Intel Pentium G3240

The Intel Pentium G3240 offers 2 cores and 4 threads. Clocks run from 3.1GHz base to 3.1GHz boost. 3MB of L3 cache helps in cache-sensitive games and workloads. Integrated Intel HD Graphics graphics let it run headless-GPU builds and troubleshooting. It drops into the LGA1150 socket with a 53W TDP — about 26.5W per core.

Board socket comes first when pairing parts — after that, make sure your cooler's rating covers the chip. At $99.98 it sits in the budget processor bracket. 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.