need help choosing a gaming cpu around $200 for my brothers build?

Question

Building a cheap box for my little brother and the cpu line has to stay around $200 or under. Right now I'm torn between a 7500F, one of the newer i3s, or just grabbing something used off the local listings. I run a 9600X myself so I'm already biased toward AMD... but I don't want to talk myself into the wrong call just because it's what I know. Sanity check me before I order.

toastycomponents · Accepted Answer

the am5 angle is what settles it for a brother build. amd's backing the socket through 2029 so he can drop in a better chip later without a new board. the 7500f sits about 20% over a 12400f, and with a graphics card the missing igpu is a non-issue. only bother with the 12100f if its strictly esports and under $100

twomonitors · Answer

I picked up a 7500F last year for almost exactly that budget and it has not given me a single problem. Runs everything I throw at it and stays cool. Easy recommendation.

buildlog2021 · Answer

Worth pricing the used route before you commit. A used 3600 or 12600KF can come in cheaper, but only if you count the board and RAM too. If the whole platform doesn't undercut a new 7500F build, the 7500F wins.