Best Processors 2026: Top Picks Reviewed

You know, researching processors feels a bit like trying to make sense of a complex family tree. One minute, you’re tracking down the slick cousin who always has the latest gadgets (hello, Ryzen 9 9950X3D), and the next, you’re getting sidetracked by the uncle who insists that his old Core i5-12400F is still the best value out there. Spoiler alert: he’s not entirely wrong.

After tearing through expert reviews from the likes of Tom's Guide and CNET, I found myself amazed by the standout performance of these two contenders. The Ryzen 9 struts in with a jaw-dropping average rating of 9.80, while the Core i5, bless its budget-friendly heart, boasts a solid 9.00. It's a classic case of flash versus practicality—one is a high-octane sports car, and the other, a reliable sedan. Buckle in as I guide you through this processor showdown!