Best Quad-Core CPUs of 2025

Tom Law Avatar
Tom Law
Last Updated: 31 Jan 2025

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Quad-core CPUs are a type of central processing unit that contain four separate processors within a single chip. These CPUs are widely used in personal computers, laptops, and servers to provide significantly improved performance and speed for a variety of applications. With the ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously, quad-core CPUs offer a smoother and more efficient computing experience. They are favoured by gamers, content creators, and professionals who require high processing power for their work. Overall, quad-core CPUs are a reliable and effective option for those looking to upgrade their computer's performance.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Intel Core i7-6700 Quad-Core Processor Cover #TOP 1
Intel Core i7-6700 Quad-Core Processor
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Intel Core i5-7500 Quad Core CPU Processor Cover #TOP 2
Intel Core i5-7500 Quad Core CPU Processor
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Intel i5 4590 Quad Core 3.30 GHz CPU Cover #TOP 3
Intel i5 4590 Quad Core 3.30 GHz CPU
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Quad-Core CPUs

#TOP 1

Intel Core i7-6700 Quad-Core Processor

BX80662I76700
Black
Retail box version
Intel Core i7-6700 Quad-Core Processor Cover
Intel Core i7 Quad-Core i7-6700 3.4GHz Processor CPU

The Intel i7-6700 Processor is a powerful component designed for demanding tasks. With a frequency of 3.4 GHz, it delivers fast performance, ideal for gaming and multitasking. Supporting up to 64 GB of memory, you can run multiple applications smoothly without lag. It accommodates various memory types, including DDR3L and DDR4, allowing flexibility in upgrades. Additionally, the processor socket LGA1151 ensures compatibility with a wide range of motherboards, making installation straightforward for users.

What We Like
High performance at 3.4 GHz
Supports up to 64 GB memory
Compatible with DDR3L and DDR4
Easy installation with LGA1151 socket
#TOP 2

Intel Core i5-7500 Quad Core CPU Processor

BX80677I57500
Black
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
#TOP 3

Intel i5 4590 Quad Core 3.30 GHz CPU

BX80646I54590
Intel i5 4590 Quad Core 3.30 GHz CPU Cover
Intel i5 4590 Quad Core CPU (3.30 GHz, 6 MB Cache, 84 W, Graphics, Turbo Boost Technology, Socket 1150)

The Intel i5 4590 CPU offers impressive features for users looking for reliable performance. With Extended Memory 64 technology, you can enhance your system’s memory capabilities, allowing for better multitasking and improved efficiency. The Execute Disable Bit provides an extra layer of security against malicious attacks, making your computing experience safer. Turbo Boost technology 2.0 automatically increases the processor’s speed when needed, ensuring that you can run demanding applications smoothly. Additionally, Virtualization technology enables you to run multiple operating systems on a single machine, maximising your productivity.

What We Like
High performance for multitasking
Enhanced security features
Automatic speed boost
Supports virtual machines
#TOP 4

Intel Core i5-7600K 3.8 GHz QuadCore CPU

BX80677I57600K
Black
Intel Core i5-7600K 3.8 GHz QuadCore CPU Cover
Intel Core i5-7600K 3.8 GHz QuadCore 6 MB Cache CPU - Black

The Intel Core i5-7600K is an impressive CPU that combines green technology with powerful performance. Its lead-free and halogen-free components make it an eco-friendly choice. With Hyper-Threading technology, you can run highly threaded applications more efficiently, allowing you to complete tasks faster. The HD graphics capability means you can enjoy HD videos with exceptional clarity, making it perfect for viewing and editing photos. Plus, you can play today’s modern games smoothly, enhancing your overall computing experience.

What We Like
Eco-friendly components
Efficient multitasking
Exceptional video clarity
Smooth gaming performance
#TOP 5

Intel i5 4690 Quad Core Processor with Turbo Boost

BX80646I54690
Intel i5 4690 Quad Core Processor with Turbo Boost Cover
Intel i5 4690 Quad Core CPU (3.50 GHz, 6 MB Cache, 84 W, Graphics, Turbo Boost Technology 2.0, Socket 1150)

The Intel i5 4690 CPU offers impressive performance with its Quad Core setup, enabling you to run multiple applications smoothly. Its 3.50 GHz speed ensures quick processing, making it ideal for demanding tasks. With 6 MB Cache, you can enjoy faster data access, enhancing overall efficiency. The Turbo Boost technology 2.0 automatically increases the processor’s speed during heavy workloads, providing you with extra power when needed. This means you can work more efficiently without lag, making it a great choice for both everyday use and intensive applications.

What We Like
High processing speed
Efficient multitasking
Automatic speed boost
Enhanced data access
#TOP 6

Intel Core i7 4770 Quad Core Processor

4770
Black
Intel Core i7 4770 Quad Core Processor Cover
Intel Core i7 4770 Quad Core Retail CPU (Socket 1150, 3.40GHz, 8MB, Haswell, 84W, Intel Graphics, BX80646I74770, 4th Generation Intel Core, Turbo Boost Technology 2.0) (Renewed)

The Intel i7 4770 CPU is a powerful computer processor that operates at a speed of 3.40GHz. With a compact package dimension of 4.72L x 4.41W x 3.15H inches, it can easily fit into most systems. Weighing just 0.62 pounds, it is lightweight and convenient for installation. This CPU is part of the Haswell series, which means it is designed to provide enhanced performance and efficiency for various computing tasks, making it ideal for both gaming and productivity applications.

What We Like
High performance for demanding tasks
Compact and lightweight design
Efficient power consumption
Enhanced graphics support
#TOP 7

Intel Core i7-2600 3.4GHz Quad-Core Processor

BX80623I72600-cr
Intel Core i7-2600 3.4GHz Quad-Core Processor Cover
CPU PROCESSOR INTEL CORE I7-2600 3.4GHz 8 5GT/s; LGA1155 Quad-Core SR00B Socket 1155 (Refurbished)

The Intel Core i7-2600 is a powerful computer processor that operates at a speed of 3.4 GHz, making it ideal for demanding tasks like gaming and content creation. Weighing only 0.22 pounds, it is lightweight and easy to handle, ensuring convenience during installation. This refurbished model is designed for the LGA1155 socket, ensuring compatibility with a range of motherboards. With a package quantity of one, you have everything you need to upgrade your system efficiently.

What We Like
High processing speed
Lightweight design
Compatible with LGA1155 socket
Refurbished for cost savings
#TOP 8

Intel Core i7-7700 Quad Core CPU

BX80677I77700
Black
Intel Core i7-7700 Quad Core CPU Cover
Intel Core i7-7700 Retail - (1151/Quad Core/3.60GHz/8MB/Kabylake/65W/Graphics) - BX80677I77700

The Intel i7-7700 is designed with green technology, ensuring that it is manufactured with lead-free and halogen-free components. With Hyper-Threading Technology, you can run highly threaded applications more efficiently, allowing you to complete tasks faster. The CPU also features HD Graphics, enabling you to play high-definition videos and edit photos with exceptional clarity. Additionally, it supports modern gaming, enhancing your overall experience with smoother graphics and improved performance.

What We Like
Environmentally friendly manufacturing
Efficient multitasking capabilities
High-definition video playback
Supports modern gaming

AMD Ryzen 5 1400 Quad Core CPU

AMD
YD1400BBAEBOX
Silver
Ryzen 5 1400
AMD Ryzen 5 1400 Quad Core CPU Cover
AMD Ryzen 5 1400 Desktop CPU - AM4/Quad Core/3.2GHz - 3.4GHz Turbo/8MB/65W

The AMD Ryzen 5 1400 is a powerful desktop CPU that operates at a base clock speed of 3.2GHz and can boost up to 3.4GHz. With four cores and eight threads, it provides excellent multitasking capabilities, allowing you to run multiple applications smoothly. The 8MB L3 Cache and 2MB L2 Cache ensure quick data access, enhancing your overall computing experience. Additionally, the included Wraith Stealth CPU Cooler helps to maintain optimal temperatures, ensuring efficient performance without excessive noise.

What We Like
High clock speeds
Effective multitasking
Large cache memory
Includes CPU cooler
#TOP 10

Vibox I-29 Gaming PC with Ryzen 3200G

1.29
VTX-1
Vibox I-29 Gaming PC with Ryzen 3200G Cover
Vibox I-29 Gaming PC - Quad Core AMD Ryzen 3200G Processor - Radeon Vega 8 Graphics - 16GB RAM - 480GB SSD - Windows 11 - WiFi

The Vibox I-29 Gaming PC features an integrated Radeon Vega Graphics Chip, allowing you to enjoy stunning visuals and smooth gameplay. Powered by the AMD Ryzen 3-3200G Quad Core CPU, this machine provides excellent performance for gaming and multitasking. With a 480GB SSD, you can experience rapid start-ups and speedy file saving, enhancing your overall efficiency. Additionally, the 16GB DDR4 high-speed memory ensures seamless operation, making it perfect for both gaming and everyday tasks.

What We Like
Powerful quad-core processor
Fast SSD for quick load times
High-speed RAM for multitasking
Integrated graphics for gaming
Pre-installed Windows 11
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a quad-core CPU?

A quad-core processor is a chip with four independent units called cores that read and execute central processing unit (CPU) instructions such as add, move data, and branch. Within the chip, each core operates in conjunction with other circuits such as cache, memory management, and input/output (I/O) ports.

2. Does quad-core mean 4 CPUs?

A quad-core CPU has four processing cores in a single chip. It is similar to a dual-core CPU, but has four separate processors (rather than two), which can process instructions at the same time.

3. Is a quad-core CPU still good?

Yes its pretty SUFFICIENT for gaming. Quad core CPUs are pretty good for gaming if you are a casual gamer and tend to just hop into lobbies and feel like having a good time with the game over than just getting into the lobby and going full sweat mode.

4. Is quad-core better than i5?

An i5 is cheaper than a quad core because it only has 2 cores. A quad core is more expensive but while give you a better experience. If you are using you computer for general school work, you are better off with a i5. If you plan on heavy gaming or video editing, you need at least a quad core.

Editor's Notes

During our quad-core cpu research, we found 41 quad-core cpu products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 30,305 customer reviews through our big data system to write the quad-core cpus list. We found that most customers choose quad-core cpus with an average price of £81.87.

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

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.