When it comes to bare metal servers, the processor (CPU) you choose can make or break the performance of your hosting environment. Whether you are running resource-hungry databases, hosting multiple websites, or powering AI-driven workloads, the CPU determines how efficiently your server can handle the job.
In 2025, with the latest Intel Xeon and AMD EPYC processor families setting new benchmarks for performance and efficiency, understanding your options is more important than ever. In this guide, we’ll explore how to choose the best CPU for bare metal servers, compare the top contenders, and give you tips on finding the perfect fit for your needs.
Why the CPU Matters in Bare Metal Hosting
In a bare metal server, you’re getting dedicated hardware without the performance overhead of virtualization. That means the CPU you choose is your CPU—its cores, threads, and clock speeds are entirely available for your workloads.
The CPU affects:
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Processing Power – How quickly tasks are completed.
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Parallel Performance – How many simultaneous tasks can run without slowdown.
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Power Efficiency – How much energy the server consumes.
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Compatibility – Whether the CPU supports the applications and workloads you need.
Without a powerful and suitable processor, your server may bottleneck—limiting the benefits of bare metal hosting.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a CPU for Bare Metal Servers
Before looking at specific models, it’s important to understand what to evaluate.
1. Number of Cores and Threads
More cores mean better multi-tasking, while more threads (via hyper-threading or simultaneous multi-threading) improve performance for parallel workloads.
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For web hosting and standard applications: 8–16 cores is usually sufficient.
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For AI, machine learning, or big data: 32–96 cores might be needed.
2. Clock Speed
Clock speed (measured in GHz) determines how fast each core processes instructions. High clock speeds benefit single-threaded tasks like gaming servers or certain web applications.
3. Cache Size
Larger caches allow the CPU to store frequently used data closer to the cores, reducing latency.
4. Power Consumption (TDP)
Lower TDP means less heat and potentially lower electricity costs—important for data center efficiency.
5. Scalability
If you expect to expand workloads, choosing a CPU family that offers easy upgrade paths ensures longevity.
Bare Metal Server CPU Comparison: Intel Xeon vs AMD EPYC (2025)
One of the biggest debates in server processors for bare metal hosting is Intel Xeon vs AMD EPYC. Both have their strengths, but the right choice depends on your use case.
| Feature | Intel Xeon Scalable (5th Gen) | AMD EPYC (Genoa & Turin) |
|---|---|---|
| Core Count | Up to 64 cores | Up to 96 cores |
| Clock Speed | Higher turbo boost per core | Balanced with many cores |
| Cache Size | L3 cache up to 105 MB | L3 cache up to 384 MB |
| Memory Support | DDR5, up to 12 channels | DDR5, up to 12 channels |
| PCIe Lanes | PCIe 5.0, up to 80 lanes | PCIe 5.0, up to 128 lanes |
| Power Efficiency | Optimized for sustained workloads | Industry-leading performance per watt |
| Best For | High clock speed apps, financial trading, real-time processing | Virtualization, AI/ML, big data analytics |
Key Takeaways:
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Intel Xeon is ideal if you need fast single-core performance.
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AMD EPYC dominates in multi-core scalability and energy efficiency.
Best CPU for Bare Metal Servers in 2025
If you’re looking for the best CPU for bare metal server setups this year, here are some top recommendations:
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AMD EPYC 9754 – 128 cores, excellent for large-scale data analytics, AI, and multi-tenant hosting.
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Intel Xeon Platinum 8592+ – Exceptional single-thread performance, great for applications that need speed over core count.
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AMD EPYC 9654 – Balanced choice with 96 cores, strong performance for database-heavy workloads.
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Intel Xeon Gold 6530 – Mid-range option for smaller businesses needing reliable dedicated hosting.
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AMD EPYC 9334 – Budget-friendly with great multi-core capabilities.
How to Choose CPU for Dedicated Server: Step-by-Step
Choosing a CPU for your dedicated server requires matching hardware to your workloads.
Step 1: Define Your Workload
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Web hosting, e-commerce → Balanced core count + high clock speed
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AI training, rendering → High core count + massive memory support
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Financial trading → High single-core performance with low latency
Step 2: Set Your Budget
Premium CPUs can significantly increase server costs. Consider whether extra performance justifies the expense.
Step 3: Match Memory & Storage
A high-performance CPU won’t help if RAM or storage is too slow. Choose DDR5 and NVMe storage for modern workloads.
Step 4: Consider Future Scalability
Opt for a platform with upgrade options—your server should grow with your business.
Step 5: Partner with a Reliable Hosting Provider
The best CPU is only as good as the infrastructure supporting it. A reliable bare metal hosting provider like BeStarHost.com offers flexibility to customize server processors, memory, and storage according to your needs.
Cost Considerations for Server CPUs in Bare Metal Hosting
In 2025, server processors for bare metal hosting come at varying prices:
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Entry-level Intel Xeon / AMD EPYC: $300–$700
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Mid-range: $1,000–$2,000
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High-end: $3,000–$10,000+
Remember, the CPU is a one-time investment that will directly impact your server’s ROI through performance gains.
Performance Benchmarks: Intel Xeon vs AMD EPYC Bare Metal
Recent benchmarks show:
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AMD EPYC outperforms Intel Xeon by up to 40% in multi-threaded workloads.
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Intel Xeon has 10–15% better single-thread performance in certain applications.
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AMD leads in performance per watt, lowering operational costs.
These insights make bare metal server CPU comparison essential before making a purchase.
External Resources for Further CPU Research
Final Thoughts
The best CPU for bare metal servers in 2025 depends entirely on your workload, performance needs, and budget.
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Choose Intel Xeon for fast single-core processing and latency-sensitive applications.
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Go with AMD EPYC for multi-core workloads, better efficiency, and scalability.
At the end of the day, knowing how to choose CPU for dedicated server ensures you make a future-proof investment. When in doubt, consult your hosting provider for tailored advice.
If you’re looking for customizable bare metal hosting solutions with top-tier CPUs, check out BeStarHost’s Bare Metal Servers—where performance meets reliability.