Intel Xeon E5-2697 V3

The Intel Xeon E5-2697 V3 brings 14 cores and 14 threads. Clocks run from 2.6GHz base to 3.6GHz boost. 16MB of L3 cache helps in cache-sensitive games and workloads. It drops into the LGA2011-3 socket with a 145W TDP — about 10.4W per core. Match the socket to your motherboard first; cooler TDP rating second.

Its $110.00 price tag places it squarely in budget territory. Use the PlanMyPC system builder to verify it works alongside your other components and to watch live retailer pricing. Warranty coverage follows Intel's standard policy — confirm regional terms on the listing. Scroll down for the complete spec table; the builder's compatibility checker will warn you about any conflicts with components you have already picked.