The better the i7 i5 processor. Synthetic tests

Hello, dear subscribers of our blog. Today I will try to explain how the i3 processor differs from the i5. Surely many people are interested in why one Intel Core costs so much more than another, although you won’t immediately understand what the point is. In this article we will look at what kind of stone would be better suited for PC games and work tasks.

The comparison will be multi-stage and contain summary tables. By the way, in the second part we will look at and also advise which one for certain tasks.

I would especially like to say that mobile processors we don’t mention it specifically - everything is much more complicated there, besides Special attention is given more to labeling than numerical value chips and characteristics.

Difference between Coffee Lake and previous generations

The release of the 8th generation of Intel Core literally put the entire computer hardware market on edge. The difference between previous generations is colossal, and is expressed in the following figures:

Characteristic	Core i3 (2-7)	Core i5 (2-7)	Core i3 (8)	Core i5 (8)
Number of physical cores	2	4	4	6
Level 3 cache	3 MB	8 MB	6 MB	9 MB
Hyper Threading support	+	—	—	—
Turbo Boost support	—	+	—	+
Memory support	DDR-2400	DDR-2400	DDR-2400	DDR-2666
Unlocked multiplier	—	+	+ (8350K)	+
Socket	1151	1151	1151v2	1151v2

As you can see, the usual concept has changed radically, as well as the technical characteristics. This was facilitated by the release of AMD Ryzen, which included 4 computing cores (Ryzen 3 1200) in the minimum configuration.

I'm glad that the built-in video remains, as do most proprietary technologies and instructions. Another thing is that the quality of graphics compared to Kaby Lake has not changed - still the same Intel UHD 630.

Difference between i3 and i5

First, let's look at the classic confrontation between processors, and then switch to the more recent Coffee Lake. The confrontation scheme will include several points.

• Number of Cores

The more physical cores, the more operations the chip performs per clock cycle. For i3 this indicator is 2, for i5 – 4, respectively.

For Coffee Lake the situation is as follows: both chips added 2 physical cores, but i5 is still the leader in this area.

• Turbo Boost

This technology allows you to significantly increase the CPU frequency in automatic mode only in cases where it is really necessary. In essence, this is a “lazy” version of overclocking by a multiplier, which is limited by the limitations of the platform, heat package and cooling. Only i5 has this mode, when i3 has fixed frequencies.

• Hyper-Threading

For processors, one physical core usually receives one stream of data, which is processed by this core. This function (i.e. HT) allows you to use 2 threads per core at once.

Many people mistakenly believe that virtual cores are almost identical to physical ones, but in fact the processor performs one operation not with one, but with two hands, to put it as simply and intelligibly as possible.

Second, third, fourth and even seventh generation i3 processors supported this function, but with the advent of Coffee Lake, the number of physical computing units increased from 2 to 4, and the need for the technology disappeared. Core i5s do not support the mode natively.

• Cache size

Gone are the days when you could buy a cheaper processor and overclock it to the limit. Due to the enthusiasm and talent of gamers, significant savings could be made. But when overclocking became widespread, manufacturers realized that it was time for new processors. They have become more cunning. Now, not every processor can be overclocked to higher-level models.

U Intel process Only some models can be overclocked, and they tend to be more expensive than their non-overclockable counterparts.

It cannot be said that the entire overclocking movement has fallen into decline and the ranks of enthusiasts have thinned out significantly. For an avid gamer, the issue of saving is far from last place. And processors with the ability to increase frequency are in good demand. And manufacturers never cease to delight consumers with more and more modifications.

Unfortunately, in the pursuit of profit, there is a loss of frequency potential. And this is not very good for overclocking. Why then pay that kind of money if you won’t be able to fully overclock it?

Intel core i5 and intel core i7 processors, according to the manufacturer, are free of all the shortcomings of previous models. But this does not mean that dealing with them could not be easier.

Which is better for gaming intel core i5 or intel core i7?

Let's try to sort this issue out. The processors have promising overclocking potential. But good speed inevitably leads to overheating. And for efficient cooling intel core i5 and intel core i7 require truly high-quality and powerful coolers. So don't spare money on top-end coolers, otherwise you won't be able to curb the hot temper of your processor.

Core i5- dual- and quad-core processor, for mid-level computers. Designed for voltage no higher than 1.6 V. All models have a function automatic increase processor speed.

Core i7- four- and six-core processor. It is designed to work on computers upper class. Also designed for voltages up to 1.6 V. Increases possible clock frequency when working with power-intensive applications.

Today, the Intel Core i7-5960X is recognized as the most powerful processor. Of course, it has high characteristics, but there is simply no point in purchasing it. The reason is that no other program or game in the world makes such demands on the processor. For comparison. Intel Core i7-5960X outperforms the weakest AMD processor A4-4000 is 9 times higher, while the price is 43 times higher!

To choose the best processor, you can simply compare their characteristics and decide how far you are going to go with overclocking. Please also take into account the fact that the difference in price between the previous and subsequent modifications can be significant, but the changes are insignificant.

Options for choosing the best processor for gaming

Number of Cores . As you know, a quad-core processor is a single plate with four separate processors located on it. When a task arrives at the device, it is divided into these four parts. Therefore, the greater the number of cores, the faster the device will function. This also applies to games. The research was carried out using the example of “GTA 5” and “The Witcher 3”: wild Hunt" The frames per second (fps) indicator made it clear that all modern games can easily run on 4 cores.

Frequency . Displays how many tasks the device can perform simultaneously. The higher the processor frequency, the better. The research was conducted on the game Metro: Last Light. Even the heaviest games were found to run at 2.5 GHz. But this processor won't last long. The computer will accumulate information that it simply will not be able to process as before. Therefore, it is better to stay at a minimum of 4 GHz.

Architecture . The best architectures At Intel, Haswell, Broadwell and Skylake are recognized as users and specialists.

As a result, we are looking for a quad-core processor with Broadwell or Skylake architecture and a frequency of 4 GHz. Intel Core i7 Skylake meets these parameters. It will be ideal for lovers computer games. But if you are not a fan of all the best and have limited financial resources, then you can get by with an Intel Core i5.

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Core i5 and Core i7— two series of processor models from Intel, widely represented on the market today modern assemblies PC and laptop models. Have computer device Based on processors of these series, perhaps every user who cares about such concepts as performance, speed and stability dreams of. What is the difference between Core i5 and Core i7, and which series processor is better? This will be discussed below.

Brief overview of Intel processor series

Before getting into the comparative specifics of Core i5 and Core i7, let's take a brief look at all the popular series of processors produced by Intel. In order of increasing performance, these series will look like this:

1.1. Intel Celeron - a series of low-budget processors with x86 architecture.

1.2. Intel Pentium- a series of several generations of processors with varying performance, the name of the series has become a trademark.

1.3. Intel Core i3- a series of low-budget and mid-price processors that replaced the once popular, but over time, outdated Core 2 Duo processors.

The first three series - Celeron, Pentium and Core i3 - are processors used in simple budget PC builds. They are designed for moderate performance: thus, on the basis of these processors, good PC builds are obtained for everyday office work and media entertainment at home: Internet surfing, office applications, software databases, videos, music - processors of this series will play such content without any problems.

1.4. Intel Core i5 is a series of high-performance processors that represents the middle niche between Core i3 - less powerful and more affordable solutions - and Core i7 - super-efficient expensive processors.

1.5. Intel Core i7 is the most advanced series of Core i7 processors, the advantages and features of which will be mentioned below.

Core i5 and Core i7 series processors are ideal for gaming, complex programs, for example, for graphics processing or video editing, since they can provide maximum performance, as well as fully unleash the capabilities of the PC video card.

1.6. Intel Xeon is a series of server processors. But sometimes they are included in the assembly regular computers. For example, it runs on a Xeon processor Mac Pro — professional computer produced by Apple.

Intel Core i5 or Intel Core i7: which is better to buy?

So, the Core i5 and Core i7 series of productive processors - which is better?

If we evaluate the criterion “better” as “more productive”, then naturally better processor s Core i7, because this is the most advanced series of processors from Intel today, and they don’t have many competitors on the market. If we compare the Core i5 and Core i7 series, then the processors of the latter are equipped with latest developments Intel, they provide support for higher clock speeds and also have a larger cache memory.

But everything would be fine if money fell from the sky, and you just had to get up early in the morning and collect it in a basket. Core i7 processors are a serious, powerful solution, but, as expected, you have to pay for it, and pay a lot of money. The other side of the question is that better Core i5 or Core i7 - will the performance of the Core i7 be justified? Does the user really need that much power? Perhaps it would be much more expedient to invest part of the money in purchasing Core processor i5, and with the rest, buy some powerful video card or afford more RAM.

Five best models processors from Intel for every price niche

It will help you to see the difference between Core i5 and Core i7 more clearly short review the five best models of Intel processors, selected for different financial capabilities of users separately in descending order of price.

So, let's start with the most productive solution, but at the same time, naturally, the most costly in terms of finances.

Intel Core i7-3960X Extreme Edition

This is the best processor produced by Intel, which since 2012 has not lost its leadership position in performance, despite the fact that today there are already more powerful solutions on the market. However, even for this “beast” you will have to pay about $1000. Therefore, we will start with this price point.

This processor works with six cores, the frequency of which is 3.3 GHz. The indicators for the volume of cache memory of the 1st and 2nd levels, respectively, are as follows: 384 KB and 1.5 MB. The level 3 cache memory size is impressive, as it is as much as 15 MB. The processor performance is enough to cope with any task, and fans of extreme processor overclocking will have a particularly pleasant experience.

If the price previous model The Intel processor bites a little, but you want advanced performance, perhaps you should pay attention to this option, and it will cost much less - about $650. This is also a six-core processor, but with a slightly lower clock speed of 3.2 GHz. It has the same levels of 1st and 2nd level cache memory as the previous model, and this option is inferior only in terms of the 3rd level cache - 12 MB.

The choice of any computer product in the average price niche is always complicated by a large number of models, which may vary technical characteristics both in the direction of a profitable solution for the user, and vice versa - an inflated price with unjustified performance. So if there is a price limit for purchasing a processor of $350, then it is better to take a closer look at Intel models Core i7-2700K. This particular processor can safely be classified as " best performance at a reasonable price", because these are 4 computing cores with a frequency of 3.5 GHz. As for the volume of cache memory of the 1st, 2nd and 3rd level, these indicators are as follows: 64 KB, 256 KB and 8 MB, respectively.

More affordable option There will be this particular processor, its cost ranges around $250. It is equipped with four cores with a frequency of 3.4 GHz and a 256 KB level 2 memory cache and a 6 MB level 3 memory cache.

This is quite lucky a budget option, which will cost around $180. This processor is also equipped with four cores with a frequency of 2.9 GHz. The volume indicators of its cache memory of the 1st, 2nd and 3rd levels, respectively, are as follows: 64 KB, 1 MB and 6 MB.

If you want, I can help you choose components and a processor!

This article provides a small comparison of i3 i5 i7 processors. Typical tasks for all Core series processors will also be briefly described. The names of Intel processors vary so much that the average user will not understand what one or another processor name means. Of course, in itself it carries its own meaning, but at first glance, it is a confusion of abbreviations and numbers.

Before purchasing a new processor from Intel, a reasonable question will arise: what is the difference between i3 i5 i7 processors. To understand all this, we can divide all Core processor names into two groups. The first, most interesting for us, is the line (i3/i5/i7). We will focus our attention on it. The remaining part of the name, including numbers and letters, shows us distinctive features one or another processor, which we will consider below.

There are a couple of main features in the Core series. The socket (socket for installing a processor) in the same generation will always be the same. You won't need another one motherboard for the same Core i3 as opposed to i5 or i7. All processors have a built-in graphics core. The sixth generation Skylake we are considering uses 1151 sockets and integrated HD530 graphics.

Core i3

Even though i3 processors are the least powerful among the Core processor series, they are excellent choice for everyday tasks. They have two physical cores, but Hyper-Threading technology smooths out this drawback. Hyper-Threading doubles the available processor threads by emulating 4 "virtual" cores. The L3 cache size reaches 3-4 MB, depending on specific model, and frequencies range from 2.7 to 3.9 GHz. You can buy a processor for 110-140 US dollars.

He can do everything a little, but he can’t do anything perfectly. The performance of these processors is enough to make the system responsive, but heavy tasks like rendering or video editing will be a pain on them. They're fast enough to reveal modern video card, so they can be used in gaming systems Oh entry level with an average video card.

Core i5

Being exactly in the middle between the i3 and i7 lines, the i5 line of processors have many latest features with fairly good energy efficiency. This series lacks Hyper-Threading technology, but has 4 physical cores, Turbo Boost, and processor models with an unlocked multiplier for overclocking. The amount of L3 cache reaches 6 MB (in i5 desktop models).

Turbo Boost allows the processor to temporarily increase the frequency of one or more cores under load at the expense of increased power consumption and reduced computing power other kernels. In essence, this technology is a kind of overclocking of the physical core. Sixth generation i5 frequencies range from 2.2 to 3.5 GHz, and prices range from $180 to $220

Core i7

At the top are the i7 line of processors. They have four logical cores, like in the i5 line. Hyper-Threading is also present, creating as many as 8 threads on 4 physical cores. These processors have highest frequencies, reaching 4 GHz by default and 4.2 GHz in Turbo Boost. i7s come with 8 MB of L3 cache, and you can purchase a processor in this line for prices ranging from $300 to $340.

Although these processors are endowed with the highest performance, this is clearly more than enough for the average user. It is the processors of this line that will allow you to see by eye how the i3 i5 i7 processors differ. i7 processors are great for programs that can take full advantage of all 8 threads. Despite this, many games to this day use only 4 cores. Even Photoshop benefits from working with more than 2 cores only when special filters and operations are used. If you are not working in Maya and Autodesk on permanent basis, you will see practically no increase, just like how i3 i5 i7 differ in simple tasks.

Index values

A processor from any manufacturer has its own indexes, located in the remainder of the name after the manufacturer and product number. The larger the product ID, the usually more powerful processor. Letters T, U And Y denote processors designed for low power consumption. Letter K at the end indicate processors with overclocking potential, and P indicates the presence of a less powerful graphics core. If you want a more detailed description of the indexes, take a look at the Intel website.

What to buy?

Without going into all these designations, we can say that Core processors make it easy to determine which one is best for you. This can be seen even from one symbol in the name of the line. The difference between i3 i5 i7 is the processing power. Another difference between i3 i5 i7 processors is the graphics core. In i5 and i7 it is usually the same, but in i3 it is weaker. Unfortunately, not all users think about how the i3 i5 i7 differs and choose a processor whose capabilities are simply not used, or vice versa.

Most users will be happy with the i5, which offers a good price-to-power ratio. The i3 will still be an excellent choice for budget builds; it is a good option for the money. If you are confident that your processor will be tasked with heavy tasks such as rendering or editing large video files or modeling, then the capabilities of the Core i7 will completely satisfy you.

I think this article has clarified how i3 i5 i7 processors differ. Hope, this information will play a role in choosing a particular processor when purchasing.

The Core series has several main features. The socket (socket into which the processor is installed) is used the same for all processors of a particular generation. Therefore, when buying, for example, a Core i3 instead of an old one, you don’t have to worry that it may not fit your existing motherboard.

Core i3

Core i3 series processors have the least powerful characteristics however, this best option for solving various everyday problems. This line is budget-friendly, which explains its wide demand among users. The processors in this series are dual-core - unlike the others, which are designed on the basis of four cores. Accordingly, Core i3 has more limited capabilities.

Main technical characteristics:

• Turbo Boost overclocking function (available on almost all processors from Intel);
• dual-core architecture;
• visualization Intel technologies Vpro and AES encryption acceleration features;
• Hyper-Threading technology (the ability to duplicate a logical core, through which each physical core functions as two logical ones).

This series includes processors maximum speed which is 1100 MHz. Taking this into account, there is a slight decrease in performance compared to PGI, but the difference remains unnoticeable when performing simple everyday tasks.

According to the model, the L3 cache size varies from 3 to 4 MB, and the frequency ranges from 3.4 to 4.2 GHz. The cost of Core i3 processors is about 110-140 US dollars. The capabilities of this series of processors allow you to get quick system feedback when solving standard tasks. However, if you are constantly faced with the need to edit or render videos, it is better to give preference to more powerful models. Core i3 is perfect for entry-level gaming systems equipped with an average graphics card.

Core i5

Only part of the processors on the architecture Sandy Bridge has a Hyper-Threading enhancement function. So, Core i5 (except for the K series) works with the PGI 2000 system. But among the three series under consideration, it is Core i5 that is now in greatest demand.

The main significant difference between different models Core i5 has a core clock speed that varies from 2.8 to 3.3 GHz. Depending on this indicator, the cost of the processor is determined. This line allows you to support many advanced functions, while delivering good energy efficiency.

Technical features:

• the presence of four physical cores;
• lack of Hyper-Threading technology;
• Turbo Boost function (some processor models have an unlocked multiplier for overclocking);
• L3 cache up to 6 MB (for desktop models).

Turbo Boost temporarily increases the frequency of one or more cores. This occurs due to an increase in power consumption and a decrease in the computing power of the remaining cores. This technology can be considered as overclocking a physical core.

Seventh generation Core i5 processors have a frequency of 2.4-3.8 GHz. Their cost varies from 180 to 220 US dollars depending on technical parameters.

Core i7

Core i7 processors are the pinnacle of technological achievements of Intel engineers. As in the previous line, there are 4 logical cores. Hyper-Threading technology support allows you to create 8 threads on 4 physical cores. The processors have the highest clock speeds: by default - 3.6 GHz, in Turbo Boost mode - 4.2 GHz. The L3 cache size is 8 MB.

The introduction of Hyper-Threading technology made it possible to use the processor as an 8-core one. All its other parameters are almost the same as the Core i5 series. Installing Core i7 processors can significantly increase PC performance when using the 8-thread operating mode. However, it should be remembered that most programs are not designed to use 8 threads. That's why this option It will be advisable only when using resource-intensive applications for:

• video editing;
• video rendering;
• work with advanced scientific and 3D programs.

For users who only need solutions to standard tasks, Core i7 processors are unlikely to be a rational purchase. Under normal conditions, the increase in performance will be invisible to the user, so it is often better to give preference to the cheaper Core i5 or i3. But Core i7 processors are an excellent choice for running programs that can take full advantage of 8 threads.

Most modern games still only use 4 cores. Popular program Photoshop runs on two cores and requires four only when using special filters and performing other complex operations. The same goes for Autodesk and Maya. If you are working with these and similar applications on an ongoing basis, you will not notice a performance increase when using a Core i7 processor, because i3 and i5 series products cope with such tasks no worse.

Selecting the optimal processor

The main problem when building systems with Intel Core products was the selection of connectors and chipsets, because different devices of the same series could differ in connector configurations. These difficulties were eliminated thanks to Sandy Bridge. Now the socket is LGA1151 and the chipsets are H110, B250, Z270

All processors, regardless of manufacturer, have indexes. They are indicated in the product name after the manufacturer and serial number. Depending on this, the power of processors is determined. Detailed description indexes can be found on the Intel website. Examples of indexes:

• T, U and Y - low power consumption;
• K - presence of acceleration potential;
• P - processors with a less powerful graphics core.

The main difference between Intel processors Core i3, i5 and i7 lie in the parameters of their computing power and the characteristics of the graphics core (in i3 it is weaker, in i5 and i7 it is almost the same). Most users choose a processor thoughtlessly, so they subsequently do not use the available capabilities or, conversely, suffer from a lack of performance. The presence of special markings and designations makes it quite easy to determine the model suitable processor depending on your needs and the characteristics of the rest of the system.

On this moment The Core i5 line remains the most popular. These are 4-core processors that provide access to all important functions, in particular Turbo Boost. They also have a reasonable price, so they won’t break the budget when assembling or upgrading. computer system. The Core i3 is an inexpensive and reliable option if you don't need high performance for everyday tasks. This the best option for any budget build. If the processor is required to perform heavy tasks, such as modeling, editing and rendering large video files, you should choose Core i7 series processors. The capabilities of these products will fully satisfy all your needs and provide maximum performance systems.