The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Yes—an older CPU can still be useful in 2026, but “still useful” is not the same as “a good buy.” The Ryzen 5 3600, Core i7-8700K, Core i7-4790K and Xeon E5-2670 v1 each make sense for different jobs, especially when you already own a compatible motherboard. Before spending money, check the exact board and BIOS support, operating-system eligibility, and the cost and power draw of the complete system.
What “still useful” means for these four CPUs
The four chips are not interchangeable recommendations. The September 27, 2026 How-To Geek article that popularized this list frames them around different use cases, rather than proving that each is a strong choice for every modern workload. Its price and game-performance examples are the article’s observations, not current market statistics or reproducible benchmark results.
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| Processor | Potential role | Most sensible when |
|---|---|---|
| AMD Ryzen 5 3600 | Budget desktop or gaming system | You already have, or can cost-effectively source, a compatible platform and the system meets your software needs. |
| Intel Core i7-8700K | Multitasking and heavier threaded work | You have a compatible 300-series motherboard, or have priced the whole platform rather than just the processor. |
| Intel Core i7-4790K | Reuse of an existing older desktop | The PC is already assembled and suitable for a secondary role; replacing the whole platform may be difficult to justify. |
| Intel Xeon E5-2670 v1 | Experimentation or homelab tasks | You want to repurpose suitable existing hardware and have checked its platform costs and measured power use. |
These are editorial use-case suggestions, not universal benchmark conclusions. Gaming results depend on the game, graphics card, settings, memory and CPU configuration. The source article does not provide a reproducible test suite that establishes a general performance ranking.
Check platform compatibility before buying
A processor’s socket name alone does not guarantee that it will work in a particular motherboard. Verify the motherboard maker’s CPU support list, chipset and minimum BIOS version for the exact processor. If you are buying a used CPU, confirm the board can boot it before treating the upgrade as straightforward.
#1 Best Overall
- The world’s fastest gaming processor, built on AMD ‘Zen5’ technology and Next Gen 3D V-Cache.
- 8 cores and 16 threads, delivering +~16% IPC uplift and great power efficiency
- 96MB L3 cache with better thermal performance vs. previous gen and allowing higher clock speeds, up to 5.2GHz
- Drop-in ready for proven Socket AM5 infrastructure
- Cooler not included
Core i7-8700K: LGA1151 is not enough
Intel specifies the Core i7-8700K with 6 cores, 12 threads, a maximum turbo frequency of 4.70 GHz, a 95 W TDP, DDR4-2666 memory support and an LGA1151 socket. Intel’s desktop guidance says 8th-generation Core processors such as this one require 300-series chipset boards. The LGA1151 label appears on other board generations too, so it does not mean every LGA1151 motherboard supports the 8700K. Check the exact board model with its manufacturer’s support list. Intel’s desktop processor compatibility guidance
Other processors: check the exact platform too
For the Ryzen 5 3600 and i7-4790K, consult the motherboard manufacturer’s CPU list and BIOS notes rather than assuming compatibility from a processor family or socket label. Xeon E5 platforms are also model- and board-specific; Intel’s Xeon socket information is a starting point, not a substitute for checking the exact processor and motherboard combination. Intel Xeon socket information
Rank #2
- Can deliver fast 100 plus FPS performance in the world's most popular games, discrete graphics card required
- 6 Cores and 12 processing threads, bundled with the AMD Wraith Stealth cooler
- 4.2 GHz Max Boost, unlocked for overclocking, 19 MB cache, DDR4-3200 support
- For the advanced Socket AM4 platform
Windows support is a separate question from whether the CPU runs
Intel’s guidance says 8th-generation Intel Core processors and newer support Windows 11. That does not establish that a complete PC qualifies: Windows 11 has additional minimum requirements. Check the machine with Microsoft’s PC Health Check rather than deciding from the CPU model alone. Intel’s Windows 11 processor guidance
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteFor older systems, distinguish historical installation compatibility from current security servicing. Intel’s compatibility table lists Haswell processors, including the generation of the i7-4790K, as compatible with 64-bit Windows 10; it places Sandy Bridge, the generation of the E5-2670 v1, in its unsupported group. Those historical classifications do not promise that a particular PC is eligible for a currently serviced operating system or will keep receiving security updates. Check Microsoft’s current servicing terms for the edition and installation you plan to use. Intel’s Windows compatibility table
Rank #3
- 12th INTEL ALDER LAKE N95 PROCESSOR - The G3S mini pc uses the 12th Intel N95 CPU 4 Core 4 Threads 6MB cache, burst speed up to 3.4GHz. Compared with (N100/N5105/N5100/N5095), the N95 offers an overall performance improvement of 36%. Ideal for routine tasks, office work and home entertainment,which is more convenient than traditional desktop pc
- 8GB RAM MEMORY & 256GB SSD STORAGE - GMKtec Nucbox G3S mini pc is prebuilt with 8GB DDR4 RAM, you will enjoy a speedier experience with Built-in 256GB M.2 2242 SSD Hard Drive. Our mini desktop pc boots up in seconds, work on multiple browser tabs, software applications and quickly transfers files
- RICH INTERFACE - Nucbox G3 Plus mini computer is equipped with USB 3.2, up to 10Gbps/S, HDMI(4K@60Hz)×2, 3.5mm Audio Jack. Supports WiFi 5, and Gigabit Ethernet RJ45 1000MbE network connectivity, Bluetooth 5.0. This Mini PC supports multiple device connection and can be used with servers, monitoring equipment, office equipment, displays, projectors, televisions, etc
- 4K DUAL SCREEN DISPLAY - Mini desktop computer is equipped with upgraded Intel Graphics(max 1000MHz), supports 4K video playback and AV1 decoding, connect the pc with a projector as a home theatre, enjoy a variety of entertainments. Two HDMI 2.0 ports allows you to multi-task efficiently on two 4K@60Hz displays
- WiFi5 & BT5.0 - Built-in Bluetooth 5.0 enables you to connect multiple wireless devices such as mice, keyboard, monitoring equipment, printer and monitor. High-speed wireless connection technology, reliable and efficient transmission speed, providing a faster internet experience for browsing and streaming. Small pc supports Wake On LAN, PXE Boot, RTC Wake and Auto Power On, ideal to use as a server
Decide whether to reuse or buy
If you already own the PC
Repurposing an assembled computer can make sense for a secondary desktop, a test machine or a homelab, provided it can run the software and operating system you need. First check its condition, storage, memory, motherboard support and security-servicing options. A useful older PC is not automatically a safe choice for sensitive daily work.
If you would need to build around the CPU
Compare the cost of the complete working platform: processor, compatible motherboard, memory, cooling, storage and any other parts you need. A low second-hand CPU price alone does not establish value. The September 27, 2026 How-To Geek article mentions used-market prices for the Ryzen 5 3600 and Xeon E5-2670 v1, but those are dated observations rather than independently verified current prices.
Rank #4
- Powerful Performance for Everyday Computing: Intel N100 Quad-Core processor delivers smooth multitasking for home office, students, and families. Handle web browsing, video calls, document editing, and streaming effortlessly with responsive performance.
- Stunning 24" FHD Display with Eye Comfort: Enjoy vibrant visuals on the 23.8" Full HD screen with 99% sRGB color accuracy and anti-glare technology. Perfect for long work sessions, online learning, and entertainment with reduced eye strain.
- Ample Memory & Fast Storage: 8GB DDR4 RAM ensures seamless multitasking, while 512GB SSD provides lightning-fast boot times, quick file access, and plenty of space for documents, photos, and applications.
- Complete Connectivity Hub: Stay connected with WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.1, HD webcam, dual microphones, and multiple ports (USB 3.2, USB 2.0, HDMI, Ethernet, audio jack). Ideal for video conferencing and peripheral connections.
- All-in-One Value Package: Space-saving black design includes wired keyboard and mouse. Windows 11 Home pre-installed. Everything you need for productivity right away.
If it will run continuously
Measure whole-system power at the wall under the workload you expect. The i7-8700K’s 95 W TDP is a processor specification, not a measurement of electricity used by a complete PC. Likewise, a cheap Xeon can become an expensive choice if the rest of the system draws more power than you can justify for its job. Consider the power supply, motherboard, cooling and electricity cost together.
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Quick Recap
Best Value
- Storage: 256GB SSD – Quick Boot Speeds and Responsive Storage
Which one should you choose?
- Ryzen 5 3600: Consider it for a budget desktop or gaming role when the compatible platform and total build cost make sense.
- Core i7-8700K: Consider it for multitasking or threaded work only after confirming support from a 300-series motherboard and checking whole-system Windows 11 eligibility.
- Core i7-4790K: It is easiest to justify as a reuse option when you already own the working system, rather than as a reason by itself to buy an older platform.
- Xeon E5-2670 v1: It may suit experimentation or a homelab if the exact board and operating-system path are suitable and measured running costs fit the job.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
