Cheap and powerful processors. What's better? Prices for CPUs from Intel of various configurations

The best processors for personal computers (PCs) are represented by AMD and Intel. Manufacturers regularly update their processor lines to keep up with modern computing power requirements. It is worth noting that the processors most suitable for running resource-intensive applications (games and graphic editors) have a high cost, which can be comparable to the cost of entire computers with less power. However, in every price category you can find processors that best suit the needs of modern gamers.

The most inexpensive gaming processors

Among the processors whose cost does not exceed 3000 rubles, one can note the Athlon II X4. Its cost is barely more than $70, but the machine's performance on such equipment will be significantly higher than that of some processors costing more than $200. In terms of performance, the AMD stone has the characteristics of the AMD A10-5700 with the caveat that this model has the ability to overclock the frequency to further increase performance. The processor has a clock speed of 3.4 GHz and 4 cores. The device has a thermal package of 100 W and is designed for FM2 format sockets.

Price up to 0

IN price segment up to $120 the leadership is held by stones of such models as Intel Core i3-4130 and AMD FX-6300. Both provide decent performance at a low price. It's worth noting that AMD's gem is $10 cheaper than its competitor's processor and supports simplified core overclocking to improve performance. At the same time, the processor provides 6 computing cores, which gives an advantage when running applications in multiple threads.

The most expensive models

In the price category up to $180 dollars, the leadership is held by Core i5 Intel based Sandy and Ivy Bridge, which provide high performance at a low price. In the price category up to $240, the leadership is held by the Core i5-4670K with an unlocked multiplier for a significant increase in performance.

If you are planning to organize yourself a really expensive and powerful system, pay attention to the Core i7-4930K costing $580. This processor will satisfy all performance needs and can become one of the best options, on which your entire future gaming system will be built.

The most powerful processor from Intel today is the i7-4960X, which, however, only slightly outperforms the i7-4930K, but costs about $400 more.

Hello!. I want to ask you for advice.

So here's my problem. I just can’t choose a processor, but this is the most important component among or. After all, just by one processor you can determine whether your computer is modern and productive or whether it is an old one, suitable only for working in office applications.

When buying a computer, the first thing the seller always asks is: “What tasks do you need a computer for?”

Second: “How much do you expect?”

Third: “Which processor should you choose?”

Then, depending on the stated purposes of using the computer and the indicated amount, as well as the selected processor, the seller will select the motherboard and all other components.

I just can’t decide on the choice of processor? Why? I'll answer you. Despite large volume RAM (8GB) and a good video card, on the previous computer I bought, all the games that were current at that time ran without problems, but the FPS was always low and video processing was done in Adobe Premiere Pro took much longer than for a friend of mine who has a similar computer, but only with a processor from a different manufacturer.

In the end, I concluded that it was all because of the processor!

I’m ready to allocate the required amount to purchase a processor, but I don’t want to overpay. I have a great desire to choose exactly the processor that I need. I use the computer to the fullest, I can play games, and also digitize videos, burn discs, communicate on the Internet, and so on.

I hope to learn on your website not only how to choose a processor, but also how to choose a motherboard, RAM, video card, HDD, power supply, case and monitor!

In the meantime, your answers to the questions listed below would help me a lot!

1. Which processor manufacturer came before Intel or AMD?
2. Why are Intel processors always more expensive, is it just because of the Intel brand? Could it be that Intel processors are exactly the same in quality and performance as AMD and we are simply overpaying for the Intel name?
3. When should you buy only an Intel processor? And when can you afford to save money and buy an AMD processor?
4. If I ultimately choose Intel, is it worth spending money on a branded 4-core Intel Core i7 processor, maybe limiting myself to an Intel Core i5 or a completely 2-core Intel Core 2 Duo processor?
5. And if I choose an AMD processor, then which model should I pay attention to: the very expensive AMD FX-9590 or just the highly productive 8-core AMD FX-8350 processor?
6. Why do I have low FPS (the number of frames changed per unit of time) in computer games? What does it even depend on?
7. Which is better AMD FX-8350 or Intel Core i7-3770K?
8. How do processors with a "K" at the end differ from processors without this letter, such as the Intel Core i7-3770K and Intel Core i7-3770?
9. Which processor would you choose yourself and please indicate approximate prices for current processor models?

How to choose a processor

Hello friends, Alexey is with you again! There are a lot of questions, but I can handle it, although the article will be long, but also interesting. After reading it, you will know everything about processors!

In fact, when assembling a computer, usually, first of all, the processor is selected and then everything else is made for it.

Choosing a processor is one of the easiest tasks when determining the future configuration of a computer. Here, the decisive factor is often the amount we are willing to spend on it, or high technical characteristics if the processor is planned to be used for professional or highly specialized activities.

This article can be used as a guide to choosing a processor for a new computer, or for upgrading an old one.

general information

I don't want to go into history and talk about how processors have evolved, suffice it to say that processors are the highest modern achievement. They are produced in only a few factories in the world that have truly space technology. Therefore, the processor is one of the most reliable system components today.

Historically, the entire market of central processing units (CPUs) for personal computers was divided between two large corporations, well-known to everyone: Intel and AMD.

Who is the leader, Intel or AMD?

Two-way licensing

In 1968, three outstanding physicists Gordon Moore, Andrew Grove, and Robert Noyce founded the world-famous INTegrated ELectronics Corporation, which we all know as INTEL.

It is INTEL that is a recognized pioneer in the field of technologies included today in modern lines of all processors. This is often the subject of debate among supporters of a particular company. They say Intel is better, but AMD is cheaper, with sometimes a slight difference in performance.

Perhaps not everyone knows, but Intel and AMD have had an official agreement on free two-way licensing since 1976. This means that each company can use any technology developed by a competitor without receiving any additional license. And AMD has always used this, which cannot be said about such a proud bird as Intel.

As a result, almost all technologies developed by Intel exist and AMD processors, otherwise they simply would not be able to support modern applications, whose developers focus primarily on the architecture of Intel processors.

Note: Many users will find this strange. Why on earth would that be Intel share development secrets with AMD. Friends, do not forget, both companies are located in the USA, and there is antitrust legislation there, in addition, both companies Intel and AMD are official suppliers of their products to the US Army.

What types of processors are there?

Appearance

Externally, the central processor looks like a monolithic metal case covering a board with a so-called crystal (a piece of silicon with microscopic electronic elements) And big amount contact legs (or pads) on the other side.

Intel processor (has modern pads)

AMD processor (with classic legs)

We will not delve into the jungle of processor microarchitecture, such as exclusive and inclusive cache, branch prediction unit, data prefetch unit, etc. I will tell you only about the most important characteristics of processors, which distinguish them and are of greatest importance to us.

How do Intel and AMD processors differ from each other, or how to choose a processor and not regret it later!

First of all, Intel and AMD processors differ in the length of the so-called computing pipeline, which determines the main differences in the areas of their use.

Note: A pipeline is a method of organizing calculations that is used in modern processors to increase their performance. http://ru.wikipedia.org

Intel processors have historically been aimed at the industrial sector, which is often dominated by stream processing operations, i.e. when data flows in a large continuous stream. Classic examples of streaming information processing include video encoding and archiving of large volumes of data. Therefore, Intel processors have a fairly long pipeline that allows them to process more information and accordingly do it faster.

AMD processors have seriously made a name for themselves on the market when computer systems went to the masses and were initially positioned as multimedia (gaming) processors, which emphasizes the name of the company's own technologies 3DNow!

AMD processors, compared to Intel processors, have a shorter computing pipeline, as a result of which these processors are slightly worse at processing streaming data, since less information is processed in one pass, but this does not prevent them from doing an excellent job, for example, with computer games, in which data cannot be predicted in advance, since it depends on user actions and is therefore transmitted in small portions, which are quickly processed on a short pipeline of the AMD processor.

This suggests a simple conclusion.

If you plan to constantly process video or create archives and information processing time is critical for you, then there is only one way out - an Intel processor. If you are simple home user or you need a computer for the office, then you can significantly save your budget by purchasing an AMD processor, which will also cope with its tasks perfectly, but will cost $100 less...

Many fans of AMD processors may notice:“Well, it’s just like that, all AMD processors are only suitable for the office!”

Of course not, friends! If you take the most current modern 4- and 8-core processors from AMD, for example CPU AMD FX-8350 4.0 GHz /8 cores/ 8+8Mb/125W/5200 MHz Socket AM3 (price 6,500 rubles), then you can do absolutely everything, play all modern games, process videos and so on, but according to all kinds of tests, this processor will be inferior in performance by about 10-15% to a similar 4-core processor from Intel, for example this Intel Core i7-3770K 3.5 GHz (price 11,000 rubles).

I want to say that if you are a gamer, then Intel processors are what you need. In almost all modern games, computers with Intel processors will produce 30% more FPS (frames per second) compared to their AMD counterparts. If you are engaged in video processing, then again you will have to look towards Intel for the same reason.

I'll even say this the only advantage of AMD processors over Intel processors this is a lower cost. A modern processor from AMD will cost less than a processor from Intel by about $100. Agree, that kind of money is not lying around on the road either.

We must give AMD credit for its fighting spirit; having such a serious opponent as Intel, the company never gives up! Realizing that it is losing in technology, AMD is trying to win with its pricing policy.

The most modern processor from AMD - FX-9590

Isn't any special achievement this processor is the same FX-8350 processor, but only overclocked by the manufacturer itself to a frequency of 4.7 GHz and in turbo mode 5.0 GHz, which also has excessive power consumption and heat dissipation. Again, if we present the results of various tests, then this processor has no advantage over the Intel Core i7-3770K 3.5 GHz and Intel Core i7-4770K 3.5 GHz, and the AMD FX-9590 (price 12,000 rubles) is slightly more expensive than the ones mentioned I use processors from Intel. In addition, I forgot to tell you that with modern games, the AMD FX-9590 processor gets seriously hot, and this is not surprising with such an increase in supply voltage and frequency, and you will have to buy a serious cooling system, and that’s still money.

How do you choose a processor? In my opinion, the most reasonable choice for a computer enthusiast who can play games, digitize videos, archive various data, communicate on the Internet, and so on, is currently an Intel Core i7-3770 3.4 GHz processor. The absence of the letter “K” at the end indicates that this processor has a locked multiplier, that is, you will not be able to overclock it, but I want to say that even without overclocking this processor works like an airplane, I don’t know where to overclock it, and you will save money 1,000 rubles. He's had enough already acceptable price 10,000 rubles. This processor is the “Editor's Choice” of many computer publications, and in general has long proven itself to be a good product.

Do you want an Intel processor, but Core i7 is a bit expensive for you?

20% percent, that is, the Intel Core i7-3770 processor is not at all inferior in power to its younger brother Intel Core i5-3570K 3.4 GHz (price 8,000 rubles). It turns out that this is a direct competitor to the AMD FX-8350 4.0 GHz processor we have already reviewed (price 6,500 rubles). The Intel Core i5-3570K processor is in no way inferior to it, but the price, as we see, is again slightly more expensive than that of an AMD processor.

If you are an enthusiast and a fan of overclocking the processor Having squeezed out of it exorbitant frequencies, pay attention to the Intel Core i7-3770K 3.5 GHz and Intel Core i7-4770K 3.5 GHz processors (price 12,000 rubles) with an unlocked multiplier. For example, the Intel Core i7-4770K processor can be overclocked to 4.5 GHz.

What else are good about Intel processors? They have built-in graphics core, that is, the built-in video card. If you bought a computer with an Intel processor, then you may not have to buy an expensive video card for a while. Of course at the most latest games you won't be able to play with it, but you can play games that are two or three years old, but for office tasks such a video card will go with a large margin.

If you want to know prices for modern processors, go to the end of the article, there is a price list for an average computer store. Having familiarized yourself with it, you will go to the computer store already prepared and will know the approximate layout.

How else do processors differ from each other?

Friends, what we have just discussed with you is a little superficial. After all, in addition to the manufacturer (Intel and AMD), processors differ from each other in the number of cores, frequency, cache, socket, presence or absence of a video core, energy consumption and heat generation, and much more. Let's look at this issue in more detail, I'm sure this secret knowledge will be useful to you.

Main characteristics of processors

All processors, regardless of the manufacturer, differ in such basic indicators as the number of cores, core frequency, cache memory size, support for different RAM frequencies. So, first things first.

Increasing the number of computing cores has the greatest impact on processor performance and, accordingly, on price too. A modern computer must have at least a 2-core processor, and preferably a 4-core one. Options with 6, 8 or more cores can be considered as a purchase for the future.

Also, processor performance directly depends on the core frequency. Today, the normal frequency of a modern processor is considered to be between 3 and 4 GHz. The higher the core frequency, the higher the performance, but also the higher the power consumption, temperature, requirements for the motherboard, power supply, and the actual price.

Processor cache

Cache size also affects processor performance, but not to the same extent as multi-core or core frequency. Additionally, this impact will vary from application to application. In some programs the increase can be 15%, in some 5... But this has a significant effect on the price, because cache memory, being incredibly fast (an order of magnitude faster than RAM), is also very expensive...

There are 3 levels of processor cache.

L1 cache. Level 1 cache has the most high speed work, but also the most small size 64 KB per core. It contains the basic instructions (algorithms) necessary for the operation of the processor and is usually not emphasized.

L2 cache. Level 3 cache is slower than level 2 and is not available on all processors. Processors positioned as powerful multimedia processors have about 3-6 MB of total level 3 cache (for all cores). Top expensive processors may have 8 MB or more of total Level 3 cache.

And finally, the memory controllers built into the processor determine how fast the RAM it can support (1333, 1600, 2000 MHz). In this regard, Intel processors often outperformed the clumsy AMD. But the gain in real applications, as with cache memory, may not always be noticeable. The amount of RAM has always played a big role here. If there is enough RAM, the computer works normally, if not, it slows down. That's all science) Information about what kind of memory the processor supports can be found on the manufacturer's website. It is also necessary that the motherboard supports the same frequency.

Additional processor characteristics

Other, but also important differences between processors are process technology, power consumption, temperature regime work.

Characteristics such as power consumption and operating temperature greatly depend on the manufacturing process technology of the processor. As it improved, processors became faster, cooler, and at the same time more economical. This miracle of technological progress has no negative aspects– the finer the technical process, the better. What does this even mean? In the process of improving production technologies, it is possible to make microscopic transistors that make up the computing cores, capacitors that make up the cache and the conductors between them of smaller and smaller sizes. As a result, it is possible to fit many more of these elements onto a piece of silicon of the same size, which allows for increased performance, while at the same time the conductors heat less and consume less energy, since they have also become thinner and their resistance has become lower. That's all physics, friends)

Today, the most modern processors are manufactured using a 22 nm (nanomicron) process technology, which is what we should strive to acquire.

CPU power consumption depends on the number of cores, their frequency and technological process. Here you need to take into account that a powerful processor cannot be installed on the cheapest motherboard and powered by the same power supply. Since they were not originally designed for such a load and can quickly fail. The energy consumption of modern processors ranges from 65-125 Watts, as indicated on their packaging and on the manufacturer’s website. Similar data is indicated in the documentation and on motherboard websites. Read about how to choose the right power supply in the previous article.

Temperature is equated to the maximum power consumption of the processor and is characterized by such an indicator as the maximum temperature package “Thermal Design Power” or “TDP”. For modern processors it is also 65-125 Watts. Here you need to take into account that for a processor with a TDP of 65 Watt the simplest and cheapest cooler is enough, with a TDP of 100 Watt a more powerful cooler is needed, preferably with 2-4 heat pipes, with a TDP of 125 Watt a cooler with 4 heat pipes or more is needed. Cooler literally translated from English is a cooler, which is usually an aluminum, sometimes with a copper base, radiator with a fan attached to it to remove heat from the processor. The most advanced models have a design with so-called heat pipes, which on one side are in close contact with the processor, and on the other with the fins of the radiator, blown by a fan. Usually, the processor comes with a cooler specifically designed for it, but there are processors on sale without a cooler, so it is advisable to have this information.

The photo shows a cooler with heat pipes.

Please note that when installing or replacing a processor, you will need thermal paste, which is applied in a thin layer to the processor before installing the cooler. It is necessary for better heat transfer, otherwise the processor will overheat. If the processor is new and comes with a cooler, then thermal paste will already be applied to it.

Processor sockets

The processor socket, or as it is also called Socket, is the connection point between the processor and motherboard. Processor sockets for each manufacturer and line of processors are different and they are marked either by the number of pins in the socket or by the marking of the line of processors.

The technological process is currently moving very quickly, processors are changing, processor sockets are changing. Well, what can we say... If you are assembling a new computer, do not use motherboards and processors with outdated connectors, because if problems arise or you want to improve these components in a year or two, it will be difficult for you to find a replacement for them.

Intel Pentium - old line of 1 and 2 nuclear processors, with average performance, suitable for an office computer

Intel Core 2 Duo - an old line of 2 and 4 core processors, with high performance, suitable for replacement on older computers

Modern Intel processors

Intel Core i3 - the youngest, most affordable line of dual-core Intel processors

Intel Core i5 is an average, fairly productive line of processors, has both 4-core and some 2-core models

Intel Core i7 - senior, high-performance line of 4 and 6 core processors

More detailed labeling of these processors primarily depends on their frequency and cache size.

All Core series processors have a built-in video core, i.e. do not require additional installation of a video card in the computer. This can be a beneficial solution if the PC will be used primarily for non-gaming purposes. But we must pay tribute to Intel engineers, who made it an order of magnitude more powerful than previous solutions that were integrated onto motherboards. Such a built-in video core can easily handle games from bygone years like Half Life 2 or Underground.

3. If the processor is not listed in the compatibility list, you can still try it by first updating the BIOS and agreeing with the seller about a return if it doesn’t work. Or give the system unit to the seller, let him try to install it himself. The only requirement here is that the processor fits into the permissible thermal package (TDP) of the motherboard, otherwise it may not withstand it (burn out).

I once watched how one of my clients, due to installing an overly powerful processor on a weak motherboard, burned through it!

4. If the processor is quite power hungry, you may need a more powerful and reliable power supply. Also, don’t forget about a sufficient cooler and thermal paste for cooling.

I wish you a successful choice and a good mood! And if something doesn’t work out the first time, don’t forget that there are things in life more important than the processor, for example video card)

Approximate prices in central Russia

The central processing unit is the heart digital device. It processes commands given by the user or software. Therefore, you should know how to choose a processor for your computer if you are upgrading or purchasing components to build a PC from scratch.

Characteristics

The performance of the PC as a whole depends on the power of this component. Therefore, when choosing a new model, carefully study its main characteristics.

Manufacturer

Today, the market mainly presents the developments of two companies: Intel and AMD. They differ in parameters and appearance, as well as in cost and performance.

Number of Cores

The concept of “multi-core” appeared relatively recently. Such models contain two or more computing cores in one package on one chip (it is interesting to read “How to enable all cores of a multi-core processor in Windows 10?”). Manufacturers offer 1-, 2-, 3-, 4-, 6-, 8-, 10-core or more models. But the statement “the more cores, the more productive computer"is not entirely correct.

To increase the performance of a PC, it is necessary that the programs/games installed on it be optimized to work with “multi-cores”. Otherwise, when the software is launched, the processor uses only one core, and the rest are “idle” at this time, which is why the device’s performance does not increase. Therefore, there is no direct relationship “number of cores = PC speed”. But since modern software manufacturers optimize the product for multi-threading, buying a single-core (and sometimes dual-core) processor is no longer relevant.

Good to know! Modern manufacturers almost never produce single-core processors, so it’s difficult to find them on sale.

Hyper-threading technology

Some Intel processors support Hyper-threading technology developed by company representatives. After enabling it, the physical core is detected by the OS as two logical ones, resulting in increased device performance.

Frequency

The second important parameter of the processor is the clock speed. It is measured in Hertz (Hz) and characterizes the number of calculated operations per unit of time. If a model specifies a frequency of 4.0 GHz, this means that it calculates 4 billion operations per second.

Clock frequency is one of the important performance parameters: the higher it is, the faster the device works. But at the same time, other computer components must match it (RAM frequency and North Bridge, data bus width, etc.).

Some models can be “overclocked” - manually increase the frequency. To do this, you need to change its multiplier or bus frequency. The product of these two parameters is the processor clock frequency (multiplier * bus frequency = core clock frequency).

Turbo Boost Technology (Turbo Core)

This technology automatically increases the clock speed of the processor when it does not have enough computing power to complete the assigned tasks. For Intel products This - Turbo Boost, and for AMD - Turbo Core.

Architecture

Architecture is a set of qualities and properties that distinguish an entire family of processors. In other words, this is their “organization”, “internal structure”. The newer the architecture, the more powerful the processor, since it was created using modern technologies. New models with lower clock speeds can outperform older, but “faster” processors due to modern architecture.

Cache memory is needed to store some intermediate data while commands are processed. This is a volatile, ultra-fast buffer. The cache memory is represented by a three-level structure: L1, L2 and L3. To work with demanding programs and games, you need a third level cache (L3). In other cases, this parameter is not so important.

Socket type

To install the processor on the motherboard, there is a special connector - a socket. Conventionally, this is the lifespan of the platform or the possible potential for upgrading the computer.

Important! When purchasing components, make sure that the processor and motherboard sockets are compatible.

When developing new technologies and standards, manufacturers release a processor with a new socket. This means that models with the old socket are unlikely to have the opportunity to be upgraded with new processors for the old platform - companies are refusing to release them. Therefore, when buying computer components, you should not give preference to older platforms.

TDP

This parameter indicates the theoretical maximum amount heat generated by the processor during operation (it will be useful to read “”). It depends on the manufacturer, clock frequency and technical process on which the model is built. Air and liquid cooling systems are used to remove heat.

Technical process

The technical process is calculated in nanometers (nm). It does not affect performance, but the heat dissipation of the processor depends on it. Each new generation has a smaller process technology (Intel is working on creating models with a 14nm process technology), which allows manufacturers to make processors with higher clock speeds.

Built-in graphics core

Some modern processors have a built-in graphics core, which allows you to do without a discrete video card. Depending on the power of the model, the performance of the integrated graphics also increases.

Differences between AMD and Intel

Processors from both manufacturers have their advantages and disadvantages. But AMD products are designed for the budget segment, while Intel products are designed for the more expensive and productive segment of the market.

Advantages

Flaws

Which to choose?

When choosing a processor, consider the tasks you will perform on the computer. Conventionally, they are divided into three types:

• for office work/home;
• for games;
• for demanding video processing and editing programs.

Work from home/office

Working in the office or at home involves surfing the Internet, watching videos and/or listening to audio. To perform such tasks, an undemanding processor with average technical characteristics from the middle price segment:

Games

Modern games are demanding on the processing power of processors, which must have at least four (for Intel) or six to eight (AMD) cores. It is important that the model has a third-level cache. Representatives of this class:

Demanding programs

Video rendering is a processor-intensive job high performance. Models that are suitable for such programs, as well as for modern games, belong to the high price segment:

The most powerful processor currently available for sale is the Intel Core i7-6950X.

Good to know! The cost of a processor depends directly on its power, number of cores and manufacturer.

Tests

It's difficult to say which manufacturer is better - AMD or Intel. They are developing in different directions. Moreover, only recently has AMD “coveted” high class performance with 14 nm Zen architecture processors. But it will still be difficult for them to catch up with Intel, which has already focused on producing models with a 10 nm process technology.

In general, we note that top processors from AMD compete with mid-high productive models Intel. Here is a sample performance comparison table.

If you check the processors in the CINEBENCH test and WinRAR archiver 5.0, the following results are obtained.

The performance per core of Intel processors is higher than that of competitors from AMD. Therefore, if the process is not optimized for multitasking, Intel processors handle it better.

In the case when the program “knows how” to use all cores, FX processors give a head start to some Intel models, including Core i5, as can be seen from the test with WinRAR.

Rating 2015-2016

Entry price segment

Middle price segment

High price segment

Video

To visualize the information, watch the video.

Conclusion

From the above we conclude that Intel solutions more acceptable. But their cost is unreasonably high. If you're willing to spend a large amount for processor, buy models Intel series i5 or i7. For budget computers, the option from AMD FX series or Athlon X4 is suitable.

The main element of a gaming computer is the video card, but the central processor is also important. And in the case of office, multimedia, educational and other not the most resource-intensive tasks, it affects performance even to a greater extent than graphics. The TOP of inexpensive processors in 2016 included models that deserve a place in the assembly of a budget PC.

• Price. The amount of 3000 UAH was chosen as the upper limit of cost to be included in the rating of budget processors for PCs in 2016. With a more expensive CPU, you won’t be able to build an inexpensive and powerful computer, even if it’s not for gaming.
• Relevance. The rating of PC processors 2016 includes only those CPUs that remain relevant at the time of writing. Outdated platforms, such as socket 1150 from Intel or FM1 from AMD, were not considered.
• Value for money. To get into the TOP of the best processors of 2016, it is not enough for the CPU to be inexpensive and up-to-date. It is important that in its class it stands out from its competitors, and in its line it looks the most interesting.

Taking these parameters into account, 7 models were selected for the rating of budget processors 2016, the best in their class, or in general on the market. Each of the processors is optimal for a particular type of use, and is capable of delivering sufficient performance in the conditions of 2016 and early 2017.

TOP best processors for a budget PC

7th place: AMD Athlon 5150 x4, from 949 UAH

The 2016 budget processor rating opens with the cheap quad-core AMD Athlon 5150 CPU. This is an entry-level processor designed for silent multimedia and office PCs in compact cases. AMD Athlon 5150 is equipped with four cores operating at 1.6 GHz. The capacity of the second level cache is 2 MB. The processor is produced using a not-so-new 28 nm process technology, but nevertheless the heat dissipation level is only 25 W. The CPU is designed for installation in boards with socket AM1, working with DDR3 memory.

Based on the AMD Athlon 5150, you can build a cheap computer for simple tasks, such as working with documents and surfing the web, as well as watching movies, fitting into a budget of 5 thousand hryvnia for everything together. It is equipped with integrated Radeon R3 graphics, which is enough for multimedia and office tasks, although not enough for games. However, the same WoT on low settings This processor is capable of handling graphics.

6th place: AMD Athlon X4 860K, from 1914 UAH

The next hero in the TOP budget processors for inexpensive PCs in 2016 is the AMD Athlon X4 860K. This is a more productive solution for those who need a computer that can handle games. It has 4 cores operating at frequencies up to 3.7 GHz, and thanks to the unlocked multiplier, it easily overclocks to approximately 4.5 GHz. There is a 4 MB cache on board the processor, and the chip is manufactured using a 28 nm process technology. The chip's power consumption is limited to 95 W. It is designed to work in motherboards for FM2+ socket and DDR3 memory.

The AMD Athlon X4 860K is an inexpensive quad-core processor that is suitable for entry-level gaming systems and also handles light tasks well. 4 physical cores give it an advantage over Intel Celeron and Pentium of a similar price category (up to 2000 UAH), but in terms of specific performance per core it
is significantly behind. Therefore, this budget processor made it into the TOP in 6th place.

5th place: Intel Celeron G3900, from 965 UAH

The first representative from Intel in the 2016 ranking of low-cost processors for home PCs is the Celeron G3900. It is positioned as an office solution, and although it is equipped with only two cores, their performance is quite good. They operate at a frequency of 2.8 GHz, the cache capacity is 2 MB. The chip is produced using a thin 14 nm process technology, so its consumption in reality never reaches the declared 51 W. In practice, it consumes from 10 to 30 W of energy. The Celeron G3900 is installed in socket 1151 boards that support DDR3L and DDR4 memory.

The processor more than copes with its office purpose. It is also suitable for games, but not the most demanding ones. To play normally, the built-in capabilities Intel video cards The HD 510 is clearly not enough (although it can handle WoT at minimum settings). But if you install something like a Radeon RX 460 into the system, then even normal gameplay in GTA 5 or The Witcher 3 is a reality.

4th place: AMD FX-6300, from 2595 UAH

AMD FX-6300 made it to the TOP of inexpensive processors for PCs 2016 due to the fact that it is a “people’s” six-core processor and has long been popular. It cannot be considered an ideal gaming solution, however, this processor is worth the money. Its 6 cores operate at a frequency of 3.5 GHz, and the cache size is 6 MB for the second level memory and 8 MB for the third. The chip is produced using a 32 nm process technology, so it is not very cold and emits 95 W of heat. The processor is designed for installation in motherboards with socket AM3+, but is also supported by many motherboards with AM3.

Due to good compatibility with older motherboards, a large number of cores (albeit not very powerful), and a large cache, the processor is quite good for its price. It lags behind Intel solutions (like the i3-6100) in tasks that require fast cores, but where multi-threading is important, it holds the lead. In combination with a GeForce GTX1050 Ti-level video card, the processor is capable of running all modern games at medium and high (and sometimes even more) settings.

3rd place: AMD A10-7850K, from 2632 UAH

The AMD A10-7850K is in the TOP of the best processors for a budget PC in 2016 due to the combination of a good CPU and integrated graphics. In terms of the CPU, this is the same Athlon 860K, with four cores at 3.7 GHz, 4 MB of second-level cache and overclocking support. It is also made using a 28 nm process technology and consumes up to 95 W of energy. The processor is designed for boards with FM2+ connector and works with RAM DDR3 at frequencies up to 2133 MHz.

The advantage of the AMD A10-7850K compared to the Athlon 860K is the presence of a decent built-in video card. Its integrated core can even claim to be a gaming core, while this CPU costs only 700 UAH more than its counterpart without graphics. If you buy fast memory DDR3 in a set of 2 sticks - you can even play new games without buying a discrete video card. This is the main advantage of the AMD A10-7850K for those who rarely play, but sometimes can play tanks or ships. Some GTA5 will also work, but only on degraded graphics settings.

When it comes to a gaming build, the main focus is on the video card. It is logical, because it is the graphics adapter that is responsible for supporting certain technologies, as well as for the level of performance in games. However, only a well-chosen central processor will allow it to reach its full potential. The question often arises: will such and such a chip “pump up” such and such a video card? This material is an attempt to practically determine the main characteristics of the central processor that affect the performance of a 3D accelerator in modern games.

The first quad-core processor was released in the fall of 2006. It was the Intel Core 2 Quad model, based on the Kentsfield core. At the time, popular games included bestsellers such as The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion and Half-Life 2: Episode One. The “killer of all gaming computers” Crysis has not yet appeared. And the DirectX 9 API with shader model 3.0 was in use.

But it's the end of 2015. There are 6- and 8-core central processors on the market in the desktop segment, but 2- and 4-core models are still considered popular. Gamers admire the PC versions of GTA V and The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, but it does not yet exist in nature gaming video card, capable of delivering a comfortable FPS level in 4K resolution at maximum settings graphics quality in Assassin's Creed Unity. In addition, the operating room was released Windows systems 10, which means that the era of DirectX 12 has officially arrived. As you can see, a lot of water has passed under the bridge in nine years. Therefore, the question of choosing a central processor for a gaming computer is more relevant than ever.

The essence of the problem

There is such a thing as the processor dependence effect. It can manifest itself in absolutely any computer game. If the performance of the video card is limited by the capabilities central chip, then they say that the system is processor dependent. We must understand that there is no single scheme by which the strength of this effect can be determined. It all depends on the features of the particular application, as well as the selected graphics quality settings. However, in absolutely any game, tasks such as organizing polygons, lighting and physics calculations, and modeling fall on the shoulders of the central processor. artificial intelligence and many other actions. Agree, there is plenty of work to do.

In processor-dependent games, the number of frames per second can depend on several parameters of the “stone”: architecture, clock speed, number of cores and threads, and cache size. The main purpose of this material is to identify the main criteria affecting performance graphics subsystem, as well as to form an understanding of what central the processor will do one or another discrete video card.

Frequency

How to identify processor dependence? The most effective way is empirically. Since the central processor has several parameters, let's look at them one by one. The first characteristic that most often pays close attention to is the clock frequency.

The clock speed of central processors has not increased for quite some time. At first (in the 80s and 90s), it was the increase in megahertz that led to a frantic increase in the overall level of productivity. Now the frequency of AMD and Intel central processors is frozen in the delta of 2.5-4 GHz. Everything below is too budget-friendly and not entirely suitable for a gaming computer; Anything higher is already overclocking. This is how processor lines are formed. For example, there's the Intel Core i5-6400 running at 2.7 GHz ($182) and the Core i5-6500 running at 3.2 GHz ($192). These processors have absolutely all the same characteristics, except clock speed and price.

On sale you can find chips with an unlocked multiplier. It allows you to overclock the processor yourself. At Intel, such “stones” have the letters “K” and “X” in their names. For example, Core i7-4770K and Core i7-5690X. Plus, there are separate models with an unlocked multiplier: Pentium G3258, Core i5-5675C and Core i7-5775C. AMD processors are labeled in a similar way. Thus, hybrid chips have the letter “K” in their names. There is a line of FX processors (AM3+ platform). All “stones” included in it have a free multiplier.

Modern AMD and Intel processors support automatic overclocking. In the first case it is called Turbo Core, in the second - Turbo Boost. The essence of its operation is simple: with proper cooling, the processor increases its clock frequency by several hundred megahertz during operation. For example, the Core i5-6400 operates at 2.7 GHz, but at active technology Turbo Boost this parameter can be permanently increased to 3.3 GHz. That is, exactly at 600 MHz.

I'll take a video card NVIDIA GeForce GTX TITAN X - the most powerful single-chip gaming solution modernity. And the Intel Core i5-6600K processor is a mainstream model, equipped with an unlocked multiplier. Then I'll launch Metro: Last Light - one of the most CPU-intensive games these days. The graphics quality settings in the application are selected in such a way that the number of frames per second each time depends on the performance of the processor, but not the video card. In the case of GeForce GTX TITAN X and Metro: Last Light - maximum quality graphics, but without applying anti-aliasing. Next, I will measure the average FPS level in the range from 2 GHz to 4.5 GHz in Full HD, WQHD and Ultra HD resolutions.

The most noticeable effect of processor dependence, which is logical, manifests itself in light modes. So, in 1080p, as the frequency increases, the average FPS steadily increases. The indicators turned out to be very impressive: when the speed of the Core i5-6600K increased from 2 GHz to 3 GHz, the number of frames per second increased Full HD resolution increased from 70 FPS to 92 FPS, that is, by 22 frames per second. When the frequency increases from 3 GHz to 4 GHz, it increases by another 13 FPS. Thus, it turns out that the processor used, with the given graphics quality settings, was able to “pump up” the GeForce GTX TITAN X in Full HD only from 4 GHz - it was from this point that the number of frames per second stopped growing as the CPU frequency increased.

As the resolution increases, the processor dependence effect becomes less noticeable. Namely, the number of frames stops growing starting at 3.7 GHz. Finally, in Ultra HD resolution we almost immediately ran into the potential of the graphics adapter.

There are many discrete video cards. It is customary on the market to catalog these devices into three segments: Low-end, Middle-end and High-end. Captain Obvious suggests that graphics adapters of different performance are suitable different processors with different frequencies.

Now let's take the GeForce GTX 950 video card - a representative of the upper Low-end segment (or lower Middle-end), that is, the absolute opposite of the GeForce GTX TITAN X. The device belongs to the entry level, however, it is capable of providing a decent level of performance in modern games in Full HD resolution. As can be seen from the graphs below, a processor operating at a frequency of 3 GHz “pumps up” the GeForce GTX 950 in both Full HD and WQHD. The difference with the GeForce GTX TITAN X is visible to the naked eye.

It is important to understand that the less load falls on the “shoulders” of the video card, the higher the frequency of the central processor should be. It is irrational to purchase, for example, a GeForce GTX TITAN X level adapter and use it in games at a resolution of 1600x900 pixels.

Low-end video cards (GeForce GTX 950, Radeon R7 370) will need a central processor operating at a frequency of 3 GHz or more. Middle-end segment adapters (Radeon R9 280X, GeForce GTX 770) - 3.4-3.6 GHz. Flagship high-end video cards (Radeon R9 Fury, GeForce GTX 980 Ti) - 3.7-4 GHz. Productive SLI/CrossFire connections - 4-4.5 GHz

Architecture

In reviews dedicated to the release of this or that generation of central processors, the authors continually state that the difference in performance in x86 computing from year to year is a meager 5-10%. This is a kind of tradition. Neither AMD nor Intel have seen serious progress for a long time, and phrases like “ I continue to sit on mySandyBridge, I'll wait until next year"become winged. As I already said, in games the processor also has to process a large amount of data. In this case, a reasonable question arises: to what extent is the effect of processor dependence observed in systems with different architectures?

For both AMD and Intel chips, you can identify a list of modern architectures that are still popular. They are relevant, on a global scale the difference in performance between them is not so big.

Let's take a couple of chips - Core i7-4790K and Core i7-6700K - and make them work at the same frequency. Processors based on the Haswell architecture, as is known, appeared in the summer of 2013, and Skylake solutions in the summer of 2015. That is, exactly two years have passed since the update of the line of “tak” processors (that’s what Intel calls crystals based on completely different architectures).

As you can see, there is no difference between the Core i7-4790K and Core i7-6700K, operating at the same frequencies. Skylake is ahead of Haswell in only three games out of ten: Far Cry 4 (by 12%), GTA V (by 6%) and Metro: Last Light (by 6%) - that is, in all the same processor-dependent applications. However, 6% is mere nonsense.

A few platitudes: it is obvious that it is better to assemble a gaming computer based on the maximum modern platform. After all, not only the performance of the chips themselves is important, but also the functionality of the platform as a whole.

Modern architectures, with few exceptions, have the same performance in computer games. Owners of processors from the Sandy Bridge, Ivy Bridge and Haswell families can feel quite calm. The situation is similar with AMD: all kinds of modular architecture variations (Bulldozer, Piledriver, Steamroller) in games have approximately the same level of performance

Cores and threads

The third and perhaps the determining factor limiting the performance of a video card in games is the number of CPU cores. It’s no wonder that more and more games require a quad-core CPU to be installed in their minimum system requirements. Vivid examples include such modern hits as GTA V, Far Cry 4, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, and Assassin’s Creed Unity.

As I said at the very beginning, the first quad-core processor appeared nine years ago. Now there are 6- and 8-core solutions on sale, but 2- and 4-core models are still in use. I will give a table of markings for some popular AMD and Intel lines, dividing them depending on the number of “heads”.

AMD APUs (A4, A6, A8 and A10) are sometimes called 8-, 10-, and even 12-core. It’s just that the company’s marketers also add elements of the built-in graphics module to the computing units. Indeed, there are applications that can use heterogeneous computing (when x86 cores and embedded video process the same information together), but such a scheme is not used in computer games. The computational part performs its task, the graphic part does its own.

Some Intel processors (Core i3 and Core i7) have a certain number of cores, but twice the number of threads. Hyper-Threading technology is responsible for this, which first found its application in Pentium 4 chips. Threads and cores are slightly different things, but we’ll talk about that a little later. In 2016, AMD will release processors based on the Zen architecture. For the first time, the Reds' chips will have technology similar to Hyper-Threading.

Let's do a little experiment. I took 10 popular games. I agree, such an insignificant number of applications is not enough to say with 100% certainty about full study processor dependence effect. However, the list includes only hits that clearly demonstrate trends in modern game development. Graphics quality settings were selected in such a way that the final results did not limit the capabilities of the video card. For GeForce GTX TITAN X this is maximum quality (without anti-aliasing) and Full resolution HD. The choice of such an adapter is obvious. If the processor can “pump up” the GeForce GTX TITAN X, then it can cope with any other video card. The stand used the top-end Core i7-5960X for the LGA2011-v3 platform. Testing was carried out in four modes: with activation of only 2 cores, only 4 cores, only 6 cores and 8 cores. Hyper-Threading multithreading technology was not used. Plus, testing was carried out at two frequencies: at nominal 3.3 GHz and overclocked to 4.3 GHz.

GTA V is one of the few modern games that use all eight cores of the processor. Therefore, it can be called the most processor-dependent. On the other hand, the difference between six and eight cores was not so impressive. Judging by the results, the two cores are very far behind other operating modes. The game slows down, a large number of textures are simply not drawn. A stand with four cores demonstrates noticeably better results. It lags behind the six-core one by only 6.9%, and by 11% behind the eight-core one. Whether in this case the game is worth the candle is up to you to decide. However, GTA V clearly demonstrates how the number of processor cores affects the performance of a video card in games.

The vast majority of games behave in a similar way. In seven out of ten applications, the system with two cores turned out to be processor-dependent. That is, the FPS level was limited precisely by the central processor. At the same time, in three out of ten games, the six-core stand demonstrated an advantage over the quad-core one. True, the difference cannot be called significant. The game Far Cry 4 turned out to be the most radical - it stupidly did not start on a system with two cores.

The gain from using six and eight cores in most cases turned out to be either too small or not there at all.

Three games that are loyal to the dual-core system were The Witcher 3, Assassin's Creed Unity and Tomb Raider. All modes showed identical results.

For those who are interested, I will provide a table with complete test results.

Four cores is the optimal number for today. At the same time, it is obvious that gaming computers with a dual-core processor are not worth building. In 2015, it is precisely this “stone” that is the bottleneck in the system

We've sorted out the nuclei. The test results clearly show that in most cases, four processor heads are better than two. At the same time, some Intel models (Core i3 and Core i7) can boast support for Hyper-Threading technology. Without going into details, I will note that such chips have a certain number of physical cores and double the number of virtual ones. IN common applications Hyper-Threading certainly makes sense. But how does this technology fare in games? This issue is especially relevant for the line of Core i3 processors - nominally dual-core solutions.

To determine the effectiveness of multithreading in games, I collected two test bench: with Core i3-4130 and Core i7-6700K. In both cases, the GeForce GTX TITAN X video card was used.

In almost all games, Hyper-Threading technology affected the performance of the graphics subsystem. Naturally, in better side. In some cases the difference was gigantic. For example, in The Witcher, the number of frames per second increased by 36.4%. True, in this game without Hyper-Threading, disgusting freezes were observed every now and then. I note that no such problems were noticed with the Core i7-5960X.

Concerning quad core processor Core i7 with Hyper-Threading, support for these technologies made itself felt only in GTA V and Metro: Last Light. That is, in only two games out of ten. The minimum FPS has also increased noticeably. Overall, the Core i7-6700K with Hyper-Threading was 6.6% faster in GTA V and 9.7% faster in Metro: Last Light.

Hyper-Threading in Core i3 really drags, especially if the system requirements indicate a quad-core processor model. But in the case of Core i7, the performance increase in games is not so significant

Cache

We've sorted out the basic parameters of the central processor. Each processor has a certain amount of cache. Today, modern integrated solutions use up to four levels of this type of memory. The cache of the first and second levels, as a rule, is determined by the architectural features of the chip. The L3 cache may vary from model to model. I will provide a small table for your reference.

So, more productive Core i7 processors have 8 MB of third-level cache, while less fast Core i5 processors have 6 MB. Will this 2 MB affect gaming performance?

It's very easy to check. To do this, you need to take two processors from Core lines i5 and Core i7, set them to the same frequency and disable Hyper-Threading technology. As a result, in the nine games tested, only F1 2015 showed a noticeable difference of 7.4%. The rest of the 3D entertainment did not respond in any way to the 2-MB deficit in the third level cache of the Core i5-6600K.

The difference in L3 cache between Core i5 and Core i7 processors in most cases does not affect system performance in modern games

AMD or Intel?

All tests discussed above were carried out using Intel processors. However, this does not mean at all that we do not consider AMD solutions as the basis for a gaming computer. Below are the test results using the FX-6350 chip used in AMD's most powerful AM3+ platform, using four and six cores. Unfortunately, I did not have an 8-core AMD “stone” at my disposal.

GTA V has already proven itself to be the most CPU-intensive game. Using four cores in an AMD system, the average FPS level was higher than, for example, a Core i3 (without Hyper-Threading). In addition, in the game itself, the image was rendered smoothly, without stuttering. But in all other cases Intel cores turned out to be consistently faster. The difference between processors is significant.

Below is a table with full testing of the AMD FX processor.

There is no noticeable difference between AMD and Intel in only two games: The Witcher and Assassin’s Creed Unity. In principle, the results lend themselves perfectly to logic. They reflect the real balance of power in the central processor market. Intel cores are noticeably more powerful. Including in games. Four AMD cores compete with two Intel. At the same time, the average FPS is often higher for the latter. Six AMD cores compete with the four threads of the Core i3. Logically, the eight “heads” of the FX-8000/9000 should impose fight Core i5. Yes, AMD cores are absolutely deservedly called “half-cores”. These are the features of modular architecture.

The result is banal. Intel solutions are better for gaming. However, among budget solutions (Athlon X4, FX-4000, A8, Pentium, Celeron), AMD products are preferable. Testing has shown that the slower four cores perform better in CPU-dependent games than the faster two Intel cores. In the mid and high price ranges (Core i3, Core i5, Core i7, A10, FX-6000, FX-8000, FX-9000) Intel solutions are already preferable

DirectX 12

As was already said at the very beginning of the article, with Windows release 10, DirectX 12 became available for computer game developers. The DirectX 12 architecture finally determined the direction of development of modern game development: developers began to need low-level software interfaces. The main task of the new API is to rationally use the hardware capabilities of the system. This includes the use of all processor threads, general-purpose calculations on the GPU, and direct access to graphics adapter resources.

Windows 10 has just arrived. However, there are already applications in nature that support DirectX 12. For example, Futuremark has integrated the Overhead subtest into the benchmark. This preset is able to determine the performance of a computer system using not only the DirectX 12 API, but also AMD Mantle. Principle API work Overhead is simple. DirectX 11 imposes limits on the number of processor rendering commands. DirectX 12 and Mantle solve this problem by allowing more rendering commands to be called. Thus, during the test, an increasing number of objects are displayed. Until the graphics adapter stops handling them and FPS drops below 30 frames. For testing I used a stand with Core processor i7-5960X and Radeon video card R9 NANO. The results turned out to be very interesting.

Noteworthy is the fact that in patterns using DirectX 11, changing the number of CPU cores has virtually no effect on the overall result. But with using DirectX 12 and Mantle the picture changes dramatically. Firstly, the difference between DirectX 11 and low-level APIs turns out to be simply cosmic (by an order of magnitude). Secondly, the number of “heads” of the central processor significantly affects the final result. This is especially noticeable when moving from two cores to four and from four to six. In the first case, the difference reaches almost twofold. At the same time, there are no special differences between six and eight cores and sixteen threads.

As you can see, the potential of DirectX 12 and Mantle (in the 3DMark benchmark) is simply enormous. One thing to remember is that we are dealing with synthetics, they don’t play with them. In reality, it makes sense to evaluate the profit from using the latest low-level APIs only in real computer entertainment.

The first computer games supporting DirectX 12 are already looming on the horizon. These are Ashes of the Singularity and Fable Legends. They are in active beta testing. Recently, colleagues from Anandtech conducted large-scale testing of Fable Legends with DirectX 12. The results were not as impressive as we might have liked.

Testing was carried out with three Intel processors and two video cards: GeForce GTX 980 Ti and Radeon R9 Fury X. Processor dependence was observed only in a very low resolution of 1280x720 (720p), which is not surprising. In more high resolutions the stands demonstrated almost identical results.

Finally

Let's summarize all the information received. What should be the ideal central processor for a gaming computer? First, it must have a minimum of four threads. Testing has shown that the Hyper-Treading technology in the Core i3 actually helps increase the number of frames per second. If we're talking about Intel processors, then the golden mean is Core models i5. At the same time, several games have demonstrated that they are well optimized for working with 6- and 8-core “stones”. Why Core i5? Unfortunately, the price difference between the quad-core Core i5-6600K and the six-core Core i7-5820K is no less than $147, and the difference in performance in games is a few percent.

If we are talking about AMD processors, then for video cards top level Middle-end, as well as High-end, will only need an 8-core FX-8000/9000 chip. At the same time in budget segment 4-core AMD models (A8, Athlon X4) look preferable to dual-core Intel Pentium/Celeron. On average and high ranges the opposite situation is observed. The superiority of Intel processors is noticeable here.

If you try to make a recommendation for choosing a processor for a gaming computer in one phrase, it will turn out something like this: take Core i5.

Secondly, the processor clock speed is important. High-end Low-end video cards and lower level Middle-end models operating at speeds of 3 GHz and higher are suitable. For upper-level Middle-end and entry-level High-end adapters - 3.4-3.6 GHz. Flagship representatives AMD Radeon and NVIDIA GeForce will require a central processor running at 3.7-4 GHz. Finally, tandems of top-end CrossFire/SLI video cards require a chip operating at frequencies of 4-4.5 GHz and higher. Let’s not forget about such a point as rational use of the graphics adapter.

Testing has shown that architectural features do not greatly affect gaming performance. Therefore, for assembling a gaming computer, solutions built on the basis of modern architectures are equally suitable: Intel has Sandy Bridge, Ivy Bridge, Haswell, Broadwell and Skylake; AMD has Bulldozer, Piledriver and Steamroller.

In conclusion, I will provide a table in which, according to my opinion, I will try to place processors and video cards in their places. I hope you find it useful.