When you consider the best processor there are many factors that need to be looked at. Defining the best processor is extremely hard because everyone who uses at computer has different needs. Despite this, in 2011 we have seen a complete redesign of the CPU. The release of the Intel Sandy Bridge chipset platform has, and it’s not too dangerous to say, completely given the market to Intel. It is more than arguable that you shouldn’t even consider buying a processor that isn’t on Sandy Bridge; their capabilities far outweigh anything else that is on offer. So really, it’s just an argument between which Sandy Bridge processor to buy. This, yet again, comes down to your processing needs. What exactly do you do on your computer, and what processor should you choose?
1. Intel Core i5 2500k
This is the cheapest version of the Sandy Bridge platform CPUs at the moment, and the performance it delivers if quite astounding. It is definitely one of the best processors on the market, and can really improve your computing experience. Whilst the processor may not be on the cheap end of the scale, the performance it offers and the price tag are justified. For an all round processor, this one is certainly up there, in fact there’s no comparison.
2. Intel Core i7 2600k
This is a complete processing powerhouse, but it is important to remember that the best processor, the i5 2500k is not too far behind, and is significantly cheaper. That being said the processing power that the i7 2600k has is quite simply unbelievable. With the system on a chip ability, you can understand why the new Sandy Bridge platform is producing some of the best processors around. The power that the i7 has improves on this, and gives you some of the ultimate processing power ever.
3. Intel Core i7 3960x
The power that this processor has is absolutely immense. So much so that for gaming you can’t get much better a CPU. With high-powered processing, also the ability to overclock, you cannot underestimate the power that this processor offers. That being said, although this offers great performance, the price makes it unobtainable for anyone but the most avid gamers. It may be the best processor around, but its price puts it down the table.
4. Intel Celeron G440
Sandy Bridge on a budget. Priced at only around £30 you can gain access to some of the greatest new technology, and see your computer achieve far better processing power. Whilst the G440 may not be quite as powerful or responsive as the i5 2500k, for someone on a budget gaining access to Sandy Bridge is definitely a bonus. With the G440 you are getting budget performance, and a strong CPU for basic computing.
5. Intel Core i3 2100
The i3 2100 is another great Intel processor. Whilst it may not have the power of the i5 or the i7 it does have really strong capabilities, and will give up the ability to process many applications on your computer. With the power of a two-core processor you can be sure that for good computing it is one of the best processors around. With no abilities to overclock it is important to remember that you are stuck with the basic performance power, but it’s performance ability is really quite compelling.
The power that Intel has given the consumer with Sandy Bridge is unbelievable, and these five processors give you the ability to get into that market. Choosing the best processor can be hard, but you can be sure that all of these processors will not disappoint.