The Intel Core i3-4130 ($117) is a mainstream, dual-core 4th-generation Intel Core processor aimed at those who want to save a little money compared with the pricier Core i5 desktops on the market.

Low-cost processors like the Core i3 line and AMD's Kaveri desktop APUs will make tradeoffs to keep the prices low. The Core i3-4130 is very good for day-to-day productivity tasks and multimedia tests, at the expense of 3D gaming. AMD's APUs like the AMD A8-7600 take the opposite course, with good 3D performance at the expense of multimedia and everyday productivity.

The Core i3-4130 uses Intel's Socket 1150, and works with Intel's 8 series chipset. This means that you may have to buy a new motherboard if you're a home builder, but it also means better support for more SATA ports and USB 3.0 ports compared with the 7 series chipset used with third-generation Core processors.

Gaming performance from the integrated Intel HD 4400 was mediocre at best. It showed weak numbers on 3D gaming tests like Just Cause 2 and Tomb Raider (2013). On the flip side, when compared to similarly priced AMD APUs, the processor shows that it is better suited to multimedia tests, like Adobe Photoshop CS6 and music transcoding.

Matched to a moderately priced graphics card like the Nvidia GeForce GTX 750 Ti, the Intel Core i3-4130 would make for a good gaming system for the living room. In any case, the processor is a good bet for the budding home PC builder or anyone who wants a little more power, but a moderate price tag.

For more details, check out the Intel Core i3-4130 review on our sister site, Computer Shopper.