No computer would be able to run without a processor. Obviously, some processors are better than others. There are some pretty darn expensive processors on the market, but money doesn’t mean everything for these devices. It’s possible to buy a really powerful and efficient processor while on a budget. Therefore, here are the top five computer processors on the market that cost less than $500.00!
1. Intel Core 2 Duo E6700 ($317)
Without a doubt, the Intel Core 2 Duo E6700 processor is the best on the market today for its price range. This processor is both powerful and energy efficient combined with a relatively cheap price. Fortunately, the processor runs pretty quietly in comparison to most others. You won’t have any problems getting the most out of your computer with this powerhouse. For the average computer user, this processor has a bunch of benefits and almost no negatives. That’s what makes it the best processor under $500!
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2. Intel Core 2 Extreme X6800 ($499)
The Intel Core 2 Extreme X6800 barely makes it into this list, but it’s well-worth it’s price for people who need a powerful processor. In the end, this processor is one of Intel’s (and any other company’s) most powerful processors. This processor is much more advanced than previous Intel processors, and customers will get their money’s worth. Surprisingly, this chip is fairly efficient, despite it’s power. Furthermore, the Extreme X6800 has very few cons or negatives. The processor, however, is not very practical for a person who uses their computer for simple Internet surfing and whatnot.
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3. AMD Athlon 64 X2 5000+ ($150)
As the cheapest processor on the list, the AMD Athlon 64 X2 5000+ is fairly powerful and fast for its extremely low price tag. This processor is much more suitable for simple computer users that surf the web, watch a few videos, listen to music, and do other simple tasks. Computer users that need a lot of processor power should buy a different processor. Still, this chip can’t be beaten for its price and capabilities, so moderate computer users should go with this one.
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4. AMD Phenom X4 9850 ($270)
The AMD Phenom X4 9850 is a 2.5 GHz processor that is somewhat expensive for its limited capabilities. Intel has faster, more powerful, and cheaper processors on the market. Either way, this processor is still a good choice for some computer users. Many gamers will like this processor, but casual computer users will find it useless, and intense users will find the processor too weak. There are better choices on the market though due to the AMD Phenom X4 9850’s somewhat high price and lackluster performance.
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5. AMD Phenom 9600 ($265)
Unlike the previous AMD Phenom on this list, the AMD Phenom 9600 is a 2.3 GHz processor. It’s about the same price as the previous item on this list, but it’s better suited for casual computer users. The 9600 processes data somewhat quickly. Still, some of Intel’s processor chips are faster than this one with a barely higher price tag. Most moderate computer users aren’t really going to care too much either way if they get the AMD Phenom 9600 or a similar Intel processor.
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Processors, Processors, and More Processors
Most people who go to buy a computer don’t really worry too much about the processor. In fact, a lot of people simply choose a processor based upon how good it sounds by name. There are plenty of processors out there, ranging from a few hundred to a couple thousand dollars. As you can see, price doesn’t mean a thing because many processors under $500 are just as good as their more expensive counterparts. Either way, you now know about the best processors under $500!
