Your CPU is the most important part of your PC. Whether you use your PC for gaming, programming, or other purposes, the overall performance of your PC and its suitability for your demands hinge largely on your CPU. This explains why you must invest in a top-notch CPU if you’re looking for flawless performance from your PC.
Best LGA 1155 CPUs: Our Top 5 Picks
If your motherboard bears an LGA 1155 socket, then it goes without saying that you must shop for a matching CPU. LGA 1155 CPUs abound on the market, but not all are worth your money. In fact, making the right choice can be a huge challenge if you don’t have the right information.
Thankfully, we have made the selection easier for you. Our research team spent several hours scouring the market for LGA 1155 CPUs and comparing them in a bid to figure out the best.
And here are our top contenders:
1. Intel Core i7-3770 Quad-Core Processor
Specifications
- Core Name: Ivy Bridge
- No of Cores: Quad-Core
- Operating Frequency: 3.4 GHz
- Max Turbo Frequency: 3.9 GHz
- Max Memory Bandwidth: 25.6GB
- DMI: 5 GT/s
- L2 Cache: 4 x 256KB
- L3 Cache: 8MB
- Manufacturing Tech: 22nm
- 64-Bit Support: Yes
- Hyper-Threading Support: Yes
- Virtualization Technology Support: Yes
- Integrated Graphics: Intel HD Graphics 4000
- Graphics Base Frequency: 650 MHz
- Graphics Max Dynamic Frequency: 1.15 GHz
- Thermal Design Power: 77W
- Cooling Device: Heatsink and fan included
- Warranty: 3-year limited warranty on parts/labor
Our Review
The Intel Core i7-3770 Processor packs an impressive line of specs sure to provide you with the best performance and operating speeds. Its 22nm 3-D Tri-Gate processor delivers an exceptional combination of power efficiency and performance.
To maintain energy and operate intelligently, this processor features a new generation Intel Turbo Boost Technology 2.0. Normally, the Intel Turbo Boost automatically increases the processor’s operating frequency allowing for smoother performance when running demanding tasks. In this processor, the feature performs even better, allowing for a more impressive automatic speed increase by boosting the processor core speed above the base operating frequency to allow demanding applications to run effortlessly.
Another impressive upgrade here is the Hyper-Threading Technology, which delivers thread-level parallelism which boosts the processing throughput and improves performance on current and future multi-threaded software.
For efficiency and speed, the Intel Core i7-3770 Processor comes with 3.4 GHz processing frequency, which does pretty well with demanding software. Coupled with its 4 (Quad-Core) processing core, the processor offers smooth performance for regular users and heavy users alike.
Moving on, you get to level 2 and level 3 Intel Smart Cache which allows for faster memory sharing among different execution cores. Unlike the L1 (level 1) cache built onto the microprocessor itself. The L2 and L3 are built on a separate chip, which increases the efficiency and speed at which each of the cores accesses data. The L2 measures 4 x 256KB while the L3 has a larger memory size of 8MB
What’s more, the Intel Core i7-3770 Processor packs impressive visual features that deliver an outstanding visual experience. Fast media processing on this unit is brought by Intel Advanced Vector Extensions (AVX) and Intel Quick Sync Video.
For discrete 3D graphics performance, the processor comes with built-in Intel HD Graphics with DirectX 11 support. Other graphics features include the Intel Clear Video Technology which enhances image quality, video playback, and color fidelity. It also comes with InTRU 3D technology which supports 3D Blu-ray playback in 1080p resolution.
Pros
- Heatsink and fan included.
- Low power consumption.
- Hyper-threading support.
Cons
- Graphics features could be improved.
2. Intel Core i7-2600 Processor
Specifications
- CPU Socket Type: LGA 1155
- Core Name: Sandy Bridge
- No of Cores: Quad-Core
- Operating Frequency: 3.4 GHz
- Max Turbo Frequency: 3.8 GHz
- L3 Cache: 8MB
- Manufacturing Tech: 32nm
- 64-Bit Support: Yes
- Hyper-Threading Support: Yes
- Virtualization Technology Support: Yes
- Integrated Graphics: Intel HD Graphics 2000
- Graphics Base Frequency: 850 MHz
- Thermal Design Power: 95W
- Warranty: 3-year limited warranty on parts/labor
Our Review
Featuring a 32nm manufacturing tech, the Intel Core i7-2600 Processor provides high-performance allowing for better power efficiency and increased operating speeds. This is one of the few processors from Intel designed specifically for digital video making, so it comes with many graphic enhancements to meet almost every need. For speed, it packs a 3.4 GHz operating frequency which is just enough for even the most demanding tasks. You’d still get to boost its operating speed to 3.8 GHz, which is the turbo max speed.
For memory processing and delivery, the quad-core processor comes with three cache components. The first has a memory size of 256 KB, the second is larger and accepts up to 1 MB, and the third features an 8 MB memory capacity.
There are many other impressive enhancements on this Intel Core i7-2600 Processor which you won’t find in older processors. Some of these features including a DMI speed of 5.0 GT/s, AES New Instruction, Flex Memory Access, Hyper-Threading, and Fast Memory Access.
There are impressive graphic upgrades here that allow for a seamless visual experience. For a start, the processor comes with a graphics max dynamic frequency of 1.35 GHz, and a graphics base frequency of 850 MHz. To allow for multitasking and smooth performance, Intel includes several useful graphic enhancements including HD Graphics, Turbo Boost, Quick Sync Video, Integrated Graphics, Intel FDI, Clear Video HD, Intel FDI, HD Graphics, and Intru 3D technology.
Overall, the Intel Core i7-2600 Processor does very well due to an abundance of features. With this processor, you will enjoy clear and steady graphics for a bunch of tasks including playing games. In addition to all that, the processor consumes less power for low system cost. On your PC, it would only consume 95W, which is pretty impressive considering the specs it packs.
Pros
- Decent CPU performance.
- Virtualization technology support.
- Hyper-threading capability.
Cons
- Features 32nm manufacturing tech.
3. Intel Core i5-3570 Ivy Bridge Quad-Core Processor
Specifications
- CPU Socket Type: LGA 1155
- Core Name: Ivy Bridge
- No of Cores: Quad-Core
- Operating Frequency: 3.4 GHz
- Max Turbo Boost Frequency: 3.8 GHz
- DMI: 5 GT/s
- L2 Cache: 4 x 256KB
- L3 Cache: 6MB
- Manufacturing Tech: 22nm
- 64–Bit Support: Yes
- Hyper–Threading Support: No
- Memory Types: DDR3 1600
- Virtualization Technology Support: Yes
- Integrated Graphics: Intel HD Graphics 2500
- Graphics Base Frequency: 650 MHz
- Graphics Max Dynamic Frequency: 1.15 GHz
- Multimedia Instruction: SSE4.1/4.2, AVX
- Thermal Design Power: 77W
- Cooling Device: Heatsink and fan included
- Warranty: 3-year limited warranty on parts/labor
Our Review
The Intel Core i5-3570 is your best shot if you’re looking for a processor with high performance and expanded capabilities. With an operating frequency of 3.4 GHz, this processor delivers the smoothest experience even when multitasking. Its max turbo boost frequency of 3.8 GHz allows for much better performance when running demanding tasks. Its 22nm tech allows it to do more when it comes to power efficiency, performance, and optimization. While this processor lacks the Intel Hyper-Threading Technology, it does perform well with what it comes with.
To process memory, the processor offers two cache components. The first accepts up to 4 x 256 KB while the second accepts up to 6MB. More on memory, the Intel Core i5-3570 packs a max memory size of 32 GB which allows for memory types including DDR3 1333/1600. It supports two memory channels with its second maximum memory clocking at 25.6 GB/s. This allows data to be stored by the processor as a semiconductor memory. The quad-processor does not support ECC memory but you should be able to make do with what it offers.
This processor offers a bunch of graphic improvements which makes for the best visual experience. Its features Intel” HD Graphic 2500 and offer a graphics base frequency of 650 MHz with the graphics max dynamic frequency clocking at 1.15 GHz. More graphics enhancements include Intel Quick Sync Video, Intel Clear Video HD Technology, Intel Flexible Display Interface (Intel FDI), Intel Intru 3D Technology, and support for up to 3 displays.
Intel does well to include several security enhancements in this unit. It features security and reliability specifications like Anti-Theft Technology, Execute Disable Bit, Intel Trusted Execution Technology and Secure Key.
Lastly, this processor consumes less power with a thermal design power consumption of 77 W when operating at base frequency.
Pros
- Virtualization technology support.
- Impressive graphic specs.
- Low power consumption.
Cons
- No hyper-threading support.
4. Intel Core i3-3250 Ivy Bridge Dual-Core Processor
Specifications
- CPU Socket Type: LGA 1155
- Core Name: Ivy Bridge
- No of Cores: Dual-Core
- Operating Frequency: 3.5 GHz
- DMI: 5 GT/s
- L3 Cache: 3MB
- Manufacturing Tech: 22nm
- 64–Bit Support: Yes
- Hyper–Threading Support: Yes
- Virtualization Technology Support: Yes
- Integrated Graphics: Intel HD Graphics 2500
- Graphics Base Frequency: 650 MHz
- Graphics Max Dynamic Frequency: 1.05 GHz
- Multimedia Instruction: SSE4.1/4.2, AVX
- Thermal Design Power: 55W
- Cooling Device: Heatsink and fan included
- Warranty: 3-year limited warranty on parts/labor
Our Review
The Intel Core i3-3250 Ivy Bridge Dual-Core 3.5 GHz LGA 1155 is designed specifically to handle basic tasks so you will not find high-end features like Turbo Boost and Intel vPro Platform Eligibility in this unit.
Nevertheless, it does pack some impressive specs like a clock speed of 3.5 GHz and Intel Hyper-Threading Technology. This will handle basic tasks without lag, ensure smooth performance for some demanding tasks, and use less power with a thermal design power of 55 W when operating at base frequency.
Its feature lineup includes a cache memory size of 3 MB. While this is very small, it is just enough for most of your basic tasks. The dual-core processor also features a bus speed of 5 GT/s.
The memory specifications are pretty much the same so you should still expect a nice performance. The max memory size specification is 32GB and it also supports a max of 2 memory channels.
Its graphics specs are probably the most impressive. Here, you will find processor graphic features like Intel HD Graphics 2500, a graphics base frequency of 650 MHz, graphics max dynamic frequency of 1.05 MHz, Intel Quick Sync Video, Intel Intru 3D Technology, Intel FDI (Flexible Display Interface), and Intel Clear Video HD Technology.
The Intel Core i3-3250 Processor doesn’t come with as many security and reliable specs as the i5 and i7 cores. Its lack Secure Key, Intel Trusted Execution Technology, and Intel AES New Instructions features. For security and reliability, you only get Execute Disable Bit and Anti-Theft Technology.
Pros
- Perfect for basic tasks.
- Impressive graphic features.
- Low power consumption.
Cons
- Few security features.
5. Intel Core i5-3470 Ivy Bridge Quad-Core Processor
Specifications
- CPU Socket Type: LGA 1155
- Core Name: Ivy Bridge
- No of Cores: Quad-Core
- No of Threads: 4
- Operating Frequency: 3.2 GHz
- Max Turbo Frequency: 3.6 GHz
- L2 Cache: 4 x 256KB
- L3 Cache: 6MB
- Manufacturing Tech: 22nm
- 64–Bit Support: Yes
- Hyper–Threading Support: No
- Virtualization Technology Support: Yes
- Integrated Graphics: Intel HD Graphics 2500
- Graphics Base Frequency: 650 MHz
- Graphics Max Dynamic Frequency: 1.1 GHz
- Thermal Design Power: 77W
- Cooling Device: Heatsink and fan included
- Warranty: 3-year limited warranty on parts/labor
Our Review
If you’re looking for an LGA 1155 CPU for everyday tasks, then the Intel Core i5-3470 Processor would make for the best buy. Though it doesn’t match up to Intel Core i7 processors, it offers some impressive features that should allow for optimal performance and endurance. Overall, it is an efficient processor with a reasonable price tag.
The Intel Core i5-3470 comes with a clocking speed of 3.2 GHz which is good enough for everyday tasks. You will enjoy a smoother experience while multitasking due to the Intel Turbo Boost Technology 2.0, which allows for a frequency of 3.60 GHz. Another performance-boosting feature is its cache memory size of 6 MB. This allows for fast memory processing and delivery.
As with most Intel processors, the Intel Core i5-3470 offers an impressive line of graphic enhancements that should boost your visual experience. The graphics lineup is very much identical to the ones above. It features Intel Graphic 2500, Intel Quick Sync Video, Intel Intru 3D Technology, Intel Flexible Display Interface, and Intel Clear Video HD Technology. It also offers a graphic base frequency of 350 MHz and graphic max dynamic frequency 1.10 GHz.
When it comes to security and reliability features, Intel does not disappoint. The Intel Core i5-3470 packs several features in this area including Intel AES New Instructions, Secure Key, Intel Trusted Execution Technology, Execute Disable Bit, and Anti-Theft Technology.
Finally, considering its specifications, the Intel Core i5-3470 doesn’t draw that much power during use. It only consumes about 77 W when used at base frequency.
Pros
- Decent performance.
- Top-notch graphics.
- Low thermal power consumption.
Cons
- No hyper-threading support.