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- Best overall: AMD Ryzen 5 9600X Desktop Processor
- Best budget: Intel Core i3-12100F Desktop Processor
- Best premium: ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero WiFi 7 Motherboard
- Best premium gaming CPU: AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D Desktop Processor
- Intel Core i3-12100F and ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero WiFi 7 are not compatible: the CPU uses LGA1700 and the motherboard uses AM5.
- ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero WiFi 7 is a premium AM5 motherboard, not a processor; pair it with an AM5 CPU such as AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D.
- Intel Core i3-12100F is a sensible entry-level gaming CPU for an LGA1700 build, with 4 cores and 8 threads.
- AMD Ryzen 5 9600X offers a current AM5 CPU option, while ASUS TUF Gaming X870-Plus WiFi is a more practical X870 motherboard pick.
- Compare socket, memory support, expansion and your full system needs before choosing a Black Friday 2026 upgrade.
The Intel Core i3-12100F and ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero WiFi 7 are different kinds of PC parts, and they cannot work together. The Intel Core i3-12100F is a budget desktop processor for LGA1700 motherboards; the ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero WiFi 7 is a premium AM5 motherboard for AMD Ryzen processors. The most important takeaway is simple: pick a compatible platform before you shop.
For this Black Friday 2026 guide, I researched and compared specs, reviews and owner feedback across gaming CPUs and motherboards that help put the comparison in context. You’ll find budget Intel options, newer AM5 processors and two X870 boards, plus straight answers on compatibility. Here’s the bottom line: the best pick depends on whether you need a processor, a motherboard, or a matched platform upgrade.
How We Picked
- Checked CPU socket and motherboard platform compatibility first, since LGA1700 and AM5 are not interchangeable.
- Compared core and thread counts, boost clocks, power ratings and gaming-focused features.
- Reviewed manufacturer specifications alongside reviews and owner feedback for practical upgrade considerations.
- Included entry-level, midrange and premium options across Intel and AMD platforms.
- Prioritized clear use cases, upgrade flexibility and the features that matter to gaming PC builders.
Comparison Table
| Product | Best for | Cores / threads | Max clock or wireless | Socket / platform |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Intel Core i3-12100F Desktop Processor | Budget Intel gaming | 4 / 8 | 4.3 GHz turbo | LGA1700 |
| Intel Core i5-12400F Desktop Processor | Value Intel gaming | 6 / 12 | 4.4 GHz turbo | LGA1700 |
| Intel Core i5-12600KF Desktop Processor | Unlocked Intel builds | 10 / 16 | 4.9 GHz turbo | LGA1700 |
| Intel Core i5-14400F Desktop Processor | Intel multitasking | 10 / 16 | 4.7 GHz turbo | LGA1700 |
| AMD Ryzen 5 9600X Desktop Processor | AM5 value gaming | 6 / 12 | 5.4 GHz boost | AM5 |
| AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D Desktop Processor | Premium AM5 gaming | 8 / 16 | Up to 5.2 GHz | AM5 |
| ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero WiFi 7 Motherboard | Premium AM5 builds | N/A | Wi-Fi 7 | AM5 / X870E |
| ASUS TUF Gaming X870-Plus WiFi Motherboard | Practical AM5 builds | N/A | Wi-Fi 7 | AM5 / X870 |
Best Picks Reviewed
#1
Intel Core i3-12100F Desktop Processor
The Intel Core i3-12100F Desktop Processor is the best entry-level Intel CPU for budget gaming builds, with 4 cores and 8 threads. Pair it with an LGA1700 motherboard; the AM5 ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero WiFi 7 is not compatible.
Best for: Budget LGA1700 gaming builds
- Cores / threads
- 4 / 8
- Max turbo
- 4.3 GHz
- Processor base power
- 58 W
- Socket
- LGA1700
- Good fit for an affordable gaming system
- Supports DDR4 or DDR5 depending on motherboard
- Low 58 W processor base power
- No integrated graphics; a discrete GPU is required
- Does not fit AM5 motherboards
Is the Intel Core i3-12100F Desktop Processor worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Intel Core i3-12100F Desktop Processor is worth considering for a budget LGA1700 gaming build. The Intel Core i3-12100F Desktop Processor's 4 cores and 8 threads suit everyday play, but the F model requires a discrete graphics card and cannot be installed in an AM5 motherboard.
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#2
Intel Core i5-12400F Desktop Processor
The Intel Core i5-12400F Desktop Processor is the best balanced Intel CPU for affordable gaming and general use, with 6 cores and 12 threads. The LGA1700 chip needs a discrete graphics card and an LGA1700 motherboard.
Best for: Value-focused LGA1700 gaming
- Cores / threads
- 6 / 12
- Max turbo
- 4.4 GHz
- Processor base power
- 65 W
- Socket
- LGA1700
- Six cores support gaming and everyday multitasking
- Works with compatible DDR4 or DDR5 motherboards
- A straightforward step up from entry-level CPUs
- F model has no integrated graphics
- Not compatible with AM5 boards
Is the Intel Core i5-12400F Desktop Processor worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Intel Core i5-12400F Desktop Processor is a strong value-oriented choice for a new LGA1700 gaming build. Six cores and 12 threads give it more multitasking headroom than a four-core option, while the F suffix means you need a separate graphics card.
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#3
Intel Core i5-12600KF Desktop Processor
The Intel Core i5-12600KF Desktop Processor is the best unlocked Intel pick here for LGA1700 gaming builds, with 10 total cores and a 4.9 GHz maximum turbo frequency. Use a compatible LGA1700 board and a discrete graphics card.
Best for: Unlocked Intel builds
- Cores / threads
- 10 / 16
- Max turbo
- 4.9 GHz
- Processor base power
- 125 W
- Socket
- LGA1700
- Six performance cores and four efficiency cores
- Unlocked multiplier for compatible overclocking setups
- More multitasking capacity than entry-level picks
- Requires a discrete graphics card
- Needs adequate cooling and an LGA1700 board
Is the Intel Core i5-12600KF Desktop Processor worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Intel Core i5-12600KF Desktop Processor is worth a look for builders seeking an unlocked LGA1700 CPU with 10 cores and 16 threads. Plan for a discrete GPU, a suitable cooler and a motherboard that supports the processor and your chosen memory.
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#4
Intel Core i5-14400F Desktop Processor
The Intel Core i5-14400F Desktop Processor is the best newer-generation Intel midrange pick for mixed gaming and multitasking, with 10 cores and 16 threads. The LGA1700 processor requires a compatible board and a discrete GPU.
Best for: Midrange Intel gaming and multitasking
- Cores / threads
- 10 / 16
- Max turbo
- 4.7 GHz
- Processor base power
- 65 W
- Socket
- LGA1700
- Performance and efficiency core mix
- Useful for gaming alongside background tasks
- Compatible with supported LGA1700 boards
- No integrated graphics
- Some motherboards need a BIOS update
Is the Intel Core i5-14400F Desktop Processor worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Intel Core i5-14400F Desktop Processor is a capable midrange option for a compatible LGA1700 system. The Intel Core i5-14400F Desktop Processor's 10 cores and 16 threads suit gaming and multitasking, but check motherboard BIOS support and remember that the F model needs a discrete graphics card.
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#5 · Top pick
AMD Ryzen 5 9600X Desktop Processor
The AMD Ryzen 5 9600X Desktop Processor is the best modern AM5 value CPU for gaming and everyday use, with 6 cores and a 5.4 GHz maximum boost clock. The AMD Ryzen 5 9600X Desktop Processor pairs with AM5 boards such as the ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero WiFi 7.
Best for: AM5 gaming builds
- Cores / threads
- 6 / 12
- Max boost
- 5.4 GHz
- Default TDP
- 65 W
- Socket
- AM5
- Fits current AM5 motherboards
- High maximum boost clock
- Integrated graphics included
- Requires DDR5 memory
- Not compatible with Intel LGA1700 boards
Is the AMD Ryzen 5 9600X Desktop Processor worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The AMD Ryzen 5 9600X Desktop Processor is a good fit for a new AM5 gaming build, with 6 cores, 12 threads and a 5.4 GHz maximum boost. The chip supports DDR5 and works with compatible AM5 boards, including both X870 options in this guide.
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#6
AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D Desktop Processor
The AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D Desktop Processor is the best premium gaming CPU in this lineup, with 8 cores, 16 threads and 3D V-Cache. Install it on a compatible AM5 motherboard, including the ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero WiFi 7.
Best for: High-end AM5 gaming
- Cores / threads
- 8 / 16
- Max boost
- Up to 5.2 GHz
- Default TDP
- 120 W
- Socket
- AM5
- Gaming-focused 3D V-Cache design
- Eight cores support demanding games and tasks
- Compatible with AM5 X870 motherboards
- Needs an AM5 board and DDR5 memory
- A premium processor for entry-level builds
Is the AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D Desktop Processor worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D Desktop Processor is a premium choice for gaming-focused AM5 builds. Eight cores, 16 threads and 3D V-Cache make it a strong match for a high-end system, including one built around the ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero WiFi 7.
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#7
ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero WiFi 7 Motherboard
The ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero WiFi 7 Motherboard is the best premium AM5 board for feature-rich gaming builds, with Wi-Fi 7 connectivity. The X870E motherboard supports AMD Ryzen processors and cannot accept the Intel Core i3-12100F.
Best for: Premium AM5 motherboard builds
- Socket / chipset
- AM5 / X870E
- Memory
- DDR5
- Wireless
- Wi-Fi 7
- Expansion
- PCIe 5.0 support
- Premium X870E platform features
- Wi-Fi 7 wireless networking
- AM5 support for compatible Ryzen processors
- Does not support Intel LGA1700 CPUs
- More board than a basic budget build needs
Is the ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero WiFi 7 Motherboard worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero WiFi 7 Motherboard is worth considering for a premium AM5 build that benefits from advanced connectivity and expansion. Pair it with a compatible AMD Ryzen CPU and DDR5 memory; the Intel Core i3-12100F does not fit its AM5 socket.
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#8
ASUS TUF Gaming X870-Plus WiFi Motherboard
The ASUS TUF Gaming X870-Plus WiFi Motherboard is the best practical X870 board for AM5 gaming builds, with DDR5 support and Wi-Fi 7. The motherboard works with compatible AMD Ryzen processors, not Intel LGA1700 CPUs.
Best for: Practical AM5 gaming builds
- Socket / chipset
- AM5 / X870
- Memory
- DDR5
- Wireless
- Wi-Fi 7
- Expansion
- PCIe 5.0 support
- AM5 platform for supported Ryzen CPUs
- Wi-Fi 7 connectivity
- Gaming-focused features without a flagship tier
- Not compatible with Intel CPUs
- Requires DDR5 memory
Is the ASUS TUF Gaming X870-Plus WiFi Motherboard worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The ASUS TUF Gaming X870-Plus WiFi Motherboard is a solid option for a new AM5 gaming PC with DDR5 and Wi-Fi 7. Choose a compatible AMD Ryzen processor, such as the AMD Ryzen 5 9600X, and verify case, cooler and memory compatibility before building.
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Can the Intel Core i3-12100F work with the ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero WiFi 7?
No. The Intel Core i3-12100F uses the LGA1700 socket, while the ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero WiFi 7 supports AM5 processors. The sockets are physically and electrically incompatible.
Pair the Intel Core i3-12100F with a supported LGA1700 motherboard. For the ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero WiFi 7, select an AM5 processor such as the AMD Ryzen 5 9600X or AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D, and confirm the board’s memory requirements.
Which is better for gaming, an Intel Core i3-12100F or an X870E motherboard?
The Intel Core i3-12100F is a processor; an X870E motherboard is a platform component. The processor has 4 cores and 8 threads and requires a discrete graphics card. The ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero WiFi 7 needs a compatible Ryzen processor, DDR5 memory and a graphics card to form a gaming system.
Choose according to the part your build needs. An LGA1700 system uses a compatible Intel processor, while a new AM5 system can use the ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero WiFi 7 with a compatible Ryzen CPU.
Which Black Friday 2026 CPU is best for a budget gaming PC?
The Intel Core i3-12100F Desktop Processor suits an entry-level LGA1700 gaming PC. The Intel Core i5-12400F Desktop Processor offers 6 cores and 12 threads for gaming and everyday tasks. Both require a discrete graphics card.
Before buying, confirm motherboard socket, BIOS support, memory type and cooler compatibility. Compare the whole build, including graphics card, power supply and storage; an AM5 motherboard does not support either Intel processor.
Is the ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero worth choosing over the ASUS TUF Gaming X870-Plus WiFi Motherboard?
Both motherboards support compatible AM5 processors and DDR5 memory. The ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero WiFi 7 targets premium builds with Wi-Fi 7 and extensive expansion options. The ASUS TUF Gaming X870-Plus WiFi Motherboard is a practical AM5 choice for gaming systems that do not need a flagship feature set.
Either board pairs with processors such as the AMD Ryzen 5 9600X or AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D. Check BIOS support, component clearances and the features your build will use.
What should you check before buying a CPU or motherboard on Black Friday 2026?
Match the socket and memory generation: Intel LGA1700 and AMD AM5 are separate platforms, while DDR4 and DDR5 are not interchangeable. Verify the motherboard’s CPU list and BIOS requirements before purchase.
Check case and cooler compatibility, power connections and graphics-card requirements. The Intel Core i3-12100F needs a discrete GPU; AM5 X870E boards require DDR5. Select features such as Wi-Fi 7 and PCIe 5.0 support to suit your devices and upgrade plans.
Buying Guide
1. Start with the CPU socket
The Intel Core i3-12100F uses LGA1700. The AMD Ryzen 5 9600X and AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D use AM5. The ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero WiFi 7 and ASUS TUF Gaming X870-Plus WiFi Motherboard are AM5 boards.
2. Match the memory generation
Both listed ASUS AM5 motherboards use DDR5. LGA1700 boards vary in DDR4 or DDR5 support, so check the exact model. The memory types do not fit the same slots.
3. Pick a CPU for your games and workload
The Intel Core i3-12100F suits entry-level builds; the Intel Core i5-12400F adds cores for multitasking. The AMD Ryzen 5 9600X offers an AM5 option, while the AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D targets premium gaming.
4. Check graphics and power needs
The Intel Core i3-12100F and Intel Core i5-12400F require discrete graphics. Check GPU power connectors, cooling capacity and case airflow before building.
5. Buy the board for features you will use
Select the ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero WiFi 7 for premium features or the ASUS TUF Gaming X870-Plus WiFi Motherboard for a practical gaming foundation. Compare expansion, storage connections, Wi-Fi 7 and BIOS support with your needs.
FAQ
Can an Intel Core i3-12100F fit an ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E motherboard?
No. The Intel Core i3-12100F uses the LGA1700 socket, while the ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero WiFi 7 uses AM5 for compatible AMD Ryzen processors. Choose an LGA1700 motherboard for the Intel CPU, or pair the ASUS board with an AM5 processor.
What CPU works with the ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero WiFi 7?
The ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero WiFi 7 works with compatible AM5 AMD Ryzen processors, including the AMD Ryzen 5 9600X and AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D. Check the motherboard CPU support list and BIOS requirements before completing a build or upgrading a processor.
Is the Intel Core i3-12100F good for gaming?
The Intel Core i3-12100F is a reasonable entry-level gaming CPU for an LGA1700 build, with 4 cores and 8 threads. The processor has no integrated graphics, so the system needs a discrete graphics card. Match it with a compatible motherboard and memory.
Does the ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero WiFi 7 support DDR4?
No. The ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero WiFi 7 supports DDR5 memory. Select DDR5 modules that meet the motherboard’s specifications, and check supported memory configurations before buying. DDR4 memory is not interchangeable with DDR5 and does not fit the board’s memory slots.
Which is a better AM5 motherboard, ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero WiFi 7 or ASUS TUF Gaming X870-Plus WiFi?
The ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Hero WiFi 7 is the premium choice for builders who want a higher-end X870E feature set. The ASUS TUF Gaming X870-Plus WiFi is a practical X870 option for gaming builds. Both use AM5, support DDR5 and require a compatible AMD Ryzen processor.
Does the Intel Core i3-12100F include a graphics processor?
No. The Intel Core i3-12100F Desktop Processor does not include integrated graphics, so a discrete graphics card is required for display output. The F suffix identifies this graphics-free model. Check that the motherboard, power supply and case support the graphics card you select.