The processor is an indispensable part personal computer. It is a small element of the system that performs most of the major calculations of the system. In fact, this is the basis of the computer, thanks to which it functions. And, of course, system performance is highly dependent on processor performance.
Thanks to the ability to easily replace components, the processor can be easily replaced. However, often the problem is not the difficulty of replacement, but the choice good processor, which significantly speeds up the system and improves overall computer performance. And in order to help you choose this element, this rating of the best processors of 2014 will help.
Where is the best place to buy processors?
Regardless of the type of components, you need to purchase them only in stores. There are several reasons for this:
- the store will always answer your questions if you don’t understand something;
- often stores sell original components;
- they provide a guarantee for the product;
- There is often the possibility of returning goods.
It is worth noting that online stores have the same advantages as real retail chains. However, the choice there is wider, which makes it possible to purchase a more suitable option.
It is recommended not to purchase components from private individuals at all. The same processor can easily be counterfeited so that in appearance it will be indistinguishable from the leading models on the market. Also, when purchasing from a private person, you should not even hope for a guarantee, because primitive market relations are used.
Intel processor rating
Today the undisputed leader in the processor market is Intel company. It produces models with unique architecture, developing them and achieving maximum performance of this element of the system. Today their main line of processors is i7, but even the previous generation, i5, is still actively used and is one of best views processor.
Intel products have achieved enormous popularity due to their main advantages:
- high performance;
- reliability;
- durability;
- wide functionality;
- and interaction with many other component manufacturers.
This makes them the best in their field, although they still have worthy competitors.
One of the best and most affordable i7 processors. Good frequency, 4 cores, integrated graphics, which has good performance, as well as a Level 3 cache of 8 megabytes. Uses socket 1150, which is quite beneficial for those who want to upgrade their computer without purchasing a new motherboard.
- Generation: fourth;
- Connector type: Socket 1150;
- Clock frequency: 4000 MHz;
- Number of cores: 4;
- Level 3 cache capacity: 8 MB
- Advantages: performance, low temperatures under load, common socket, overclocking capability;
- Disadvantages: the same old socket will force you to purchase new processor when purchasing a new motherboard.
Most powerful processor based on i7 today. Huge performance, 8 cores, 20 MB level 3 cache, with a frequency of 3 GHz. Unfortunately, the price is extremely high, and it also uses a new socket, which means you need to purchase it together with motherboard.
- Generation: fourth;
- Connector type: Socket 2011-3;
- Internal clock frequency: 3000 MHz;
- Number of cores: 8;
- Integrated Graphics: No;
- Level 3 cache memory capacity: 20 MB;
- Advantages: performance, overclockability, low operating temperature;
- Disadvantages: price.
Another i7-based processor that also uses a new socket. However, the processor belongs to the third generation, so this performance is relatively high. Six cores, 3.4 GHz, 12 MB level 3 cache. The nice thing is that the performance is not too inferior to the previous model, and the price is half as much.
- Generation: third;
- Connector type: Socket 2011;
- Number of cores: 6;
- Integrated Graphics: No;
- Level 3 cache memory capacity: 12 MB;
- Advantages: price, performance, overclockability;
- Disadvantages: none noticed.
The i5 based processor however is still a great option. The price here is much lower than previous models, and the performance is slightly different. There are integrated graphics. The processor is perfect for upgrading your computer, but when assembling it is recommended to think about more promising options.
- Generation: fourth;
- Connector type: Socket 1150;
- Internal clock frequency: 3400 MHz;
- Number of cores: 4;
- Integrated graphics: Intel HD Graphics 4600;
- Level 3 cache capacity: 6 MB shared cache;
- Advantages: price, performance, old socket;
- Disadvantages: poor overclocking capability, operating temperature is slightly above average.
AMD processor rating
AMD is Intel's main competitor. Unlike Intel, they are targeting a different segment of society by creating low-cost and high-performance processors. It is precisely due to the fact that their pricing policy is completely different, this company and became a leader in this market.
Unfortunately, the quality of this product often matches the price. Such processors are not designed for overloading or overclocking, but their basic performance makes it possible to carry out various heavy-duty operations (programming, graphics processing, games) without much difficulty. Therefore for home computer AMD justifies itself, which allows you to save a lot of money on assembling a system unit.
Not all AMD processor models can be called successful. However, there are also those among them that are ready to compete with the best developments from Intel, if not surpass them. This rating of AMD processors will allow you to determine best models and based on them assemble your own system unit.
Today this AMD model is one of the company's best processors. High frequency, 8 cores, good cache size and other features make this copy excellent choice for assembly good computer with high performance.
- Connector type: Socket AM3+;
- Internal clock frequency: 4000 MHz;
- Number of cores: 8;
- Integrated Graphics: No;
- Advantages: overclocking possible, high performance, price;
- Flaws: this processor It gets quite hot, which the standard cooler can't handle.
This processor stands out not only excellent characteristics, but also the presence of high-quality integrated graphics from Radeon. Its performance allows you to watch movies in high resolution, as well as perform other graphics processes without a discrete graphics card.
- Connector type: Socket FM2+;
- Internal clock frequency: 3700 MHz;
- Number of cores: 4;
- Integrated Graphics: AMD Radeon R7 Series;
- Level 3 cache size: No;
- Pros: integrated graphics, performance;
- Disadvantages: without the necessary cooling, the processor heats up quite high, which can cause noise.
Despite quite low price, this processor has very high performance and potential. 3.9 GHz, 6 cores and 8 megabytes of Level 3 cache allow it to carry huge loads.
- Connector type: Socket AM3+;
- Internal clock frequency: 3900 MHz;
- Number of cores: 6;
- Integrated Graphics: No;
- Level 3 cache memory: 8 MB;
- Advantages: performance, overclockability, price;
- Disadvantages: The cooler included in the kit is often useless.
The best processor of 2015 – results
Today the choice of processors is quite wide. There are almost any types of this component, so it is quite difficult to determine the best processor of 2015. Each model has its own advantages and disadvantages, but there are clear market favorites. And today it is Intel Core i7-4790K and AMD FX-8350. Both models have high specifications, but the simple i7-4790K is slightly ahead of its opponent in terms of performance. However, those who want to save the maximum and get good performance can also use AMD. After all, the difference in price is almost double.
The best processor of 2015 - detailed description
The i7-4790k processor is an extremely profitable option for a home computer. This is an excellent processor that will make you forget about the need to upgrade your computer for many years. High operating efficiency, good price, and also good integrated graphics make this model the best.
- Generation: fourth;
- Connector type: Socket 1150;
- Clock frequency: 4000 MHz;
- Number of cores: 4;
- Integrated graphics: Intel HD Graphics 4600;
- Level 3 cache memory: 8 MB.
Where to buy a processor at competitive prices
If you are interested in purchasing a high-quality processor, then this store will help you with this. There is a wide selection of processors and components for your computer, so you will have the opportunity to choose best option for myself. The product here is exclusively original, so you don’t have to worry about its quality. Rest assured that the processors featured here will allow your computer to perform in ways never before possible.
When choosing a new smartphone, we usually pay attention to several key indicators: screen, processor, camera and appearance. Of course, there are exceptions to this rule, but it is these four that interest any more or less advanced consumer. Today we want to focus on processors modern smartphones, their, without exaggeration, hearts. Indeed, the mobile processor will provide the smartphone with high-quality sound, good pictures, and will give it fast charging and LTE module. But first of all, the user is interested in the performance of the smartphone, so comparing mobile processors is a useful activity before purchasing a new device. We’ll discuss this, and we’ll do it as much as possible. in simple language, without going into technical details, in order to really clarify the situation, and not confuse it even more.
First of all, let's be clear. By the wording “mobile processor” we mean not just a “pebble”, but a full-fledged system-on-a-chip (aka chipset, aka SoC, aka CPU), which consists of many interconnected components, each of which affects the smartphone processor performance. We also must not forget about RAM and optimization, which are inextricably linked with chipsets, which we will also discuss below.
Cores. More is not better
You can often hear the opinion that your iPhone has only two cores, but my Meizu has ten, which means Meizu is cooler! No, not cooler. For many reasons. But now let's focus on the kernels. The key indicator here is the clock speed (denoted by GHz), and the higher it is, the faster your smartphone will work. But you will have to pay for the speed with inevitable heating and, as a result, rapid battery drain. To avoid excessive discharge, manufacturers began to use clusters in which the cores operate at different clock speeds and, as a result, charge consumption. This technology is called big.LITTLE and is the most common option today. The most important thing that the average consumer should know is that all these cores never work at the same time: during games, benchmarks and other heavy tasks, productive and energy-intensive cores are turned on, and simple tasks are handled by less powerful but energy-efficient ones.
Graphics accelerator
This parameter is of interest, first of all, to gamers, because it is the graphics accelerator that is responsible for 3D graphics, rendering textures in games and high frequency frames. The most famous names here are Adreno, Mali and PowerVR. At one time, Tegra and its K1 processor, focused exclusively on games, “shot out”. Gamers squealed with delight, but the processor never received new versions.
As for the choice, the rule is simple: if you want advanced graphics, choose an advanced chipset, because the GPU is always tightly tied to the CPU.
Heating and throttling. Less is better
Heating is generally a sore subject for a mobile processor. Not only can it melt the glue and leave yellow marks on the smartphone screen (and it happens, yeah), it also negatively affects the processor itself. To avoid overheating and subsequent damage, the processor forcibly lowers the clock frequency - this is the same throttling. In simple words The hotter your smartphone is, the slower it will work. All chipsets are subject to throttling to one degree or another, but the lower this indicator, the better. Ideally, a smartphone should not get very hot at all. The anti-record in this regard was set by the Snapdragon 810, and smartphones that are based on it today are better to be bypassed altogether.
Technical process. Less is better
In recent years, information about the technical process by which the chipset is made appears more and more often in promotional materials for smartphones. For a techie, it's a matter of talent and grace. It is important for us to know that the smaller the number in front of the treasured nanometers (denoted nm), the better. For modern flagship solutions, the figure of 10 nm is relevant. It is unlikely that this indicator will be decisive when choosing a smartphone, but since manufacturers like to boast about them, we will also mention them.
Bit depth. 64 bits in priority
Again, without getting into the technical jungle, we note that a smartphone with an old, but flagship processor will be inferior in performance to the new 64-bit mid-ranger. In addition, all new applications are developed with 64-bit processors in mind, so the choice in favor of the latter is obvious.
Benchmarks and parrots
Today, the most common synthetic tests are Antutu and Geekbench. However, we do not recommend focusing on dry numbers: firstly, the industry knows of cases when specially trained smartphones “deceived” synthetics, demonstrating indicators that were real life are not capable, and secondly, the performance of smartphone processors today is so high that it is almost impossible to notice the difference between “fast” and “very fast” with the naked eye. It is much more interesting to test the performance of a smartphone with real tasks: check the smoothness of the interface, run several games, the camera, etc.
RAM and optimization
In fact, these parameters do not directly relate to the SoC, but are inextricably linked with it: a productive processor needs large quantities RAM, otherwise it simply will not be able to reveal its potential. As of today, the optimal volume random access memory- 3-4 GB, and we categorically do not recommend agreeing to less than 2 GB. What about 6 gigs? - you ask. We answer. Now these are just useless show-offs, but in the future, most likely, everything will change.
As for optimization, Apple users love to talk about it. Indeed, relatively small the lineup and the same type of filling allow the company to achieve coordinated operation of hardware and software. For an android, these are unattainable heights due to the motley filling of smartphones, multiplied by the shells that manufacturers love to put on top of the “naked” android. Therefore, in order for everything to work smoothly, you have to take quantity, not quality. Since the user cannot influence this parameter in any way, we recommend simply giving preference to a clean OS without add-ons.
Finally, some specifics
Now that we have decided on the key characteristics, let's just name the best processors for smartphones today. The undisputed market leader is Qualcomm and their Snapdragon. The manufacturer has solutions for entry level, for example, the Snapdragon 430, the mid-price segment (a popular representative is the Snapdragon 625) and flagship models, the newest of which as of spring 2017 is the Snapdragon 835 - this is the best that is on the Android and Windows smartphone market today.
Breathing down the leader's neck Exynos, manufactured by Samsung. These processors are not very common on the market, because they are installed only on smartphones and tablets of the Korean giant itself and are sometimes found in Meizu, but are not inferior in quality to Snap. The current leader of the line is Exynos 8895.
As for MediaTek, everything here is purely Chinese: there are a lot of models, they have heaps of cores, but there are problems with real performance. No, we don’t want to say that MTK are bad processors, but they are inferior to the solutions of the same Snap. Of the models present on the market, the flagship is Helio X25.
Processors Intel well known to desktop users and often found on Windows tablets. Android smartphones are also available on Intel, but potential buyers need to be careful: due to the use of a different architecture, these chipsets may not support some applications.
Processors Kirin- Huawei’s own development, and everything is simple: if you want a smartphone of this particular brand, accept it. However, Kirin will not let you down: the flagship model number 960 works smoothly and is in no way inferior to its colleagues in the shop, and even consumes battery power efficiently.
U Apple it's even simpler: all their processors are designated in the format An, where n is a number, and the larger it is, the better. Today this is the Apple A9X model.
Looks like a dark horse against this background Xiaomi: their Surge S1 is not the most productive chipset and is prone to overheating; it is experimental in nature. We do not recommend anyone to buy the Xiaomi Mi 5C based on it. And we certainly do not recommend agreeing to risky Rockchip, Spreadtrum, AllWinner and even more artisanal China. Yes, it will be cheaper, but your joy about this will quickly give way to indignation at the disgusting quality of the device.
Processor comparison
We have compiled all the basic characteristics that are important for the user into a table that will help you choose the right option. This includes the most common chips from well-known manufacturers over the past 2-3 years, which have not yet lost their relevance.
| Model | GPU | Cores | Frequency (GHz) | Process technology (nm) | release date |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Snapdragon 835 | Adreno 540 | ||||
| Snapdragon 821 | Adreno 530 | ||||
| Snapdragon 820 | Adreno 530 | ||||
| Snapdragon 810 | Adreno 430 | ||||
| Snapdragon 808 | Adreno 418 | ||||
| Snapdragon 650 | Adreno 510 | ||||
| Snapdragon 625 | Adreno 506 | ||||
| Snapdragon 430 | Adreno 505 | ||||
| MT6797T Helio X25 | Mali-T880 MP4 | 1,55+2+2,5 | |||
| MT6797 Helio X20 | Mali-T880 MP4 | 1,4+1,8+21 | |||
| MT6757 Pro/Helio P25 | Mali T880 MP2 | ||||
| MT6755(M)/Helio P10 | Mali T860 MP2 | ||||
| MT6738(T) | Mali T860 MP2 | ||||
| Kirin 960 | Mali-G71 MP8 | ||||
| Kirin 955 | Mali-T880 MP4 | ||||
| Kirin 935 | Mali-T628 MP4 | ||||
| Exynos 8895 | Mail-G71 MP20 | ||||
| Exynos 8890 | Mali T880MP12 | ||||
| Exynos 7880 | Mali-T830 MP3 | ||||
| Exynos 7870 | Mali-T830 MP3 | ||||
| Exynos 7580 | Mali-T720 MP2 |
Another convenient way to compare mobile processors is their performance graphs. In the figure below you see the top devices from the Antutu benchmark as of the end of 2016 and beginning of 2017.
So, when choosing a mobile processor, first of all, we pay attention to the manufacturer (we listed the most reliable ones above), the clock frequency of the productive cores, and the presence of heating. Everything else is technical subtleties that there is no point in delving into for the average user (and if you are not an average user, you have not learned anything new from this text). It is enough to be guided simple rule: the flagship models here collect all the best, there are no problems with them (with rare exceptions), they are needed, first of all, by gamers and enthusiasts. For example, Google Daydream is only compatible with advanced processors. Modern “average” devices also cope with applications and games, including three-dimensional ones, without any problems. As for the entry-level, you will have to make compromises, but it is much better if it is a low-power but reliable chipset from a renowned manufacturer than a homemade noname from which you can expect anything.
Best processor for gaming | Introduction
For a more convenient presentation of the results, we use the geometric mean of the 99th percentile of the frame rendering time, which we convert to an FPS value. The 99th percentile FHD scores are a good indicator of smooth frame rates. This methodology is applied to the entire test set, which includes six games released in 2016 and four games released in 2015. Many people believe that additional flows Ryzen processors will improve productivity in the future because software is constantly developing and optimizing for an increased number of resources. This factor is not taken into account when analyzing the data obtained. We can only perform additional tests based on new games, which, as a rule, use more CPU resources.
We've also created separate price-performance charts that include processor cost and additional platform costs. For models that come without a cooler, we add another $25 for third party system cooling. We'll also add $20 if overclocking requires a more expensive motherboard (such as an Intel Z270 chipset).
Ratio of platform cost to performance; the entire test package (the closer to the lower right corner, the better)
Ratio of platform cost to performance; only new games (the closer to the bottom right corner, the better)
Ratio of processor cost to performance; the entire test package (the closer to the lower right corner, the better)
Ratio of processor cost to performance; only new games (the closer to the bottom right corner, the better)
The Core i5-7500 sets a level of gaming performance that the overclocked Ryzen 5 1500X cannot overcome. The i5-7500, like the 1500X, comes bundled with a cooler, and with the clock multiplier locked, you're unlikely to need a more expensive cooler for overclocking.
However, the Ryzen 5 1600, even with standard settings, turns out to be faster, but costs on average $20 more. The Ryzen 5 1600 closes the price gap between the Core i5-7500 and 7600K. Considering the unlocked multiplier and the fairly efficient cooler included, the Ryzen 5 1600 is The best decision in the middle price range. If you have some extra cash, we recommend choosing the Ryzen 5 1600 over the Intel Core i5-7500. In new games, it often matches the Core i5-7600K at factory settings.
The Ryzen 5 1600X offers good speed and is only a few frames per second behind the Core i5-7600K in older games, and if overall system performance is limited by the capabilities of your graphics card, you won't notice the difference at all. In more modern games, the Ryzen 5 1600X performs excellently. If you often play new games, then it's worth taking a closer look at the chip, which outperforms the Core i5-7600K and costs only $11 more. On the other hand, the i5-7600K is faster to overclock, but only if you're willing to shell out for a more efficient cooler and a motherboard based on Z270 logic. We've included these costs in our calculations to keep the overall cost realistic, but if you're looking for the fastest chip under $250, the Core i5-7600K (after overclocking) will do the trick.
The G4560 $85 and Core i3-7100 $115 processors remain the undisputed leaders in their segment, at least until the Ryzen 3 series chips appear. The Core i3-7100 is not the most profitable solution (the performance increase compared to the G4560 is 10%, and the difference at $30), but at $114 it fills a huge gap.
Currently, the Core i7-7740X and i5-7640X are in line for testing in the laboratory. Considering the high costs associated with purchasing a new Intel X299 platform, we're pretty sure they won't make it onto our list of recommendations.
Best processor for gaming | List of the best processors for gaming
| Model | Intel Pentium G4560 | Intel Core i3-7100 | Intel Core i5-7500 | Ryzen 5 1600 |
| Price in USA, $ | 84 | 118 | 204 | 210 |
| Price in Russia, rub. | from 4130 | from 6740 | from 11850 | from 14100 |
| CPU socket | LGA 1151 | LGA 1151 | LGA 1151 | AM4 |
| Number of cores (threads) | 2 (4) | 2 (4) | 4 (4) | 6 (12) |
| 3,5 | 3,9 | 3,4 | 3,2 | |
| - | - | 3,8 | 3.6 (3.7 XFR mode) | |
| RAM speed | DDR4-2400 | DDR4-2400 | DDR4-2400 | DDR4-2677 |
| RAM controller | Dual channel | Dual channel | Dual channel | Dual channel |
| PCIe lanes | x16 Gen3 | x16 Gen3 | x16 Gen3 | x16 Gen3 |
| Integrated GPU | HD Graphics 610 | HD Graphics 630 | HD Graphics 630 | - |
| Cache (L2/L3) | 512 KB / 3 MB | 512 KB / 3 MB | 1024 KB / 6 MB | 3 MB / 16 MB |
| Architecture | Kaby Lake | Kaby Lake | Kaby Lake | Zen |
| Technical process, nm | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 |
| TDP, W | 54 | 51 | 65 | 65 |
| Model | Intel Core i5-7600K | AMD Ryzen 5 1600X | Intel Core i7-7700K |
| Price in USA, $ | 240 | 240 | 360 |
| Price in Russia, rub. | from 15000 | from 15800 | from 21200 |
| CPU socket | LGA 1151 | AM4 | LGA 1151 |
| Number of cores (threads) | 4 (4) | 6 (12) | 4 (8) |
| Base clock frequency, GHz | 3,8 | 3,6 | 4,2 |
| Clock frequency in Boost mode, GHz | 4,2 | 4 (4.1 XFR mode) | 4,5 |
| RAM speed | DDR4-2400 | DDR4-2677 | DDR4-2400 |
| RAM controller | Dual channel | Dual channel | Dual channel |
| PCIe lanes | x16 Gen3 | x16 Gen3 | x16 Gen3 |
| Integrated GPU | HD Graphics 630 | - | HD Graphics 630 |
| Cache (L2/L3) | 1024 KB / 6 MB | 4 MB / 16 MB 4 MB / 16 MB |
1024 KB / 8 MB |
| Architecture | Kaby Lake | Zen | Kaby Lake |
| Technical process, nm | 14 | 14 | 14 |
| TDP, W | 91 | 95 | 91 |
Vacations are in full swing, but the weather outside is not very good. What would you do with this? I suggest you spend time with pleasure: play 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 only has 2 cores, but this shortcoming is compensated by the high clock frequency (3900 Mhz), support for DDR4-2400 memory and, to some extent, technology Hyper Threading, 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 at 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 frequency with the possibility of increasing to 4600 Mhz or more due to overclocking multiplier (here it is, unlike competitor Intel, 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 control computer 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 operating system by connecting to a computer via a 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 Windows support 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: best ratio performance in games and purchase costs ($300-315), unlocked multiplier, powerful 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.
When assembling a high-performance computer for resource-intensive dynamic games, a potential buyer is always faced with a choice: which processor to give preference to. After all, in addition to several branded manufacturers, there are many platforms on the market, each of which has its own flagship.
The focus of this article is gaming processor. The reader will get acquainted with the manufacturers' proposals, find out which product is better in each price category, and also see the test results clearly.
Weak link
It’s better to start with the fact that all processors that are based on one physical core will not be considered. The fact is that there has long been evidence of the low efficiency of single-core platforms. Any attempt by a buyer to purchase such a gaming processor will not lead to anything good.
Firstly, most modern games are created for multi-core platforms (2-4 cores). The second criterion for the failure of a low-performance crystal is the inability to unleash the potential of a gaming video adapter. Naturally, the user has a lot of questions regarding the inoperability of an expensive graphics accelerator.
Also, experts in their reviews recommend that potential buyers not consider crystals operating at low frequencies as gaming solutions. It is better to set the minimum mark at the threshold of 3000 MHz. This condition affects not only personal computers, but also mobile devices, albeit with increased power consumption.
Pricing policy and games of manufacturers
There has long been an opinion on the market that gaming AMD processor has the best price, and in terms of performance nothing can be found more powerful than an Intel crystal. There is some truth to this if we look at the problem from one angle, when we compare the number of cores and their operating frequency, but IT experts recommend focusing on the needs of the end user.
Almost all AMD crystals overclock superbly, which attracts the attention of potential buyers who want to save money. But for some reason, in reviews and tests there is no information about the heating of crystals and the necessary cooling. On the other hand, they attribute too many advantages that a modern game lover does not need at all. Therefore, a buyer who wants to purchase a fairly powerful device at minimal cost will have to become more familiar with the processors on the market.
Crystals of the previous generation
It's no secret that Intel processors based on 4 cores are still in demand among many fans of resource-intensive games. True, this solution will only be useful to those users who own a full-fledged ATX motherboard that supports 8 GB of RAM (4 sticks of 2 GB each). It is also recommended to pay attention to processor support. Very often, manufacturers of cheap motherboards do not work with powerful multi-core crystals.
Budget gaming Core Quad processor or Xeon server solution paired with a gaming video adapter and solid state SSD The drive can handle any existing game in the world. But you won’t be able to achieve perfectly realistic quality - there is a serious limitation on medium graphics settings. But such an inexpensive solution suits many users, so crystals for the platform will be in demand for a long time.
Do not forget that the presence server processors with two and four Xeon-based cores does not limit the performance of the old platform. There are still ultra-fast Extreme Edition crystals on the market, which can double or even triple the performance of the corresponding system (we are talking about Socket 775).
Available segment
The entry-level class of modern components is opened by AMD gaming processors with two cores of the A4 line. It would seem that what could be better than 2 physical cores operating at 3200 MHz! In addition, the chip has a built-in graphics Radeon HD7480. However, during testing it turns out that the processor has obvious problems with mathematical calculations. The reason for this is the small amount of cache memory (and the processor has only two levels).
In the price category up to 2000 rubles, the A4 line has only one competitor - the 4th generation Intel Celeron. As practice shows, this budget crystal also has built-in graphics, but, unlike AMD products, it cannot be overclocked.
Both budget products are clearly not among the top gaming processors, but fans of low-power games (for example, World of Tanks) will like them, because using integrated graphics, at a resolution of 1600x900 dpi, the user will be able to achieve 50 FPS at medium quality settings.
Manufacturer's red herring
Readers have already encountered Intel Pentium G series processors for the platform more than once. The manufacturer claims that the new crystal is capable of surprising any buyer. Yes, the owner’s surprise will know no bounds when he decides to purchase such a product to replace the obsolete Intel Core 2 Duo processor. Any testing (synthetic or game) will confirm that there is no difference in performance between both processors.
In fact, this is the same crystal, which has been slightly improved. After all, the best gaming processor simply could not disappear from the market. However, the buyer's transition to new platform opens up more possibilities for the player. Over time, you can increase the amount of RAM, change the processor or video card, which could not be done with an old motherboard.
Top seller
Crystals are in great demand in the initial gaming class AMD series X4, having 4 physical cores. The fact is that this particular product has become for many users a real golden mean in terms of price-performance ratio.
For many potential buyers who wanted to have 4 physical cores on one platform, the choice of gaming processor ended with just one manufacturer - AMD. The fact is that Intel has nothing to offer in the price category up to 10,000 rubles.
The FX series processors, which have 4 and 8 cores on board, have also proven themselves well in this class. The manufacturer has tried to saturate the sought-after market with interesting and affordable products. Here it is better for the buyer to focus on the first level cache and choose a crystal with the highest core frequency. After all, AMD processors These parameters primarily affect the performance of the entire platform.
Winged swing
Intel gaming processors are also present in the entry-level class, but they are all limited to only two physical cores. Naturally, the buyer will clearly not like such an offer, but there is no need to rush to conclusions. As practice shows, Core i3 crystals are capable of much, and even outperform all competitors in performance.
Intel processors have a large cache size and do an excellent job with mathematical calculations, but they have serious problems when working with RAM. This is exactly what competitors take advantage of, selecting special tests that require the speed of information exchange between the processor and memory. In resource-intensive games that require a large amount of memory (for example, GTA 5), you can notice the difference in the operation of two processors (Intel and AMD), but not all games are so dependent on memory frequency.
Higher, faster, stronger
A powerful gaming processor in the price category up to 15,000 rubles is not so easy to choose. On the one hand, Intel offers its Core i5 solution, which is capable of handling any resource-intensive games that exist on the market. On the other side is the AMD team, which has prepared a surprise for all its fans by providing the crystal with a powerful gaming video adapter integrated directly into the processor.
Naturally, many buyers prefer the “2 in 1” system, because discrete graphics accelerators are not cheap and users simply do not want to overpay. But there is also the other side of the coin - the integrated video card “steals” RAM for its own needs, and the speed of exchange of this memory between the graphics processor leaves much to be desired (DDR3 versus DDR5).
How to deal with things?
In the mid-price category, it is not so easy to choose a gaming processor. “Which one to choose - Core i5 or A10?” - almost every second buyer is interested. Experts in their reviews recommend that beginners take their time and set priorities by deciding on their needs.
A powerful multi-core Intel chip will be of more interest to owners of high-performance gaming-grade video adapters, because only it can fully unleash the potential of a graphics accelerator. Also, the Core i5 is worth a closer look for people who are not only interested in games, but also work at a professional level with 3D graphics, modeling or video editing.
But for owners of budget video adapters who use all the resources of a personal computer for games, it is better to give preference to the AMD A10 series processor. And you shouldn’t get too carried away with overclocking such a crystal, because the thermal package of 95 Watts requires decent cooling.
Unique processors
An AMD gaming processor with six cores on board is clearly capable of attracting attention. After all, this is one of the few products on the market that combines affordable cost and high performance. Although many users in their reviews reproach the manufacturer for using 8-core solutions with locked cores to create such crystals, the fact remains that in the mid-range segment this processor is still considered the best choice.
An important factor responsible for performance is not the core frequency, but the installed cache. All 6-core platforms with this parameter are in perfect order: the crystal copes well with mathematical calculations and is quite competitive with Intel Core i5 products. The only thing that confuses us is the lack of an integrated graphics accelerator, which all fans of AMD products are so accustomed to. But still, the performance of the entire platform is more interesting to the buyer than an incomplete symbiosis.
Powerful gaming platform
Intel managed to attract the attention of potential buyers to its unique socket 2011 platform. The best gaming processor, Core i7 Extreme Edition, still ranks first in the performance rankings of all platforms. The only thing that confuses us is the price of such a solution - not every buyer is willing to pay 50,000 rubles for one crystal.
The main feature of such a system is support for three-channel RAM. Don't forget about the PCIex16 slots for graphics accelerators - they all also support accelerated data transfer and are focused on high performance of the entire gaming platform.
The only negative that owners pay attention to in their reviews is the cost of all components. A processor, memory, motherboard and several video adapters require quite significant financial resources from the buyer. On the other hand, such a platform is capable of handling any resource-intensive game.
New technologies are the key to success
After the new DDR4 RAM format appeared on the market, Intel hastened to surprise its fans with new crystals in the Core i3/5/7 line. True, under the slogan “Choose a gaming processor!” a well-known American manufacturer forgot to add that in practice the overall performance of the system does not increase in proportion to the cost of the crystals. As for professional computer use (3D modeling, video processing and working with complex mathematical calculations), such a platform is unlikely to be suitable. At least in terms of price-quality ratio, you can assemble a platform much cheaper.
Perhaps in the next few years, manufacturers will be able to significantly increase the speed of the platform, but this moment there is no point in overpaying for the transition to Socket 1151 and 2011-3. Here it is better to follow the example of AMD, which did not decide on such an insidious plan to attract potential buyers to its products.
A new trend dictates conditions
In pursuit of a powerful crystal, most buyers try to save money on a video card. But gaming GPUs are basic devices to run any resource-intensive games. As practice shows, it is better to save on a processor and take a powerful video adapter than to be content with a budget accelerator with a powerful processor.
In fact, in the media you can find quite a lot of comparisons of both video cards and crystals, but experts recommend focusing on market segmentation. Don't forget about integrated solutions. Often, such a purchase allows the user to get good performance and benefits.
Inexpensive AMD processors with four cores that have a small cache size are best purchased with integrated graphics. The crystal will not be able to unleash the potential of a discrete gaming adapter, but the user will be able to save a lot of money.
Mobile market with its own conditions
Gaming processors for laptops are practically no different from the components of a personal computer. The same price segmentation and performance division. True, there is another branch that significantly influences the choice of buyers. Intel crystals installed in laptops have low heat dissipation, while AMD products tend to get very hot due to increased power consumption.
As practice shows, for most users, a powerful AMD processor in a mobile device often causes trouble. However, experts in their reviews assure that the whole problem comes down to the human factor. The point is that everything gaming laptops need to be cleaned frequently (2 times a year) from dust. Naturally, most users do not do this, blaming AMD for producing low-quality processors.
Gaming laptops
WITH mobile devices everything is simple - the buyer does not need to look for which processors are gaming and which are not. In the expensive segment, the manufacturing company independently calculated the performance of the entire platform and provided the end customer with a decent result. True, the choice is not as great as in the personal computer market.
Users can give preference to AMD crystals of the A10 line or look to the side Core processors i5/7 from the manufacturer Intel. This is where the whole choice ends, and the potential buyer faces the problem of choosing a gaming video adapter with which the laptop is equipped. Once again, experts in their reviews recommend that beginners give preference to a powerful discrete video card at the expense of processor performance.
The right approach
Among sellers in the computer market, there is a special technique that allows you to quickly assemble a personal computer. Oddly enough, the gaming processor is not selected first. Preference is given motherboard and video adapter. Well, then comes the turn of choosing a crystal and RAM. At this point, the layout is completed by agreeing on the final cost.
And then everything is simple: the cost is announced one by one hard drive, power supply, case, monitor and other computer components. And the buyer decides whether he is ready to pay extra for equipment, or for the sake of purchasing required component you will have to sacrifice the performance of the personal computer as a whole.
This technique allows a potential buyer to understand what the difference is between components in different price categories, because the seller, when changing the configuration, comments on what games and at what settings will run on the assembled computer.
Finally
Choosing a gaming processor on the domestic market is quite easy. You just need to find out system requirements to your favorite toy and choose the right components to build a gaming platform, focusing on your own finances. At first it seems difficult, but in practice everything is solved in a matter of minutes. The main thing is to always remember that the performance of the entire system depends not only on the processor, but also requires a powerful graphics accelerator with sufficiently fast RAM.