![Should I buy a tray Processor? [Explained with Pros & Cons]](https://www.ingameloop.com/wp-content/uploads/Should-i-buy-a-Tray-Processor-450x257.jpg)
The tray processors, also called OEMs (original equipment manufacturers), are often offered in big quantities to PC manufacturers (think ASUS, Dell, HP, and so on). Similar to how eggs come in egg cartons, they are delivered on trays. These businesses obtain processors in excess at wholesale prices because buying processors in boxes doesn’t make much sense from a business sense.
Is it safe to buy a tray processor?
Yes, tray chips are fine as long as the seller is honest. It is simply a CPU sold to OEMs without packaging. Nothing else has changed. The largest risk is that you might buy a tray chip that has already been used, but even then, as long as it functions, it probably won’t be a huge concern. Typically, distributors or wholesalers sell processor trays to businesses that build or repair computers.
Key Takeaways
- Tray processors are cheaper than boxed processors, but they come without a cooler or a warranty.
- Tray processors are usually sold in bulk to system integrators or OEMs, who can provide their own cooling solutions and warranties.
- Tray processors may have different specifications or features than their boxed counterparts, such as lower clock speeds, power consumption, or cache size.
- Tray processors may not be compatible with some motherboards or BIOS versions, so it is important to check the compatibility before buying one.
- Tray processors are not recommended for beginners or casual users, as they require more technical knowledge and care to install and use.
Should I buy a tray processor?
Yes, you can buy a tray processor but ensure to check a few things in it. Tray processing is a mature technology in the market, and some different models are being sold today. If you are in the market for a tray processor, you may be wondering which one to buy. There are many different brands and models of tray processors on the market, so it can be challenging to decide which is right for you. Although, indeed, stores shouldn’t sell Tray CPUs individually to customers, doing so is an excellent decision on their part to increase profits.
Pros and Cons of tray processors
| Pros | Cons |
| They purchase processors in bulk and include them in PCs (laptops, desktops, All-in-Ones). It is free to design and build equipment to its own specifications. The price they sell the tray CPUs is typically lower because they purchased them in bulk. Tray processor’s warranty replacements and technical support are handled directly by the manufacturers. | Tray processors are not sold individually to customers. They do not have a cooler in the package. High-volume manufacturers like Acer, ASUS, Dell, Hewlett-Packard, or Lenovo purchase tray processors. Tray CPUs usually don’t come with a warranty. |
Important considerations when buying a tray processor
The most noticeable thing in tray processors is the cooling solution or fan. As we know, the tray processor doesn’t ship with a fan. However, the built-in cooling fan might not be enough if you want to overclock a processor. Because of this, many enthusiasts and overclockers commonly purchase tray processors and high-performance cooling fans from different producers. No matter where you purchase them, tray processors typically come with little or no warranty.
If you’re lucky enough to get a warranty with a tray processor, the seller often offers one or two weeks of coverage. However, the majority of retailers test tray processors before selling them. You typically take full responsibility for their handling and installation once the vendor has tested them and determined they are in good condition. Additionally, distributors and manufacturers typically do not offer free technical assistance for tray processors.
So the tray chips are fine as long as the seller is honest. It is simply a CPU sold to OEMs without packaging. Nothing else is changed. To conclude that there is the only disadvantage, the tray processor doesn’t have a cooler. So it’s totally up to you if you want the best cooling fans, you can purchase high-performance fans and tray processors as well. Then this issue will be resolved. Otherwise, if you don’t need the best cooling fan, as it is cheaper in price, this tray processor is sufficient for you.
Conclusion
Tray processors are CPUs sold to Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) without packaging. They are a mature technology in the market, with many different brands and models available. Tray processors are usually purchased in bulk and included in computers such as laptops, desktops, and All-in-Ones. They are typically sold at a lower price than individually packaged CPUs but do not come with a warranty or technical support.
You can purchase one if the seller is a trusted company or person. But you must consider a few things when buying a tray processor, including the cooling solution, the price, and the seller’s honesty. It is important to note that tray processors do not come with a cooler, so you should purchase a high-performance cooling fan separately if you want to overclock the processor.
EDITOR
Arslan Ashraf is a dedicated tech writer with a rich background in Computer Science and five years of experience in the field. While pursuing his Bachelor's degree from Virtual University, he has honed his expertise in CPUs and CPU Coolers. His ability to simplify complex technological concepts has made him a valuable resource for a wide audience.
![Is an Intel Celeron Processor Good? [2024]](https://www.ingameloop.com/wp-content/uploads/Is-an-Intel-Celeron-Processor-Good-450x257.jpg.webp)
