Content

• Steps
• Tips
• Warnings

Do you want to build a computer and don't know where to start? With the choice of processor! The microprocessor in a computer is one of the main components and must be carefully selected. Buying the wrong processor can lead to broken components, hardware incompatibilities, or generally a lack of power.

Steps

1. 1 Choose between AMD and Intel processors. AMD processors are cheaper and Intel processors are more powerful. A motherboard for an AMD processor supports the installation of only AMD video cards (when installing several video cards at the same time), and a motherboard for an Intel processor supports the installation of both AMD and Nvidia video cards (when installing several video cards at the same time). Also keep in mind that a 3.0 GHz quad-core Intel processor does not necessarily perform as well as an AMD 3.0 GHz quad-core processor.
2. 2 Decide on the number of cores. The performance of multi-core processors is equal to the performance of each core multiplied by the number of cores. For example, if you run a program that supports four cores, then you will not see much difference if your computer has a single core 4.0 GHz processor or a quad core 1.0 GHz processor. If you are a professional 3D artist or professional video editor, then you need at least four cores. If you play computer games, you will need at least two cores. If you need a computer to run office applications and surf the Internet, you can limit yourself to one core. However, not all programs or games support multi-core processors.
3. 3 Determine the processor speed. The speed (or rather clock speed) of processors is measured in gigahertz (GHz). These days, processors with a frequency of less than 2.0 GHz are only suitable for running office applications and surfing the Internet. If you want to play PC games, buy a dual-core (at least) 2.5+ GHz processor. If you are running a very powerful graphics card, do not limit its performance with a weak processor. For such a card, you will need a 3.0+ GHz processor.
4. 4 Do not limit the performance of components! If you are going to install a GTX 590 graphics card and play the latest games, don't buy a cheap processor. If you have a dual-core 2.0 GHz processor and a top-end (most expensive) graphics card, then the processor will limit the performance of the graphics card, which will prevent you from playing at maximum settings. Remember, the cost of the processor and video card must be comparable.
5. 5 Think about the compatibility of the components. Do not buy a motherboard that supports AMD processors for an Intel processor. Make sure the type of processor socket on the motherboard matches the processor. The Intel Socket 1155 processor cannot be installed on a motherboard with an Intel 1156 processor socket.

Tips

• If you decide to overclock the processor, make sure that other users have done it (with a similar processor).
• The higher the price of the processor, the better it is. If you're building a gaming PC, you don't need a 5.0 GHz six-core processor - that's a waste of money.
• If you want a high-speed processor but don't have the money to spare, buy a good cooler and overclock the processor.
• Do not use excessive force when installing the processor into the socket.

Warnings

• Do not limit the performance of components!