Best 6-Core CPUs of 2025

Tom Law Avatar
Tom Law
Last Updated: 31 Jan 2025

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6-core CPUs are powerful processors that are designed to handle demanding tasks with ease. These CPUs are equipped with six independent processing cores, which enable them to run multiple applications simultaneously without compromising on performance. They are ideal for tasks such as video editing, gaming, and 3D rendering. 6-core CPUs are available from various manufacturers and come in different configurations, making them suitable for a range of budgets and requirements. If you're looking for a high-performance processor that can handle the most demanding applications, a 6-core CPU is definitely worth considering.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

AMD Ryzen 5 8400F Processor with Wraith Stealth Cooler Cover #TOP 1
AMD Ryzen 5 8400F Processor with Wraith Stealth Cooler
ftb score rating icon 9.8
AMD FX-6350 3.9 GHz 6-Core CPU Cover #TOP 2
AMD FX-6350 3.9 GHz 6-Core CPU
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Intel Core i5-12600K 12th Gen Processor Cover #TOP 3
Intel Core i5-12600K 12th Gen Processor
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 6-Core CPUs

#TOP 1

AMD Ryzen 5 8400F Processor with Wraith Stealth Cooler

AMD
AMD Ryzen™ 5 8400F
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AMD Ryzen 5 8400F Processor with Wraith Stealth Cooler Cover
AMD Ryzen 5 8400F processor (6 Core/12 threads, 65W TDP, AM5 Socket, 22MB Cache, up to 4.7GHz max boost frequency, with wraith stealth cooler)

The AMD Ryzen 5 8400F is a powerful processor that offers versatile functionality for your computing needs. With a max boost frequency of 4.7 GHz, you can enjoy smooth performance during demanding tasks like gaming and content creation. It is unlocked for overclocking, allowing you to enhance performance even further, making it ideal for enthusiasts. Additionally, it supports DDR5 memory, ensuring you are ready for the latest technology. The state-of-the-art Socket AM5 platform means your system can be upgraded for years to come.

What We Like
High performance with 4.7 GHz boost
Unlocked for overclocking
Supports DDR5 memory
Future-proof AM5 socket
#TOP 2 Best FX CPU

AMD FX-6350 3.9 GHz 6-Core CPU

AMD
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AMD FX-6350 3.9 GHz 6-Core CPU Cover
AMD FX-6350 AM3+ Wraith FX-6350 3.9 GHz 6-Core CPU - Black

The AMD FX-6350 CPU boasts advanced features that enhance your computing experience. With Advanced Encryption Standard instructions, you can ensure better data security, making it ideal for sensitive tasks. The Advanced Bit Manipulation feature allows for more efficient data processing, which can significantly boost performance in various applications. Meanwhile, the Advanced Vector Extensions enhance multimedia processing, providing better graphics and audio quality. Additionally, the 16-bit Floating-Point conversion instruction enables improved precision in calculations, which is beneficial for tasks requiring high accuracy.

What We Like
High data security
Efficient data processing
Enhanced multimedia performance
Improved calculation precision
#TOP 3

Intel Core i5-12600K 12th Gen Processor

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Intel Core i5-12600K 12th Gen Processor Cover
Intel Core i5-12600K 12th Generation Desktop Processor (Base Clock: 3.7GHz Tuboboost: 4.9GHz, 6 cores, LGA1700, RAM DDR4 and DDR5 up to 128GB) BX8071512600K, Black

The Intel i5-12600K is a powerful 12th generation desktop processor designed to enhance your computing experience. With a base clock of 3.7GHz and Turbo Boost up to 4.9GHz, it offers remarkable speed for demanding tasks. The Intel Gaussian and Neural Accelerator 3.0 enables advanced AI workloads, allowing you to enjoy smoother performance in applications that require machine learning. Additionally, Intel Thread Director optimises task management, ensuring your processor runs efficiently. With Intel Deep Learning Boost, you can expect accelerated performance in AI-related tasks, making this processor a great choice for tech enthusiasts.

What We Like
High base and Turbo Boost speeds
Advanced AI capabilities
Efficient task management
Great for demanding applications
#TOP 4

Intel Core i5-13400F 10-Core Processor

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Intel Core i5-13400F 10-Core Processor Cover
Intel® Core™ i5-13400F Desktop Processor 10 cores (6 P-cores + 4 E-cores) 20MB Cache, up to 4.6 GHz

The Intel i5-13400F Processor features a cutting-edge hybrid architecture that optimises performance by managing workloads efficiently. With P-cores designed for single and lightly-threaded tasks, you'll enjoy smoother gaming and productivity. It supports the latest technologies like PCIe Gen 5 and DDR5, enhancing your PC's capabilities. Moreover, Thunderbolt 4 and Intel Killer Wi-Fi 6/6E ensure rapid data transfers and reliable connections, making your computing experience seamless and efficient.

What We Like
High performance for gaming
Supports latest technology innovations
Fast data transfer speeds
Efficient workload management
#TOP 5

Intel Core i5-14600KF Processor with 14 Cores

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Intel Core i5-14600KF Processor with 14 Cores Cover
Intel® Core™ i5-14600KF Desktop Processor 14 cores (6 P-cores + 8 E-cores) up to 5.3 GHz

The Intel Core i5-14600KF is a powerful desktop processor designed for gamers and productivity enthusiasts. With 14 cores, including 6 performance cores and 8 efficiency cores, it delivers exceptional performance, making multitasking seamless. The impressive 24 MB Intel Smart Cache enhances data processing speed, allowing you to handle demanding applications effortlessly. With a base power of 125W, this processor ensures stable and efficient operation, giving you the reliability needed for intense gaming sessions or heavy workloads.

What We Like
High performance for gaming
Efficient multitasking capabilities
Supports latest memory technologies
Compatible with multiple chipsets
#TOP 6

Intel Core i5-10400F Processor with 6 Cores

BX8070110400F
Intel Core i5-10400F Processor with 6 Cores Cover
Intel® Core™ i5-10400F Desktop Processor 6 Cores up to 4.3 GHz Without Processor Graphics LGA1200 (Intel® 400 Series chipset) 65W

The Intel i5-10400F Processor offers a solid performance with a base frequency of 2.9 GHz and can boost up to 4.0 GHz, ensuring smooth operation for your everyday tasks. With 6 cores and 12 threads, this processor efficiently handles multitasking, allowing you to run multiple applications simultaneously without lag. The Intel 400 Series Chipset ensures compatibility with a range of motherboards, making upgrades easier. Additionally, the maximum memory bandwidth of 41.6 GB/s enhances data transfer rates, improving overall system responsiveness.

What We Like
High performance with 6 cores
TurboBoost up to 4.0 GHz
Great for multitasking
Compatible with Intel 400 Series
Fast memory bandwidth
#TOP 7

Intel Core i7-8700 Processor with 6 Cores

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Processor
Intel Core i7-8700 Processor with 6 Cores Cover
Intel Core i7-8700 Desktop Processor 6 Cores up to 4.6 GHz LGA 1151 300 Series 65W (Renewed)

The Intel i7-8700 Processor offers impressive performance with its 6 cores and 12 threads, allowing you to multitask efficiently. With a base frequency of 3.20 GHz, it can boost up to 4.60 GHz, providing speed when you need it most for demanding applications. The integrated Intel UHD Graphics 630 ensures decent visual performance for everyday tasks and casual gaming. Additionally, it supports Intel Optane Memory, enhancing system responsiveness and reducing loading times, making your computing experience smoother and more enjoyable.

What We Like
High performance with 6 cores
Boosts up to 4.60 GHz
Integrated Intel UHD Graphics
Supports Intel Optane Memory
#TOP 8

Intel Core i5-10600 Processor with 6 Cores

BX8070110600
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Intel Core i5-10600 Processor with 6 Cores Cover
Intel® Core™ i5-10600 Desktop Processor 6 Cores up to 4.8 GHz LGA1200 (Intel® 400 Series chipset) 65W

The Intel Core i5-10600 is a powerful desktop processor designed to enhance your computing experience. With a base clock speed of 3.3 GHz and TurboBoost up to 4.4 GHz, it ensures smooth performance for demanding tasks. Its LGA1200 socket compatibility means easy integration with Intel 400 Series chipsets, providing flexibility for your build. Featuring 6 cores and 12 threads, this processor is excellent for multitasking, allowing you to run multiple applications simultaneously without lag. The maximum memory bandwidth of 41.6 GB/s offers fast data transfer, improving overall system responsiveness.

What We Like
High performance with 6 cores
TurboBoost for faster speeds
Easy integration with LGA1200
Excellent multitasking capability
Fast memory bandwidth
#TOP 9

AMD Ryzen 5 3500X 6-Core CPU

AMD
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AMD Ryzen 5 3500X 6-Core CPU Cover
AMD Ryzen 5 3500X 6 Core/6 Thread AM4 CPU

The AMD Ryzen 5 3500X is a powerful CPU designed for desktop use. With an operating frequency of 3.6GHz, it ensures smooth performance for various applications, making it ideal for both gaming and productivity tasks. The AM4 socket compatibility means you can easily integrate it into your existing setup. Additionally, the 32MB L3 cache enhances data processing speed, allowing you to experience quicker load times and improved multitasking capabilities. This combination of features makes the AMD Ryzen 5 3500X an excellent choice for users looking to upgrade their computing experience.

What We Like
High operating frequency
AM4 socket compatibility
Large L3 cache
6 cores for multitasking
#TOP 10

Intel Core i5-7500 Quad Core CPU Processor

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Intel Core i5-7500 Quad Core CPU Processor Cover
Intel Core i5-7500 3.40 GHz Base Frequency Quad Core 6 MB Cache CPU Processor - Black

The Intel i5-7500 Processor boasts a base frequency of 3.40 GHz, ensuring smooth and efficient performance for various tasks. With a maximum turbo frequency of 3.80 GHz, you can enjoy faster processing speeds when needed, making it ideal for gaming and multitasking. Its graphics base frequency of 350 MHz allows you to play HD videos with exceptional clarity. Additionally, this processor is compatible with a wide range of Intel chipsets, providing flexibility for your system upgrades.

What We Like
High base and turbo frequencies
Excellent HD graphics quality
Wide chipset compatibility
Environmentally friendly manufacturing
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is there a 6 core processor?

6 cores. You can use hexa-core processors for all of the aforementioned tasks as well as more complex software such as video and audio editing. For more advanced games and programs, this is a good choice since it allows you to run multiple applications at once.

2. What is a 6 core CPU called?

A processor with two cores is called a dual-core processor; with four cores, a quad-core; six cores, hexa-core; eight cores, octa-core.

3. Is 6 cores good for gaming?

6 cores is unnecessary. Most games do not optimize for greater than 4 cores. That being said, 6 cores doesn't hurt, as it will make specific games more performant.

4. Is 6 cores faster than 4 cores?

It depends on what kind of work you do. If you want better parallel processing or parallel threads then 6 cores is the definite choice. But if you are a gamer or just want more power and speed then 4 cores are usually better.

Editor's Notes

During our 6-core cpu research, we found 156 6-core cpu products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 38,729 customer reviews through our big data system to write the 6-core cpus list. We found that most customers choose 6-core cpus with an average price of £196.34.

The 6-core cpus are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of 6-core cpus, including AMD, Intel.

Written by
Tom Law Avatar

Tom Law is an adventurer who has captured his love for nature into all of his works. A native of Newcastle, Tom has always wanted to share beautiful stories alongside the lovely sights of nature. Fortunately, he took into photography on one of his many journeys and gradually grew a passion for it. Tom Law is now an expert photographer who tours the world while creating and keeping memories of his adventures. He frequently puts his thoughts and experiences into writing.