Best Desktop Processors Under $300
Every device below is scored by the open Inno Score methodology — published specs and benchmark results, no sponsored placements. Prices are launch MSRPs (US, before tax); street prices are usually lower. Methodology
Best overall60AMD Ryzen 5 7600$229 — A 65 W six-core Zen 4 part that trades about 3-5% of the 7600X's clock speed for far less heat and a cooler in the box.Best value for money41Intel Core i3-12100F$97 — The i3-12100 with the integrated graphics fused off and roughly $25 cut from the price, aimed squarely at a budget gaming box that already has a discrete card.
