Choosing a CPU Processor for Your Computer

When you start talking about a computer, one of the first things mentioned is always the processor. The processor, also referred to as the cpu, is an important component in a computer. The processor, aside from the motherboard itself, is probably the second most important component inside your computer. The processor could be considered the heart of the system. It is responsible for performing the computations and carrying out the actions that make your computer work.

Though the processor may not be as important as the motherboard, you should still make careful considerations when you begin the selection process of the processor for your computer build.

One important note. If you are building your own computer, you can choose an OEM processor. An OEM processor does not come with a heat sink or fan, but those components will be purchased in the process of building your own computer. By purchasing an OEM version, you will be able to select the heat sink and fan that you want to use. An OEM processor is identical to a Retail version of the processor, but the OEM processor does not come with a heat sink or fan, which must be purchased separately. An OEM processor will be priced lower than the retail version due to its lack of heat sink and fan. Also it will not come in the fancy packaging of the retail version.

When selecting a processor for your computer build, the first consideration will likely be what brand of processor you should choose to buy. There are two competing brand. They are AMD or Advanced Micro Devices, and Intel. Both brands make processors that are designed to handle the requirements of a modern day computer, but both brands make significantly different processors and processors which go about their usual business in a different manner.

I will not suggest one brand over the other. Both brands have their advantages and disadvantages. The selection of a processor usually comes down to a few attributes. These attributes are cost, speed, number of cores and power consumption.

Cost. The cost of a processor can range from less than $50 to over $1000. The money you spend on the processor is determined by your overall budget. Most computer builders would be satisfied with a processor's capabilities in the $100 to $200 range. You can certainly spend more on a processor, but don't think that you will get your money's worth. For example, a $1000 processor will never be 5 times as fast as a $200 processor. Therefore, I think a budget of $100 to $200 on the processor will net you a processor with a strong price to performance ratio.

Speed. Speed is usually determined by the Ghz rating of the processor. Ghz or gigahertz represents the frequency of the processor and loosely represents its overall speed in computations. But don't get hung up on speed alone. Most current processors are more than capable for the everyday user and a slight speed difference will hardly be noticeable.

Number of Cores. Processor today can have a single core, a dual core, or four cores. Cores represent the inner workings of the processor. To simplify things, a dual core can carry out more actions without overloading than a single core can. Having two cores reduces the load on any one part of the processor and allows it to work more efficiently. Having four cores takes this even further. What a first time computer builder should realize is that having two cores is better than one core. And having four cores is better than two cores. A higher budget will allow you to get more cores. I would recommend purchasing at the minimum, a dual core model. As most single core processors are beginning to become obsolete. However, most four core or quad core processors are currently priced too high for most budgets.

Power Consumption. Most processors operate within a range of 65 watts to 125 watts. More power consumption means higher heat, higher operating costs, and possibly the need for a larger power supply unit. All else equal, you should purchase the processor that consumes the least amount of energy. A lower wattage, cooler running processor will usually outlast its higher wattage counterparts.

Now that you know what to look for in a processor, the selection process should be easy. Make sure that the processor you choose is compatible with the motherboard that you plan on using or have already purchased. Processors will not be compatible with all motherboards so it is essential that you are assured that the processor is compatible with the motherboard of you choice.

Please refer to my other article for selecting additional components to build your own computer. This step by step process is rewarding and with some research and effort you will end up with a computer that you can rightfully say that you built it yourself.