A CPU fits into a motherboard socket with specific circuitry. Intel CPUs use LGA formatting, where the number indicates the pin count, like LGA 1151. Ensuring compatibility between the CPU and motherboard socket is crucial for performance.
To help you find the best LGA 1151 CPU, we’ve tested several options and included them in this article. Additionally, a buying guide is provided to help you understand the important factors and specifications for choosing a suitable CPU. Read this post to the end before making your decision.
Quick Shopping Tips
Motherboard Compatibility: Ensure your motherboard has the correct socket for your CPU, such as LGA 1151. The motherboard and CPU must be performance-compatible.
Cache Memory: Cache memory speeds up CPU performance. Choose a processor with at least 8MB of cache for faster command processing.
Clock Speed: Clock speed determines CPU efficiency. Aim for a minimum of 3 GHz. Higher overclock speeds are beneficial.
Overclocking Capability: Overclocking handles intensive tasks smoothly. Select a CPU with good overclocking headroom and ensure your motherboard supports it.
Cooling Solutions: Proper cooling is vital for optimal CPU performance. Choose between air or liquid coolers based on your overclocking needs. Liquid coolers are ideal for extreme overclocking.
The Best LGA 1151 CPU You Can Buy Today
| Award | Design | Best | Retailer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Overall LGA 1151 CPU |  | View | |
| Best Flagship LGA 1151 CPU |  | View | |
| Best Affordable LGA 1151 CPU |  | View | |
| Best Budget Gaming LGA 1151 CPU |  | View | |
| Best mid range LGA 1151 CPU |  | View | |
| Best Premium LGA 1151 CPU |  | View |
Intel Core i9-9900K
Best Overall LGA 1151 CPU
Brand: Intel | Series/Family: 9th Generation Intel Core i9 Processors | Lithography: 14nm | Cores: 8 | Threads: 16 | Cache: 16MB Intel Smart Cache | Hyper-Threading: Yes | Unlocked Multiplier: Yes | Integrated graphics: Intel UHD Graphics 630 | Socket: LGA1151 | Base clock: 3.6GHz | Boost clock: 5.0GHz | Rated TDP: 95W | Bundled cooler: No
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The Intel Core i9-9900K is a top choice for professional gamers and PC enthusiasts. It’s part of Intel’s 9th generation CPUs, offering powerful performance. Overclocking up to 3.6 GHz, and with Turbo technology, it can reach up to 5 GHz.
With 8 cores and 16 threads, it provides strong performance. It has 16MB cache memory and Intel’s Optane memory support for fast operation. Hyperthreading allows multi-threading for multiple projects, making it comparable to AMD’s Ryzen 9 3900x.
The Intel UHD Graphics 630 saves you money, and the processor supports dual-channel DDR4-2666 memory and PCIe 4.0, ensuring future-proofing. With a 95W TDP, it handles AAA games and complex 3D modeling efficiently. However, it lacks a stock cooler, so you’ll need to pair it with a compatible one.
Intel Core i7-9700K
Best Flagship LGA 1151 CPU
Brand: Intel | Series/Family: 9th Generation Intel Core i7 Processors | Lithography: 14nm | Cores: 8 | Threads: 8 | Cache: 12MB Intel Smart Cache | Hyper-Threading: Yes | Unlocked Multiplier: Yes | Integrated graphics: Intel UHD Graphics 630 | Socket: LGA1151 | Base clock: 3.6GHz | Boost clock: 4.9GHz | Rated TDP: 95W | Bundled cooler: No
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The Intel Core i7-9700K is an affordable, powerful processor, ideal for high-tech gaming and extended tasks. With 8 cores and 8 threads, it delivers strong single-core performance, even without hyperthreading. Clock speeds range from 3.6 GHz to 4.9 GHz thanks to turbo technology.
Despite its lack of hyperthreading, it excels in AAA titles and multitasking. The processor features a 12MB cache and Intel Optane memory support, enhancing efficiency.
It includes Intel UHD Graphics 630 and offers a 41 GB/s bandwidth. Supporting 300- and 400-series chipsets with a 95W TDP, it requires a good-quality cooler as one is not included.
Intel Core i3 9100F
Best Affordable LGA 1151 CPU
Brand: Intel | Series/Family: 9th Generation Intel Core i3 Processors | Lithography: 14nm | Cores: 4 | Threads: 4 | Cache: 6MB Intel Smart Cache | Hyper-Threading: No | Unlocked Multiplier: No | Integrated graphics: No | Socket: LGA1151 | Base clock: 3.6GHz | Boost clock: 4.2GHz | Rated TDP: 95W | Bundled cooler: No
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The Intel Core i3-9100F is a budget-friendly LGA 1151 CPU, ideal for fulfilling basic PC needs. It features four cores and four threads, performing well in various situations without hyper-threading support. The base clock speed is 3.6 GHz, which can boost up to 4.2 GHz with Turbo Boost.
While it excels in single-core performance, it struggles with multi-thread tasks. It is suitable for low workload tasks and provides decent 1080p gaming. The included stock cooler helps maintain calm operation. However, it lacks integrated graphics, requiring an external card.
Before mounting the motherboard, ensure to update the BIOS for compatibility. This process might be complex for newbies. Overall, the i3-9100F is a good choice for budget users seeking basic gaming or web browsing with a dedicated graphics card.
Intel Core i5 9600K
Best Budget Gaming LGA 1151 CPU
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The Intel Core i5-9600K is a budget-friendly gaming processor. It offers six cores and six threads but lacks hyper-threading. Its base clock speed is 3.7 GHz, boosting to 4.6 GHz with turbo boost technology. It excels in gaming but falls short in professional tasks like video editing and streaming.
This CPU has a 9MB cache, dual-channel DDR4-2666 memory support, and 41.6 GB/s maximum bandwidth with an 8 GT/s bus speed. It lacks integrated graphics, requiring a separate graphics card. For smooth gaming performance, pair it with a good cooler and motherboard.
The i5-9600K is great for budget-conscious gamers seeking satisfying gaming experiences. However, it’s not suitable for heavy workloads or multi-threaded tasks.
Intel Core i5-9400F
Best mid range LGA 1151 CPU
Brand: Intel | Series/Family: 9th Generation Intel Core i5 Processors | Lithography: 14nm | Cores: 6 | Threads: 6 | Cache: 9MB Intel Smart Cache | Hyper-Threading: No | Unlocked Multiplier: No | Integrated graphics: Intel UHD Graphics 630 | Socket: LGA1151 | Base clock: 2.9GHz | Boost clock: 4.1GHz | Rated TDP: 65W | Bundled cooler: Yes
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The Intel Core i5-9400F is an excellent mid-range LGA 1151 CPU, offering more cores, higher clock speeds, and enhanced power utility. It lacks integrated graphics support, requiring a dedicated graphics card. Its locked multiplier limits overclocking.
Part of the 9th generation Coffee Lake family, this CPU is built on 14nm lithography. It has 6 cores, 6 threads, a 2.9GHz base clock, and a 4.1GHz boost clock, but no hyper-threading. The 9MB Intel Smart Cache manages mid-tier capabilities, making it ideal for moderate gaming.
With a 65W TDP, it is power-efficient, supporting dual-channel DDR4 memory and offering 41.6GB/s data flow. However, it only supports PCIe 3.0, limiting data speed compared to PCIe 4.0 processors. The i5-9400F delivers 1080p 80+ fps gaming performance, rivaling the AMD Ryzen 5 2600X for those seeking a budget-friendly option.
Intel Core i7-6700K
Best Premium LGA 1151 CPU
Brand: Intel | Series/Family: 6th Generation Intel Core i7 Processors | Lithography: 14nm | Cores: 4 | Threads: 8 | Cache: 12MB Intel Smart Cache | Hyper-Threading: Yes | Unlocked Multiplier: Yes | Integrated graphics: Intel UHD Graphics 530 | Socket: LGA1151 | Base clock: 4.0GHz | Boost clock: 4.2GHz | Rated TDP: 91W | Bundled cooler: No
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The Intel Core i7-6700K is a standout CPU, known for its user-friendly design and high performance. It’s easy to install and stable, making it a reliable choice for gaming. With 4 cores and 8 threads, it offers super-fast performance and high-resolution, high-quality settings.
Combining the i7-6700K with a good water cooler ensures the system runs at 60 FPS while maintaining temperatures between 40-50°C. Its base clock speed is 4GHz, with a turbo boost up to 4.6GHz, and hyperthreading handles multi-thread tasks efficiently. It supports DDR4-2133 and DDR3-1600 memory, with a 91W TDP.
Although it only has 8MB of cache memory, it includes the HD 530 (GT2) graphics card for rich display quality. The i7-6700K is built for fast gaming experiences and has stable performance. However, it doesn’t come with a stock cooler, so you’ll need an additional cooling solution. This premium LGA 1151 CPU combines high-quality parts with a user-friendly interface.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the best budget CPU for LGA 1151 socket?
Intel Core i5 9600K is the best budget CPU due to its compelling features and functions at a reasonable price. It comes with 6 cores and 12 threads that offer splendid single-core performance. The CPU supports intensive gaming for the long term; anyhow, other complex tasks such as 3D modeling and video editing are challenging.
Which is the best Valued LGA 1151 CPU?
Among all the CPUs mentioned in the list, the i9 9900K is the best-valued CPU. It is the fastest gaming processor of the 9th generation. The CPU has eight cores and 16 threads which makes it powerful enough to deal with complex tasks. Nonetheless, the CPU is highly recommended for passionate gamers, and the PC is enthusiastic.
Which is the most compatible CPU to support LGA 1151?
The processors i9 9900K, i7 9700K, i5 9600K, i7 6700K, and i3 9100F are all compatible with the LGA 1151. All these are responsive and commendable in terms of features and versatility.
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.
