Which Intel CPU is comparable to the AMD 5800X3D for gaming?

Checking market prices for a used 5800X3D can be a gamble due to their rising scarcity. If you're looking for something a bit more budget-friendly, consider the Ryzen 5700X or even the Ryzen 5600X. Both are excellent for gaming and will work just fine with DDR4. Plus, staying on the AM4 platform should help you avoid any price spikes.

You might want to look into the Intel i5-12600K as well; it's very capable for gaming and should fit your budget well. Just pair it with a good DDR4 motherboard. Plus, if she’s mainly playing esports, you really don’t need to overspend on a super high-end CPU.

Before jumping into an Intel build, it might be worth checking the overall cost of the entire platform. DDR5 is currently pretty pricey, and sticking with DDR4 could save you a good amount. For gaming, the 5800X is still a reasonable alternative, especially since you have the DDR4 RAM already. Just keep in mind that X3D models are getting hard to find and often come at inflated prices.

If you're leaning towards Intel, the i5-12700K or 13700K could do the trick, especially since you mentioned gaming. These CPUs work really well with gaming titles like Fortnite. The good news is that Intel’s 12th and 13th generation CPUs can support both DDR4 and DDR5, giving you more flexibility.

The Intel Core i5-14600K would be a great match for your needs! It provides solid performance for gaming, plus you can pair it with a DDR4 motherboard to keep costs down. Just make sure to choose a motherboard that supports DDR4. If you're considering other options, the i5-13600K or i7-12700K can also deliver excellent gaming experiences without breaking the bank.