Intel launches its sub-$100 i3-10100F to combat AMD’s low-end Ryzen chips

Meet the i3-10100F, Intel’s latest 10th Generation processor. Like all F-series Intel processors, this CPU lacks integrated graphics, making this chip ideal for those who plan to use a discrete graphics card and wish to save money on their CPU purchase.  

As a quad-core, eight-thread processor, Intel’s i3-10100F is more than capable of handling modern gaming workloads with respectable framerates. On Intel’s ARK website, the company has listed its i3-10100F processor with an MSRP of $79-97, undercutting their $122 i3-10100 by at least $25. 

This new processor is Intel’s response to AMD’s Ryzen 3 3100 and Ryzen 3 3300X processors, both of which are frequently sold out at retailers across Europe and the US. Targeting this market will secure sales from budget-minded PC builders who wish to use new hardware. This launch will guarantee Intel sales, as AMD’s Ryzen 3 equivalents are currently not available from most retailers. 

Intel’s LGA 1200 socket should also allow these users to upgrade to stronger Comet Lake processors in the future, as well as Intel’s planned Rocket Lake processors.