The LGA 1155 socket, also known as Socket H2, is an Intel CPU socket for desktop motherboards. It was released in 2011 and replaced LGA 1156. It is one of the most popular sockets for gaming as it is compatible with a wide range of Intel processors, from low-end budget processors to high-end gaming processors. In this article, we’ll be looking at the best LGA 1155 CPUs for gaming.
Alright, strap in because we’re about to dive into the world of gaming CPUs, specifically focusing on the best LGA 1155 CPUs out there. This might get techy, but trust me, you’ll be a whizz at this by the end.
Best LGA 1155 CPU for Gaming
The best LGA 1155 CPU for gaming is the Intel Core i7-3770K. It is a quad-core processor with a base clock speed of 3.5GHz that can be overclocked up to 4.5GHz. It has 8MB of L3 cache and integrated Intel HD Graphics 4000. This powerful processor can handle most gaming tasks and provides great performance.
- Intel Core i7-3770K: This quad-core CPU is highly sought after for its hyper-threading and overclocking capabilities. A beast when it comes to gaming, offering smooth performance even for the most demanding games.
- Intel Core i5-3570K: It’s one of the more affordable options but doesn’t skimp on performance. It’s also unlocked for overclocking, which is a bonus for gaming enthusiasts.
- Intel Core i7-2700K: With hyper-threading technology and an impressive base clock speed, this CPU can handle intensive gaming sessions without breaking a sweat.
- Intel Core i5-3470: If you’re on a budget but still want decent gaming performance, this is a great pick. It’s got four cores, provides solid performance, and won’t make your wallet cry.
- Intel Xeon E3-1230 V2: A dark horse in the race, this Xeon series CPU offers performance similar to i7 chips at a much lower price, especially if you’re not planning on overclocking.
Remember, while these are excellent choices, the “best” CPU greatly depends on your specific gaming needs and budget.
In addition to its performance, the Intel Core i7-3770K also comes with features such as Intel Hyper-Threading, Intel Virtualization Technology, and Intel Turbo Boost Technology 2.0. These features help to improve the gaming experience by allowing the processor to work smarter and faster. The CPU is built on the 22nm architecture, which helps to reduce its power consumption and improve its efficiency. It is an excellent choice for anyone looking for the best gaming experience on an LGA 1155 motherboard.
What is the fastest CPU for LGA1155
The Intel Core i7-3770K is widely considered to be the fastest CPU available for the LGA1155 socket. It has a quad-core design, with a base frequency of 3.5GHz and a maximum turbo frequency of 3.9GHz. It also supports Hyper-Threading and Intel’s Turbo Boost Technology for additional performance gains.
The Intel Core i7-3770K also has 8MB of L3 cache and a maximum thermal design power (TDP) of 77 Watts. It is compatible with dual-channel DDR3-1600 memory, and offers integrated Intel HD Graphics 4000. It is a great choice for gaming and other demanding applications, and is one of the most powerful CPUs available for the LGA1155 socket.
What CPU will fit in an LGA1155
The LGA1155 socket is designed to fit Intel processors from the Sandy Bridge and Ivy Bridge Microarchitecture. This includes Intel Core i3, i5, and i7 processors, as well as Intel Pentium and Celeron processors.
It was used on Intel motherboards from 2011 to 2013. The socket has 1150 contacts, and is designed to fit processors in the 2400, 2600, 2700, and 2800 series. All of these processors are based on the Sandy Bridge and Ivy Bridge microarchitecture. This includes Intel Core i3, i5, and i7 processors, as well as Intel Pentium and Celeron processors.
It is still a viable option for those looking to build a computer with an Intel processor. While newer socket types such as LGA1151 and LGA1200 are now available, the LGA1155 socket is still capable of providing reliable performance.
Budget CPUs
If you’re looking for an affordable CPU for gaming, then the LGA 1155 socket has you covered. Here are some of the best budget CPUs for gaming:
Intel Core i3-2100
The Intel Core i3-2100 is a dual-core Sandy Bridge processor. It has a clock speed of 3.1 GHz and 3 MB of L3 cache. It also supports Hyper-Threading, which means it can process four threads simultaneously. The Core i3-2100 is a great budget CPU for gaming as it is capable of playing most games at low to medium settings.
Intel Pentium G620
The Intel Pentium G620 is a dual-core Sandy Bridge processor. It has a clock speed of 2.6 GHz and 3 MB of L3 cache. It does not support Hyper-Threading, so it can only process two threads simultaneously. The Pentium G620 is a great budget CPU for gaming as it can handle most games at low settings.
Intel Pentium G840
The Intel Pentium G840 is a dual-core Sandy Bridge processor. It has a clock speed of 2.8 GHz and 3 MB of L3 cache. It does not support Hyper-Threading, so it can only process two threads simultaneously. The Pentium G840 is a great budget CPU for gaming as it can handle most games at low settings.
Mid-Range CPUs
If you’re looking for a mid-range CPU for gaming, then the LGA 1155 socket also has you covered. Here are some of the best mid-range CPUs for gaming:
Intel Core i5-2500K
The Intel Core i5-2500K is a quad-core Sandy Bridge processor. It has a clock speed of 3.3 GHz and 6 MB of L3 cache. It also supports Hyper-Threading, which means it can process up to eight threads simultaneously. The Core i5-2500K is a great mid-range CPU for gaming as it is capable of playing most games at high settings.
Intel Core i5-3550
The Intel Core i5-3550 is a quad-core Ivy Bridge processor. It has a clock speed of 3.3 GHz and 6 MB of L3 cache. It also supports Hyper-Threading, which means it can process up to eight threads simultaneously. The Core i5-3550 is a great mid-range CPU for gaming as it is capable of playing most games at high settings.
Intel Core i5-3470
The Intel Core i5-3470 is a quad-core Ivy Bridge processor. It has a clock speed of 3.2 GHz and 6 MB of L3 cache. It also supports Hyper-Threading, which means it can process up to eight threads simultaneously. The Core i5-3470 is a great mid-range CPU for gaming as it is capable of playing most games at high settings.
High-End CPUs
If you’re looking for a high-end CPU for gaming, then the LGA 1155 socket has you covered. Here are some of the best high-end CPUs for gaming:
Intel Core i7-2600K
The Intel Core i7-2600K is a quad-core Sandy Bridge processor. It has a clock speed of 3.4 GHz and 8 MB of L3 cache. It also supports Hyper-Threading, which means it can process up to eight threads simultaneously. The Core i7-2600K is a great high-end CPU for gaming as it is capable of playing most games at ultra settings.
Intel Core i7-3770K
It is a quad-core Ivy Bridge processor. It has a clock speed of 3.5 GHz and 8 MB of L3 cache. It also supports Hyper-Threading, which means it can process up to eight threads simultaneously. The Core i7-3770K is a great high-end CPU for gaming as it is capable of playing most games at ultra settings.
Intel Core i7-2700K
It is a quad-core Sandy Bridge processor. It has a clock speed of 3.5 GHz and 8 MB of L3 cache. It also supports Hyper-Threading, which means it can process up to eight threads simultaneously. The Core i7-2700K is a great high-end CPU for gaming as it is capable of playing most games at ultra settings.
Overclocking CPUs
If you’re looking to overclock your CPU, then the LGA 1155 socket has you covered. Here are some of the best CPUs for overclocking:
Intel Core i5-3570K
The Intel Core i5-3570K is a quad-core Ivy Bridge processor. It has a clock speed of 3.4 GHz and 6 MB of L3 cache. It also supports Hyper-Threading, which means it can process up to eight threads simultaneously. The Core i5-3570K is a great CPU for overclocking as it is very easy to overclock and can reach stable speeds of up to 4.2 GHz with minimal effort.
Intel Core i7-3770K
The Intel Core i7-3770K is a quad-core Ivy Bridge processor. It has a clock speed of 3.5 GHz and 8 MB of L3 cache. It also supports Hyper-Threading, which means it can process up to eight threads simultaneously. The Core i7-3770K is a great CPU for overclocking as it can reach stable speeds of up to 4.5 GHz with the right cooling system.
Intel Core i7-2600K
The Intel Core i7-2600K is a quad-core Sandy Bridge processor. It has a clock speed of 3.4 GHz and 8 MB of L3 cache. It also supports Hyper-Threading, which means it can process up to eight threads simultaneously. The Core i7-2600K is a great CPU for overclocking as it can reach stable speeds of up to 4.4 GHz with the right cooling system.
LGA 1155 motherboard
If you’re looking for a motherboard for your LGA 1155 CPU, you’re likely after something reliable, durable, and with enough features to satisfy your computing needs.
One of the best in this category would be the ASUS P8Z77-V PRO. This board is a real gem, offering support for both second and third generation Intel Core processors. It comes with USB 3.0 Boost for blazing fast data transfers, Wi-Fi Go! for seamless connectivity, and ASUS’ own Fan Xpert 2 for optimal and customizable fan control. The UEFI BIOS is also user-friendly, making the whole setup process a walk in the park.
Another great option is the Gigabyte GA-Z77X-UD5H. This motherboard provides similar CPU support and has a load of features like mSATA connection for SSDs, a dual UEFI BIOS, and a digital CPU power design which helps in overclocking and stability. Plus, it supports Nvidia SLI and AMD CrossFireX for multi-graphics processing, a gamer’s dream!
FAQs
Can I use any LGA 1155 CPU for gaming?
While you can technically use any LGA 1155 CPU for gaming, some will provide a better experience than others. CPUs like the Intel Core i7-3770K and the Intel Core i5-3570K offer higher performance and are more suited to handle the intense demands of modern games.
Is overclocking important for gaming CPUs?
Overclocking can improve gaming performance by increasing the clock speed beyond the manufacturer’s specifications. This can result in smoother gameplay, especially for CPU-intensive games.
How do I choose the best LGA 1155 CPU for my gaming needs?
When choosing a CPU, consider your gaming needs and budget. If you’re playing less demanding games, a budget-friendly CPU like the Intel Core i5-3470 can suffice. For more intense gaming, a high-performance CPU like the Intel Core i7-3770K may be more suitable.
Conclusion
The LGA 1155 socket is an excellent choice for gaming as it is compatible with a wide range of processors from budget to high-end. If you’re looking for the best LGA 1155 CPU for gaming, then our recommendations above should be a great starting point. Whether you’re looking for a budget processor, a mid-range processor, a high-end processor, or an overclocking processor, the LGA 1155 socket has you covered.
