Intel processors for building, upgrading or repairing a computer, with over 300 models in our range. Most listings come from Intel and Lenovo, and a few AMD products appear alongside them. Check the socket and platform before comparing core counts.
How to choose an Intel processor
Socket and motherboard. The processor must match the socket on your motherboard, and the chipset and BIOS version must support that specific generation. Two Intel chips can look similar but use different sockets, so check the motherboard's supported CPU list before buying.
Cores and threads. Office work, browsing and video calls run well on a modest core count. Video editing, 3D rendering, virtual machines and software compilation benefit from more cores and threads. For gaming, single-core speed and the graphics card usually matter more than a very high core count.
Model suffixes. On Intel desktop chips, a K suffix generally means an unlocked multiplier for overclocking, while an F suffix means there is no integrated graphics. An F model needs a separate graphics card, so avoid it if you want to run the PC from the processor alone.
Cooling and power. Higher-performance processors draw more power and produce more heat. Check the rated power figure, and whether the processor is supplied with a cooler or needs a separate one. A weak cooler makes a fast processor throttle under load.
Desktop, workstation or server. Xeon and other workstation or server-class processors use different platforms from standard desktop Core chips. They suit systems built around ECC memory and many cores, but they will not fit an ordinary desktop board.
Brands in this category
- Intel: the designer of the Core, Core Ultra and Xeon families, so its listings cover the processor generations most motherboards are built around.
- Lenovo: best known for ThinkPad laptops and ThinkSystem servers. Match any Lenovo-listed processor to your exact system model and part number before ordering.
- AMD: Intel's main rival, known for Ryzen desktop and EPYC server processors. These need AMD-compatible motherboards, not Intel ones.
Frequently asked questions about Intel processors
How do I know if an Intel processor fits my motherboard?
Look up your motherboard model on the manufacturer's website and open its CPU support list. It names the socket, the supported processors and the minimum BIOS version needed for each. If a newer chip needs a BIOS update, you may have to update before installing it.
What does the F in an Intel processor name mean?
The F means the processor has no integrated graphics. It works only if the PC has a separate graphics card. Models without the F can output video through the motherboard, which is useful for office machines or as a fallback.
How many cores do I need?
For everyday tasks, a processor with four to six cores is usually enough. Gaming runs well on six to eight fast cores paired with a suitable graphics card. Rendering, editing and virtual machines gain more from higher core counts.
Do I need to buy a separate CPU cooler?
It depends on the processor and the version supplied. Some Intel processors come with a cooler, while others are sold without one and need a separate cooler. Check the product details, and choose a cooler rated for the processor's heat output.
