Intel Core 2 Extreme QX9775

The Intel Core 2 Extreme QX9775 brings 4 cores and 8 threads. Clocks span 3.2GHz base to 3.2GHz boost. It drops into the LGA775 socket with a 150W TDP — about 37.5W per core. Board socket comes first when pairing parts — after that, make sure your cooler's rating covers the chip.

Expect to pay around $1298.00, which lands it among premium options. Drop it into the PlanMyPC builder to check compatibility with the rest of your parts and compare current processor prices across retailers. Support and warranty service run through Intel, 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.