A trading computer is really only as good as its CPU. After all, it is the processes and basic instructions that allow a computer to do what computers do best. Every computer needs one and day trading computers are no different. Without it, your build won’t be able to perform its required function – day trading.
However, a quick web search will show you that there are about a dozen CPUs available on the market. From CPU’s of yesteryear to shiny and powerful modern ones.
Keep in mind that the relationship between your computer and CPU is also very important. If you’re using a trading computer from 1980 (because nothing works as good as nostalgia feels), a shiny new modern processor may not actually work in your machine. Even day trading computers from a few years ago may not be able to compete in today’s trading technocracy.
There can be a lot of confusing tech information out there. So much so that some of it even goes above tech experts’ heads. Day trading computers can complicate things even more as it’s a niche market that a lot of the regular big box stores may not know a lot about.
We, however, have one award-winning combo that we find works best for beginner and pro day traders alike.
Keep scrolling to learn more about our top pick CPU for day trading computers and the best computer to use with it.
What Are CPUs Anyway?
As stated earlier, the CPU is the core component of your computer. Without a Central Processing Unit, your computer won’t be able to execute instructions and move data around your device.
CPUs are everywhere. Desktops, laptops, even the smallest smartphone or tablet all require a CPU to perform.
CPUs are a collection of billions of microscopic transistors that are built on a single computer chip. It is these transistors that allow them to make calculations to run your various programs. They are the gatekeepers that allow binary to pass through and have a purpose.
CPUs also contain cores. Back in the day, they would only have one core that would control everything. Since computers today are much more complex, CPUs can have anywhere from 2 to 18 cores. It all depends on what your computer can handle and what you’re using it for. Trading computers that are only being used for trading should use a CPU between 4-8 cores depending on your personal trading preferences.
Best Computer: The A-10 Desktop Trading Computer
If you’re a beginner looking to start your day trading experience or are an expert looking to elevate it, then you’ll want to check out the A-10 desktop trading computer. This model is incredibly affordable and has everything a day trader needs to get the job done.
Let’s start with the basics. If multi-monitor setups are your thing then use them with the A-10 desktop trading computer. This device gives you the option to support up to 4 monitors! Multi-monitor setups allow you to see up to 4 charts per monitor. If your A-10 Desktop trading computer is supporting up to 4, this means you can oversee a whopping 16 trading charts at the same time!
Beyond that, the A-10 desktop trading computer can also support a 1TB solid-state drive. This is more than enough memory if you’re only using your desktop for trading alone. The A-10 is also incredibly compact but incredibly powerful. So traders who may be downsizing or relocating to another office needn’t worry about not being able to trade in a small space. Plus it also has a built-in cooling system so you’ll never have to worry about noise or overheating.
Our favorite part of the A-10 desktop trading computer? Its ability to use our favorite processor, the AMD Ryzen.
There are a few AMD Ryzen CPUs that the A-10 desktop trading computer functions incredibly well with. You can check out its prime specs after the jump.
Best CPU: The AMD Ryzen 2nd Gen
It used to be that Intel had control of every corner of the CPU market. For a while it was very just; Intel just made the best computing software and parts.
That was until AMD released the Ryzen in 2017. Now the AMD Ryzen is on its second generation of CPU with a third on the way. Oh yeah, and they’re absolutely obliterating the market and have almost doubled Intel’s sales. When it comes to value and power AMD is running on all cylinders (or, transistors in this case).
The AMD Ryzen 2nd generation processors are built with a 12-nanometer process. This means that it can hold even more transistors and provide your A-10 desktop trading computer with more raw speed.
AMD also boasts that its 2nd generation CPUs are the smallest and fastest to date. They promise higher speeds and a boosted performance during highly draining processes.
Which CPU Should I Use?
The choice is yours!
If you’re looking for a CPU with just 4-cores, then the Ryzen 5 with 3.7-4.2GHz is for you. AMD has two 6-core processors with speeds reaching a maximum of 4.2GHz and 4.4GHZ. Their 8-core processor, the Ryzen 7, also has speeds of 3.6-4.4GHz.
And fret not because the A-10 desktop trading computer can expertly handle all four!
Wrapping Up
If you plan on doing a lot of day trading you’re going to need the proper tools for the job. Not only will you experience a bit of a learning curve, but you’ll also want to be able to keep up with the pros. The easiest way to do that is with a machine that the pros are already using. With the affordable and incredibly efficient A-10 Desktop Trading Computer, you’ll soon be making trades right alongside them.