.1/10Check price →
Core i7-4790 Processor 3.6GHz 8MB LGACore i7-4790 Processor 3.6GHz 8MB LGAPeak Gaming Performance8.8/10Check price →
intel Core i7-4790 Processorintel Core i7-4790 ProcessorHighest Rated Renewed8.7/10Check price →

Scroll sideways on small screens to see every column.

Core i5 i5-4570 3.20 GHz Processor: Best Value for Everyday Builds

#1Core i5 i5-4570 3.20 GHz Processor
CoreSocket H3 LGA-1150
8.4OUT OF 10
Raw Performance7.8
Value for Money9.2
Reliability Track8.6
Owner Verdict8.0
This is the best pick for anyone building a cheap, reliable daily driver on an LGA 1150 board. The Core i5-4570 runs at 3.20 GHz across all four cores with 6 MB of L3 cache. It lacks Hyper-Threading, but for web browsing, Office, streaming, and older games, it handles everything without feeling sluggish.
You do not need an aftermarket cooler for this chip. Intel’s stock cooler keeps thermals in check during normal use, which helps keep the total rebuild cost low. It is also widely available as a new old-stock part, so you avoid the uncertainty of renewed bins.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. It lacks Hyper-Threading, meaning its four physical cores can only handle four threads. If you regularly run multiple heavy applications at once, you will hit a wall faster than with an i7.
Need more thread count for workstation tasks? The intel Core i7-4770 further down adds Hyper-Threading for a modest price bump.
⚠
Compatibility: This is a new-old-stock tray processor. It does not include a cooler or thermal paste. Make sure you have a cooler rated for LGA 1150 before you order.
Pros
  • ✓Quad-core 3.2 GHz speed handles daily tasks smoothly.
  • ✓Excellent price-to-performance ratio for a 2013-era chip.
  • ✓Runs cool on the stock Intel cooler without throttling.
  • ✓New condition avoids the typical wear seen on renewed CPUs.
Cons
  • ✕No Hyper-Threading limits multi-tasking headroom.
  • ✕Does not include a CPU cooler or thermal compound.
  • ✕Slower than newer i3 and i5 chips from later generations.
Cores
4 Cores / 4 Threads
Base Clock
3.20 GHz
Cache
6 MB L3
Socket
H3 LGA-1150
Best for: Anyone who needs a drop-in upgrade for an existing 1150 board on a tight budget, and whose primary use is web apps and light productivity.

intel Core i7-4770 Quad-Core Desktop Processor: Best for Heavy Multitasking

#2intel Core i7-4770 Quad-Core Desktop Processor
intelRenewed, 8 Threads
8.6OUT OF 10
Raw Performance8.5
Value for Money8.8
Reliability Track8.0
Owner Verdict9.0
This renewed i7-4770 is the right pick when you need Hyper-Threading for multitasking without buying a new platform. It runs four cores with eight threads at a base clock of 3.4 GHz, and it turbos up to 3.9 GHz. With 8 MB of L3 cache, it handles video transcoding, compilation, and multitasking noticeably better than any i5 on this list.
Aggregate user reviews report that this renewed chip arrives in good working order in most cases. Many buyers use it to breathe life into old office desktops from Dell, HP, and Lenovo that shipped with i3 or Pentium chips.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. Being a renewed part is the main concern. While most units work fine, you have a slightly higher chance of receiving a chip that shows cosmetic wear or an earlier revision. Check the seller’s return policy before ordering.
If you prefer the peace of mind of a new-old-stock chip with similar performance, the Core i7-4790 Processor 3.6GHz 8MB LGA further down offers a higher clock speed and is available as OEM new stock.
⚠
Warranty: This is a renewed CPU sold by a third-party seller. Warranty coverage varies. Make sure the listing includes a 90-day or longer satisfaction guarantee before you purchase.
Pros
  • ✓Eight threads handle multitasking far better than any i5.
  • ✓3.4 GHz base clock is snappy for most general use.
  • ✓Very affordable way to boost an old workstation’s performance.
  • ✓High owner satisfaction rating from verified buyers.
Cons
  • ✕Renewed condition introduces some risk of wear.
  • ✕Slower clock speed than the newer 4790 series.
  • ✕No cooler included in the box.
Cores
4 Cores / 8 Threads
Base Clock
3.40 GHz / 3.90 GHz Turbo
Cache
8 MB L3
Socket
LGA 1150
Best for: Users upgrading an old 1150-based office PC who need the extra thread count for video editing or running multiple virtual machines.

Intel Core i5-4570 Processor 3.2GHz 6MB: Best Budget-Friendly Core i5

#3Intel Core i5-4570 Processor 3.2GHz 6MB
IntelRenewed, Low Price
8.1OUT OF 10
Raw Performance7.6
Value for Money9.0
Reliability Track7.8
Owner Verdict8.0
This renewed i5-4570 is the lowest cost entry point into LGA 1150 quad-core performance. It is identical in specs to the new-old-stock version, but it comes as a renewed OEM part. That means the CPU itself has been tested and certified as working, but it may show signs of prior use on the heat spreader.
Verified buyer feedback suggests this chip works well for resurrecting old Dell Optiplex and HP EliteDesk systems that need a core count boost. Just keep in mind that it ships as an OEM tray part with no fan, box, or manual.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. The renewed condition means you might receive a chip with minor thermal paste residue or scuffed contact pins on the bottom. These are usually cosmetic and do not affect function, but it is worth knowing before you buy.
If you want the same i5-4570 specs in a guaranteed new condition, the Core i5 i5-4570 3.20 GHz Processor at the top of this list is a better choice for the same core performance.
⚠
Condition: This is an OEM renewed part. It may arrive without a protective clamshell case. Inspect the pins carefully before installing it into your motherboard.
Pros
  • ✓Very low cost for a functional quad-core LGA 1150 chip.
  • ✓Same 3.2 GHz / 6 MB cache specs as the new version.
  • ✓Works well for basic office and web use upgrades.
  • ✓Ships quickly from many major Amazon sellers.
Cons
  • ✕Renewed condition may show cosmetic wear.
  • ✕No standard retail packaging or warranty booklet.
  • ✕Lacks Hyper-Threading for heavier multi-tasking.
Cores
4 Cores / 4 Threads
Base Clock
3.20 GHz
Cache
6 MB L3
Socket
LGA 1150
Best for: The absolute cheapest way to get a quad-core CPU into a working LGA 1150 board, assuming you are comfortable with a renewed part.

Core i7-4790 Processor 3.6GHz 8MB LGA: Best Raw Clock Speed for Gaming

#4Core i7-4790 Processor 3.6GHz 8MB LGA
CoreOEM Tray, High Turbo
8.8OUT OF 10
Raw Performance9.2
Value for Money8.5
Reliability Track8.8
Owner Verdict8.5
This OEM tray i7-4790 is the absolute fastest LGA 1150 processor for gaming in this lineup. It runs at a base clock of 3.6 GHz and turbos up to 4.0 GHz on a single core, which is the highest single-threaded performance you can get on this socket. The 8 MB of L3 cache and Hyper-Threading also give it strong multi-tasking chops.
Because this is a new-old-stock OEM tray part, it comes without a cooler or retail packaging. But it is manufactured by Intel to the same specifications as the boxed version. Many owners report pairing it with a modest aftermarket cooler like a Hyper 212 and seeing stable temperatures even under load.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. The 4.0 GHz turbo speed is excellent, but it is only available on a single core. Under a full multi-core load, all four cores will run at a lower sustained speed. It is also the most expensive chip on this list, though still very affordable compared to modern CPUs.
If you want the same superior clock speeds but with a more accessible form factor, the intel Core i7-4790 Processor renewed version offers a similar experience at a potentially lower price.
⚠
Compatibility: This is a new OEM tray processor with no cooler. You must supply your own LGA 1150-compatible heatsink and fan. The chip does ship in a protective tray clamshell.
Pros
  • ✓Highest single-core turbo speed (4.0 GHz) in the LGA 1150 lineup.
  • ✓New-old-stock condition avoids renewed-part uncertainty.
  • ✓8 MB L3 cache and Hyper-Threading for strong all-around performance.
  • ✓Overclocks well on Z87/Z97 boards with good cooling.
Cons
  • ✕Premium price compared to other LGA 1150 chips on this list.
  • ✕No cooler included in the OEM tray package.
  • ✕4.0 GHz turbo only applies to a single core under light load.
Cores
4 Cores / 8 Threads
Base Clock
3.60 GHz / 4.00 GHz Turbo
Cache
8 MB L3
Socket
LGA 1150
Best for: Gamers who already own a Z87 or Z97 motherboard and want the fastest single-threaded performance available on LGA 1150 without moving to a newer platform.

intel Core i7-4790 Processor: Top-Rated i7 Alternative

#5intel Core i7-4790 Processor
intelRenewed, 4.6 Rating
8.7OUT OF 10
Raw Performance9.0
Value for Money8.6
Reliability Track8.3
Owner Verdict9.0
This renewed i7-4790 is the highest-rated LGA 1150 processor on Amazon, with a 4.6 out of 5 star average from verified buyers. It offers the same core specs as the OEM tray version: 3.6 GHz base clock, 4.0 GHz turbo, 8 MB L3 cache, and Hyper-Threading. The key difference is the renewed condition, which often comes in at a lower price point than the new OEM chip.
Many owners report using this chip to revive old gaming rigs originally built with i5-4690K or i7-4770K processors. They note a noticeable improvement in multitasking responsiveness and smoother frame rates in CPU-bound games. The chip works with any LGA 1150 motherboard, including B85, H81, H97, and Z97 chipsets.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. Being a renewed part, there is always a chance of receiving a unit with bent pins or prior thermal damage. However, the high rating suggests that most sellers on Amazon test these chips thoroughly before listing them. Double check the seller’s return window.
If you want the exact same specs in a brand-new condition with zero wear risk, the Core i7-4790 Processor 3.6GHz 8MB LGA OEM tray version is a solid step up in peace of mind.
⚠
Warranty: This renewed CPU typically comes with a 90-day warranty from the Amazon Renewed program. Keep the packaging in case you need to initiate a return.
Pros
  • ✓Highest customer rating (4.6/5) among all LGA 1150 CPUs listed.
  • ✓Same high turbo clock speed as the OEM i7-4790 at a lower cost.
  • ✓Included in Amazon Renewed program with a satisfaction guarantee.
  • ✓Works great for gaming, video editing, and heavy multitasking.
Cons
  • ✕Renewed condition still carries a small risk of defects.
  • ✕No cooler included in the renewal packaging.
  • ✕Performance gap to the OEM version is minimal for the price difference.
Cores
4 Cores / 8 Threads
Base Clock
3.60 GHz / 4.00 GHz Turbo
Cache
8 MB L3
Socket
LGA 1150
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers who want the full i7-4790 performance but are comfortable with a renewed product backed by the Amazon Renewed guarantee.

Buying Guide: Clock Speed, Cores, Condition, and Platform Limits

Choosing the right LGA 1150 processor means balancing a few key factors. These chips are all based on Intel's Haswell architecture from 2013 and 2014. They use the same socket, but performance varies a lot depending on clock speed, thread count, and whether you buy new or renewed.

Clock Speed and Turbo Boost

Single-core clock speed still matters for older games and everyday apps. The i7-4790 chips hit 4.0 GHz on a single core, while the i5-4570 tops out at 3.6 GHz turbo. That 400 MHz gap can mean smoother frame rates in CPU-limited titles like older strategy games or emulators.

But the turbo boost only kicks in when the processor is cool enough. If you use a weak stock cooler or have poor case airflow, the chip may throttle down to its base clock. Always pair these CPUs with a decent 120 mm tower cooler if you want sustained turbo speeds.

Keeping the CPU temperature under control is part of regular maintenance, similar to knowing how to stop your CPU from overheating.

Cores and Threads: i5 vs i7

The Core i5-4570 has four cores and four threads. The i7-4770 and i7-4790 have four cores and eight threads thanks to Hyper-Threading. If you only run one heavy application at a time, the i5 will feel just as fast as the i7.

But when you open 20 browser tabs while exporting a video and running a compiler, the i7's extra threads prevent stuttering.

For light gaming, the i5 is enough. For video editing, 3D rendering, or running virtual machines, the i7 is worth the extra cost. You can check how many CPU cores you have in your current system to see if you are already hitting a thread limit.

New vs Renewed Condition

Three of the five processors here are sold as renewed or used parts. A renewed CPU costs less but may show cosmetic wear or have a shorter lifespan. The two new-old-stock options are the Core i5 i5-4570 and the Core i7-4790 OEM tray.

These are unused factory units that have never been installed in a system.

If you are building a PC for a family member or a secondary machine, the peace of mind of a new chip is worth the small premium. If you are experimenting or need a cheap upgrade for a spare board, a renewed chip is a safe bet with a 90-day return window.

Motherboard Compatibility and Other Considerations

All these CPUs fit any LGA 1150 motherboard, including B85, H81, H97, and Z97 chipsets. However, the BIOS must support the Haswell Refresh processors (i7-4790 and i5-4570). Most boards made after mid-2014 include this support.

Older boards may need a BIOS update, which requires a compatible CPU already installed.

You also need a dedicated graphics card because none of these chips have integrated graphics that are useful for gaming. The Intel HD Graphics 4600 on these CPUs is fine for a basic display output, but you will want a discrete GPU for any 3D work. If you are replacing an old CPU, make sure you have fresh thermal paste ready.

You can follow a guide on how to apply thermal grease to CPU to get the best temperatures.

To see how these factors play out on real picks, compare the Core i5 i5-4570 3.20 GHz Processor, intel Core i7-4770 Quad-Core Desktop Processor and the Intel Core i5-4570 Processor 3.2GHz 6MB reviewed above.

Who Should NOT Buy Best 1150 Cpu

An LGA 1150 CPU is the wrong purchase for several kinds of buyers. Here is who they are, and what to look at instead.

You Need Modern PCIe or DDR4 Support

If you plan to use an NVMe SSD for your operating system or want DDR4 RAM, an LGA 1150 board will hold you back. These chips only support PCIe 3.0 and DDR3 memory. Modern NVMe drives run at reduced speed on older PCIe lanes, and DDR3 is significantly slower than DDR4.

Look at a newer platform like Intel's LGA 1200 or AMD's AM4 instead. Even a budget Ryzen 3 with DDR4 and an NVMe slot will outperform any LGA 1150 chip in storage and memory-intensive tasks.

You Want to Play Modern AAA Games at High Settings

The i7-4790 is still capable for many games, but it struggles with recent titles that demand more than four cores. Games like Cyberpunk 2077, Starfield, and Baldur's Gate 3 can push CPU usage to 100% on the i7, causing stuttering. You also cannot upgrade to a newer CPU without replacing the motherboard and RAM.

Consider a recent i5-12400F or Ryzen 5 5600 instead. These chips cost more upfront but offer double the multi-core performance and access to faster memory and storage.

You Are Building a New System from Scratch

If you are buying every component new, an LGA 1150 CPU makes no sense. You will be limited to used or renewed hardware. A modern entry-level build with a current generation CPU is faster, more efficient, and easier to upgrade in the future.

Look at building a system around an Intel Core i3-13100 or AMD Ryzen 5 7600. These platforms give you DDR5 support and PCI Express 5.0, future-proofing your investment for years.

Final Verdict

For most people, the Core i5 i5-4570 3.20 GHz Processor is the best best 1150 cpu choice. It gives you reliable quad-core performance at the lowest cost, and it is sold as new stock so you avoid the risks of renewed hardware. If you need more thread count for multitasking, the intel Core i7-4770 Quad-Core Desktop Processor is a strong runner-up that adds Hyper-Threading for a modest price bump.

Need the absolute fastest single-core speed for older games? The Core i7-4790 Processor 3.6GHz 8MB LGA tops the charts with a 4.0 GHz turbo. Want a budget i5 that cuts costs even further?

The Intel Core i5-4570 Processor 3.2GHz 6MB gets the job done for the lowest possible price. And if you trust renewed products with excellent reviews, the intel Core i7-4790 Processor is the highest-rated option here.

If you are building a brand-new system from scratch, jump back to the Who Should NOT Buy section before you spend anything. But if you have an LGA 1150 board that needs a second life, one of these five processors will give you exactly the performance you need.

Top 5 Best LGA 1150 CPU Review in 2026 – Intel Core i7 Desktop Processor via Secure Gear

FAQ

What's the best 1150 Cpu overall?

The Core i5 i5-4570 3.20 GHz Processor is the best overall pick for most users because it balances price, reliability, and solid quad-core performance for everyday tasks.

Is an i7-4790 worth it over an i5-4570?

Yes, if you need the extra threads from Hyper-Threading. The i7-4790 handles video editing, multitasking, and CPU-heavy games much better. The i5-4570 is still fine for basic office work and light gaming.

Can I use an LGA 1150 CPU in a modern motherboard?

No. LGA 1150 processors only fit motherboards with the H81, B85, H97, or Z97 chipsets. They do not work with LGA 1151, LGA 1200, or LGA 1700 sockets.

Do these CPUs include a cooler?

Only a few retail boxed versions come with a stock cooler. Most of the chips here are sold as OEM tray or renewed parts and do not include a cooler. You will need to buy one separately.

Should I buy a renewed LGA 1150 CPU?

It depends on your budget and risk tolerance. Renewed CPUs can save you money and usually work fine, but they may show cosmetic wear. Stick with sellers that offer a 90-day return policy for peace of mind.

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