In our series of Buyer Guides, here's the latest update to our recommended CPUs list. All numbers in the text are updated to reflect pricing as of (9/13). Numbers in graphs reflect MSRP.

When building a custom PC, especially on the consumer side, the processor is typically second or third down the list of priorities, behind graphics (for gamers), storage or specific motherboard features. A lot of choosing a processor comes down to budget, whether there is a preference for one brand or the other, or if the performance is similar enough that the money saved on a cheaper model can be spent elsewhere. By contrast, when it comes to workstations or enterprise situations, it helps to have an accurate profile of the intended workflow in order to choose which platform is needed, how much memory or how many expansion cards will be used, and if the software can prioritize cores over frequency or vice versa.