Intel processors: over 400 models for building a new computer or upgrading an older one. Most of the range is INTEL, with LENOVO items and a few AMD processors alongside. The category covers simpler models for office work as well as faster ones for gaming and professional use.
How to choose an Intel processor
Socket and motherboard. The processor must fit the motherboard socket: LGA1700 and LGA1851, for example, are not interchangeable. Check the board maker's processor support list, because even with the same socket a BIOS update is sometimes needed.
Cores for your purpose. A few cores are usually enough for office work, browsing and video calls. Games also depend on single-core speed, while video editing, programming and virtual machines benefit from more cores and threads. Recent Intel Core generations mix performance (P) and efficiency (E) cores, so comparing the total core count alone is not enough.
Integrated graphics. Models with an F in the name have no integrated graphics, so you will get no picture without a separate graphics card. If you do not plan to fit one, choose a processor without that letter.
Thermal power and cooling. The higher a processor's thermal design power (TDP), the stronger the cooling it needs. Some processors are sold with a cooler and others without, so check what is in the box. Models with a K usually need a cooler bought separately.
Generation and memory. A newer generation is generally more efficient but often needs a newer motherboard. Some generations support DDR4, others DDR5, and many boards accept only one of the two, so decide on the memory type before you buy.
Brands in this category
- INTEL: makes the Core i3, i5, i7, i9 and Core Ultra series for desktops and laptops, and the Xeon line for workstations and servers.
- LENOVO: best known for laptops, workstations and ThinkSystem servers, so processors sold under its name are generally meant for its own systems. Check the exact model of your hardware before buying.
- AMD: its main processor families are Ryzen and EPYC. Only a few AMD items appear here, and AMD processors use different sockets from Intel, so they do not fit Intel motherboards.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if a processor will fit my motherboard?
The processor socket must match the motherboard socket, and the board's chipset and BIOS version must support that exact processor model. You can find this in the processor support list on the motherboard maker's website. If the BIOS is too old, the board may not recognise a newer processor.
Do I need a separate graphics card with an Intel processor?
Not always. Most Intel Core processors without an F in the name have integrated graphics, which is enough for office work, browsing and watching video. For gaming, 3D work and demanding video processing, a separate graphics card is worth considering.
What is the difference between Core i3, i5, i7 and i9?
They are performance tiers from the same maker: i3 suits lighter everyday tasks, i5 is a common choice for gaming and general use, and i7 and i9 offer more cores for heavier workloads. Generation matters too, so a newer i5 can sometimes outperform an older i7.
What do the letters K, F and KF mean in a processor name?
K means an unlocked multiplier that lets you raise the clock speed manually, F means the processor has no integrated graphics, and KF has both traits. Overclocking needs a motherboard with a suitable chipset and strong cooling.
