The processor is the engine of the computer. It is an essential part of your device. The processor chip acts like the brain of your Personal computer. Intel Xeon is one of the most powerful chipsets. This guide reviews the best Xeon gaming processor and its pros and cons.
There are hundreds of different Xeon models. Most of them are sold at the server level, so they have more cores. However, they come in a wide variety of configurations. Higher or lower clock speeds, caches, cores, threads, lithography, etc. All of these factors play a big role when it comes to games.
About Intel Xeon Processor
Intel is the world’s largest supplier of processors and chipsets to all computer categories, with a market share of nearly 60%. There are various chip series such as Core, Pentium, Xeon, etc.
Intel Xeon processors were originally built for PCs or servers. However, when tested for gaming, it showed surprising results. This series consists of high-end processors that provide excellent gaming performance.
if you want to enjoy your favorite games without lag and don’t want to spend extra money, then the Xeon CPU is for you. The Xeon CPU delivers great gaming performance and consumes less power.
Advantages of Xeon Processor
As you know, Xeon processors are designed for advanced tasks. Therefore, they are commonly used for military, industrial, and commercial purposes. Some of the advantages are:
1. ECC RAM Support (Error Checking and Correction):
This type of RAM automatically checks for types of errors to prevent future data corruption. After analyzing possible errors or failures, the ECC RAM also corrects itself. This feature helps keep your data safe and provides reliable performance. Also, only Xeon chips support ECC RAM.
2. Bigger Cores:
The Intel Xeon CPUs are your best bet if you want a CPU with a higher number of cores to run your applications. Xeon CPUs have 24 cores, whereas Intel Core i9 processors can only have 18 cores. Additionally, the cores of Xeon processors can be doubled through hyperthreading or virtualization.
3. Larger cache memory:
Cache memory contains temporary data that the processor stores while processing some applications. The next time that application is reopened, the processor will use the data stored in the cache memory. Avoid data reprocessing and load applications or games faster.
Xeon processors now have more cache memory than Intel Core chips. More precisely, depending on the processor, there is 15-30 MB of cache memory, almost double that of a Core CPU.
4. Durability and ruggedness:
Xeon processors are designed to operate in extreme conditions for extended periods. As a result, Intel Xeon processors outperform Intel Core processors significantly. Xeon processors can handle advanced tasks and intensive loads with a better lifespan.
We researched the market to find the best Xeon processor for gaming. These processors help make your PC more efficient and capable than ever. Here is the result:
1. Intel Xeon X5680
This new Xeon model is one of the best low-budget processors available today for gaming and many other uses. The processor has 6 cores that contribute to a significant increase in power.
This item is compatible with motherboards with LGA 1366 sockets. It means it can match any PV. The appliance provides smooth computing in 64-bit. The maximum temperature of the case is 80.4 degrees.
As highlighted, you can create stunning HD videos, create high-quality digital music, digitize photos, and play all types of video games. Processors can also be effectively utilized for work purposes. It is very sturdy and durable.
With the Intel Xeon X5680, you may need to turn on Hyper-Threading in your BIOS. It will increase the capacity of the processor.
This processor is perfect if you’re looking to update older hardware, as it displays a clock speed of 3.33 GHz, which is sufficient for efficient computing and gaming.
This product can provide the perfect quality of highly technical gaming performance.
2. Xeon E5 2690 V4
The Xeon 2690 V4 is also one of the best Xeon CPUs for gaming. It was released with 14 cores, 28 threads, a base frequency of 2.60 GHz, and the ability to reach a boost frequency of 3.50 GHz. It has a TDP of 135W and a maximum operating temperature of 89°C.
This Xeon gaming CPU supports DDR4 2400 RAM, supports up to 1.5TB of RAM capacity, and the maximum RAM speed reaches 2333MHz. It also supports Error Checking and Correction (ECC) and Hyper-Threading.
Check Also: Top Best Fastest Processor for Gaming and Streaming
Xeon 2690 V4 is an upgraded version of Xeon 2690 V3. These are the best gaming-performing and expensive processors listed in this guide.
A very wide range of applications of all kinds can be easily managed. This processor offers excellent gaming performance along with extensive multitasking.
3. Xeon X5675
The maximum temperature of the product can be 81 degrees when operating at the heaviest load. Up to 3 memory channels are available with advanced hyperthreading technology.
The required TDP is only 95W, which is not too high. The processor runs smoothly, even when playing high-end games or using the latest applications. 12MB of smart cache provides very fast and accurate performance.
The Xeon X5675 is one of the cheapest 6-core processors for the T3500 case. You can even build a cheap workstation or the simplest gaming rig.
The system runs with the same cooler as your PC, and the temperature doesn’t exceed normal even when playing high-end games.
This processor only works great in a 6-core chassis. If your PC has a 12-core chassis, you will need to purchase two processors of this type.
You will need to update the Bios microcode when installing this processor on your computer. This item uses the LGA 1366 CPU socket on the motherboard. So, check the availability of these sockets in your PC before choosing this processor.
4. Intel Xeon X5690
The X5690 processing speed is very good, with average multitasking capabilities. This Xeon gaming processor has a base clock speed of 3.46 GHz and can go up to 3.73 GHz during Turbo Boost.
It has 6 cores with 12MB of cache memory for fast operation.
5. Xeon E5 2678 V3
The Xeon 2678 V3 is an economical chipset with good gaming performance and multitasking. Equivalent to the 10th Gen Core i9 processor.
The 2678 V3 has a base clock speed of 2.5 GHz and can go up to 3.1 GHz during Turbo Boost. This Intel Xeon E5 2678 V3 gaming processor also contains 12 cores and 24 threads, with the storage size of the cache memory being 30 MB.
6. Intel Xeon X5670
The Intel Xeon X5670 gaming processor has 12 threads and uses 95W power. The maximum width is 64 bits, and the maximum temperature for consistent operation is 81 degrees Celsius.
The appliance uses 3 memory channels with a total memory load of 288 GB. The item’s memory controller supports different types of DDR3. Turbo speeds can reach 3.33GHz.
The Intel purpose of creating this processor was to be part of a server. However, that item can be used to play games. In terms of performance, it is quite similar to the Intel i7-980X.
It is desktop Ivy-based and outperforms most CPUs that are insanely expensive. The cores are significantly improved compared to the latest models, with two cores running at different speeds, allowing them to be used very quickly.
One thing to note about the Xeon 5670 is that it can get a little warm when running intensively. Make sure you have adequate cooling in place. Another thing about this processor is that you may need to update the BIOS when customizing the item to the LGA 1366 socket B motherboard.
Nevertheless, it offers many advantages as it is one of the cheapest and fastest processors in 2024.
7. Intel Xeon E5 2670 V3
The Xeon 2670 V3 is the best low-cost CPU with decent gaming and multitasking features. The 2670 V3 has a standard clock speed of 2.3 GHz and can reach 3.10 GHz with Turbo Boost.
There are also 12 cores and 24 threads. It also includes cache memory with a storage capacity of 30 MB to prevent unnecessary processing.
8. Intel Xeon E5 2699 V4
The Xeon E5 2699 V4 is another top-performing gaming CPU. It can handle extreme games easily and provide a seamless multitasking experience.
The Xeon E5 2699 V4 has a staggering number of cores and threads, with 22 cores and 44 threads. The base frequency is 2.20 GHz, and the maximum boost is 3.60 GHz. The TDP is 145W, and the maximum heat is about 79°C.
Supports DDR4-2400 memory type, max RAM capacity 1.5TB, max cache memory 55MB. It also supports ECC and Hyper-Threading, like all other Xeon processors on this list.
9. Xeon E5-1650
The appliance also offers an integrated memory controller and demand-based switching options. It uses several new technologies, such as Intel Virtualization Technology, Intel Flex Memory Access, and Intel QuickPath Technology.
Many consider this processor best for gaming because of its clock speed of 3.5 GHz, which can be boosted up to 3.9 GHz using Intel Turbo technology.
The cores are interconnected very quickly. That is a significant improvement over previous models of this type, allowing for efficient and smooth playing at various speeds.
The processor uses thermal monitoring technology that doesn’t get too hot even during peak loads and advanced gameplay.
10. Intel Xeon X3440
This processor includes several other Intel technologies. That includes vPro platform eligibility, enhanced Intel SpeedStep technology, and demand-based switching and thermal monitoring technology. The maximum index of memory bandwidth is 32 GB/s.
The processor is very powerful to run various applications without problems. After multiple tests for capacity and performance efficiency, it showed good results on PCs of various specifications.
The highest performance temperature is 73 degrees Celsius. It can be a perfect indicator of efficiency when playing high-end games with extended graphics capabilities or performing other heavy-duty tasks.
There are several specific features to consider before choosing. First of all, the processor does not integrate graphics. The rated board TDP is 95W, which isn’t that bad. The processor supports a maximum of two memory channels.
11. Intel Xeon E5 2690 V3
The Xeon 2690 V3 is the best-selling processor in its class. The base clock speed of the 2690 V3 is 2.6 GHz, which can be increased to 3.5 GHz when Turbo Boost is enabled.
It also has 12 cores and 24 threads. In addition, the cache memory provides 30MB of storage, which provides great gaming performance.
12. Xeon X5687
The Xeon X5687 is a quad-core processor with 4 cores and 8 threads, with a base frequency of 3.60 GHz and a turbo frequency of 3.86 GHz. It has a TDP of 130W and a maximum operating temperature of 80.4°C.
It supports DDR3-1333 memory types, with a maximum RAM capacity of 288 GB and a cache memory of 12 MB. It also supports ECC and Hyper-Threading.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Xeon processors good for gaming?
Yes, Xeon processors deliver excellent results in gaming. However, these processors do not support overclocking. But a larger fundamental frequency and many cores give us excellent performance and processing speed.
Are Xeon processors better than Core i9 for gaming?
Xeon processors have a higher number of cores and threads compared to Intel Core processors. Core processors have high clock speeds and support overclocking. In modern games, processing speed is more important than the number of cores or threads. So when it comes to gaming, the i9 processor is better than the Xeon processor.
Are older Xeon processors good for gaming?
Some of them are. Some can run light games or games with lower requirements smoothly. However, if you opt for a Xeon processor for gaming, the best choice is the latest One.
Are dual Xeon processors good for gaming?
Yes. Dual Xeon processors are great for gaming but a waste of money. If you can buy another processor designed for gaming and cut your spending, it's a bad gaming investment.
What does the CPU do in games?
The first thing to understand is that the CPU is not an important factor in a gaming computer. It's an important GPU. The CPU is just the main processing unit. It controls everything, but most games don't demand CPU quality. When playing games, the CPU's main task is to tell the GPU what to do. It's a manager.
What are bottlenecks, and can Xeon CPUs help avoid bottlenecks?
That means that your CPU doesn't match your computer's GPU. As a result, they cannot work with all the instructions given quickly enough for a smooth in-game procedure. Therefore, the GPU cannot operate at full capacity.
You don't need to buy a Xeon to avoid bottlenecks, as many believe. Intel Core CPUs are also good at coping with this process. You may only need a Xeon if you use a high-end SLI card.
Is Hyper-Threading available on Intel Xeons?
Of course, you can use hyperthreading on these processors, and in this way, you can significantly increase your processing power. One core of an item can only operate on one part of the data being streamed.
Hyperthreading allows the processor to process two streams at once without delay. As a result, more data is processed at a faster rate. Very useful when playing advanced games.
Final words about Xeon Gaming Processor
In this article, we looked at the best Xeon processors for gaming. Every Xeon processor on the list should be able to deliver the gaming experience you want in 2024.
However, the Intel Core and AMD Ryzen series are still better processor options for gaming than the Xeon processors. These processors typically reach higher clock speeds compared to Xeon processors, and most Xeon processors are too expensive.
Xeon processors are designed for use in servers. Most Intel Core and AMD Ryzen processors are designed for gaming. Xeon processors usually do not have a GPU and produce too much heat for other types of processors.
