Intel Xeon E5-1660 V2

The Intel Xeon E5-1660 V2 brings 6 cores and 12 threads. Clocks span 3.7GHz base to 4GHz boost. 16MB of L3 cache helps in cache-sensitive games and workloads. It drops into the LGA2011 socket with a 130W TDP — about 21.7W per core. Match the socket to your motherboard first; cooler TDP rating second.

Its $289.95 price tag places it squarely in mid-range territory. 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. Scroll down for the complete spec table; the builder's compatibility checker will warn you about any conflicts with components you have already picked.