Processors in our range cover desktop CPUs from AMD and Intel, plus server and workstation processors from Lenovo, Supermicro and Fujitsu. It suits PC builders, people upgrading an existing machine and IT teams maintaining servers. With over 1,000 products, the category also includes a few cooling items from Arctic and Dynatron.
How to choose a processor
Socket and platform. A processor only works in a motherboard with the matching socket and a chipset that supports it. Check the motherboard maker's CPU support list before buying, because an older board may need a BIOS update to recognise a newer chip.
Cores and clock speed. Games and everyday office work usually benefit from high clock speeds and a moderate number of cores. Video editing, 3D rendering, virtual machines and databases scale with more cores and threads, so a higher core count is worth paying for there.
Desktop or server class. Server and workstation processors are built for continuous load, large amounts of memory and, in many cases, ECC memory or multi-socket boards. They need compatible server motherboards, so match the processor to the exact server model or board you own. Our server and workstation subcategory is the place to look for these.
Integrated graphics. Many desktop processors include basic graphics, which is enough for office use, video playback and a spare machine without a graphics card. Some models leave graphics out, so check this if you do not plan to fit a separate card.
Cooling and power draw. The thermal design power (TDP) tells you how much heat the cooler has to handle. Some boxed processors ship with a cooler and others do not, and server processors often need a heatsink made for the chassis, so confirm what is included before you order.
Processor brands in our range
The category is split into Intel processors, AMD processors, and server and workstation processors, so you can go straight to the platform you are building on.
- AMD: known for Ryzen desktop chips and EPYC server processors, with many cores per socket as a common selling point.
- Intel: makes the Core family for desktops and laptops and the Xeon family for servers and workstations.
- Lenovo: builds ThinkSystem servers and ThinkStation workstations, so its listings are mostly relevant to owners of those systems.
- Supermicro: a server and motherboard specialist, popular in data centres and custom server builds.
- Fujitsu: supplies business servers and workstations, and its processor listings suit upkeep of existing Fujitsu systems.
- Arctic and Dynatron: cooling specialists, with Dynatron focused on server CPU coolers and Arctic on aftermarket coolers for desktops.
Also in our range: Dell, Titan, HP Enterprise and Cisco.
Processor FAQ
How do I know if a processor fits my motherboard?
Match the processor's socket to the one on your motherboard, then check the board maker's support list for that exact CPU model. Chipset and BIOS version matter as well, since some boards need an update before they accept newer processors.
Should I choose AMD or Intel?
Neither is better in every case, so decide by your workload, your motherboard socket and the models available. Compare the core count, clock speed and integrated graphics of the specific processors you are considering rather than the brand alone.
Does a processor come with a cooler?
Some boxed desktop processors include a cooler, but many models do not, especially higher-end ones. Server processors usually need a heatsink matched to the server chassis. The product listing should state what is in the box, and if it does not, plan to buy a cooler separately.
What is the difference between a desktop and a server processor?
Server processors are designed for constant load, more memory capacity and, often, ECC memory and multi-socket systems. Desktop processors prioritise single-core speed and cost for everyday computing and gaming. They use different sockets, so the two types are not interchangeable on the same board.
