Intel Xeon E3-1241 V3

The Intel Xeon E3-1241 V3 offers 4 cores and 8 threads. Clocks run from 3.5GHz base to 3.9GHz boost. It drops into the LGA1150 socket with a 80W TDP — about 20W per core. 16MB of L3 cache helps in cache-sensitive games and workloads. Match the socket to your motherboard first; cooler TDP rating second.

At $254.74 it sits in the mid-range processor bracket. 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 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.