The central processing unit (CPU) inside of a computer can be one of the most important parts of a computer, but it can also be fairly costly as well. When trying to find a good quality, cheap CPU, you should start off by looking for sales or clearances at stores and websites that sell computer components. This can be a great way to find a quality CPU without having to spend much money, and the constant progression of technology tends to make these types of sales fairly common. You may also want to ask any friends who work on computers professionally for suggestions or opportunities.
Inside of a computer, the CPU is effectively both the heart and brain, regulating major systems and processing data as the computer runs programs. This means it is an essential part of your computer and a quality CPU is a worthwhile investment. That does not mean, however, that the CPU has to be expensive, and a cheap CPU can still do what you need it to do and not cost more than the rest of your computer combined.
A cheap CPU is not impossible to find, and the best one for your needs would be whatever suits the situation in which you find yourself. If you are simply looking to replace a CPU that has died in your computer, then you may be able to find the same CPU you had for significantly cheaper than it was when you first purchased or built your computer, especially if it is a few years old. For upgrades to an existing computer, you may have to do a bit more searching for a cheap CPU, but you can still find it if you are patient and persistent.
Watching for sales or clearances at major technology stores, both retail and online stores, can be a great place to start. Many Internet computer component sites will have weekly sales, specials, and clearances and a little persistence and patience can land you a very nice cheap CPU. If you cannot wait for a sale, then you may want to look at a CPU that is slightly lower in quality. You should try to read reviews and recommendations from other customers, however, to try to avoid buying a CPU that is inexpensive because it is low in quality.
If you have friends who work with computers, repairing or building them, then you may be able to find a cheap CPU through one of them. People who work with computers often know how to find the best deals, or may have extra components they are willing to sell for little money. A friend who is upgrading his or her computer may be buying an expensive CPU and have nothing to do with an older one he or she no longer needs; it may be better than what you have now. In such a case you can certainly offer to take the CPU off his or her hands.