Best CPU for LGA 1151 [Ultimate Guide]

What is LGA 1151? Before going any further, let’s first define LGA 1151. A CPU socket that is frequently used is LGA 1151. LGA 1200, AM3+ based, and LGA 1151 are only a few of the possible socket types. The CPU can only actually fit on a certain amount of socket pins. Compatibility between these two parts is essential as a result. Your gaming PC won’t function if there are compatibility problems.

As we continue this important discussion, we’ll discuss the “Best LGA 1151 CPU.” The name of the socket contains the number 1151 to signify that it has 1151 pins. Therefore, you need to choose a processor that can manage 1151 pins. The LGA 1151 architecture in Intel’s extensive back catalog is very adaptable because the company is known for releasing new sockets every five seconds.

There is an LGA 1151 socket incorporated into your motherboard. It is also known as Socket H4. It can be used with Intel processors. The LGA 1151 socket is currently available in two versions. The initial development of the first one was focused on supporting Intel’s Kaby Lake and Skylake CPUs. Intel first completed the second revision. For the Coffee Lake CPUs, it was designed.

The name of the updated version of this game is LGA 1151-2 or LGA 1151v2. Remember that the LGA 1151 worked flawlessly in the LGA 1150 socket. In this case, the 1151 pins that connect the CPU to its pads cause the code 1151 to occur. The motherboard’s built-in voltage regulator is back. The CPU may run on voltages of 12 V or 5 V with the aid of a voltage regulator.

5V is currently, as expected, at a very low voltage. Most contemporary CPUs operate most effectively at voltages less than 1.5V. Due to its high frequency, the low voltage level produces the least amount of power and heat. Contrary to the company’s other sockets, which typically only support two processor generations, the most prevalent Intel socket is LGA 1151.

Intel processors first used LGA 1151 in their sixth generation, and they last used it in their ninth generation. There is no need to purchase an 8th-generation processor because the 9th-generation CPUs and the 8th-generation processors are nearly identical.

Core i5 CPUs from the eighth and ninth generations had six cores, in contrast to the Core i7 processors from the sixth and seventh generations, which only had four. Thus, 6th and 7th-generation processors are no longer necessary. On a single core, the 9th generation CPUs outperform the 6th and 7th generation processors significantly.

It’s important to keep in mind that LGA 1151 processors are compatible with motherboards designed for processors from generations 8 and 9, even though they share the same socket as CPUs from generations 6 and 7.

Motherboards made for 6th and 7th-generation processors are incompatible with 8th and 9th-generation processors. In this post, we’ll go through the top LGA 1151 CPUs so you may utilize them for the next two years until you feel the want to upgrade once more.

List of the 9 Best CPUs for LGA 1151

The list of the best CPUs for LGA 1151 is given below:

1. Intel Core i5-6600K

Even though the Intel Core i5-6600K may have fewer cores and threads than some other CPUs, it has more to offer gamers searching for a powerful CPU at a reduced price. The CPU, to begin with, offers an excellent balance between performance and cost It’s also important to note that this processor is a part of Intel’s Skylake architecture.

However, the processor still performs admirably even when performing several difficult tasks and playing games.

However, when using extensively threaded apps and programs, a lack of hyper-threading could cause performance problems Its basic clock frequency is 3.50 GHz, while its greatest turbo boost frequency is close to 3.90 GHz. The processor is powered by a 91W thermal design power supply.

Only 6 MB of L3 cache are available, and DDR4-2133 memory is supported. This CPU is excellent for gamers who want to make the most of their gaming abilities but are on a low budget. It is an excellent mid-range LGA 1151 CPU with lots of powerful capabilities.

Pros:

• performance comparable to early Core i7 CPUs 
• Excellent value for the money possesses a fully unlocked core multiplier

Cons:

• For serious gaming, the graphics are still not good enough.
• Skylake CPUs will require a new motherboard
• It has a greater TDP than its predecessors and no hyperthreading.

2. Intel Core i9-9900K

One of the greatest options for PC enthusiasts and hardcore gamers is the Intel Core i9-9900K. Additionally, this assertion has been made by the vast majority of testers and experts The chip is a potent collection of Intel Core 9th generation CPUs.

With this processing unit, you can complete challenging tasks and play games at a higher level. But that is excessive for the typical YouTube user and streamer. Performance-wise, the 9900K can commonly be overclocked to 3.6 GHz. The CPU’s 95W TDP, which is high in comparison to those with 125W, is another remarkable attribute.

In any case, the i9-9900K doesn’t come with the stock cooler you would need. This processor is unlocked and features twin memory channels operating at 2666 MHz DDR4. The most effective LGA 1151 CPU overall is the Intel Core i9-9900K. Whether you enjoy playing AAA games or working on intricate 3D models, you can rely on our high-end computer hardware. 

Pros:

• Thanks to the eight cores and sixteen threads, multitasking is simple.
• Provides 3.6GHz base and 5GHz boost clock speeds for the GPU
• Built-in turbo technology and optane memory

Cons:

• a stock cooler is necessary 
• a touch pricey.

3. Intel Core i5-8400 

One of the top LGA 1151 compatible CPUs for gaming is the Intel Core i5-8400. It is one of the top Mid-Range CPUs available right now and is a part of Intel’s Coffee Lake architecture. The Intel Core i5-8400 provides value for money and is one of the most affordable Coffee Lake CPUs on the market.

The processor has six cores and six threads, which may limit how effectively it can do tasks that call for numerous threads, but it still offers good gaming performance.

Its low 2.8 GHz default clock speed is apparent. With a staggering 5.1 GHz frequency and a top turbo speed of 4.0 GHz, however, it is upgradeable. The fastest Core i5 from Intel is currently known to be faster than the Core i7-7700K. The same 14 nm manufacturing design, 65W TDP, and 9 MB of L3 cache are present in the Intel Core i5-8400.

Additionally, this is a strong midrange CPU that tackles challenging tasks well and offers accurate gaming performance. It offers fantastic value for the money.

Pros:

• Six cores provide exceptional performance.
• Bring a cooler in a bag.
• value for money

Cons:

• possesses a multiplication lock.

4. Intel Core i7-8700

The Intel Core i7-8700 is a fantastic CPU that runs on par with the more expensive edition, the 8700K, even though you are unable to overclock it. The processor, which is packed with the best characteristics, represents the Coffee Late series of CPUs from Intel.

As a result, although it is less expensive, the CPU practically matches the capabilities of the more expensive Intel Core i7-8700K. This CPU can handle multi-thread workloads and demanding games because it has six cores and 12 threads, which allows hyperthreading.

The Intel Core i7-8700 may be turbo-clocked up from its base frequency of 3.20 GHz to around 4.60 GHz. It runs comparable to Intel’s Core i7-8700K while costing significantly less, so it does have a lot to offer despite having a limited multiplier. The benefits of 14nm technology are utilized by this processor, which has a 65W TDP.

Similar to the top 8700K model, it includes a memory controller that can support DDR4-2666 and has 12 MB of L3 cache. Additionally, it includes an integrated UHD Graphics 630 and Intel Stock Cooling.

Pros:

• performance on par with the Intel Core i7-8700K Higher 

Cons:

• The included chiller is subpar.
• multiplier with a locked ratio

5. Intel Core i3-9100

The i3 9100 is a processor worth paying special attention to if you’re looking for a computer developed specifically for gaming. It lacks the Atlas-like ability to manage several concurrent operations due to its four single-threaded cores, but it can readily handle a focused gaming demand.

Intel intended for this to be the best standalone gaming CPU given that the 3.6 to 4.2GHz frequency range perfectly fits the LGA 1151 gaming sweet spot.

It can reach an average frame rate of 70 frames per second in 1080p with a minor 1.73 percent bottleneck when combined with the midrange GTX 1650. You can even utilize this combination to get 1440p averages that are playable if the game is simple. The 9100 has an integrated UHD 630 graphics card as opposed to the 9400F.

Pros:

• This CPU has four cores and is great for lone-player gaming.
• 3.6-4.2GHz frequencies are the best for gaming.
• This is a great low-cost option.
• Features a fan to help cool off

Cons:

• The 9100’s primary use is as a gaming CPU.
• Cannot be cranked up due to not having a built-in graphics card.

6. Intel Core i5-9400F

This is still the best i5 K-Series processor we have tested, despite Intel removing features that have little to no effect on gaming performance. For example, the removal of the Intel UHD 630 integrated graphics card results in a price reduction, but because you’ll still be utilizing it with a separate GPU, there’s no reason to be concerned.

From one i5 to the next, there is some clock speed loss, leaving you with a base frequency of 2.9Hz, which is a little lower than the recommended frequency for gaming.

However, by turning on Turbo Boost in the BIOS, you can increase your maximum frequency to as much as 4.1GHz. However, with all six cores operating at 3.9GHz, only single-core enhancements are practical.

A minor extra issue is the fact that the entire F-Series cannot be manually overclocked. We won’t mind if you start to feel like an OC magician and decide to keep reading. The ideal user of this CPU is a casual gamer who just wants to relax and play their favorite games.

Pros:

• a decent value
• For games, six single cores work best.
• 9MB Intel Smart Cache
• 3.9GHz or 4.1GHz base or boost frequency

Cons:

• won’t accelerate.
• Not suitable for multitasking 
• lacks Intel built-in graphics

7. Intel Core i7-9700K

Although the i9 9900K is the greatest in the business, if you don’t want to spend that much of your hard-earned money, trade those 9s in for a pair of 7s, and you’ll be good to go! For about $100 less, the i7 9700K offers comparable gaming performance to the i9, if not slightly faster.

What’s the catch, you’re wondering, right?

The i7 9700K differs in a few minor respects, but its lack of hyperthreading capability makes it far less useful for facilitating task parallelization. We are not overstating the i7 9700K’s gaming prowess to catch your attention. This CPU for LGA 1151 is up to 5% faster for gaming than our pricy i9.

Hyperthreading will help future games, but it’s crucial to keep in mind that many AAA games today are built to spread their instructions across as many threads as they can.

Pros:

• 8 cores
• 12 MB of Intel Smart Cache, and astounding single-core speed.
• The UHD graphics have a successful thermal design and good overclocking 
• clock speeds of 4.9GHz boost and 630Hz base.

Cons:

• Uncomfortable multitasking is caused by a lack of hyperthreading.
• Not as adaptable to change as our top-choice i9
• Performance on several cores is a tad slow.

8. Intel Core i3-9100F

Our last CPU is one of the top i3 processors for LGA 1151 socket types. It only has 4 single-threaded cores, but it has all the hardware you require to replace your outdated processor and continue gaming on your LGA 1151 motherboard for at least a few more years.

The i3 9100F never ceases to amaze us with its incredible clock rates. When you need more power, it can be turned up to an impressive 4.2GHz, and its default speed of 3.6GHz is higher than what is needed for some intense video games.

If your only worry is being able to run games, the i3 9100F is a fantastic low-cost solution. However, due to the ‘F’ suffix, no manual overclocking whatsoever will be able to change performance. However, it does feature a cooling fan, so it won’t let you down if you prefer to have a cool, silent chassis. This i3 machine, like our penultimate choice, lacks integrated graphics capabilities.

Pros:

• Fast clock speeds
• wonderful pricing
• 4 distinct cores
• incorporates a cooling fan

Cons:

• no integrated graphics card
• cannot be clocked up
• Insufficient ability to manage parallelizing workflows

9. Intel Core i5 9600K

Even though the i5 9600K has less hardware than the potent i7 and i9 it replaces, it is still capable of performing its intended functions. A broad variety of both old and new games may be played at high frame rates with the Hexacore i5 9600K. With the right tools, this tiny beast can be overclocked indefinitely.

You can attain stable rates of up to 5GHz if you use a modern motherboard like the MSI MEG Z390 Godlike. Even without any overclocking, this i5’s clock speed characteristics are rather good; in fact, its base frequency is 0.1GHz greater than that of the i7 9700K and our LGA 1151 CPU winner, the i9 9900K.

This CPU performs admirably in games that significantly rely on per-core performance. Although it doesn’t quite encroach on the territory of the i7 9700K, it nevertheless offers above-average performance for a fair price. The i5 9600K should be understood to be primarily a gaming CPU. Low latency generally, however due to the lack of hyperthreading, unsuitable for professional tasks.

Pros:

• When combined with a potent Z370 board, it offers sufficient headroom for overclocking.
• 6 cores
• extremely rapid clock rates
• features a memory format that is equivalent to premium cards 

Cons:

• Not so good for threaded workloads

Points to Think About Best CPU for LGA 1151

1. Clock speed 

The CPU’s clock speed is by far the most crucial aspect, especially for die-hard PC enthusiasts. The processor’s clock speed will dictate how long and effectively the system operates. The absolute minimum clock speed for your CPU should be 3 GHz.

The faster it moves there, the more you will benefit from the overclock speed. To improve efficiency, they collaborate with CPU cores to accelerate the sequential processing of instructions.

Think of a dual-core machine with a fast clock rate. While running many programs at once is not possible, running a single application quickly is possible. You could open a tonne of programs on an octa-core hyperthreaded machine with low clock rates, but they would all run so slowly that they would be useless. 

2. Cores and Threads

The cores are the components of a CPU that manage all processing. They are in charge of data transport and problem-solving, acting as the lieutenant generals of your complete computer system. The more you have, the more processes and applications you can support.

The two main types of CPU cores are single-threaded and hyperthreaded. The focus of single-threaded cores is on carrying out single-sequence instructions. They work exceptionally effectively when focused on a single task. Although they have a slight latency increase, they are excellent multitaskers. 

3. Multitasking

Computational multitasking is precisely what it sounds like. the capacity to handle several tasks at once. This can include opening many tabs, streaming, and simultaneously downloading and streaming songs. As was already mentioned, multitasking is noticeably improved by hyperthreaded core CPUs.

Although less effective, single-threaded core CPUs are capable of multitasking. While they’ll work just fine for the average user, flawless multitasking is crucial for experts like media editors, animators, and content developers.

4. Architecture

The design of a CPU’s architecture is compared to that of a building. It provides details on the organization, procedures, and rules of the CPU. It establishes whether the hardware and software are compatible. Because of this, new CPUs demand new sockets and vice versa.

Each successive generation of CPUs is supposed to perform better than the one before it, as evidenced by codenames like “Sky Lake” or “Coffee Lake,” which are used to identify various designs of LGA 1511. A generational transition could be as basic as the ability to accommodate more cores, or it could signify a thorough redesign that involves structural and functional alterations to the whole design.

5. Motherboard

The motherboard is yet another crucial part of the computer. The socket, which may be an 1151 LGA, will be housed on the motherboard. Make sure the motherboard you intend to purchase has an LGA 1151 socket if you currently own an 1151 LGA CPU.

6. Cache memory

One of the many types of memory present in a computer is the cache memory built into the CPU. If you want the CPU to run quickly and responsively, having the most cache memory will be beneficial. Before getting the CPU, make sure it has at least 8GB of cache memory. The more you travel, the slower your system will be at understanding orders.

How We Choose the Best CPU for LGA 1151

Before the lightning-fast progress of gaming technology forces our hands and depletes our financial resources, we are likewise attempting to squeeze every last bit of performance from our motherboards for our PCs. We might have the chance to use some highly pricey tools for work-related purposes.

Since these are the goods that are still fighting the good fight and still have plenty of gaming potential even when paired with powerful GPUs and displays, we knew exactly which ones to show you. The best residents of Coffee Lake are those who resist that good night effortlessly.

You must carefully choose your CPU because there is a chance that it won’t function properly or at all as a result of motherboard compatibility concerns This guide was created to help those unfamiliar with processors.

• Compatibility: The compatibility of a CPU with the motherboard is the first thing you should examine. If the motherboard lacks the particular kind of socket the CPU requires, your system won’t function at all. Your motherboard must have one of the following model numbers: Z390, Z370, H370, H310, or B360 if you plan to purchase 9th-generation Intel processors.

• Hyper-Threading Support: The speed of a processor can be increased by up to 25% thanks to Intel’s Hyper-Threading technology, which enables a CPU to have twice as many threads. Only the Core i9-9900 and 9900K processors from the 9th generation of CPUs allow Hyper-Threading. 

• Cores: The quantity of cores in a CPU is its most crucial feature. A CPU operates better the more cores it has. With eight cores and sixteen threads, the Core i9-9900K is the best 9th-generation processor with an LGA 1151 socket. Eight cores and eight threads are included in the Core i7-9700K as opposed to six cores and six threads in the Core i5-9600six K. The most economical 9th-generation processor with four cores and four threads is the Core i3-9100F.

• Overclocking Support: The majority of enthusiasts choose to get an unlocked processor that can be overclocked if it is paired with a Z-series motherboard because doing so can boost a processor’s performance. All of Intel’s K-series processors are unlocked, which means that their multipliers are all unlocked. Gaming performance is significantly impacted by processor overclocking because faster cores provide more frames per second in games.

Read More:

Best Ram for Intel i7 8700k Best RAM for Ryzen 7 5800X

Conclusion 

The Core i9-9900K, which is more than sufficient for most people, is the quickest CPU available among them. The Core i7-9700K and Core i5-9400F are the CPUs from this generation that is utilized the most frequently.

Because they are less expensive, Core i3 CPUs are ideal for customers on a stricter budget who want to play less demanding games. You might also want to read this article to learn how to safely remove an old CPU from a motherboard if you’re looking for a new CPU to replace your old one and you’re already here.