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Is this the best-priced CPU for budget gamers right now?

Check out this massive discount on the Ryzen 5 5500 CPU

Joe Hurdman

Last Updated on March 27, 2024

Is this the best-priced CPU for budget gamers right now?

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Features and specs of the Ryzen 5 5500 CPU

What we think of the Ryzen 5 5500’s performance
Core count
Clock Speed
Architecture
Other things we like

Is this a good Ryzen 5 5500 deal?
More deals on CPUs that we think you’ll like

Building or upgrading a desktop PC doesn’t have to break the bank, especially when deals like this one on the AMD Ryzen 5 5500 come around. This 6-core processor packs a great punch for its price point with this new discount. It strikes a sweet spot between affordable pricing and capable performance that makes it one of the best budget CPUs for gaming right now. So if you’ve been eyeing an AM4 CPU swap or new build, this deal could be the push you need to pull the trigger.

Prices and savings subject to change. Click through to get the current deal prices.

Save 19% NOW!

AMD Ryzen™ 5 5500 with Wraith Stealth Cooler

6-Core, 12-Thread Unlocked Desktop Processor

Best Deals

Deal @ Amazon

Right now, you can grab the AMD Ryzen 5 5500 6-Core processor on Amazon for just $94.00. That’s an impressive 41% discount from its original $159.00 price tag, letting you pocket a solid $65 in savings. For a mid-range CPU with this level of performance, that discount is quite solid and makes the 5500 an absolute steal.

Don’t let its affordable price fool you – the Ryzen 5 5500 brings a respectable array of features to the table. Here’s a rundown of what this chip has to offer

Features and specs of the Ryzen 5 5500 CPU

Specs	Details
Clock speed	3.6 GHz base clock, 4.2 GHz boost
Cores	6 cores, 12 threads
Memory	16MB
Socket	AM4
TDP	65W

What we think of the Ryzen 5 5500’s performance

Core count

The Ryzen 5 5500 may be an affordable processor, but it packs a serious punch under the hood. For starters, it’s rocking 6 powerful cores and 12 threads, which is quite impressive for a chip in this price range. This gives it the muscle to handle even demanding tasks like video editing, 3D rendering, and serious multitasking without breaking a sweat.

Clock Speed

With a max boost clock speed of up to 4.2 GHz, it can kick into high gear for gaming or intensive applications, delivering smooth and responsive performance that belies its modest price tag. One of the coolest things about the 5500 is that it’s an unlocked processor. That means if you’ve got some decent cooling and a compatible motherboard, you can easily overclock it and squeeze out even more performance.

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*Prices and savings subject to change. Click through to get the current prices.

Architecture

Under the hood, it’s built using AMD’s 7nm Zen 3 architecture. This not only allows for impressive performance, but it also keeps power efficiency in check. Another nifty feature is the generous 19MB of combined cache. This helps the processor efficiently manage and process data, leading to snappier overall system responsiveness.

Other things we like

AMD has you covered in terms of cooling too. The Ryzen 5 5500 comes bundled with their trusty Wraith Stealth cooler. Finally, compatibility is on point with this chip. It’ll slide right into any AM4 motherboard, giving you a wide range of options for building or upgrading your desktop system.

Is this a good Ryzen 5 5500 deal?

This chip gives you way more bang for your buck compared to similarly priced options. With 6 cores and 12 threads, it has enough muscle to power through pretty much any typical home/office task – whether that’s gaming, video editing, multitasking between apps, or just general use. The performance is super solid for what you’re paying. The fact that it can be overclocked is a nice bonus too. If you’ve got some decent cooling, you can really push this little guy and eke out even more performance. But even at stock speeds, you’re getting great value.

The 7nm Zen 3 architecture is impressive tech for an affordable chip like this. It lets the 5500 deliver that strong performance without being a power hog or running blisteringly hot. And having a nice big 19MB cache helps keep everything running smoothly. It’s just an all-around well-rounded package, especially when you factor in the included Wraith Stealth cooler and the flexibility to use it with a wide range of AM4 motherboards.