7 Best CPU Under $200 – A Complete Buyer’s Guide [2022]

We at Maximum-Tech, your guide to everything PC, know how tedious looking for the best CPU can be, especially if you’re not familiar with building a PC.

Whether for gaming or editing, there are a lot of factors to consider when buying a low-cost product. 

To give you only the best CPU under 200, we looked all over the market and chose the CPUs that most gamers would say have outstanding performance. From here, we used these CPUs for various purposes and pushed them to their limits. 

Yep, you heard us right.

We tested these CPUs down to their limits to provide you with a genuine hands-on experience and listed them accordingly. Right now, the best CPU under 200 in the market is the AMD Ryzen 1900x.

Like we said earlier, choosing the best CPU can be a difficult task. To further help you pick the best value CPU, we’ll also be talking about some of the things you need to know when buying a low-cost CPU.

So check them out below!

The 7 Best CPU Under 200 In 2022 At A Glance

• AMD Ryzen Threadripper 1900X
• Intel® Core™ i5-9400F
• Intel Core i3-10100F
• Intel Core i3-9100 
• AMD Athlon 200GE
• AMD Ryzen 3 1200 AF 
• AMD Phenom II X6 1090T

Top 3 Recommended Choices

For a more than a reasonable price, the Threadripper offers eight cores and sixteen threads that allow it to become a mid-range processor that performs like a high-end CPU. 

It has a base clock of 3.8 GHz and an unlocked base-clock multiplier that allows you to overclock the processor to improve its base clock easily. In addition, this CPU supports quad-channel DDR4 ECC memory. 

For reference, DDR4’s memory speed is at 2133 and 4266 MT/s (million transfers per second), more than DDR3’s memory speed of 800 to 2133 MT/s.

With these in mind, this processor performs like a beast. Whether in gaming, media editing, or even in using advanced office tools, it will not fail to deliver an excellent performance thanks to AMD’s creator and gaming mode. 

In terms of playing games, the AMD Threadripper 1900x could play triple-A titles like it was nothing.

The AMD 1900x gave an excellent gaming performance by rating fps averages of somewhere around 70 – 100 on gaming mode. With this, you can play most games as long as your GPU can support its display.

For instance, this processor will handle “Dota 2” like a breeze.

Check out the cool video below for more info about this CPU:

In media editing, its build allows users to use numerous multi-threaded applications simultaneously without any performance issues.

The processor offers hardware virtualization that allows calculation-heavy programs to run without issues. In fact, multi-tasking and switching to different programs won’t be a problem thanks to its build.

This processor gives remarkable results when it comes to single-core performance and multi-core performance.

It can outperform the i3-10100F in multi-core performance and catches up to it in single-core performance.

Hence, running any program, including multi-threaded applications, is undoubtedly not a problem for this processor.

Unfortunately, the AMD Threadripper 1900x does not come with a built-in graphics card, so you need to have a discrete graphics card when building your gaming rig.

By the way, if you’re a “Call Of Duty” fan, check out our article on the best CPUs for Warzone.

Aside from its lack of a built-in graphics card, the AMD Threadripper 1900x consumes a lot of power. This results in a higher CPU temperature. It would help if you bought a capable cooler to prevent any overheating to offset this.

In addition, the AMD 1900x is only compatible with motherboards with an AMD X399 chipset. Most X399 motherboards are costly, so if you’re on a tight budget, you might want to save up on this or consider other CPUs in this list as an alternative.

In terms of general opinion, the AMD processor is well-received due to its impressive overall performance. In fact, most consumers say that It rips through the program and performs at standards that exceed the amount you pay for it.

Others would say that it is the perfect processor for them as it caters to their computer needs.

While other consumers would say that out of their time in building gaming rigs, the AMD 1900x is one of the best CPUs in the market.

Another processor with coffee lake architecture on this list is the Intel Core i5-9400F. 

Considerably one of the best CPUs, the Intel Core i5-9400F features six cores and threads.

Coming at an attractive price, the Intel Core i5-9400F’s build allows it to operate without any hindrances. Its build tells you that its processing time will be fast.

Its base clock speed is at 2.90 GHz, similar to the clock speeds of i5-9400 and a bit faster than its 8th generation variant. The great thing about the i5-9400F is that it has Intel Turbo boost technology 2.0.

The Intel Turbo Boost technology 2.0 maximizes this processor’s single-core frequency and improves its performance while maintaining a temperature where the processor is stable and safe. This technology also ensures that the processor’s gaming performance is at its best.

This technology boosts the processor by up to 4.1 GHz when it detects an increased workload. More progressively, it assures you that there will be no issues by regulating its clock speeds.

Unfortunately, the Intel Core i5-9400F does not have Hyper-Threading technology, so it does not do multitasking or multi-threaded tasks better than processors with hyperthreading technology. 

If you want a decent processor that’s capable of multitasking, then read our expert guide on the best CPU for multitasking.

The other downside is that, like the i3-9100, the i5-9400F does not support overclocking. 

Regardless, the Intel Core i5-9400F is more than qualified to run your computer smoothly, thanks to its virtualization and turbo boost technology. 

The Intel Core i5-9400F supports up to 16 Gen 3.0 PCIe lanes for connectivity when it comes to hardware support.

The intel i5-9400F supports dual channel DDR4 memory when it comes to memory. Unfortunately, it does not have ECC memory support.

When it comes to compatibility, the i5-9400F is compatible with LGA 1151 Motherboards and Intel 300 series chipset motherboards, so finding a motherboard that suits your budget and taste won’t be a problem. 

When tested using GTA V, Hitman (2016), and Project Cars 2, the Intel Core i5-9400F could perform better than i5-8400 and AMD Ryzen 5 2600x. Its rates charted at an average fps of 100. 

Hence, the Intel Core i5-9400F’s gaming performance allows you to play any game you want.

The processor smoothly carried out its tasks when tested with office tools like Adobe cloud and video conferencing programs. 

This variant of the i5 does not come with a built-in GPU.

Concerning public opinion, the Intel Core i5-9400F is well-received, even if it does not have a built-in GPU. Its ability to run programs smoothly satisfies the buyers on the market. Its build is also an appealing trait because it avoids thermal issues. 

And if you’re willing to up your price a bit, consider reading our article on the best CPU under $300. There are some awesome processors there, tested and approved by our expert team.

From the best low-cost CPU to the best gaming CPU and the best processors in the market, Intel always makes sure that they have an entry in this wide array of categories. One of its entries in the best low-cost category is the Intel Core i3-10100F. 

Reasonably priced, the i3-10100F is the entry-level unit to Intel comet lake processors. 

 It has four cores and eight threads that allow it to run the most advanced office tools, play video games, and run any video editing software without any delays. Compared to older i3’s, the i3-10100F has more cores and threads. 

Since it is one of the Intel comet lake processors, the CPU features hyper-threading technology that improves multi-threaded performance. Furthermore, the i3-10100F’s hyper-threading technology assures you that it has excellent single-core performance and gives you an insight into its multi-threaded performance prowess.

The Intel Core i3-10100F base clock is 3.60 GHz and has a locked multiplier, unlike the AMD Threadripper 1900x and AMD Ryzen 3300x. However, Intel Turbo Boost technology automatically gives you higher clock speeds when necessary. 

In addition, the Intel Turbo boost technology in this processor helps regulate temperature. This allows you to opt for a cheaper CPU cooler when building a gaming computer. 

This Intel processor supports dual channel DDR4 with no ECC memory feature, making it prone to data corruption.

In addition, the Intel Core i3-10100F supports Intel Optane memory that allows your HDD to be like an SSD. 

You can expect the Intel Core i3-10100F to give you satisfactory gaming performance when you play games. When tested with triple-A titles, the i3-10100F smoothly functioned.

The Intel Core i3-10100F’s build allows you to run any advanced office tools and multi-threaded application with no decrease in base clock speeds when it comes to media and video editing. 

Thanks to its quad cores, the i3-10100F allows you to do multi-tasking without feeling any decrease in response time.

As mentioned earlier, Intel Core i3-10100F has an excellent single-core performance. This means that applications that cannot utilize multiple cores for their processes will run more smoothly than those with lower single-core performance scores.

The Intel Core i3-10100F is compatible with all LGA 1200 motherboards. Given their availability, you will be able to look for the motherboard that best suits your preferences. 

Unfortunately, this processor does not have a built-in graphics card. Meaning, you will have to buy a discrete graphics card to have a display.

The public received Intel Core i3-10100F in a somewhat conflicted manner. Some reviews would say that it is beneficial. In contrast, others say that having no integrated GPU is a significant disadvantage. 

Like its latest variant, the Intel Core i3-9100 is the entry unit to a series of processors made with coffee lake architecture. 

This intel processor runs your gaming rig using four cores and four threads. Like the Intel Core i3-10100F, the i3-9100 has its multiplier locked. 

Searching for a motherboard that fits your preferences won’t be a problem because it is compatible with any Intel 300 Series motherboards. The only thing that you need to look out for is outdated BIOS firm wares.

This Intel processor supports dual-channel DDR4 ECC memory. As a result, you have some assurance about your gaming rig’s health, in the long run, thanks to this feature. Speaking of memory, this processor supports Intel Optane memory. 

The i3-9100 consumes only 65w when operating at its base clock speed – 3.6 GHz, which stamps energy efficiency all over its name.

You might be asking, “The i3-9100 is another i3-10100F. Why is it on the list?” 

The answer to this is the i3-9100 has a built-in graphics card. It features an Intel UHD Graphics 630. This graphics card allows you to display up to 4k resolution at 60Hz. 

This Intel processor supports up to 40 Gen 3.0 PCIe lanes to connect your PC hardware/components for connectivity. 

Comparing the Intel Core i3-9100 to its 10100F version, the two processors provide similar performances. I only say similar because there are features within 10100F that allow it to stand out against the 9100.  

The i3-9100 does not have hyperthreading technology, which causes it to have an average multi-threaded performance. 

For the public, the i3-9100 is well-received. Consumers say that the built-in graphics card allowed them to save up their money for a discrete graphics card.

They also mention that its power consumption makes looking for a compatible CPU cooler and PSU easier.

AMD has been killing it in the processor industry for the past years. It has released some contenders in the best gaming CPU category. One of AMD’s entry units is the AMD Athlon 200GE. 

For more than a satisfactory price, this processor features a build of 2 cores and 4 threads that allows you to run any programs you want. 

While it has a lacking single-threaded performance, this processor allows multitasking thanks to its Zen architecture. 

The AMD Athlon 200GE’s base frequency is 3.2 GHz. Unfortunately, the AMD Athlon 200GE’s clock speed multiplier is locked. 

Even if you cannot boost clock frequency, its dual-core and 4 threads are more than enough to accomplish most computing tasks swiftly.

The AMD Athlon 200 GE supports up to 12 Gen 3.0 PCIe lanes, which is a comparatively lower number of supported PCIe lanes when compared to the CPUs in this list. 

When it comes to its memory features, this processor supports dual channel DDR4 memory with no ECC memory support. 

Interestingly, this processor has a low power consumption, somewhere around 35W. 

CPU upgradeability and motherboard compatibility are not a problem because they are compatible with all AM4 Motherboards. 

Regarding gaming performance, the AMD Athlon 200 GE will be able to run most games released somewhere around 2015 and back in its highest settings.

Its build should give you satisfactory gaming performance when given a strong GPU.  

What makes this processor stand out is its built-in graphics card – Radeon Vega Graphics. This allows you to render media at a rate faster than Intel Celeron G4920. 

The Radeon Vega Graphics chip features three cores that allow you to play games and edit media without any noticeable delays. 

In fact, League of Legends and other esports titles were played in 60 frames per second at 1080p, satisfactory to most gamers.

For the buyers, this processor is a satisfying purchase. For many, they used it as a placeholder for their CPU, thanks to its AM4 motherboard compatibility.

The features mentioned above are what buyers consider the best value of this processor.

The difference between the AMD Ryzen 1200AF and AMD Ryzen 1200 is that the 1200 AF features a 12 nm Zen+ architecture. This feature allows the 1200 AF to be overclocked further than the Ryzen 1200. 

With a great price, this processor features four cores and threads. Like other Ryzen processors, the AMD Ryzen 1200 AF gives you its multiplier unlocked. Still, its four cores are more than enough to run any program you want without issues. Comparing this processor to any other in its price range, the 1200AF stands out.

This processor runs at 3.1 GHz with an unlocked multiplier. For gamers, you will be able to maximize your rig’s gaming performance by increasing your processor’s clock speeds. 

Compared with Intel Core i5 10400, Intel performs a bit better than our 1200 AF. The processor outperforms the Intel Core i5 10400 by 0.2 GHz at its base clock speed. When overclocked, the AMD Ryzen 3 1200 gave a 3.85Ghz performance while the 10400 was 4Ghz. 

When it comes to memory, the Ryzen 1200 AF supports dual channel DDR4 memory. In addition, our tests have confirmed that the Ryzen 1200 AF does support ECC memory.

For users and gamers alike, this assures you that you will be able to use your rig without worrying that your computer will experience any data corruption. 

Known to most AMD users, the AMD Ryzen 1200 AF also consumes a lot of power like other AMD chips.

The Ryzen 1200 AF consumes 65W at the maximum theoretical workload. For you, this means the CPU can get worryingly hot at times when the CPU is handling a heavy workload. 

To offset this, we suggest looking for a capable cooler like the Corsair HydroH90 or Noctua NH-U9S. These coolers allow your processor to manage a heavy workload and prevent overheating. 

The AMD Ryzen 3 1200AF does not come with an integrated graphics chip, so if you are planning to use this processor, we recommend looking for a compatible GPU like the Nvidia Gtx 1050. 

When it comes to motherboards, finding one that suits you won’t be a challenge. The AMD Ryzen 3 1200AF is compatible with AM4 motherboards.

Doing so gives you room for upgradeability because more advanced Ryzen processors also fit in the AM4 socket. 

The AMD Ryzen 3 1200AF has satisfied everyone with its price, performance, and versatility when it comes to public perception.

People building their gaming CPU looked first into the AMD Ryzen 3 1200AF if they were on a budget. Others would say that it is the best CPU right now for budget pc builds.

For us, we recommend the AMD Ryzen 1200AF for its satisfying gaming performance and compatibility with AM4 socket motherboards. 

If you’d like to see more high-performing AMD processors, check the ones present in our list on the Best CPU for GTX 970.

The AMD Phenom II X6 1090t Black edition is an oldie compared to the processors. But, don’t let its age fool you. This gaming CPU has what it takes to satisfy your gaming needs. 

Priced somewhere between $88.90 to $99, the Phenom II X6 1090t Black edition features a build of 6 cores and threads to support any computer processes like gaming, rendering, and calculations. 

It runs at the base frequency of 3.2 GHz, which is comparably better than the base frequency of any other gaming CPU in this list. 

This gaming CPU is a contender because it allows you to overclock your processor to improve your rig’s performance. Thanks to its unlocked multiplier, you can increase its base frequency from 3.2 GHz to 3.6 GHz.

When it comes to memory, this processor supports dual channel DDR3 memory. This memory support is not up-to-date compared to the other gaming CPUs in this list, so it is up to you if you opt for this processor. 

Unlike other processors in this list, the Phenom II X6 1090 does not have integrated PCIe lanes. The good thing is the motherboard that it is compatible with has PCIe lanes with them, so connecting pc hardware won’t be a problem.

When it comes to energy consumption, this processor consumes at 125 W. You might think that thermoregulation is a problem.

Still, thanks to AMD’s PowerNow and CoolCare technology, it can mitigate internal temperatures and prevent overheating. However, you still need to have a capable cooling system as the CPU can still get pretty hot. 

Next, this processor does not come with its built-in GPU. If you’re planning to buy this one, we suggest that you look for a compatible GPU like the Nvidia GTX 1050Ti. 

This processor is outperformed by most CPUs today when it comes to overall performance.

Processors like the Intel Core i7 8th Gen, Intel Core i7 9th Gen, Intel Core i7 10th gen, and the CPUs in this list outperform this processor. However, its price point and ability to run most programs today make this processor appealing. 

When it comes to public opinion, most consumers are satisfied with their purchases. They mentioned using it for different purposes and have not failed them.

The baseline here is that everyone enjoyed using the AMD Phenom II X6 1090t for their build. 

Features to look after when buying a CPU under $200

Before you buy anything, you need to know where you plan on using your CPU because each CPU gives an incredible performance depending on where you are using it. If you’ve decided where, here are some important features that you need to look out for

Price

This is the main feature that you need to consider when buying. Every feature needs to be justified by its price. 

Number of cores and threads

Its core counts and threads suggest how it will do when given a heavy workload. The more cores and more threads there are, the more capable your CPU will be. 

Clock speed and overclock ability

Clock speed tells you how fast it can process data. The higher the GHz, the faster the response time. Overclock ability is the CPU’s potential to boost clock speed.

Memory support

Each CPU supports different memory types.

Some have dual-channel, while better CPUs support quad-channel memory types. IF ECC memory is supported, your chip is more likely to be safer against data corruption.

Power consumption

Simply put, higher power consumption equals higher electricity bills and a hotter CPU. Therefore, look for CPUs that feature energy efficiency. 

Presence of an integrated graphics card

Whether for video editing or gaming, having an integrated GPU provides a display to those without any dedicated GPU.

The baseline?

Integrated GPU = Display. The more core the GPU has, the better the performance. 

Note: This list of features also indicates a good and bad budget CPU.

From here, create a list of CPUs that fits your preferences accordingly. Next, check their limitations by looking up their benchmark scores on the internet. 

Here’s a useful infographic on the topic.

Good vs bad: low-cost CPU

An excellent cheap CPU should, at the least, have qualities fit for its price level. However, a quality CPU should be able to operate your build and any newly released programs smoothly. 

An excellent low-cost CPU should be a strong CPU. It should handle any workload and last for a long time, even if you use it continuously. 

On the other hand, its cons should be easily solved by either compensation or compromise. 

A bad low-price CPU is outdated and cannot operate without facing delays. Another indicator for a bad low-price CPU has a high price with less competitive specifications. 

Anonymous gamer with lots of (bad) experience

Here are some example features of Bad Budget CPUs:

• Dual-core and 4 threads for the price of $200 
• 2007 released CPU sold at $150 
• A 2015 model used non-stop for years 

By looking at the factors we talked about earlier, you should avoid any bad low-cost and pick the right one for you. 

Intel VS AMD processors

For the past years, Intel CPUs have been leading the forefront of the gaming CPU industry.

However, AMD processors are currently leading the game, thanks to their cost-effective processors that surpass Intel’s gaming chips. A good example of this is the Threadripper 1900x and Ryzen 3 1200AF. They’re both on our list.

When compared to Intel CPUs, like the Intel Core i7-8700K vs. Threadripper 1900x, both processors outperform their counterparts by miles.

The only drawback is that you need a good cooling system because processors consume more power than Intel. 

FAQ

Final Verdict

With all said and done, the best CPU under 200 is the AMD Threadripper 1900x.

This processor has the best performance out of everything on the list when it comes to every feature. For $149.00, you are given specifications and performance that compete with high-end CPUs in the market.

When looking for a mid-range CPU, always remember to look at the price, core and thread count, clock speed, memory support, power consumption, and the availability of an integrated graphics card.

But why bother? The Threadripper 1900x is a complete bang for your buck. This AMD processor can give performances that you would not expect in a $149.00 processor in every nook and crannies.