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 overall79Intel Core Ultra 5 250K Plus$219 — Intel's mid-range Arrow Lake Refresh chip for LGA1851: 18 cores (6P+12E) at up to 5.3 GHz for $219, launched alongside the Core Ultra 7 270K Plus as part of Intel's Core Ultra 200S Plus refresh..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.
