The Intel i7-4930K has six cores rather the standard four. The additional two cores improve multi-core throughput by 50% but leave single and dual-core speeds unchanged. Comparing the 4930K to the 3930K, its predecessor, shows that little has changed in terms of performance. At peak performance when both processors are overclocked the 4930K leads by around 7%. As well superb multi-core performance, both processors also have very strong single and dual core performance. The main downside to the 4930K is the fact that it still runs on the same FCLGA2011 platform as its predecessor, as a result purchasing it would effectively mean buying into a technology that is over three years old. In most cases, it would probably make sense to wait for a Haswell based hexacore. [Mar '14CPUPro]
This was the ultimate niche CPU. At the time of its release, it had an optimal combination of multi-core performance without sacrificing as much single- and quad- as the higher-core CPUs, at an excellent price-point. It utilizes quad-channel RAM. If you were a content creator without external funding, had one machine in the budget, then this chip might even now in mid-2019 be what you're looking for.
The higher-end Threadrippers will throw more cores at you... for up to five times the price. If you've a home studio, running a DAW on the same PC you use for everything; or you do your own video editing; or you're an independent streamer; then those extra 12 or 18 cores aren't really going to help you that much anyway, for all that extra cash - AND those CPUs have lower performance in more common applications (single- low-thread apps). Not worth it. Intel isn't even on the table, of course.
If you're reading this in the future: these benchmarks have multiple categories for a reason. Read and think. Find the best combination for what you intend to do with it - not some arbitrary "the best" overall. There is no such thing, because you won't be using your computer for Overall, now will you? [Aug '19spacefiddle]
We calculate effective speed which measures real world performance for typical users. Effective speed is adjusted by current prices to yield a value for money rating. Our calculated values are checked against thousands of individual user ratings. The customizable table below combines these factors to bring you the definitive list of top CPUs. [CPUPro]
Welcome to our PC speed test tool. UserBenchmark will test your PC and compare the results to other users with the same components. You can quickly size up your PC, identify hardware problems and explore the best value for money upgrades.