Summary table of processor performance. Processors
Now smartphones can process a mountain of information if desired. Their processor power is enough to solve absolutely any problem. At the same time, modern chipsets consume a minimal amount of electricity, for which we should thank the improved technical process. Our rating of smartphone processors will tell you about the most powerful models. Devices based on them can be blamed for anything, but certainly not for lack of power!
Good to know!
Now the most famous companies in the mobile processor market are the following:
- Qualcomm- produces chipsets from the Snapdragon series;
- Samsung- creates Exynos chips;
- MediaTek- flagship processors are distributed under the Helio brand;
- Huawei- chipsets under the HiSilicon sub-brand are mainly built into their own smartphones.
At the same time, it is impossible to say exactly which chips are more powerful and which are weaker. Of course, there are all kinds of tests and benchmarks. But their result can be called conditional, hypothetical. In practice, each processor operates in its own mode, rarely raising clock speeds to maximum. And yet, our rating can be considered correct - the mobile processors left out of it suffer from certain shortcomings, and devices based on them cannot be called ideal.
Our top may not include recently announced models. We decided to talk only about those products whose smartphones are already on store shelves.
Samsung Exynos 8 Octa 8890
- Year of issue: 2016
- Technical process: 14 nm
- Architecture: Samsung Exynos M1 + ARM Cortex-A53 (ARMv8-A)
- Video accelerator: Mali-T880, 12 cores, 650 MHz
Geekbench result: 5940 points
If not the best processor for a smartphone, then at least one of those worthy of this title. It’s not for nothing that all variations of the South Korean Galaxy S7 are equipped with it. Is it possible to blame this flagship for lack of power? The chipset can easily handle 4K video at 60 fps. It consists of eight cores. The maximum frequency is 2290 MHz. But it rarely comes to raising it to such a level, since lower frequencies are quite enough to solve most problems.
Unfortunately, the processor also has certain problems. It just so happens that South Korean chipsets are not equipped with the best video accelerator (GPU). Here too, the Mali-T880, despite its 12 cores, performs strictly to the “good” rating, but nothing more. This is proven by tests in GFXBench, where in terms of graphics, the Samsung Exynos 8 Octa 8890 is ahead of some other chipsets reviewed today.
Advantages
- Supports video in 2160p resolution at 60 frames/s;
- Not very hot;
- Low energy consumption;
- High scores in benchmarks.
Flaws
- The memory test does not show the best results;
- The graphics accelerator could perform better.
Samsung Galaxy S7, Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge, Samsung Galaxy Golden 4
Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 MSM8996
- Year of issue: 2015
- Technical process: 14 nm FinFET
- Architecture: Qualcomm Kryo
- Video accelerator: Adreno 530, 624 MHz
Geekbench result: 4890 points
Qualcomm does not have its own production facilities. However, it has many patents at its disposal. And with them, developing a processor close to ideal is not difficult, after which all that remains is to place an order for production from other companies. Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 pleases with both computing power and graphics processing capabilities. Many flagships released in 2016 were equipped with this chipset. And none of their customers complained about the graphics in mobile games!
The chip consists of only four cores. However, this did not stop it from scoring record scores in benchmarks - not least thanks to the graphics accelerator. The maximum frequency of this processor is 2150 MHz. At the hardware level, the chipset supports HDMI 2.0, USB 3.0, and Bluetooth 4.1. In short, the processor could easily cope even with the tasks assigned to a laptop! It also features support for a camera with a resolution of up to 28 megapixels - which is why Sony chose this processor, whose flagship smartphones have just such a sensor.
Advantages
- Very high resolution camera support;
- Capable of processing Full HD video at up to 240 frames/s;
- Supports 10-bit 4K video;
- Windows devices use DirectX 11.2;
- Very high clock speed;
- Not very high energy consumption;
- High scores in benchmarks;
- The memory test leads to high results;
- Excellent performance in games.
Flaws
- Sometimes it gets quite hot.
The most popular smartphones: Motorola Moto Z Force, Elite X3, ASUS ZenFone 3, HTC 10, Samsung Galaxy S7, Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge, Sony Xperia X Performance, Sony Xperia XR, Xiaomi Mi5 Pro, ZTE Nubia Z11
HiSilicon Kirin 95
- Year of manufacture: 2016
- Technical process: 16 nm
- Architecture:
- Video accelerator: Mali-T880, 4 cores
Geekbench result: 6000 points
This chipset is manufactured using a 16-nanometer process technology, which indicates its decent energy efficiency. The maximum frequency here has been increased to 2.5 GHz. The creators had to take this step because of the Mali-T880 graphics accelerator, which does not cope with its task in the best way.
The Chinese chipset consists of eight cores, four of which can be called auxiliary. Paired with a GPU, it is capable of playing 4K video at 60 fps. But the processor is only capable of playing back - independently creating video recordings - in 1080p resolution. And this despite the fact that the chip even supports dual cameras, the total resolution of which is 42 megapixels. It is also able to recognize Bluetooth 4.2 and USB 3.0 modules.
Advantages
- Supports many modern wireless technologies;
- Almost record clock speed;
- There are no big problems with overheating;
- Can decode 4K video at 60fps;
- Supports dual high definition cameras.
Flaws
- The graphics accelerator shows poor results.
The most popular smartphones: Huawei P9, Huawei P9 Plus, Huawei Honor V8, Huawei Honor Note 8.
HiSilicon Kirin 950
- Year of issue: 2015
- Technical process: 16 nm
- Architecture: 4x ARM Cortex-A72 + 4x ARM Cortex-A53
- Video accelerator: Mali-T880, 4 cores, 900 MHz
Geekbench result: 5950 points
In 2015-2016, this processor was used by many Huawei smartphones. The chipset consists of eight cores, the power of four of them can reach 2300 MHz. It would seem that the result is quite good. But not everything is so simple. The weak point of the chip is the graphics accelerator. The first version of Mali-T880 is used here. It copes well with video decoding - in theory, you can even run 4K video at 60 frames/s. But in games this GPU performs disgustingly, especially by flagship standards.
However, you can’t find fault with the computing power of this chipset, which is why it made it into our top processors. The product supports Bluetooth 4.2 and USB 3.0 standards, although the Chinese giant has not really produced smartphones with such high-speed interfaces, preferring to save money. Also, in theory, the processor copes with the data stream from a dual camera with a total resolution of 42 megapixels.
Advantages
- Supports USB 3.0 and Bluetooth 4.2;
- High computing power;
- Support for modern memory formats;
- Not very expensive to produce;
- Decodes high definition video;
- Capable of handling a dual 42-megapixel camera.
Flaws
- The graphics accelerator could be much better;
- Cannot provide the camera with 4K video recording.
The most popular smartphones: Huawei Honor 8, Huawei Honor Note 8, Huawei Mate 8, Huawei Honor V8.
Apple A9X APL1021
- Year of issue: 2015
- Technical process: 16 nm
- Architecture: Apple Twister 64-bit ARMv8-compatible
- Video accelerator: PowerVR Series 7X, 12 cores
Geekbench result : 5400 points
Why do game developers primarily target Apple smartphones and tablets? Is it really only their owners who can afford to buy a toy? No, everything is much simpler. This is the technique that games work best on. The Apple A9X APL1021 processor is equipped with an almost ideal graphics accelerator, which can solve absolutely any problem! If Apple wanted, it could even implement a 4K video recording feature at 60 frames per second!
As for computing power, everything is fine here, although the processor still does not score record scores in benchmarks. It would seem that only two cores are used here. But for solving everyday problems this is quite enough. Not least because of the better optimized operating system.
Advantages
- High power of two cores;
- Excellent 12-core graphics accelerator;
- Full support for 4K video at 60 fps;
- Support for many modern technologies;
- Recognizes modern memory formats.
Flaws
Apple iPad Pro
MediaTek MT6797 Helio X25
- Year of issue: 2016
- Technical process: 20 nm
- Architecture: 2x ARM Cortex-A72 + 4x ARM Coptex-A53 + 4x ARM Coptex-A53
- Video accelerator: Mali-T880MP4, 4 cores, 850 MHz
Geekbench result: 4920 points
A processor with a rather complex structure. It consists of ten nuclei belonging to two varieties. The two cores are the most powerful - they belong to the Cortex-A72 type, and their clock speed can reach 2500 MHz. The remaining computing cores belong to the Cortex-A53 type. Moreover, half of them are overclocked to a frequency of 2000 MHz, while the rest are limited to 1550 MHz.
All this allows the processor to score a lot of points in benchmarks. And the result would have been even higher if not for the graphics accelerator. This element here is seriously limited in its capabilities. Yes, it supports full work with 4K video, including its creation, but only at 30 fps. And in games the GPU copes with its task even worse. As for other characteristics, we should highlight support for 32-megapixel cameras and the Bluetooth 4.1 standard. The maximum display resolution of a smartphone with such a chipset can reach 2560 x 1600 pixels.
Advantages
- Support for 32 MP camera;
- Very high computing power;
- Relatively low power consumption;
- Although limited, there is support for 4K video;
- Low cost chipset.
Flaws
- The GPU performs poorly in games;
- No Bluetooth 4.2 support.
The most popular smartphones: Meizu Pro 6, Oukitel K6000 Premium, Xiaomi Redmi Pro, Zopo Speed 8, Vernee Apollo.
Qualcomm Snapdragon 625 MSM8953
- Year of issue: 2016
- Technical process: 14 nm
- Architecture: ARM Cortex-A53 (ARMv8)
- Video accelerator: Adreno 506
Geekbench result: 4900 points
One of Qualcomm's most popular creations. It is endowed with a huge number of smartphones from the mid-budget and even top segments. The manufacturer did not bother with the architecture, giving the chipset eight identical cores. The maximum clock frequency is 2000 MHz, which is quite enough for the average user.
The graphics accelerator here is optimized for processing video content. Theoretically, a smartphone built on the basis of this processor is capable of playing and recording 4K video at 60 frames per second. But in games some problems begin. Although their presence is surprising, because the GPU even has support for DirectX 12, which is activated on devices with Windows on board. The chipset also supports a dual camera, the total resolution of which does not exceed 24 megapixels. The only thing missing here is USB 3.0 support. However, smartphone creators do not like to integrate such high-speed connectors into their creations.
Advantages
- Dual camera supported;
- Fast charging technology is well implemented;
- High power of all eight cores;
- Full support for 4K video content at 60 fps;
- Relatively low cost.
Flaws
- Camera resolution cannot exceed 24 megapixels;
- No Bluetooth 4.2 support;
- Display resolution cannot exceed 1920 x 1200 pixels;
- In games, the chipset does not perform well.
The most popular smartphones: Huawei G9 Plus, ASUS ZenFone 3, Fujitsu Easy, Huawei Maimang 5, Lenovo Vibe P2, Motorola Moto Z Play, Samsung Galaxy C7.
Qualcomm Snapdragon 620 APQ8076
- Year of issue: 2016
- Technical process: 28 nm
- Architecture: 4x ARM Cortex-A72 + 4x ARM Cortex-A53
- Video accelerator: Adreno 510
Geekbench result: 4886 points
This chipset is also known as the Snapdragon 652. It is one of the last processors that is still produced on the 28nm process. The creators are not at all embarrassed by the relatively large size of the chip, since it is built mainly into tablets.
The processor consists of eight computing cores. The clock frequency of four of them can reach 1800 MHz. This is quite enough for the tablet to solve basic tasks without any hesitation. The chipset also includes the Adreno 510 graphics accelerator. There are no special complaints about it, because no one will expect excellent graphics performance from the tablet. It should be noted that theoretically the chip supports video processing in 2160p resolution at 30 frames/s. It also boasts support for Bluetooth 4.1 and proprietary Quick Charge 3.0 fast charging technology.
Advantages
- Supports devices with high screen resolutions;
- Great computing power;
- Albeit limited, but still support for 4K video;
- Built-in fast charging technology.
Flaws
- No Bluetooth 4.2 support;
- Still not the best graphics accelerator.
Most popular devices: Samsung Galaxy Tab S2 Plus 8.0, Samsung Galaxy Tab S2 Plus 9.7.
MediaTek MT6797M Helio X20
- Year of issue: 2016
- Technical process: 20 nm
- Architecture: 2x ARM Cortex-A72 + 4x ARM Cortex-A53 + 4x ARM Cortex-A53
- Video accelerator: Mali-T880MP4, 4 cores, 780 MHz
Geekbench result: 5130 points
Many mobile processors have four or even eight cores. In the case of the MediaTek MT6797M Helio X20, their number has been increased to ten. As a result, the performance of the chipset is very high. Especially in applications that do not require serious graphics processing. It should be noted that only two computing cores are particularly powerful here - their clock frequency reaches 2300 MHz. The remaining nuclei are divided into two groups. One can please you with a frequency of 1850 MHz, while the other has this parameter fixed at 1400 MHz. But the result in any case is very good, which is confirmed by synthetic tests, and by the smartphones themselves - the interface on them does not slow down at all thanks to the chipset.
As for the graphics accelerator, everything is much worse here. Theoretically, it copes with viewing and recording 4K video at 30 frames per second. But in games you immediately feel a lack of power. Modern games will run on a smartphone with such a processor, but with simplified graphics. Especially if the device has a screen with Full HD resolution or higher. It should also be noted that the processor supports almost any mobile camera - as long as the module resolution does not exceed 32 megapixels.
Geekbench result: 4610 points
There are two versions of the Qualcomm Snapdragon 620 processor, also known as the Snapdragon 652. The first is the MSM8976, which was released in 2015. A year later, a slightly more improved version was released - APQ8076, which was received by some Samsung tablets. The products are practically no different from each other. They have eight cores, half of which are capable of increasing the frequency to 1800 MHz. Both processors are equipped with a far from ideal Adreno 510 graphics accelerator.
Qualcomm's creation is capable of supporting smartphones whose display has a resolution of no higher than 2560 x 1600 pixels. As for the camera, it is possible to process data coming from a dual module, the total resolution of which does not exceed 21 megapixels. Everything is fine with the module and its capabilities for processing data coming from dual-channel LPDDR3 memory.
Advantages
- High performance;
- View 4K video at 30 fps;
- Theoretical possibility of recording video in 1080p and 120 frames/s;
- Not very high cost;
- Dual camera support;
- Screen resolution can reach 2560 x 1600 pixels.
Flaws
- Bluetooth 4.2 is not supported;
- The maximum camera resolution cannot be very high.
The most popular smartphones: Vivo X6S A, Vivo X7, Vivo X7 Plus, LeEco Le2, G5 SE, Oppo R9 Plus, Samsung Galaxy A9 Pro (2016), ZTE Nubia Z11 Max, Xiaomi Mi Max
This material will provide The leading manufacturer of these products is Intel. This company has a dominant positionIn this high-tech market, its semiconductor solutions can be found in almost all its segments.
Why Intel?
As noted earlier, Intel silicon chips form the basis of most electronic devices. Starting with smartphones and tablets, continuing with netbooks, ultrabooks and laptops and ending with high-performance personal computers - most of this technology is based on semiconductor products from this leading manufacturer. Therefore, the performance rating of Intel processors as accurately as possible for eachsegments of this large marketwill allow us to determine the most optimaltechnical specifications.Intel's competitors are focusing on them and, due to this, are trying to catch up with the leading manufacturer of semiconductor products.
Mobile gadgets segment
The performance rating of smartphone processors based on Intel chips includes the latest devices from the ATOM series. This line includes X3, X5 and X7. The least productive in this case are the first semiconductor solutions, and this model range includes C3405 and C3445.
Their technical parameters are identical: 4 computing modules, frequency range 1.2-1.4 GHz, 1 MB cache memory and 28 nm production technology. The key difference between these two semiconductor products is that the first is designed for use in tablets and does not have a mobile communications module, while the second is designed for the smartphone market and is equipped with a cellular transceiver. The X5 line also includes two CPU models: Z8300 and Z8500. They also have 4 code processing units, but these crystals are produced according to 14 nm standards, are equipped with a large cache volume of 2 MB and clock frequencies for the first of them are in the range of 1.44-1.84 GHz, and for the second - 1.44 -2.24 GHz.
The flagship of the X7 line, in this case, is one - Z8700. Its characteristics are almost identical to the X5. The only difference is the clock speeds - 1.6-2.4 GHz. The main technical specifications of this family of processors are given in the table below.
Characteristics of the family of processors for smartphones and tablets
Chip family | CPU model | Frequencies, GHz | Cash, MB | Number of cores, pieces | Technology, nm |
X3 | S3405 | 1.2-1.4 GHz | |||
S3445 |
|||||
X5 | Z8300 | 1,44-1,84 | |||
Z8500 | 1,44-2,24 |
||||
X7 | Z8700 | 1,6-2,4 |
Laptop niche
The level of office solutions is occupied by solutionsCeleron ( models G3900 And G3920).There are no fundamental differences between them. Only in the latter case is it slightly increased from 2.8 GHz to 2.9 GHz. Otherwise, these are excellent chips for creating an office computing system.
The entry level in this case is also occupied by the line’s CPUsPentium ( models G4400, G4500 And G4520).Their performance level is almost identical. These chips are great for basic gaming systems. But in this case the owneryou will have to refuse to run the most demanding games, which due to insufficient hardware specifications will not work on such a PC.
The middle level, as in the case of laptops, is filled with CPUCore i3. Their models are 6100, 6300 and 6320. Their performance is more than enough for comfortable gameplay in any modern game. The main factor that increases productivity is the presence of NT technology and an increase in program code processing threads from 2 to 4.
Processor performance rating from Intel for desktops will not be complete if you lose sight of the CPU seriesi5 And i7. ABOUTThey provide phenomenal performance and allow you to solve all currently possible problems.Models 6400, 6500 and 6600 - for the linei5, 6700 - for ruler i7.
WITH The segment of office-class solutions in this case is occupied by line CPUsCeleron.Maximum autonomy and minimum speed, which is only enough foroffice applications, web surfing and other undemanding tasks, in this case come to the fore. This line includes two CPU models -N3350 And N3450.The key difference between them is the number of computational units. The first chip has only 2 of them, and the second has 4. Accordingly, in the second case the performance will be slightly better.
Entry-level laptops are based on the line's CPUsPentiumwhich currently consists of 1 chip -N4200.Improved technical specifications of this processor allow it to demonstrate higher performance. As a result, this chip can even run some games with minimal hardware specifications.
Mid-range mobile computing systems are based on line CPUsCore i3.As in the previous case, only one model belongs to this family of processor devices - 7100U.Improved technical parameters compared to previous chips and the presence of NT technology can significantly increase productivity, in this case it is possible to launch almost all toys. The only exceptions in this case are those that put forward the most stringent requirements for the microprocessor architecture.
N the most powerful laptops are based on chipsi5 And i7.Excellent technical parameters and phenomenal performance allow owners of such computers to solve any problem. In this case, even the latest and most demanding toys will work without any problems.These CPU families are currently represented by the following models: 7200U And 7Y54 For i5 And 7500U And 7Y75 For i7respectively.
Desktops
Processor performance rating for desktop computing systems, much of it duplicates what was previously given for laptops. Only if in the previous case R We were talking about the 7th generation of chips, but in this case the 6th comes to the fore. The update of the CPU lineup in this case is planned for January 2017. As a result, the current rating is as follows:
Summary
Within the framework of this material, the currently relevantfrom the leading manufacturer of semiconductor products - Intel. With its help, you can determine the ownership of the device and find out a list of tasks that can be solved with its help.
Vacations are in full swing, but the weather outside is not very good. What would you do with something like that? I suggest spending time with pleasure: playing computer games. Is your “old man” not up to modern toys? Maybe, . But which one?
Today's article is designed to help you decide on the choice of “pebble” for your gaming PC. The rating of the best processors as of mid-summer 2017 included models that showed the optimal balance in terms of performance and price. For your convenience, we have divided them into 3 groups: costing approximately $100, approximately $200 and approximately $300. So that no one feels left out, each group consists of a pair of processors - one Intel and one AMD.
Around $100: Intel Core i3-7100 and AMD FX-8320
Intel Core i3-7100
Yes, it has only 2 cores, but this drawback is compensated by a high clock frequency (3900 Mhz), support for DDR4-2400 memory and, to some extent, Hyper Threading technology, which allows the operating system to use each physical core as 2 logical ones. In addition, the “pebble” has good built-in graphics with support for 4k resolution at 60 Hz. Thanks to it, you will be able to do without a discrete video card if for some reason you put off purchasing one.
Specifications
- Microarchitecture: Kaby Lake (7th generation).
- Number of cores: 2.
- Clock frequency: 3900 Mhz.
- Socket: LGA1151.
- Process technology: 14 nm.
- Multiplier: 34, unlocked.
- L1 cache: 64 Kb (instructions + data).
- L2 cache: 512 Kb.
- L3 cache: 3072 Kb.
- PCI Express controller: yes.
- Technologies: Hyper Threading, EM64T (x64 support), Virtualization Technology (virtualization), Enhanced SpeedStep (power saving), hardware encryption, XD Bit, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSE4, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, SSSE3, VT-x,MMX.
- Thermal power (TDP): 51 W.
- : 100 °C
The most attractive qualities of the Core i3-7100: high performance, reasonable price, integrated graphics and low TDP - the small cooler included in the kit is enough to cool the processor even under maximum load.
Disadvantage – it only works on Windows 10 (as well as Linux and Mac OS). Those who just can’t part with the “seven” and “eight” will have to choose – either the system or a new processor. By the way, this drawback applies not only to the Intel Core i3-7100, but to the entire Kaby Lake and AMD Ryzen line.
AMD FX-8320
8 cores, 4000 Mhz frequencies with the ability to increase to 4600 Mhz or more due to overclocking by a multiplier (here, unlike its competitor Intel, it is free), as well as support for DDR3-1866 memory perform well in multi-threaded games like Battlefield.
Specifications
- Microarchitecture: Vishera.
- Number of cores: 8.
- Clock frequency: 3500-4000
- Socket: AM3+.
- Technological process: 32 nm.
- Multiplier: 17.5, free.
- Integrated graphics: no.
- L1 cache: 96 Kb.
- L2 cache: 2048 Kb.
- L3 cache: 8192 Kb.
- PCI Express controller: no.
- Maximum supported memory size: 128 GB.
- Supported memory standards: DDR3-800/1066/1333/1600/1866. There is ECC support.
- Technologies: AMD64 (x64 support), Virtualization Technology, AMD PowerNow (noise reduction), Turbo Core 3.0 (increasing frequency during peak loads), NX Bit, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSE4, SSE1, SSE4.2, SSSE3, MMX, VT, XOP, TBM.
- Thermal power (TDP): 125 W.
Advantages of the AMD FX-8320: high performance, reasonable price ($115-120), the multiplier makes it possible to build an inexpensive gaming computer that will remain relevant for the next 3-4 years.
Disadvantages: very hot - requires a powerful cooling system, consumes a lot of energy, does not have a graphics core.
About $200: Intel Core i5-7500 and AMD Ryzen 5 1600
Intel Core i5-7500
The clock frequency of this processor reaches 3800 Mhz (or a little more) with dynamic overclocking, there is built-in video - the same as the i3-7100, and support for DDR4-2400 memory.
Specifications
- Microarchitecture: Kaby Lake.
- Number of cores: 4.
- Clock frequency: 3400-3800
- Socket: LGA1151.
- Process technology: 14 nm.
- Multiplier: 39, unlocked.
- Built-in graphics: HD Graphics 630.
- Graphics core frequency: 1100 Mhz.
- L2 cache: 1024 Kb.
- L3 cache: 6144 Kb.
- PCI Express controller: yes.
- Number of PCI Express 3.0 lanes: 16.
- Maximum supported memory size: 64 GB.
- Supported memory standards: DDR3L-1333/1600, DDR4-2133/2400.
- Technologies: Turbo Boost0 (increasing frequency during peak loads), EM64T, Virtualization Technology, Enhanced SpeedStep, Intel vPro (remote computer control outside the OS), hardware encryption, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSE4, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, SSE4a , SSSE3, MMX, TBT 2.0, VT-x, XD Bit.
- Maximum temperature: 80 °C
Advantages of the Intel Core i5-7500: fast, cool (TDP 65 W), supports dynamic overclocking (Turbo Boost 2.0), has built-in graphics, and the Intel vPro function is implemented. The latter allows you to remotely edit the BIOS and run diagnostic tests outside the operating system by connecting to your computer over the network.
Disadvantages - no support for the universally beloved Windows 7, no hyperthreading, locked multiplier (at this price, as many believe, they could implement Hyper Threading and make multiplication free).
AMD Ryzen 5 1600
Processors based on the Zen microarchitecture, one of which is the Ryzen 5 1600, are characterized by low power consumption and TDP (which is unusual for the bulk of AMD products). In addition, the boxed model includes a compact, efficient and quiet cooler, the power of which is sufficient even with some overclocking.
Specifications
- Number of cores: 6.
- Clock frequency: 3200-3600 Mhz.
- Socket: AM4.
- Process technology: 14 nm.
- Multiplier: 32, free.
- Integrated graphics: no.
- L1 cache: 96 Kb.
- L2 cache: 3072 Kb.
- L3 cache: 16384 Kb.
- PCI Express controller: yes.
- Number of PCI Express 3.0 lanes: 16.
- Maximum supported memory size: 64 GB.
- Supported memory standards: DDR4-1866/2666.
- Technology support: multithreading, AMD64, virtualization, hardware encryption, Precision Boost (increasing clock cycles during peak loads), Pure Power (energy saving), SSE instructions, SSE2, SSE3, SSE4, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, SSE4a, SSSE3, MMX .
- Thermal power (TDP): 65 W.
Pros of AMD Ryzen 5 1600: excellent performance at a moderate price ($200-210), low heating, low power consumption, overclocking, the ability to unleash the potential of any modern video card.
Cons: no integrated graphics, no support for Windows 7.
Around $300: Intel Core i7-7700K and AMD Ryzen 7 1700
Intel Core i7-7700K
Specifications
- Microarchitecture: Kaby Lake.
- Number of cores: 4.
- Clock frequency: 4200-4500
- Socket: LGA1151.
- Process technology: 14 nm.
- Multiplier: 42, free.
- Built-in graphics: HD Graphics 630.
- Graphics core frequency: 1150 Mhz.
- L1 cache: 128 Kb (instructions + data).
- L2 cache: 1024 Kb.
- L3 cache: 8192 Kb.
- PCI Express controller: yes.
- Number of PCI Express 3.0 lanes: 16.
- Maximum supported memory size: 64 GB.
- Supported memory standards: DDR3L-1333-1600, DDR4-2133-2400.
- Technologies supported: Hyper-Threading, Turbo Boost0, EM64T, Virtualization Technology, Enhanced SpeedStep, hardware encryption, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSE4, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, SSSE3, MMX, XD Bit.
- Thermal power (TDP): 91 W.
- Maximum temperature: 100 °C
Strengths of the Intel Core i7-7700K: the best ratio of performance in games and purchase costs ($300-315), unlocked multiplier, high-performance video core. In short, a good foundation for the future.
Weaknesses: in case of overclocking, it requires a powerful, expensive cooling system; it does not support Windows 7.
AMD Ryzen 7 1700
“Under the hood” of this processor: 8 physical and 16 virtual cores, a free multiplier, 16 Mb L3, support for DDR4-2933, 24 PCI Express lanes (competitors have 16), the frequency of each core in dynamic overclocking is 3700 MHz, when overclocked by the multiplier – up to approximately 4100 MHz. There is no built-in video card, but the systems for which the Ryzen 7 1700 is intended do not need it. Besides, he's cold. Even under intense load (by the way, it is extremely difficult to load it 100%), it does not heat above 50 °C.
The cost of the model is comparable to the Core i7-7700K.
Specifications
- Microarchitecture: Summit Ridge (Zen).
- Number of cores: 8.
- Clock frequency: 3000-3700 MHz.
- Socket: AM4.
- Process technology: 14 nm.
- Multiplier: 30, free.
- Integrated graphics: no.
- L1 cache: 256 Kb (instructions + data).
- L2 cache: 4096 Kb.
- L3 cache: 16384 Kb.
- PCI Express controller: yes.
- Number of PCI Express 3.0 lanes: 24.
- Maximum supported memory size: 64 GB.
- Supported memory standards: DDR4-1866/2933.
- Technology support: multithreading, AMD64, virtualization, hardware encryption, Precision Boost, Pure Power, SSE instructions, SSE2, SSE3, SSE4, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, SSE4a, SSSE3, MMX.
- Thermal power (TDP): 65 W.
- Maximum temperature: 90 °C
Advantages of AMD Ryzen 7 1700: amazing power, multitasking, versatility, energy efficiency. The disadvantage is that there is no support for older versions of Windows.
According to many owners and experts, the Ryzen 7 1700 is AMD’s huge leap forward. The release of this processor showed that the “reds” are far from being as hopelessly behind as they are thought to be, and are still capable of giving the “blues” a hard time. As they say, they harness for a long time, but go quickly.
This article will take a detailed look at the latest generations of Intel processors based on the Kor architecture. This company occupies a leading position in the computer systems market, and most PCs are currently assembled on its semiconductor chips.
Intel's development strategy
All previous generations of Intel processors were subject to a two-year cycle. This company’s update release strategy is called “Tick-Tock.” The first stage, called "Tick", consisted of converting the CPU to a new technological process. For example, in terms of architecture, the Sandy Bridge (2nd generation) and Ivy Bridge (3rd generation) generations were almost identical. But the production technology of the former was based on 32 nm standards, and the latter - 22 nm. The same can be said about HasWell (4th generation, 22 nm) and BroadWell (5th generation, 14 nm). In turn, the “So” stage means a radical change in the architecture of semiconductor crystals and a significant increase in performance. Examples include the following transitions:
1st generation Westmere and 2nd generation Sandy Bridge. The technological process in this case was identical - 32 nm, but the changes in terms of chip architecture were significant - the north bridge of the motherboard and the built-in graphics accelerator were transferred to the CPU.
3rd generation "Ivy Bridge" and 4th generation "HasWell". The power consumption of the computer system has been optimized and the clock frequencies of the chips have been increased.
5th generation "BroadWell" and 6th generation "SkyLike". The frequency has been increased again, power consumption has been further improved, and several new instructions have been added to improve performance.
Segmentation of processor solutions based on the Kor architecture
Intel's central processing units have the following positioning:
The most affordable solutions are Celeron chips. They are suitable for assembling office computers that are designed to solve the most simple tasks.
One step higher are the Pentium series CPUs. Architecturally, they are almost completely identical to the younger Celeron models. But the larger L3 cache and higher frequencies give them a definite advantage in terms of performance. The niche of this CPU is entry-level gaming PCs.
The middle segment of CPUs from Intel is occupied by solutions based on Cor I3. The previous two types of processors, as a rule, have only 2 computing units. The same can be said about Kor Ai3. But the first two families of chips do not have support for HyperTrading technology, while Cor I3 does have it. As a result, at the software level, 2 physical modules are converted into 4 program processing threads. This provides a significant increase in performance. Based on such products, you can already build a mid-level gaming PC, or even an entry-level server.
The niche of solutions above the average level, but below the premium segment, is filled with chips based on Cor I5. This semiconductor crystal boasts the presence of 4 physical cores at once. It is this architectural nuance that provides an advantage in terms of performance over the Cor I3. Newer generations of Intel i5 processors have higher clock speeds and this allows for constant performance gains.
The niche of the premium segment is occupied by products based on Cor I7. The number of computing units they have is exactly the same as that of the Cor I5. But they, just like Cor Ai3, have support for technology codenamed “Hyper Trading”. Therefore, at the software level, 4 cores are converted into 8 processed threads. It is this nuance that provides a phenomenal level of performance that any chip can boast of. The price of these chips is appropriate.
Processor sockets
Generations are installed on different socket types. Therefore, it will not be possible to install the first chips on this architecture into a motherboard for a 6th generation CPU. Or, conversely, a chip codenamed “SkyLike” cannot physically be installed on a motherboard for 1st or 2nd generation processors. The first processor socket was called "Socket H", or LGA 1156 (1156 is the number of pins). It was released in 2009 for the first CPUs manufactured to tolerance standards of 45 nm (2008) and 32 nm (2009), based on this architecture. Today it is outdated both morally and physically. In 2010, LGA 1155, or “Socket H1,” replaced it. Motherboards in this series support Kor chips of the 2nd and 3rd generations. Their code names are "Sandy Bridge" and "Ivy Bridge" respectively. 2013 was marked by the release of the third socket for chips based on the Kor architecture - LGA 1150, or Socket H2. It was possible to install CPUs of the 4th and 5th generations into this processor socket. Well, in September 2015, LGA 1150 was replaced by the latest current socket - LGA 1151.
First generation of chips
The most affordable processor products of this platform were Celeron G1101 (2.27 GHz), Pentium G6950 (2.8 GHz) and Pentium G6990 (2.9 GHz). All of them had only 2 cores. The niche of mid-level solutions was occupied by “Cor I3” with the designation 5XX (2 cores/4 logical information processing threads). One step higher were the “Cor Ai5” labeled 6XX (they have parameters identical to the “Cor Ai3”, but the frequencies are higher) and 7XX with 4 real cores. The most productive computer systems were assembled on the basis of Kor I7. Their models were designated 8XX. The fastest chip in this case was labeled 875K. Due to the unlocked multiplier, it was possible to overclock such a device. The price was appropriate. Accordingly, it was possible to obtain an impressive increase in performance. By the way, the presence of the prefix “K” in the designation of the CPU model meant that the multiplier was unlocked and this model could be overclocked. Well, the prefix “S” was added to designate energy-efficient chips.
Planned architectural renewal and Sandy Bridge
The first generation of chips based on the Kor architecture was replaced in 2010 by solutions codenamed “Sandy Bridge”. Their key features were the transfer of the north bridge and the built-in graphics accelerator to the silicon chip of the silicon processor. The niche of the most budget solutions was occupied by the Celerons of the G4XX and G5XX series. In the first case, the level 3 cache was trimmed and there was only one core. The second series, in turn, could boast of having two computing units at once. The Pentium models G6XX and G8XX are located one step higher. In this case, the difference in performance was provided by higher frequencies. It was the G8XX that, because of this important characteristic, looked preferable in the eyes of the end user. The Kor I3 line was represented by 21XX models (it is the number “2” that indicates that the chip belongs to the second generation of the Kor architecture). Some of them had the index “T” added at the end - more energy-efficient solutions with reduced performance.
In turn, the “Kor Ai5” solutions were designated 23ХХ, 24ХХ and 25ХХ. The higher the model marking, the higher the level of CPU performance. The "T" at the end is the most energy efficient solution. If the letter “S” is added at the end of the name, it is an intermediate option in terms of power consumption between the “T” version of the chip and the standard crystal. Index “P” - the graphics accelerator is disabled in the chip. Well, chips with the letter “K” had an unlocked multiplier. Similar markings are also relevant for the 3rd generation of this architecture.
The emergence of a new, more advanced technological process
In 2013, the 3rd generation of CPUs based on this architecture was released. Its key innovation is an updated technical process. Otherwise, no significant innovations were introduced into them. They were physically compatible with the previous generation of CPUs and could be installed in the same motherboards. Their notation structure remains identical. Celerons were designated G12XX, and Pentiums were designated G22XX. Only at the beginning, instead of “2” there was already “3”, which indicated belonging to the 3rd generation. The Kor Ai3 line had indexes 32XX. More advanced "Kor Ai5" were designated 33ХХ, 34ХХ and 35ХХ. Well, the flagship solutions of “Kor I7” were marked 37XX.
The fourth revision of the Kor architecture
The next stage was the 4th generation of Intel processors based on the Kor architecture. The marking in this case was as follows:
Economy class Celerons CPUs were designated G18XX.
"Pentiums" had the indexes G32XX and G34XX.
The following designations were assigned to “Kor Ay3” - 41ХХ and 43ХХ.
“Kor I5” could be recognized by the abbreviation 44ХХ, 45ХХ and 46ХХ.
Well, 47XX were allocated to designate “Kor Ai7”.
Fifth generation chips
based on this architecture was mainly focused on use in mobile devices. For desktop PCs, only chips from the AI 5 and AI 7 lines were released. Moreover, only a very limited number of models. The first of them were designated 56XX, and the second - 57XX.The most recent and promising solutions
The 6th generation of Intel processors debuted in early autumn 2015. This is the most current processor architecture at the moment. Entry-level chips are designated in this case as G39XX (“Celeron”), G44XX and G45XX (as “Pentiums” are labeled). Core I3 processors are designated 61XX and 63XX. In turn, “Kor I5” is 64ХХ, 65ХХ and 66ХХ. Well, only the 67XX marking is allocated to designate flagship solutions. The new generation of Intel processors is only at the beginning of its life cycle and such chips will be relevant for quite a long time.
Overclocking Features
Almost all chips based on this architecture have a locked multiplier. Therefore, overclocking in this case is possible only by increasing the frequency. In the latest, 6th generation, even this ability to increase performance will have to be disabled by motherboard manufacturers in the BIOS. The exceptions in this regard are the processors of the “Cor Ai5” and “Cor Ai7” series with the “K” index. Their multiplier is unlocked and this allows you to significantly increase the performance of computer systems based on such semiconductor products.
Owners' opinion
All generations of Intel processors listed in this material have a high degree of energy efficiency and a phenomenal level of performance. Their only drawback is their high cost. But the reason here lies in the fact that Intel’s direct competitor, AMD, cannot oppose it with more or less worthwhile solutions. Therefore, Intel, based on its own considerations, sets the price tag for its products.
Results
This article examined in detail generations of Intel processors only for desktop PCs. Even this list is enough to get lost in the designations and names. In addition, there are also options for computer enthusiasts (2011 platform) and various mobile sockets. All this is done only so that the end user can choose the most optimal one to solve their problems. Well, the most relevant now of the options considered are 6th generation chips. These are the ones you need to pay attention to when buying or assembling a new PC.
