AMD FX-6100

The AMD FX-6100 packs 6 cores and 12 threads. It drops into the AM3+ socket with a 95W TDP — about 15.8W per core. 8MB of L3 cache helps in cache-sensitive games and workloads. Clocks run from 3.3GHz base to 3.3GHz boost. Confirm motherboard socket compatibility before anything else, then size the cooler to the TDP.

Its $68.00 price tag places it squarely in budget territory. Use the PlanMyPC system builder to verify it works alongside your other components and to watch live retailer pricing. Support and warranty service run through AMD, with terms that vary by region. Scroll down for the complete spec table; the builder's compatibility checker will warn you about any conflicts with components you have already picked.