Intel Xeon E5-2620 V3

The Intel Xeon E5-2620 V3 packs 6 cores and 12 threads. Clocks run from 2.4GHz base to 3.2GHz boost. It drops into the LGA2011-3 socket with a 85W TDP — about 14.2W per core. 16MB of L3 cache helps in cache-sensitive games and workloads. Match the socket to your motherboard first; cooler TDP rating second.

Its $149.95 price tag places it squarely in budget territory. PlanMyPC's builder flags compatibility problems automatically and tracks the latest processor deals from multiple stores. Intel backs the product through its standard warranty channels; check the listing for region-specific terms. Scroll down for the complete spec table; the builder's compatibility checker will warn you about any conflicts with components you have already picked.