I already discussed this in my how to get started as a streamer/creator guide, but I always get questions about why I insist on i7 processors. I do this mostly because I always make an assumption that your PC won't is just used for streaming only. I also assume that you would like to do multiple things at the same time. However, there is still a place for i5 processors. As a recap, i5 processors are 2-4 core processors. I7 processors are either 2-4 cores as well, but also include hyperthreading, which gives you a virtual (hyperthreaded) core that is not as powerful but is still useful for doing multiple tasks at the same time. This is where streaming comes into play. If you are a PC gamer who streams, then it is not optimal to stream on the same PC that you play on. However, if you have a computer that is powerful enough (ie: i7 or better) to do so, then this won't be a issue. Now, let's introduce another scenario. You're a console gamer that wants to improve the quality of your streams compared to the native twitch app on the console by adding a webcam and overlays? Let's also say that you're broke as shit as well? I5's are good processors for this task because since you are only using your pc for streaming only (and watching the chat), 4 cores will do the trick. This can knock off at least 50-100 dollars off your budget for a streaming PC, which makes a world of a difference when you don’t have any money.