Best Cpu For Gaming And Streaming (2024 Updated)

When you shop through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. This educational content is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice.

If you're a gamer and looking to start streaming or already streaming, then you know that having the right CPU is crucial for a smooth and seamless experience. There are a lot of options out there, so it can be overwhelming to know what to look for. Here are 5 key points you should consider when looking for the best CPU for gaming and streaming.

1. Core Count: The more cores, the better. A CPU with at least 6 cores is recommended for streaming and gaming simultaneously.

2. Clock Speed: Higher clock speeds mean faster processing times. Look for a CPU with a clock speed of at least 3.5 GHz.

3. Hyper-Threading: This technology allows your CPU to handle more tasks simultaneously, which is important for multitasking while gaming and streaming. Look for a CPU with hyper-threading capabilities.

4. Budget: CPUs can range from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand. Determine your budget before shopping and look for the best CPU within your price range.

5. Compatibility: Make sure the CPU you choose is compatible with your motherboard and other components in your system.

In summary, when looking for the best CPU for gaming and streaming, you should consider core count, clock speed, hyper-threading, budget, and compatibility. By keeping these factors in mind, you'll be able to find a CPU that fits your needs and provides a seamless gaming and streaming experience.

10 Best Cpu For Gaming And Streaming

1. Cyberpowerpc Gamer Xtreme Vr Gaming Pc With Intel Core I7-12700kf, Geforce Rtx 3060, 16gb Ddr4, 500gb Nvme Pcie Ssd, 2tb Hdd, Wifi, Win 11 Home.

The CYBERPOWERPC Gamer Xtreme VR Gaming PC is designed for gamers who demand high-performance computing and immersive visuals. Powered by an Intel Core i7-12700KF 3.6GHz 12 (8 plus 4) Cores processor and an Intel Z690 chipset, this gaming PC delivers exceptional speed and efficiency for all your gaming needs.

With 16GB DDR4 memory, 500GB NVMe PCIe SSD, and 2TB HDD, this gaming PC delivers lightning-fast storage and plenty of space for all your games, applications, and media files. The system runs on Genuine Windows 11 Home 64-bit, providing a user-friendly interface and advanced security features.

The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 12GB Video Card delivers stunning visuals and smooth performance, enabling you to enjoy your favorite games in high definition. The graphics card features 1x HDMI and 2x DisplayPort, allowing you to connect multiple displays for a more immersive gaming experience.

The CYBERPOWERPC Gamer Xtreme VR Gaming PC comes with a range of connectivity options, including six USB 3.1 ports, two USB 2.0 ports, and one RJ-45 Network Ethernet 10/100/1000 port. The built-in 802.11AC Wi-Fi provides fast and reliable wireless connectivity, while the 7.1 Channel audio delivers immersive sound quality.

This gaming PC also comes with a range of special features, including a Liquid Cooled CPU, a Tempered Glass Side Case Panel, and Custom RGB Case Lighting. The Liquid Cooled CPU ensures optimal performance and keeps the system cool during intensive gaming sessions. The Tempered Glass Side Case Panel and Custom RGB Case Lighting provide a stunning visual display that enhances the overall gaming experience.

The CYBERPOWERPC Gamer Xtreme VR Gaming PC comes with a 7 Colors RGB Gaming Mouse, providing gamers with a customizable and comfortable gaming experience. Additionally, this gaming PC comes with a one-year parts and labor warranty and free lifetime tech support, ensuring peace of mind and hassle-free gaming.

Overall, the CYBERPOWERPC Gamer Xtreme VR Gaming PC is an exceptional gaming machine that delivers exceptional performance, stunning visuals, and a range of features that cater to the needs of gamers.

2. Thermaltake Lcgs Gaming Desktop With Intel Core I5, Nvidia Rtx 3050, 16gb Ram, And 1tb Nvme Storage.

The Thermaltake LCGS Glacier i3510 CPU Gaming Desktop is a powerful machine designed specifically for gamers. It features an Intel Core i5-10400F CPU and an Intel B560 Chipset ATX motherboard, providing a reliable and efficient platform for gaming and other high-performance tasks.

The desktop comes with 16GB of ToughRam DDR4 RGB memory, which allows for smooth multitasking and enhanced performance. Additionally, it includes a 1TB NVMe M.2 solid-state drive, which provides lightning-fast read and write speeds, ensuring that games and other applications load quickly.

The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 graphics card is a standout feature of this desktop. With 3x Display Port and 1x HDMI outputs, it can support multiple displays for immersive gaming experiences. Graphics card brand may vary.

In terms of connectivity, the desktop offers 1x USB 3.0, 2x USB 2.0, 1x Headphone, and 1x Mic Ports, making it easy to connect peripherals such as keyboards, mice, and headsets. The swing door tempered glass with magnetic mounting provides easy access to the components inside the desktop, making maintenance and upgrades a breeze.

The full-length PSU power cover is another feature that sets this desktop apart from the competition. It helps to clean up cables, ensuring a professional look and making it easier to manage cables and keep them organized.

The desktop comes pre-installed with Windows 10 Home, providing a familiar and user-friendly interface. Additionally, it includes Wi-Fi connectivity, making it easy to connect to the internet and play games online.

Overall, the Thermaltake LCGS Glacier i3510 CPU Gaming Desktop is a high-performance machine that is perfect for gamers and other power users. Its reliable hardware, efficient design, and advanced features make it a top choice for anyone looking for a powerful and reliable desktop computer.

3. Alienware Aurora R14 Liquid Cooled Gaming Desktop – Amd Ryzen 9 5900, 32gb Ram, Rtx 3080 10gb, Vr Ready, Windows 11 Home.

The Alienware Aurora R14 Liquid Cooled Gaming Desktop is a powerful and high-performance computer designed for gamers and those seeking graphics horsepower. Equipped with a 12-core AMD Ryzen processor, this gaming desktop provides unparalleled speed and power to handle even the most demanding games and applications.

The Aurora R14 also features 32GB of 3466MHz XMP overclockable DDR4 memory, which allows for seamless multitasking and editing. With this level of performance, gamers can take on any game or task without any lag or slowdown.

In addition to its powerful processing capabilities, the Aurora R14 also features the latest technology. The PCI-Express 4.0 provides greater bandwidth for graphics, storage drives, and networking adapters. This means that every component in this gaming desktop performs at the highest level possible.

The upgraded chassis of the Aurora R14 is based on the Legend Industrial Design, which allows for liquid cooling and efficient airflow to reduce CPU temperatures. This new design also ensures whisper-quiet operation, ensuring that gamers can focus on their games without any distractions.

Dell also provides six months of Dell Migrate, which allows users to easily move all their important files and data to their new PC. This ensures that users can quickly and easily get up and running with their new Alienware Aurora R14 Gaming Desktop.

Overall, the Alienware Aurora R14 is a top-of-the-line gaming desktop that provides unmatched performance and features. With its powerful processor, advanced technology, and upgraded chassis, this gaming desktop is the perfect choice for gamers and those seeking high-performance computing power.

4. Moonlight Game Streaming

Moonlight Game Streaming is an innovative software that allows gamers to stream their favorite PC games to a variety of devices. Whether you're on your local network or connecting over the internet, Moonlight Game Streaming makes it easy to play your favorite games on your preferred device. With support for popular controllers like the Amazon Fire Game Controller, gamers can enjoy a seamless gaming experience that feels just like playing on a console.

Moonlight Game Streaming is compatible with a range of devices, from smartphones and tablets to smart TVs and set-top boxes. This makes it easy for gamers to enjoy their favorite games on the go or in the comfort of their own living room. With Moonlight Game Streaming, gamers can play their favorite PC games on almost any device, allowing them to enjoy their gaming experience in a whole new way.

One of the key features of Moonlight Game Streaming is its support for GeForce Experience and Sunshine software. These powerful tools allow gamers to stream their games with ease, providing a high-quality gaming experience that feels just like playing on a powerful gaming PC. Whether you're playing the latest AAA games or streaming classic titles, Moonlight Game Streaming offers a seamless and enjoyable gaming experience that is sure to delight gamers of all levels.

In addition to its support for popular controllers and software, Moonlight Game Streaming also offers automatic discovery of supported PCs on your local network. This means that gamers can easily find and connect to their gaming PC without having to navigate complicated settings or configurations. With Moonlight Game Streaming, gamers can spend more time playing their favorite games and less time fiddling with settings and configurations.

Overall, Moonlight Game Streaming is an impressive and innovative software that is sure to delight gamers of all levels. Whether you're a hardcore gamer or just looking for a new way to enjoy your favorite PC games, Moonlight Game Streaming offers a seamless and enjoyable gaming experience that is sure to impress. So why wait? Download Moonlight Game Streaming today and experience the future of gaming!

5. Hp Gaming Desktop With Nvidia Gtx 1650 Super, Intel Core I3-10100, 8gb Ram, 256gb Ssd, Windows 11, Usb Keyboard And Mouse, Compact Tower Design (Tg01-1022, 2020).

The HP Pavilion Gaming Desktop, model TG01-1022, offers exceptional performance and immersive multimedia entertainment for gamers and content creators alike. Equipped with a 10th Generation IntelⓇ Core i3-10100 processor, this desktop is 4K ready and delivers outstanding performance for all your computing needs.

One of the standout features of this desktop is the all-new NVIDIA Turing architecture and 4 GB GDDR6 dedicated memory that comes with the NVIDIAⓇ GeForceⓇ GTX 1650 SUPER graphics card. This enables real-time ray tracing and fast performance, making it ideal for gaming and creative work.

With 8 GB of DDR4 RAM, browsing multiple web pages and playing games gets a significant performance boost. The desktop also comes with a 256 GB PCIe NVMe M.2 Solid State Drive, which offers up to 10 times faster performance than a traditional hard drive.

This sleek and space-saving tower is customizable with LED lights and system optimization in the OMEN Command Center. Plus, with dual display support, it is perfect for gamers who require a reliable and rock-solid connection. The latest Wi-Fi 5 (1×1) WLAN adapter and Bluetooth 4.2 are built-in, along with reliable external ports in the Headphone/Microphone combo, 5.1 surround sound, and SuperSpeed USB Type-A and Type-C ports.

The desktop comes with a USB black wired keyboard and mouse combo, complete with a compact tower design, making it an ideal choice for those looking for a customizable and compact gaming desktop. The HP Pavilion Gaming Desktop is also MU-MIMO supported, meaning it pairs well with a MU-MIMO router for a smoother online experience in multi-device homes.

This desktop runs on Windows 10 and is confidently backed by a 1-year limited hardware warranty. Additionally, purchasers of this desktop are eligible for a free upgrade to Windows 11 when it becomes available.

In summary, the HP Pavilion Gaming Desktop, model TG01-1022, is an exceptional choice for gamers and content creators who require a high-performance desktop with outstanding graphics and a compact design.

6. The Tp-Link Archer Ax6000: A Wifi 6 Gaming Router With 8 Streams, 2.5g Wan, 8 Gigabit Lan Ports, Mu-Mimo, And A 1.8ghz Quad-Core Cpu.

The TP-Link AX6000 WiFi 6 Router (Archer AX6000) is a top-of-the-line wireless gaming router that delivers lightning-fast speeds and impressive connectivity. With dual-band Wi-Fi speeds boosted by 1024QAM, this router offers wireless speeds of up to 5952 Mbps, with 4804 Mbps on the 5GHz band and 1148 Mbps on the 2.4GHz band.

One of the standout features of the Archer AX6000 is its efficiency, thanks to the inclusion of OFDMA technology. This technology increases average throughput by 4x in high-density scenarios, making it possible for more devices to use Wi-Fi at the same time without any performance issues.

The router also comes equipped with eight high-gain external antennas that deliver a strong Wi-Fi signal throughout your home. Additionally, BSS color technology ensures smooth and stable connections by eliminating interference from other devices in your home, while Beamforming and Range Boost technology delivers stronger and far-reaching network coverage.

With its powerful 1.8 GHz Quad-Core CPU and two co-processors, the Archer AX6000 delivers stable performance with virtually no latency. The router also includes 1 × 2.5Gbps WAN port, 8 × Gigabit LAN ports, and 2 × USB 3.0 in Type A and Type C, providing ultra-connectivity for all your wired and wireless devices.

Advanced security is also a key feature of the Archer AX6000, with TP-Link HomeCare offering a free lifetime subscription that includes Next-level Antivirus, Robust Parental Controls, and QoS. This ensures that your network and connected devices are always protected.

Finally, the Archer AX6000 is also OneMesh compatible, making it easy to form a Mesh network with a single Wi-Fi name for seamless whole-home coverage. Simply connect a OneMesh range extender to a OneMesh router to avoid the need for multiple Wi-Fi networks and ensure stable connections throughout your home.

Overall, the TP-Link AX6000 WiFi 6 Router (Archer AX6000) is a top-performing router that delivers exceptional connectivity, speed, and security. It works with all internet service providers, including Comcast, Charter, AT&T, Verizon, Xfinity, Spectrum, RCN, Cox, CenturyLink, Frontier, and others, and requires a modem for most internet service providers.

7. Iolo System Mechanic Pro: Windows Cleaner, Virus/spyware Blocker, Speed Restorer (With License)

iolo System Mechanic Pro is a powerful computer cleaner for Windows that enhances the performance and functionality of your PC. With its advanced features, this software license optimizes your system in various ways, from blocking viruses and spyware to restoring system speed.

One of the key benefits of iolo System Mechanic Pro is its ability to boost speed. The software automatically increases the speed and availability of CPU, RAM, and hard drive resources when you launch high-demand apps. This ensures the smoothest gaming, editing, and streaming experience for you.

In addition to boosting speed, iolo System Mechanic Pro also repairs various issues that may affect your computer's stability and performance. The software finds and fixes over 30,000 different issues using intelligent live updates from iolo Labs. This ensures that your PC is always stable and issue-free.

Another important feature of iolo System Mechanic Pro is its ability to protect your computer from various threats. The software safely wipes sensitive browsing history and patches Windows security vulnerabilities that can harm your computer. This ensures that your PC is always secure and protected.

iolo System Mechanic Pro also cleans out clutter by removing over 50 types of hidden junk files. This frees up valuable disk space and makes more room for your documents, movies, music, and photos. The software also identifies unwanted startup programs that slow you down by launching and running without your knowledge. This ensures that your PC is always running at its optimal speed and performance.

Overall, iolo System Mechanic Pro is an essential tool for anyone who wants to optimize their PC's performance and functionality. With its advanced features, this software license ensures that your computer is always fast, stable, and secure. Whether you're a gamer, editor, or streamer, iolo System Mechanic Pro is the perfect solution for enhancing your computing experience.

8. Cpu Monitor Lite

CPU Monitor Lite is a reliable and efficient software application that enables users to monitor the performance of their device, troubleshoot any issues, and analyze historical data related to app performance. This tool is designed to provide users with a comprehensive overview of their device's performance, allowing them to identify any issues and take corrective action.

With the help of CPU Monitor Lite, users can easily track their device's CPU usage, memory usage, and disk activity, among other things. This tool provides real-time performance monitoring, allowing users to quickly identify any bottlenecks or issues that may be affecting their device's performance.

One of the key features of CPU Monitor Lite is its ability to capture and analyze historical data related to app performance. This feature allows users to identify trends and patterns in application performance over time, enabling them to take proactive measures to improve their device's overall performance.

In addition to monitoring and troubleshooting device performance, CPU Monitor Lite also provides detailed reporting on application impact and performance. This feature allows users to identify which applications are consuming the most resources and impacting their device's performance the most.

One of the standout features of CPU Monitor Lite is its user-friendly interface. The software is designed to be easy to use, even for those with limited technical knowledge. The interface features intuitive graphs and charts that provide users with a clear understanding of their device's performance.

Overall, CPU Monitor Lite is a must-have tool for anyone looking to optimize their device's performance. Whether you're a professional IT administrator or a casual user, this software application provides a wealth of valuable information and insights into your device's performance. With its powerful features and easy-to-use interface, CPU Monitor Lite is a reliable and efficient solution for monitoring, troubleshooting, and analyzing device performance.

9. Skytech Pro Eclipse Gaming Desktop With Intel Core I9, Nvidia Rtx 4090, 1tb Ssd, 32gb Ram, And 420mm Liquid Cooler. Ideal For Gaming, Streaming, And Productivity.

The Skytech Pro Eclipse Gaming PC Desktop is a high-performance computer designed to cater to the needs of gamers, streamers, and professionals who require a powerful system to run demanding applications. Powered by the latest Intel Core i9-13900K CPU, NVIDIA RTX 4090 graphics card, and 32GB DDR5 RAM, this PC can handle even the most demanding games and applications with ease.

The Skytech Pro Eclipse ensures that your investment is future-proofed for the next few years. It comes with a 1TB NVME Gen4 SSD, providing lightning-fast storage and loading times, and a 1200W Gold PCIE 5.0 Power Supply to ensure consistent power delivery to all components.

The Eclipse is equipped with a 420mm All-in-One CPU Liquid Cooler and four high-pressure fans for maximum cooling and airflow, ensuring that the system stays cool even during heavy usage. The case features a white edition with a front mesh panel, customizable RGB lighting, and a one-year parts and labor warranty, as well as free lifetime technical support.

Running on the new Windows 11 Home 64-Bit, the Skytech Pro Eclipse is a productivity powerhouse, allowing users to load applications within seconds, render 4K videos in minutes instead of hours, and multitask like a corporate pro working from home.

The Skytech Pro Eclipse Gaming PC Desktop also boasts a premium design and style. Users can personalize their desk or office space with customizable RGB lighting controlled by SignalRGB, which supports game integration, keyboard and mouse lighting, PC monitoring, and fan control. This PC also includes ports for peripherals like webcams, microphones, headsets, and multi-monitor support for all your gaming and work office needs.

The Skytech Pro Eclipse Gaming PC Desktop is a consistent connectivity hub, featuring 802.11AC Wi-Fi, graphic card output options including x1 HDMI 2.1 and x3 Display Port Guaranteed, Additional Ports may vary, USB Ports Including 2.0, 3.0, and 3.2 Gen1 Ports, and HD Audio and Mic. It also comes with a free gaming keyboard and mouse.

In conclusion, the Skytech Pro Eclipse Gaming PC Desktop is a high-performance computing system that offers powerful performance, efficient cooling, and consistent connectivity. It is an ideal choice for gamers, streamers, and professionals who need a reliable, future-proofed system to cater to their demanding needs.

10. Razer Blade 15: Rtx 3070, 10th Gen I7, 15.6" Fhd 360hz, 16gb Ram, 1tb Ssd, Cnc Aluminum, Chroma Rgb, Thx Spatial Audio, Thunderbolt 3.

The Razer Blade 15 Gaming Laptop is a high-performance device that features the latest technologies to provide the most immersive gaming experience. With a 16:9 aspect ratio, the 15.6” FHD 360Hz display offers smooth and fluid visuals, while the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 graphics card with new RT Cores and Tensor Cores delivers realistic ray-traced graphics and improved performance.

The device is powered by the 8-Core 10th Gen Intel Core i7-10875H processor, which provides the ultimate level of performance with up to 5.1GHz Max Turbo. The laptop is thin and compact, with a CNC aluminum unibody frame that houses incredible performance in the most compact footprint possible, while remaining remarkably durable and just 0.7" thin.

Innovative cooling is a key feature of the Razer Blade 15 Gaming Laptop. A unique vacuum-sealed, liquid-filled copper vapor chamber spans the heat-generating components and is the key to getting maximum performance and user comfort in a compact, thin design. This innovative cooling system ensures that the laptop stays cool even during intensive gaming sessions.

The Razer Blade 15 Gaming Laptop can be customized to suit the user's preferences. The keyboard backlight color can be customized with Razer Chroma, and the memory and storage can be expanded, making the Razer Blade 15 uniquely yours.

In addition to its powerful specs, the Razer Blade 15 Gaming Laptop also features THX Spatial Audio, which delivers immersive 360-degree sound for a more realistic gaming experience. The device also features Thunderbolt 3 connectivity, which allows for fast data transfer and charging.

Overall, the Razer Blade 15 Gaming Laptop is a top-of-the-line gaming device that offers powerful performance, innovative cooling, and customizable options to suit the user's preferences. Whether you're a professional gamer or a casual player, this laptop is a great choice for an immersive gaming experience.

Best Cpu For Gaming And Streaming FAQs

How important is the clock speed of a CPU when it comes to gaming and streaming performance?

Clock speed is an important factor in gaming and streaming performance, but not the only one. CPU performance is a combination of different factors, including clock speed, number of cores, cache size, and architecture. Clock speed determines how fast the processor can execute instructions, but having more cores and cache can compensate for a lower clock speed.

In gaming, the CPU is responsible for handling game logic and physics, while the GPU handles graphics rendering. A high clock speed CPU can improve frame rates and reduce input lag, but a powerful GPU is also crucial for optimal gaming performance.

For streaming, the CPU is responsible for encoding the video stream in real-time. A higher clock speed CPU can encode more frames per second and produce a higher quality stream. However, other factors such as the resolution and bitrate of the stream also impact the quality of the stream.

Overall, while clock speed is an important factor, it is not the only one that determines gaming and streaming performance. A balance of factors such as cores, cache, architecture, and GPU power is necessary for optimal performance.

How many cores and threads do I need in a CPU for gaming and streaming simultaneously?

For gaming and streaming simultaneously, a CPU with at least 6 cores and 12 threads is recommended. This is because both gaming and streaming are CPU-intensive tasks that require a significant amount of processing power. With a CPU that has 6 cores and 12 threads, you can allocate sufficient resources to both tasks without sacrificing performance.

It's important to note that the number of cores and threads is not the only factor to consider when choosing a CPU for gaming and streaming. The clock speed, cache size, and architecture of the CPU also play a crucial role in determining its performance. Therefore, it's advisable to do thorough research and choose a CPU that meets your specific needs and budget.

Is it worth investing in an expensive CPU for gaming and streaming, or are mid-range options sufficient?

Investing in an expensive CPU for gaming and streaming can provide a noticeable improvement in performance, but whether it's worth it depends on your specific needs and budget. Mid-range options can still provide sufficient performance for most gamers and streamers.

If you're a professional streamer or content creator who needs to run multiple applications simultaneously, an expensive CPU with high core counts and clock speeds can make a significant difference. However, for casual streamers and gamers, mid-range options like the Ryzen 5 or Intel Core i5 can provide sufficient performance at a more affordable price point.

It's important to also consider other components like the graphics card, RAM, and storage when building a gaming and streaming PC, as a balanced system can maximize performance. Ultimately, it's important to weigh the cost and benefits of investing in an expensive CPU and determine if it aligns with your specific needs and budget.

What is the best CPU for gaming and streaming on a budget?

The best CPU for gaming and streaming on a budget would be the AMD Ryzen 5 3600. It has 6 cores and 12 threads, which is excellent for multitasking while gaming and streaming simultaneously. Additionally, it has a base clock speed of 3.6 GHz, which can be boosted to 4.2 GHz, making it a powerful processor.

In terms of budget, the Ryzen 5 3600 is a great value for its price, which is around $200. It also comes with a bundled cooler, which saves additional expenses.

Furthermore, the Ryzen 5 3600 is compatible with the AM4 socket, making it easier to find compatible motherboards for it. It is also energy-efficient, with a TDP of only 65 watts, making it suitable for budget builds with lower-powered PSUs.

Overall, the AMD Ryzen 5 3600 is the best CPU for gamers and streamers on a budget, offering excellent performance, value, and compatibility.

What is the difference between Intel and AMD CPUs for gaming and streaming?

Intel CPUs generally have higher single-core performance, making them better for gaming. However, AMD CPUs have more cores and threads, making them better for multi-tasking and streaming.

In terms of price, AMD CPUs tend to be more affordable while still providing good performance, while Intel CPUs are generally more expensive but have better overall performance.

Ultimately, the choice between Intel and AMD for gaming and streaming will depend on individual needs and budget. Gamers who prioritize high frame rates and single-core performance may prefer Intel, while streamers and multi-taskers may prefer AMD for its multi-core performance and affordability.

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

Average rating 0 / 5. Vote count: 0

No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.

Sharing is caring!

Leave a Comment