Introduction
Searching for the best LGA 1151 CPU? If yes, you are at the right place. LGA CPU is what the majority looks for when it comes to building a personal Pc. Now, we all know a CPU is the heart of every computer system. So whether it’s a gaming machine or a business one, a powerful processor is a must-have thing.
These days, even novices look for the best budget processors. They want to get the maximum performance within their budget range. That’s where this 1151 CPU really shines. This detailed guide is all about some of the best LGA 1151 CPUs of 2022. So, let us get into it!
LGA 1151? What Is It, Actually?
Most of you would be familiar with LGA 1151 CPUs. However, for beginners, here is a brief rundown. Basically, the LGA 1151 is a motherboard socket. All modern-day motherboards have it. This CPU socket is compatible with Intel microprocessors. Further, these 1151 processors aren’t hard on the pocket.
That’s why almost every gamer and casual Pc user keeps searching for 1151 Intel core i7 processors. Anyhow, we have tested a bunch of these processors. So let us help you decide which 1151 compatible Intel core i7 processor you should get.
Best LGA 1151 CPU – What Things Should You Consider?
There are a ton of quality processors out there. For example, core i5 9600K and core i7 9700K are some of the best Intel microprocessors out there. However, as a newbie or even an expert, you should always consider several factors before buying any of these processors. So, here is our detailed buying guide to help you in this regard.
i): Clock Speed
Alongside the CPU core, the clock speed matters the most. Now, most the users think that these speeds don’t really matter. Whereas the clock speed of any processor (be core i5 9600K it or core i7 9700K) matters the most. So, never overlook this aspect while buying any CPU for your next build.
Further, the majority also confuse the term “CPU Cores” with the clock speed. In reality, they are both different aspects but are closely interlinked. For example, the quad-core processor can run multiple programs at once. At the same time, a dual-core processor with a higher clock speed may also deliver the same performance (despite having two cores).
So, you see, the dual-core processor had a higher clock speed, which helped deliver smoother performance. Ideally, it would be best if you went with at least a quad-core processor with decent enough clock speed.
ii): CPU Cores and Threads
Now, comes the CPU cores. Often, these cores are mixed with the clock speed. Note that they both are different terms. The CPU cores are basically individual mini-processors. They are an essential component of the main processor and help it run multiple tasks at the same time.
For instance, the dual-core processor is actually a single chip. However, it has two cores which double its performance. On the other hand, the CPU thread helps it execute different sequence instructions. Usually, hyperthreaded processors are liked by the majority. These processors are also quite efficient.
iii): TDP – Thermal Design Power
Thermal design power says a lot about any particular processor’s processing power and efficiency. Now, why it’s important? Well, that’s because less TDP value means the processor will emit less heat.
These days, many processors come with an in-built cooling system. Moreover, these processors are considered quite snappy. But that’s not the case anymore.
Intel processors are usually known for their excellent efficiency. That’s because these CPUs don’t exhibit as much heat as some other microprocessors do.
iv): IGP (Integrated Graphic Processor)
IGP is another term (or aspect) that you should look for in a CPU. This term basically means the graphics processing unit (GPU) that comes integrated within the microprocessor. For example, most of the latest Intel processors come with an integrated GPU. Even with the IGP, these processors are quite good at emitting maximum heat.
For instance, the 9th generation core i3 9100 f also has an integrated GPU. So, that’s a good pick for daily use. This is another term you should be aware of before buying any 1151 CPU.
v): Turbo Frequency
The turbo frequency of a CPU also speaks of its performance. Now, most of the affordable CPUs don’t have support turbo frequency. Whereas buying a processor with a specific turbo frequency is always a good idea. This frequency allows the CPU to operate at a slightly higher clock speed when the maximum power output is required.
Best LGA 1151 CPU – Our Top Picks
1: Intel Core I9 9900 K
With the likes of some quality raw power from AMD and Intel, it wasn’t easy to choose the most powerful gaming processor out there. Finally, we found the Intel I9 9900 K to be the best gaming processor. Compared to the core I7 9700K, the Intel I9 9900 K processor performs much better.
Many gamers reported that they achieved 100 fps on this processor, which is insane. Let us talk a bit more about the technical specs of the Intel I9 9900 K.
Exploring the Advantages of Intel i9-9900K
The processor clocks at around 5 GHz out of the box. Basically, the processor also supports turbo boost. It has 8 cores and 16 threads. The clock speed here is 3.6 GHz which isn’t bad at all.
You might be thinking the Ryzen 9 3900X also has 12 cores and 24 threads which is better than the Intel I9 9900 K (at least).
Well, that’s not the case here. The 9th generation Intel I9 processor even comes with an integrated GPU. The Intel UHD graphics 630 are more than enough for an average gamer.
So, that’s an advantage here to the 9th generation processor by Intel. All in all, the Intel I9 9900 K is one fantastic 1151 processor. This processor is for you if you have the budget and want maximum performance.
Pros
- Comes with an Integrated GPU
- Excellent Gaming performance
- Solid single-thread performance
- Ideal for hardcore gamers
- Impressive 5 GHz Clock Speed
Cons
- It can Get Quite Hot on Extensive Us Age
2: Intel I7 9700K
If you can’t afford the 9900k, then the Intel I7 9700K is for you. We found that it’s an excellent alternative to its elder siblings. Whereas, it also comes at a slightly affordable price tag. You’ll be surprised to know that many gamers prefer this CPU over some of the expensive offerings.
So, you can go with this gaming CPU eyes closed. But, it is equally suitable for those who want to edit high-quality videos (up to 4k). That’s because it also comes with an integrated graphics processing unit. Here, you get the same GPU i.e., Intel UHD graphics 630.
Reliable Single-Threaded Performance
This means you can still run games and even edit some videos without the need to install a dedicated GPU. Furthermore, tech enthusiasts can also overclock this CPU.
The single-threaded performance is where the Intel I7 9700K shines. With excellent single-threaded performance, you can run many game titles with ease. In short, the I7 9700K is one reliable CPU.
Pros
- Excellent Alternative to the 9900K
- Quite Efficient
- Value for Money
- The Integrated UHD 630 GPU Is a Bonus
Cons
- No Hyperthreading Allowed
3: Intel Core i5 9600K
Next up, we have another Intel 9th-generation processor. It is the 9600k. Even the 9600KF is an excellent gaming processor. What we like about this processor is that it comes at an affordable price. So, we can say that the I5 9600 is arguably the best budget gaming processor to buy right now.
Powerful & Versatile
The Ryzen 5 2600U might also bother you here as it is the direct competitor of this processor. However, don’t get confused by the numbers here. The I5 9600K is a very capable processor. Though it is specially designed for gaming, you can also use it for general computing purposes. We think given the specs, this processor is equally good for video editing.
Its 3.7 GHz clock speed would be enough to help you enjoy some high-end gaming titles. However, the turbo-boosted speed here is 4.6 GHZ which is impressive for a budget processor.
Another good thing here is that this processor comes with the same GPU (Intel UHD 630) as the 9th generation I7 and I9 chipset comes with. So, you don’t necessarily need a dedicated GPU here.
In short, the I5 9600K is a very capable processor. If you have a tight budget, this processor won’t disappoint you with its solid performance.
Pros
- Affordable Price
- Excellent Gaming Capabilities
- Also good for multitasking
- Turbo boost up to 4.6 GHz
Cons
- No Stock Cooler
4: Intel Core I5 9400F
So far, we have reviewed the processor that had a dedicated GPU. But there are some folks who have invested in some cheap graphics card. So, they don’t mind a gaming processor without a dedicated GPU.
For such folks, the core I5 9400F is an excellent processor. With a base clock speed of around 2.9 GHz, the 9400F is ideal for mid-level gaming. That’s because it doesn’t come with a dedicated GPU. And that’s not bad because its six cores offer enough power for the most part.
Balancing Performance & Affordability
It is basically a six-core (Hexa-core, to be exact) processor. These six cores with six threads offer pretty decent performance. Note that you will have to buy a dedicated GPU here to get the most out of this gaming processor.
But still, it offers pretty consistent performance. We think you can even use this processor for day-to-day use age. That’s because the 4.6 GHz turbo boost is something special. That really helps this processor shine.
All in all, the Intel Core I5 9400F is an even more excellent processor than the 9600K. Though the 9600K has better clock speed and a dedicated GPU, but the 9400F still manages to deliver decent all-around performance.
Pros
- Good All-Round Performer
- Budget-Friendly Option
- Six Core Ensures Decent Gaming
Cons
- An Integrated GPU Could Have Been Included
5: Core i3 9100F
Most of the Intel processors with the “F” suffix are pretty affordable. The same is the case with Intel Core i3 9100F processor. At a surprisingly lower price, this processor helps gamers who are on a budget play their favorite gaming titles.
According to many users, it is a super cheap processor that can handle 1080p gaming with ease. However, you may have to couple it with a dedicated GPU for some better frame rates.
Efficient & Capable
In the heart of 9100F, there are four single-threaded cores. Now, obviously, it’s not a Hexa-core processor, but its gaming performance is pretty adequate. Further, it is also quite efficient. Therefore, you can game on it for hours without any hassle.
The bae 3.6 GHz base clock speed isn’t bad at all. With turbo boost, it goes all the way up to 4.2 GHz. Furthermore, this processor also has its own dedicated GPU. So, imagine if you couple it with any other GPU, the graphics performance is going to be excellent.
In short, if you are a beginner or it’s your first build, we highly recommend checking out the Core I3 9100F.
Pros
- Value for Money
- 4.2 GHz Turbo Boost
- Runs Most of the Titles at 1080p
Cons
- Not a Versatile Processor
6: Intel I7 6700K
Some of you might think, why we are reviewing the I7 6700k. Well, it’s a very capable processor. And we think that, it’s the processing power that really matters. And it’s not a bad idea to opt for an old-generation processor.
Anyhow, let us jump to the actual review. As the name says, the I7 6700K is good at gaming. With 8 cores and 8 threads, you get pretty much good all-round performance. Now, we all know what value an octa-core gaming chipset brings to the table.
Efficient & Capable
Further, you also get 8 MB cache here, which is quite reasonable for a gaming processor. The base clock speed here is 4.0 GHZ and 4.2 GHZ with the turbo boost.
Moreover, these 7th-generation Intel processors are known for their low-temperature ratings. So, even on extensive use-age, you won’t see any huge temperature differences. In Short, the Intel Core I7 6700k can also be considered as one good LGA 1151 CPU.
Pros
- Good Performance Despite Being a Few Generations Old
- Decent Clock-Speed
- Not That Expensive
Cons
- It may Require Additional GPU Support
7: Intel Core I5 8400
Now, comes the turn of 8th-generation processors. The core I5 8400 is a processor that only a few people talk about. Well, nowadays, the higher-end I5 processors are performing better than even some of the core I7 processors.
Therefore, you can also opt for I5 8400 if gaming is you main requirement. It is one of the affordable Intel processors with coffee-lake architecture. Here you get six cores and six threads.
Capable & Affordable
Now, the absence of a hyper-threading feature may upset some users. But for gamers, it’s a win-win situation. The stock clock speed if of 2.8 GHz. With turbo boost, it gets as high as 4.0 GHz. Moreover, you can even overclock this 1151 CPU.
To conclude, the I5 8400 is still a pretty capable processor. Moreover, it’s quite affordable and also performs quite well.
Pros
- Powerful performance
- Efficient power consumption
- Good value for money
- Solid multitasking capabilities
Cons
- Limited overclocking potential
- Lack of integrated graphics
- Older architecture
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are curious about the common questions people ask me, here is a list of my most frequently answered ones.
Q1: What CPUs can fit LGA 1151?
Ans: There are many processors available out there that can first an LGA 1151 CPU. For example, the Core i3 9100F is an ideal LGA 1151 CPU. This LGA 1151 CPU for gaming performance is quite affordable. So, for a nominal price, you enjoy all the benefits of LGA 1151 cpu.
Q2: Is the LGA1151 socket outdated?
Ans: No, the lga 1151 socket is not an outdated CPU socket. In Fact the LGA 1151 socket is the favorite of many gamers. You get good graphics performance from this socket. For example, the single core performance of these processors is quite good.
For example, you can buy intel core i7 9700k for some good gaming performance. Also, the intel core i5 9600k is also a solid 1151 cpu.
Q3: Is the LGA 1151 motherboard good?
Ans: Yes, the LGa 1151 motherboard is pretty good for gamers. With the likes of intel core i7 9700k and Intel core i9 9900k, these motherboards deliver solid gaming performance.
Final Thoughts!
Now, you know the best LGA 1151 CPUs. As mentioned, LGA 1151 is the CPU socket that lets you get the most out of any motherboard. We tested all of the above-highlighted processors and found the Intel I9 9900 K to be the best gaming processor. Compared to the core I7 9700K, the Intel I9 9900 K processor performs much better.
Many gamers reported that they achieved 100 fps on this processor, which is insane. Let us talk a bit more about the technical specs of the Intel I9 9900 K. moreover, there are other quality 1151 processor too. So, depending on your requirements, you can buy any of these.
