::: spoiler TL;DW List:

Best Overall CPU:

• AM5 R7 9800X3D

Most Balanced:

• AM5 R9 7950X (primary)
• i9-14900K (secondarily)

Best Gaming:

• AM5 R7 9800X3D

Best Upgrade:

• AM4 R7 5700X3D

Most Efficient:

• AM5 R5 7600X3D

Best Mid-Range:

• AM5 R5 7600

Best High-End Desktop (HEDT):

• Threadripper 7970X

Best Gaming CPU Under $100 USD:

• R5 5600, i3-13100F, i3-12100F

Biggest Disappointment:

Intel

• attrocious mishandling and user gaslighting for their 13 and 14th gen/series CPU instability, oxidation, and excessive voltage issues. :::