The best CPU in Australia
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Last Updated: 13 Feb 2026
12 top rated CPU for every need: Australia's top picks!
The Central Processing Unit (CPU) is the brain of your computer, responsible for executing instructions and performing calculations that power every application and process. A strong CPU ensures smooth multitasking, responsive performance in demanding games and creative software, and overall system efficiency. Investing in a capable CPU significantly impacts your computing experience, enabling faster loading times, quicker rendering, and a more fluid workflow, ultimately boosting productivity and enjoyment.
What to Look For
Core Count
More cores generally allow the CPU to handle more tasks simultaneously, improving multitasking and performance in applications optimized for parallel processing.
Clock Speed (GHz)
This indicates how many cycles the CPU can perform per second; a higher clock speed often translates to faster processing for single-threaded tasks, though it's not the only indicator of performance.
Cache Memory
Larger cache memory (L1, L2, and L3) allows the CPU to quickly access frequently used data, reducing delays and improving overall responsiveness.
Thermal Design Power (TDP)
This represents the amount of heat the CPU generates and the cooling solution required. A higher TDP means you'll need a more robust cooling system to prevent overheating and maintain performance.
Architecture (Generation)
Newer CPU architectures often incorporate advancements in efficiency and performance compared to older generations, leading to improvements in speed and power consumption.
Integrated Graphics (iGPU)
Some CPUs include integrated graphics, which can be useful for basic tasks and light gaming, eliminating the need for a dedicated graphics card initially.
- The world’s fastest gaming processor, built on AMD ‘Zen5’ technology and Next Gen 3D V-Cache.
- 8 cores and 16 threads, delivering +~16% IPC uplift and great power efficiency
- 96MB L3 cache with better thermal performance vs. previous gen and allowing higher clock speeds, up to 5.2GHz
- Drop-in ready for proven Socket AM5 infrastructure
- AMD Ryzen 7 5800X, 8-Core/16 Threads, Max Freq 4.7GHz, 36MB Cache Socket AM4 105W, without cooler
- Package Dimensions: 8.0 inches L X 6.0 inches H X 6.0 inches W
- Country of Origin: China
- Package Weight: 10.0 pounds
- AMD Ryzen 5 5600X, 6-Core/12 Threads UNLOCKED, Max Freq 4.6GHz, 35MB Cache Socket AM4 65W, With Wraith Spire cooler
- Package Dimensions: 8.0 inches L X 6.0 inches H X 6.0 inches W. Country of Origin: China
- OS support: Windows 11 - 64-Bit edition, Windows 10 - 64-Bit edition, RHEL x86 64-Bit and Ubuntu x86 64-Bit
- Package Weight: 15.0 pounds
- Can deliver ultra-fast 100+ FPS performance in the world's most popular games, discrete graphics card required
- 8 Cores and 16 processing threads, based on AMD "Zen 3" architecture
- 4.6 GHz Max Boost, unlocked for overclocking, 36 MB cache, DDR4-3200 support
- For the advanced Socket AM4 platform, can support PCIe 4.0 on X570 and B550 motherboards
- AMD Ryzen processors have bleeding-edge technologies to support and keep you in the game
- Higher memory frequencies and more aggressive settings can unlock higher and smoother frame rates in your favorite games
- Precision Boost 2 automatically raises processor frequencies for supercharged performance when you need it most
- Tweak and tune your AMD Ryzen processor for personalized performance using the robust AMD Ryzen Master utility
- A powerful 4-core processor with 4 threads
- 3.6 GHz base clock and 4.0 GHz max boost clock speed
- Integrated Radeon Vega 8 Graphics
- Designed for socket AM4 motherboards
- 6 cores, 12 threads, 4.2 GHz boost clock, 65W TDP, Max Operating Temp 90°C
- Unlocked for Overclocking: Yes
- *OS Support: Windows 11 - 64-Bit Edition, Windows 10 - 64-Bit Edition, RHEL x86 64-Bit, Ubuntu x86 64-Bit *Operating System (OS) support will vary by manufacturer.
- Compatible with 500 and 400 chipset Series AM4 motherboards
- Accelerate your gaming with AMD expo technology
- Higher memory frequencies and more aggressive settings
- Unlock higher and smoother frame rates in your favorite games
- Delivers a huge game performance advantage with up to 144MB of on-chip memory
- Turbo processor frequency
- Maximum internal memory supported by the processor
- Allows the processor to run multiple programs
- Delivers high performance for demanding applications with improved onboard graphics
- Pure gaming performance with smooth 100+ FPS in the world's most popular games
- 6 Cores and 12 processing threads, based on AMD "Zen 5" architecture
- 5.4 GHz Max Boost, unlocked for overclocking, 38 MB cache, DDR5-5600 support
- For the state-of-the-art Socket AM5 platform, can support PCIe 5.0 on select motherboards
- This dominant gaming processor can deliver fast 100+ FPS performance in the world's most popular games
- 8 Cores and 16 processing threads, based on AMD "Zen 5" architecture
- 5.5 GHz Max Boost, unlocked for overclocking, 40 MB cache, DDR5-5600 support
- For the state-of-the-art Socket AM5 platform, can support PCIe 5.0 on select motherboards
- Get ultra-efficient with Intel Core Ultra desktop processors that improve both performance and efficiency so your PC can run cooler, quieter, and quicker.
- Core & Threads 20 cores (8 P-cores + 12 E-cores) and 20 threads
- Performance Hybrid Architecture Integrates two core microarchitectures, prioritizing and distributing workloads to optimize performance
- Performance Unlocked Up to 5.5 GHz unlocked. 36MB Cache