When it comes to purchasing a processor, you mainly get two options: boxed CPUs and tray OEM.

Both types of processors perform about the same but have some differences.

But which processor is good for you?

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Worry not; Im here to solve your dilemma.

So without further due lets jump in.

What is a Boxed Processor?

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As the name suggests, a boxed CPU is a processor that comes with a box.

These are the processors you usually get from a retailer like Walmart, Amazon, or eBay.

The Boxes processor comes with nice-looking cardboard box packaging when you purchase it.

difference-between-boxed-and-tray-processors

In this part, I will show you the core features of a boxed processor.

It will help you to understand more about the processor itself.

You should also check out thebest CPU case fansto ensure better cooling.

What is a Tray (OEM) Processor?

Tray processors, also known as Original Equipment Manufacturer processors sold in bulk.

They dont contain any fancy cardboard boxes.

Instead, you get them typically in a tray or container.

Usually, big companies purchase these kinds of processors batch-wise.

Basically, tray (OEM) processors are the same CPU as Boxed Processors sold to consumers.

Read the following section to know some key factors about the tray Processor.

Areprocessors and CPU the same thing?

Read our separate article to know this in detail.

What is the Difference Between Boxed and Tray Processors?

Performance-wise, there isnt any difference between the boxed and tray processors.

You just wont get any nice packets with the tray processor.

In this section, I will show the comparison table between the boxed and tray processors.

It will help you to know the differences between these two.

You may be wondering which one you should choose for your current PC.

That brings us to our next topic.

Which Processor Should You Get?

Well, the choice may vary from person to person.

If you are short on money and know your processors, then go for the tray Processors.

Also, tray Processors are an excellent choice for building custom PCs.

On the other hand, the Boxed Processors are a safe choice for newbies.

But how can you confirm if your processor is a boxed version?

Well, you get your answer in the following section.

How to Know if Your CPU (Processor) is a Retail or Tray Version?

you’re free to quickly see if you have a boxed CPU, not with the serial numbers.

you better be sure of the Processors before purchasing them.

For this reason, customers get unnecessary pain while getting any warranty service.

Because tray version CPUs dont have company warrants.

Also, you should check whether yourCPU is Used or Brand-Newbefore finalizing the purchase.

Otherwise, you will face performance and warranty issues in the future.

How can you tell if your processor is running?

We covered a separate article that explains this in detail.

Do check it out.

FAQs

Should you buy a tray CPU?

Yes, you should buy atrayCPU if the seller is reliable.

A tray CPU is just a CPU without packaging.

Why is OEM CPU cheaper?

An OEM CPU is cheaper because it doesnt include any nice packaging, a heatsink, or a fan.

The manufacturer designs this kind of chip to give the customer more flexibility.

Can an OEM Processor be trusted?

But you will get some warranty limitations.

Conclusion

Long story short, the boxed processor usually comes with a box.

On the other hand, you get the tray processors, typically in a tray or containers.

But there arent any performance or hardware differences between these two.

If you want a cheaper CPU without any stock cooler, go for OEM processors.

Comment if you have any other queries.

And for everything else, stick with 10 Scopes.