Intel Core 2 Quad Q8300

The Intel Core 2 Quad Q8300 brings 4 cores and 8 threads. Clocks span 2.5GHz base to 2.5GHz boost. It drops into the LGA775 socket with a 95W TDP — about 23.8W per core. Board socket comes first when pairing parts — after that, make sure your cooler's rating covers the chip.

Expect to pay around $130.98, which lands it among budget options. PlanMyPC's builder flags compatibility problems automatically and tracks the latest processor deals from multiple stores. Support and warranty service run through Intel, with terms that vary by region. The full specification sheet below breaks out every listed detail, and the compatibility checker flags conflicts with parts already in your build.