Are you looking for which CPU is the best for your DIY build or next system? Indeed, purchasing a top DDR3 CPU is similar to searching for a grain of sand in a seashore. Which of the two industry leaders will you go for Intel or AMD? What is your aim – value or speed? Are you more concerned about clock speed, or does the number of cores appeal to you more? Are you building a whole new computer, or upgrading your not-so-appealing PC? Are you a hardcore gamer?
The questions are vital in getting you the best CPU, and it means that: no best budget DDR3 CPU is the absolute best in all ramifications for every user. It is possible to estimate the performance of your CPU across all ranges of usage and application cases. If your budget is not a roadblock to you buying a top DDR3 CPU, then you may get your “best” from our comprehensive list below.
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Best DDR3 Processor – Comparison Table
Best DDR3 Processor – Reviews
Intel Core i7-4790K CPU
Intel Core i7-4790K is essentially an upgrade of two processors, the Core i7 – 4970 and the Core i7 – 4690 which under the series of the Devil’s Canyon are now 4790K and 4690K respectively. The main improvement delivered to these two Haswell processors is the augmented Thermal Interface Material (TIM) that is located somewhere between the processor die and the Integrated Heat Sink; and the un-coupling capacitors close to the circuit that delivers power.
When placed side-by-side with the 4770K, it is clear that the 500 MHz features some improvement in speed which implies about 9% upgrade in system activities under synthetic standards. Because this CPU is a popular processor from Intel, there is no taking by surprise when it outpaced it, peers.
5 Top Specifications
- Brand: Intel
- Manufacturer: Intel
- Model: Core i7
- CPU/GPU: LGA 1150
- RAM: 16GB
Why We Like This Product
- Faster clock speeds
- Not too pricey
- Lower temperatures of operation
Our Verdict
When you observe its baseline activity, it is clear that this DDR3 CPU is faster than a lot of other processors out there. It is a sophisticated Haswell-based DDR3 CPU for people who are keen on system performance. When compared to its AMD counterpart, it is easy to see that this is a very fast DDR3 CPU with fast operations any way you cut.
Intel Core i7-5775C 3.3 GHz LGA1150 CPU
Intel Core i7 5775C is a Broadwell-based design and also a Tick to the Haswell Tock that Intel employs to indicate an improvement or process change in that process. This Intel processor takes the Haswell design from 22nm to 14nm in a die shrink. One of the reasons why this feature on our list as one of the top DDR3 CPU is that it includes an integrated graphics processor; the Iris Pro 6200, all courtesy to its mobile legacy.
5 Top Specifications
- Brand: Intel
- Manufacturer: Intel
- Model: Core i7
- CPU/GPU: LGA 1150
- RAM: 32GB
Why We Like This Product
- Top-notch graphics performance
- Moderate 65-watt TDP
- Compliant with most Z97 motherboards
Our Verdict
Although this processor is somewhat too little, and a bit pricey, however, its power efficiency and are integrated graphics unquestionably remarkable and has made it one of the best Intel DDR3 CPUs out there.
3. AMD Ryzen 5 2600 Processor
AMD Ryzen 5 2600 is an improvement in an earlier Ryzen version that comes with a 14nm Zen design. Its processor is based on the Zen+ system architec3ture and built with the 12nm process. When contrasted with the last version, this AMD processor DDR3 provides higher power efficiency, better IPC performance, enhanced RAM frequency support, and lower memory frequency. Whether you are building a workstation, gaming PC, or some other systems that need a high system performance, this fast DDR3 CPU also doubles as one of the best budget DDR3 processors out there.
Also, this process includes an AMD Wraith Stealth cooler for silent and efficient cooling. AM Ryzen 5 2600 made the list of one of the best DDR3 CPU for gaming with these wonderful inclusions.
5 Top Specifications
- Brand: AMD
- Manufacturer: AMD
- Model: 6 Core
- CPU/GPU: AMD Ryzen 2600
- RAM: 16GB
Why We Like This Product
- Faster clock speeds
- Not too pricey
- Lower temperatures of operation
Our Verdict
At a little above $200, this processor is just a good AMD processor DDR3 for gaming, with stern multi-threaded applications; it is also amazingly good-value processor. If you are looking for the best budget DDR3 CPU that does the work well and not-so-expensive, then take a moment to consider this option.
4. Intel Core i7-3770 Quad-Core Processor
With a wholly novel 22nm process, this 3rd generation Intel-based processor attains spectacular performance gain at a low voltage of operation. Its integrated graphics chip comes with more power output, its memory controller has been officially updated to be compliant with the DDR3 1333 or 1600, plus there is also a support for PCI Express 3.0 benchmark.
With a state-of-the-art speed augmented by the Intel Turbo Boost Technology 2.0, and Intel Hyper-Threading Technology, and an impressive set of functionalities, this processor conveys 3rd generation visibly smart feat at its peak with a great disposition to be adaptable to the specifications of your PC, in accordance to how you want it.
5 Top Specifications
- Brand: Intel
- Manufacturer: Intel
- Model: Core i7
- CPU/GPU: LGA 1155
- RAM: 32GB
Why We Like This Product
- An extremely fast 3.40 GHz processor
- It is superb for 3D movies and TrueHD
- A very great processor for game freaks
Our Verdict
Intel Core i7-3770 is more than an entry-level best budget DDR3 processor. It can execute hyper-threading functions that are very helpful to users irrespective of what they may be doing with the PC. Also, it is a great option for multitasking people! Hence, it is not hard to see why this Intel processor is one of the best Intel DDR3 CPUs out there that you can lay your hands on.
5. AMD A6-7400K Dual-Core 3.5 GHz Processor
AMD made it all-inclusive with the A6-7400K processor that provides you with a whole new digital experience. It includes integrated Radeon R5 Graphics with a 3.5 GHz base clock speed and a 1MB of L2 cache to enable you seamlessly run your applications. Also, this product comes with two cores that help it to better execute multi-software packages simultaneously.
Additionally, it supports DDR3-1866 memory interface and is compliant with desktop motherboards studded with FM2+ sockets. This AMD A6-7400K processor merges the power of AMD Radeon graphics tech and the performance of multiple core processors on one chip to bring out interactivity and immersion. Whether you are using it for watching videos, gaming, or any other random system activity, be sure that it’ll provide you with what you need for your contemporary living.
5 Top Specifications
- Brand: AMD
- Manufacturer: AMD
- Model: Dual Core
- CPU/GPU: AMD A6 7400K
- RAM: 8GB
Why We Like This Product
- This processor supports the AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) technology.
- It comes with XOP and FMA3 instructions.
- Also, it includes the FMA4 instruction set extension.
Our Verdict
To AMD enthusiasts, it is a nice feeling to know that their favorite is refreshing its Kaveri lineup. In this processor, AMD concentrated on harnessing maximum system performance even at lower 45W and lower 65W TDPs. As this tech giant keeps pushing for HSA support, OpenGL performance, and graphics performance, the game will keep becoming more interesting. Also, it has a healthy price point and sure to meet your needs.
6. Intel Core i7-2600K Quad-Core Processor
With eight threads and four cores (All thanks to the Hyper-Threading technology from Intel), this Core i7 processor certainly occupies a rank in the higher ranges of the new Sandy Bridge line technology from Intel. Its 3.4 GHz base clock speed is a juicy inclusion, but it can also reach up to 3.8 GHz with the enabling of the Turbo Boost; all of these work in concert to provide you with an incredibly fast system.
The “K” in Intel Core i7-2600K indicates that the processor also features an unlocked multiplier together with its latent power for better overlocking simplicity. Also, it is intentionally built to efficiently drive many media-related functions.
5 Top Specifications
- Brand: Intel
- Manufacturer: Intel
- Model: Core i7
- CPU/GPU: LGA 1150
- RAM: 32GB
Why We Like This Product
- Exceptional media-processing capacity
- Good overall processing performance
- An accessible multiplier for easier overclocking
Our Verdict
Intel took a giant step towards the designing of this processor, one of its initial Sandy Bridge processor, in terms of both media processing and value. Its popular committed graphics will not sideline what you’ll get using a graphics card, but it is generally a great mainstream release.
7. Intel Core i5-8400 Desktop Processor
This 8th generation Intel Core processor family base its design on the recent “Coffee Lake” silicon. This design is Intel’s fourth to be designed on the 14nm method (after Kaby Lake, Skylake, and Broadwell). It is evident that the product development cycle of Intel’s “tick-tock” is off-path intended. While this K-series processor may have attracted all the attention with its 5.2GHz overclocking chops and Ryzen-battling multi-threaded performance, it’s one of the best Intel processors for gamers.
5 Top Specifications
- Brand: Intel
- Manufacturer: Intel
- Model: Core i5
- CPU/GPU: LGA 1151
- RAM: 128GB
Why We Like This Product
- Often outperforms earlier generation Core i7-7700K flagship processor on multiple core analyses
- Top-notch gaming feat, when used together with a committed graphics card
Our Verdict
With a lot of new desktop platforms and processors recently flooding the market, it has been ever more difficult to choose the best processors as lots of them appear to be competent. But from our detailed analyses, it is clear that this processor has carved out a niche for itself on two fronts: (1) as an all-encompassing CPU for people who churn through some thread-intensive system activities or those who are into some video editing, and (2) as an outstanding mainstream gaming microprocessor.
8. Intel Core I7 4770K
This Intel Core i7-4770K is the new top-end microchip from the company built with the Haswell architecture and its second processor assembled on the 22-nanometer process. The microchip features several new enhancements and capabilities and is a remarkable step forward in processor efficiency, but Intel enthusiasts may not be too happy with its lower overclocking latency. In terms of performance, it’s twenty unit core graphics is an upgrade over its predecessor.
5 Top Specifications
- Brand: Intel
- Manufacturer: Intel
- Model: Core i7
- CPU/GPU: LGA 1150
- RAM: 32GB
Why We Like This Product
- Includes Intel’s latest architecture
- Enhanced graphics and better performance
- A very fast quad-core consumer chip
- About 50 percent increase in the IGP speed
- Class-leading power use
- Healthier temperatures than its antecedents
- Very low power consumption under both load and idle
- Additional memory overclocking selections
Our Verdict
Intel Core I7 4770K is a top-notch processor and one of the best at its price point. This Haswell-based CPU is all about mobile system proficiency. And this it has consistently shown. If you are looking for a very fast and efficient processor that is budget-friendly, then this is your best bet.
9. Intel Core i3-8100
Intel Core i3-8100 is a great alternative for a processor for the 8th generation systems of Intel, which is what is obtainable for most all of the Intel Core i3 processors. Hence, it is a quad-core processor that cannot handle more than tasks at a go (no hyper-threading). It is built on the 14nm process, meaning that is hugely efficient.
This CPU is clocked at a frequency of 3.6GHz – the cannon for most desktop processors – but because it is a very easy-to-use processor, it is not compliant with the Turbo Boost technology from Intel. With this functionality, the supported processors will be boosted above their base clock speeds.
5 Top Specifications
- Brand: Intel
- Manufacturer: Intel
- Model: Core i3
- CPU/GPU: LGA 1156
- RAM: 64GB
Why We Like This Product
- A great mix of application and gaming performance
- Four physical cores
- Competent stock cooler
- Low price
Our Verdict
Intel Core i3-8100 comes with four solid cores at less than $200, which is a huge value when contrasted with earlier Intel models. It is also a great alternative for gaming enthusiasts.
10. Intel i7-4960X Extreme Edition
With the coming of Intel Core i7-4960X, Intel finally revamped its HEDT module by transitioning its architecture to Ivy Bridge from Sandy Bridge. This Ivy Bridge-based processor series of processors come with u to six cores manufactured via the 22-nanometer process and deploying the Ivy Bridge architecture.
In contrast, the Sandy Bridge-based processor series utilizes the 32-nanometer process. Its top SKUs includes twelve total threads and six solid cores as a result of its hyper-threading, which is one of its key most important functionalities for people who are using heavily threaded applications.
5 Top Specifications
- Brand: Intel
- Manufacturer: Intel
- Model: Core i7
- CPU/GPU: LGA 2011
- RAM: 64GB
Why We Like This Product
- Perfect for gaming
- The clock base clock speed at 4GHz is very great and competitive
- Great for all-purpose gaming performance
Our Verdict
The Intel Core i7-4960X CPU updates its processor build to the 22-nanometer type Ivy Bridge, but it also made some extra changes. This enabled it to be one of the most competitive systems out there. If you are a game freak, then this processor is one of the best DDR3 CPU for gaming.
Guide to Choosing The Right DDR3 CPU
When Should You Use a DDR3 CPU?
If you want your PC to work efficiently when using applications or gaming, you want the right RAM. Using a DDR3 CPU will help you make the most of your PC and switch between apps without any real lag.
Although DDR4 RAM is a better option than the DDR3, this did not just happen overnight, and most things that the former can do, the latter is also capable of doing.
Hence, it implies that a lot of top-notch computers out there still use DDR3 RAM. It is compliant with a large plethora of contemporary CPUs. These CPUs include FM1/22+, AMD’s AM3/AM3+, and Intel LGA 13366.
This type of RAM is useful for playing games because it can access data faster than the storage media. Imagine that while your file cabinet represents the main storage, your RAM stands for your desk. It is cumbersome to search through the file cabinet to retrieve these files whenever you need something you want to work on.
With DDR3 RAM, you have the choice of keeping lots of files on your desk and also retrieve them as quickly as you want in concurring successions. DDR3 RAM is indeed important for a gaming computer. You’ll get slow and poor performance if you use low storage media. It is gaming that freaks you; this RAM type is what you should be going for. Or if you can afford it, then you can go for the DDR4 RAM.
These DDR3 CPUs in this review feature high clock speeds. This makes them the ideal solution for gamers. They also feature high-speed live streaming with a so-high data transfer rate that hardly encounters buffering or lag during transmission. And this makes it perfect for those that love to stream HD content.
How Much RAM is Enough for You?
One of the most popular questions about computer memory, but also something that you strive to know the answer to, is, “How much RAM is enough for you?” The answer to this question is very much dependent on what you are using your PC for.
Smartphones, laptops, and low-end tablets may use 2-4GB of memory, which’s sufficient for the type of function they perform. But it is sufficient for use in contemporary operating systems, whether you are passively browsing or gaming.
The least requirement for most computers, irrespective of the functions that they may be performing, should be around 8GB. Anything short of this will not help make your PC operate seamlessly.
With a memory space of at least 8GB, you’ll have enough room to multi-task. Also, it will make you enjoy higher video resolutions without encountering any glitches.
Does Higher RAM Always Mean A Better Experience?
In most instances, a PC’s memory speed is represented by its frequency or clock speed, denoted by MHz. Loosely speaking, it represents the number of times that your PC can access the RAM in a second.
Hence, in most instances, your PC will enjoy a greater performance if you have a faster memory. Just as with all the other components, there are diminishing returns with the faster you go and the more you spend. In some special instances, faster memory may lead to somewhat weaker performance, contingent on your particular constituent choices.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Fast Is DDR3 RAM?
DDR3-based processors have capabilities that can enable them to speed up the rate of data transmission at the rate of 800-2133 MT/s by deploying both falling and rising edges of their 400-1066 MHz I/O clock. At this rate, DDR3 RAMs have a data transfer rate that is two times that of DDR2 RAMs which transfer data at the rate of 400-1066 MT/s utilizing a 200-533 MHs I/O clock. And this rate is even monstrous when you compare it with DDR RAMs which have a data transfer rate of about 200-400 MT/s and utilizing a 100-200 MHz I/O clock. Check the internet to know more about some of the best Intel CPU that supports DDR3.
Is DDR3 Good In 2020?
Of course, it is good enough to meet your computing needs in 2020. But then, most of the recently produced system motherboards are configured to use the DDR4 RAM. But if your Intel CPU is still modest enough, then it should work just fine with at least 16GB RAM of DDR3. So, while some of the best CPU that supports DDR3 has been flooding the market for quite some time now, what is operator-friendly now is the DDR4 RAM. You may want to know what is in for you by making a healthy comparison of DDR3 vs DDR4 CPU benchmark.
Which Intel CPU Support DDR3?
Some of the best Intel CPU that supports DDR3 is the Intel Core i7-5775C and Intel Core i7-4790K CPUs.
Is 16GB DDR3 RAM Good For Gaming?
8GB RAM of some of the best CPU that supports DDR3 is enough for most consumers and gamers, particularly since most contemporary games will normally cap out at a RAM usage of about 6GB. Hence, if you have a 16 GB RAM, then you’ll have a great processor for gaming and multitasking, alongside more complicated apps, like VMware. Hence, any 16 GB Intel Core i7 that supports DDR3 is indeed a great gaming option.
Conclusion
Your PC’s memory may not be as exciting as a new graphics card or CPU, but it is also crucial to your PC usage experience playing the latest games to browsing the web and booting up your system.
While it is true that faster memory does not make your PC nearly a quantum computer, it can help you ensure that your storage, GPU, and CPU run at peak efficiency.