Intel Core i3-4160

The Intel Core i3-4160 brings 2 cores and 4 threads. It drops into the LGA1150 socket with a 54W TDP — about 27W per core. Integrated Intel HD Graphics 4400 graphics let it run headless-GPU builds and troubleshooting. 4MB of L3 cache helps in cache-sensitive games and workloads. Clocks run from 3.6GHz base to 3.6GHz boost.

Confirm motherboard socket compatibility before anything else, then size the cooler to the TDP. At $50.21 it sits in the budget processor bracket. Use the PlanMyPC system builder to verify it works alongside your other components and to watch live retailer pricing. Intel backs the product through its standard warranty channels; check the listing for region-specific terms.