Again about i5: review of the line of Intel Core i5 processors with Ivy Bridge microarchitecture. What are the differences between Core i3 and i5 or i7 processors

23.03.2018 17:29

In the Intel Core model range, there are devices not only with the index “K”, but also with “T”. And, if everything is very clear with the first letter (these are CPUs with an unlocked multiplier, intended for overclocking), then some users have never heard of the second solutions.

Maximum multiplier Intel Core i5-7400T– 30, this means that all 4 physical cores can actually be run at a frequency of 3000 MHz.

In fact, the key feature of T-processors one is low power consumption (and therefore heat dissipation). As a rule, these are CPUs with a lower clock speed, but with exactly the same number of physical cores and threads compared to solutions without a characteristic letter in the marking.

So the guest of today's review called Intel Core i5-7400T is essentially classic 4-core processor with full cache capacity; the characteristics of this modification are no different from the well-known version of the Intel Core i5-7400, except for two key parameters (lower clock speed and a modest TDP, not exceeding 35 W).

It’s hard to believe, but Intel was actually able to create a 4-core processor with a fairly high clock frequency (in automatic mode, only one core runs at 3 GHz), while keeping it to 35 W thermal package.

All central processors with the letter “T” in their name are not intended for use in extreme systems and overclocking PCs. There are certainly no hardware limitations, it's just not practical.

Why buy a slow (even cold) processor if you can buy a CPU with more attractive characteristics for the same money? By the way, the Intel Core i5-7400 version and the same model, but with the “T” index, cost the same at retail.

Technical features

So, the 14 nm Intel Core i5-7400T has four physical cores (the same number of computational threads, Hyper-Threading technology is not used), 6 MB of L3 cache and an integrated graphics core Intel HD Graphics 630. The processor is compatible with dual-channel DDR4-2133 RAM /2400 and DDR3L-1333/1600.

To cool this CPU we used the Cooler Master X Dream P115 cooler.

The nominal clock frequency of all 4 physical cores is 2400 MHz; in Turbo Boost mode, one of them is accelerated to 3 GHz (if you wish, you can set all four to 3000 MHz, we’ll talk about this below). And, as mentioned above, the declared TDP of the device is 35 W.

In fact, this figure in some cases (under high load) jumps to more significant values, for example, we were able to capture 75 W in the Corona 1.3 Benchmark test. But these are short-term peaks; most of the time, monitoring programs do not show indicators above 30 W.

Intel Core i5-7400T at par
Intel Core i5-7400T at 3050 MHz (all 4 cores)

Intel Core i5-7400T and DDR4-2933 memory

Obviously, the Intel Core i5-7400T is very cold processor, still operating voltage stone– 0.912 V, and the clock frequency is 2400 MHz. To cool this CPU we used the Cooler Master X Dream P115 cooler. As a result, the maximum temperature that we recorded did not exceed 45 degrees (under the most severe load). By the way, the processor under exactly the same CO heats up to similar values ​​(it has 2 cores and 51 W TDP).

Test stand:

Motherboard – ASUS Maximus IX Extreme
RAM –
Video card –
Storage –
Power unit -

Performance and Test Results

Four active physical cores help the reviewed processor compete on an equal footing with high-frequency CPUs that have two cores and 4 threads. The truth is not in those applications where the performance of a single core is key. For example, in Cinebench R15, the Intel Core i5-7400T shows a higher result compared to, but not in WinRAR and Corona 1.3.

Therefore, before choosing an Intel Core i5-7400T for a particular system, it is worth outlining the range of tasks that will be performed using such a PC. Perhaps your goals primarily require a high clock speed, rather than 4 physical cores.

For swings powerful graphics adapter and modern games Intel Core i5-7400T is perfect. And here four physical cores play a key role, because the processor clock speed in toys is not so significant (especially in high resolutions). Yes, additional megahertz allows you to achieve maximum fps, but your eye still won’t be able to catch the difference between 60 and 80 fps, believe me.

Overclocking

The Intel Core i5-7400T has one extremely useful cunning, which allows you to increase processor performance by 5-8% if you need it. Maximum monitored multiplier stone– 30, this means that all 4 physical cores can actually be run at a frequency of 3000 MHz (to do this, you must manually select this value in the UEFI BIOS). True, TDP in this mode will no longer correspond to 35 W, it will grow.

Using the TPU II function module, which is soldered onto the ASUS Maximus IX Extreme, the Intel Core i5-7400T was overclocked to 3050 MHz, and this is the limit for our configuration.

Conclusion

The Intel Core i5-7400T, without any “buts,” is a full-fledged 4-core processor that copes well with multimedia tasks in home and gaming PCs. Along with this stone It is advisable to install a top-end video card into the system if you are mainly interested in gaming applications.

For " swinging” powerful graphics adapter and modern games Intel Core i5-7400T is perfect.

Although for a PC that already has one cold element, it is reasonable to look for an accelerator with a low TDP (and even with a passive cooling system) in order to reduce the number of fans inside the computer case to a minimum.

As a result, you can count on a completely silent, energy-efficient, and most importantly cold PC (no compromise on performance); Such systems are becoming increasingly popular these days.

Intel Core i5 processors are among the most popular in the IT market in Russia and around the world. Within this family, chips are produced that are adapted to the widest range of tasks solved by users. What are the specifics of individual Which ones are best adapted for overclocking?

General information about Core i5 processors

Processors, reviews of which are different, are represented by microcircuits in several generations. Despite the similarity of the name, technologically the chips can be very different.

Thus, the first generation i5 processors appeared in 2009. They were adapted for "desktops", they used the Lynnfield kernel, corresponding to the Nehalem architecture. The next modification of i5 chips appeared in 2010. These processors used the Clarkdale core and had a built-in computer graphics processing module. Note that these chips, according to the classification common among IT experts, are of the same generation.

In 2011, Core i5 chips with Sandy Bridge architecture appeared. The main characteristic of this generation, released as part of the Intel Core i5 series, is the complete integration of the graphics module with the chip crystal. In 2012, a new line of processors appeared - with the Ivy Bridge core. In 2013, the American corporation released Haswell-type processors, one of which - the Intel Core i5 4070K - soon became especially popular among gamers, since it could be overclocked in the most efficient way thanks to the unlocked multiplier.

Let's take a closer look at the specifics of the latest generations - 3rd and 4th, Intel Core i5 processors, characteristics of chips based on Ivy Bridge and Haswell architecture - how well can they correspond to the leading position of the American corporation in the global microchip market?

General information about Ivy Bridge processors

Features of the processors of this family are the presence of several cores, lack of support for Hyper-Threading technology, which provides multi-threading, and the presence of a third-level cache of 6 MB. As some experts note, processors within the family under consideration are characterized by a high degree of mutual similarity in terms of key technological characteristics. For example, all Ivy Bridge chips are implemented within the 22 nm process technology, they contain an E1 type crystal, which contains 1.4 billion transistors.

The main strength of the new processor line is the upgraded graphics accelerator. Thus, the series of chips under consideration uses modules of the HD Graphics 2500/4000 type. They provide support, in particular, for interfaces such as DirectX in version 11, OpenGL 4.0, and OpenCL 1.1. It is characterized by excellent performance in terms of working with 3D games and demanding applications.

Ivy Bridge processors have high-tech memory controllers and PCI Express buses. Thus, if a motherboard for Intel Core i5 assumes support for video cards using the PCI Express standard in version 3, then the microchips of this family help achieve very high PC performance. The same can be said for DDR3 memory modules - the interaction between them and Ivy Bridge processors also ensures the highest computer performance.

Let us now consider the features of popular processors within the 3rd generation of the Intel Core i5 family. The characteristics of these chips, according to reviews from many users and IT experts, allow us to speak of microcircuits as very effective hardware components that help solve a wide range of user tasks.

Specifications Core i5-3570K

This processor is considered the flagship processor of the 3rd generation. It leads the line in terms of clock speed, and is also characterized by an option that is useful in many respects - an unlocked multiplier. It allows, in particular, to easily overclock the microchip. We noted above that this feature also characterizes the Intel Core i5 4570K processor in the latest line - Haswell. However, it is fully functional. Many gamers in their reviews speak extremely positively about the possibility of effectively overclocking the processor. The chip in question is equipped with the same high-performance graphics module - HD Graphics 4000.

At the same time, there is a slightly more simplified modification of the processor - Intel Core i5-3570, that is, without an index. It is characterized, in turn, by the inability to use the unlocked multiplier. In addition, as the description of its characteristics indicates, this processor does not have the most powerful version of the graphics module. It has an HD Graphics 2500 accelerator installed, which is inferior to the Graphics 4000 modification noted above.

Features Intel Core 3550

Another notable Intel Core i5 model, which also has quite a lot of reviews, is the i5-3550. This processor is characterized by a lower clock frequency, and therefore runs a little slower than the flagship model. But the difference is small - 100 MHz. Therefore, by the way, the cost of these processors is almost the same. However, so are the key characteristics.

Advantages of Intel Core i5-3470

It belongs to the category of junior models of the line under consideration, and accordingly, it has a lower price. However, in general, the performance of the chip is comparable to the flagship modification - for example, it has 4 cores, a third-level cache of 6 MB, and a processor clock speed exceeding 3 GHz. True, the type of processor in question has a less powerful graphics module - Graphics 2500, which operates at a frequency slightly lower than the same one, but in higher modifications of the processor.

Specifications Intel Core i5-3450

It is considered the youngest model in the line under consideration. Between it and the modification described above there is a minimum of differences, which, in fact, are expressed in clock frequency. In modification 3470 it is slightly higher. Otherwise, the technical characteristics of the chips are the same.

Reviews of the third generation Core i5

So, what are users saying about the third generation Intel Core i5? The comparison, as noted by microprocessor technology enthusiasts, essentially comes down to finding differences between three indicators - the version of the graphics accelerator, the presence of an unlocked multiplier, and the clock frequency. According to PC owners on which this or that chip is installed, even if the processor has the lowest frequency, does not support an unlocked multiplier, and also does not process graphics as efficiently as its analogues - this is due to the presence of the Graphics 2500 module. But in any case an exceptionally high-performance tool is placed in the hands of the user.

The question that worries many owners of PCs with an Intel Core i5 processor - “how to overclock the processor” - has a very simple answer: all you need to do is set the required values ​​for the multiplier, which is unlocked in the corresponding modifications of the chip.

No other experiments are required, and it is not recommended, so as not to violate the calculation algorithms laid down by the manufacturer. You should also understand that when overclocking an Intel Core i5, the processor temperature can increase significantly. Thus, you should equip your processor with a more powerful cooler in advance.

Features Intel Core i5-4430

Let's move on to studying the specifics of the latest generation of chips - those with a Haswell core installed. The i5-4430 processor can be considered the youngest in the line under consideration. It is characterized by a relatively low clock frequency, and also has a property that is not the most desirable for gamers - the lack of overclocking capabilities. At the same time, processors of this type have a floating multiplier, that is, they are selected automatically by the computer depending on the actual load. The chip has support for TurboBoost technology in version 2.0.

Advantages of Intel Core i5-4440

Among the main differences between this processor and the one discussed above is the difference in clock frequency. The corresponding figure for the i5-4440 microchip is 100 MHz higher. At the same time, the set of key instructions is generally the same. In other respects, the processors are identical.

Specifications Intel Core i5-4460

Thanks to the frequency increased by 100 MHz, it works faster than the previous modification of the processor. Also, the set of instructions is somewhat wider than that of the younger models in the line. Otherwise, the characteristics of the chips are the same. Many IT experts, as well as enthusiasts, consider the three youngest chips in the Haswell line in a single context - as identical devices. In fact, the main difference between them is the clock speed, and in some cases, the instruction set.

Specifications Core i5-4570

A model that is characterized as occupying a middle position in the family. It combines almost all the advantages of the latest line of Core i5 chips - such as, for example, full TurboBoost operation, compatibility with vPro, as well as TXT. The chips under consideration support all instructions provided by the technological line.

The power of computers with an installed i5-4570 chip is enough to perform basic user tasks and run games - but provided that the motherboard for Intel Core i5, as well as the video card installed on it, has the necessary characteristics in terms of performance. A significant aspect is the quality of system programs. So, to fully utilize the capabilities of Intel Core i5, the drivers for all devices must be up to date.

Advantages of Core i5-4670K

This is the very processor that gamers love so much. The purpose for which many of them buy the Intel Core i5 chip in question is overclocking. You can carry it out, and even achieve the most outstanding results thanks to the unlocked multiplier of the microcircuit.

True, in some aspects the chip in question is inferior to the previous modification; in particular, it does not support the vPro and TXT standards, which are necessary to provide increased computer protection against malware. The key characteristics of the i5-4570K chip are identical to the previous modification. It copes well with games - but again, provided that the motherboard for Intel Core i5, and also, very importantly, the video card, are characterized by high performance. The main methodology for overclocking microchips is to increase the multiplier.

Features Core i5-4690

This model is among the newest. It can be noted that there are no obvious changes in characteristics in comparison with previous modifications of processors. Perhaps only the clock frequency has increased by 100 MHz compared to the Core i5-4570. The processor also now supports a number of modern instructions. But in general, Intel has not taken revolutionary steps in terms of upgrading chips, since, apparently, they already meet the criteria that characterize the manufacturer as a market leader.

Which of the processors we reviewed is the best? Intel Core i5, as we noted at the very beginning of the article, is a family of chips that are very different from each other. And not only in terms of comparing generations, but also sometimes within the same line. Each microchip we examined is optimal for solving its problems in terms of price and performance. It is important that the PC on which Intel Core i5 is installed has the latest and highest quality device drivers. The software component is no less important from the point of view of achieving high results than hardware components.

Optimal motherboard

What characteristics should an Intel Core i5 motherboard ideally have? So that all the processor capabilities provided by the manufacturer can be fully used? Experts recommend the appropriate hardware component that supports the Z87 chipset - it will be especially useful for users planning to overclock chips.

For example, Gigabyte GA-Z87-HD3 is an optimal motherboard for such purposes. Intel Core i5 in those modifications that are adapted for overclocking will be an excellent tool for an overclocking enthusiast - if there is an appropriate hardware component in the PC structure. It can be noted that this motherboard is suitable for all processors that support the LGA 1150 standard - that is, this significantly expands its functionality. Regarding other useful characteristics of the hardware component under consideration, we can highlight support for USB 2.0 and 3.0 ports, compatibility with SATA 3. Another remarkable feature of the motherboard from Gigabyte is that it allows for the simultaneous operation of two video cards at once.

An excellent option for third-generation Core i5 processors is the MSI H61M-P31 (G3) motherboard, which is based on the H61 chipset. It supports two G.Skill DDR3-1600 RAM modules with a capacity of 4 GB. There is support for high-performance video cards such as The motherboard in question is often used by IT experts when testing the performance of Intel Core i5 processors.

Another high-performance motherboard on which you can install processors of this family is Gigabyte G1.Sniper 5. It is characterized by a fairly high price - about 20 thousand rubles, but cheaper models are not always able to solve problems corresponding to the performance of Intel Core i5 chips. The motherboard in question supports the LGA1150 standard; it can install 4 DDR3 RAM slots operating at frequencies in the range from 1333 to 3000 MHz. There is support for the SLI/CrossFireX standard. The motherboard also allows you to install components compatible with a high-speed SATA slot, which allows data transfer at a speed of 6 Gbit/s. There is support for wireless technologies.

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

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

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

Core i3

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

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

Core i5

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

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

Core i7

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

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

Index values

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

What to buy?

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

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

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

When choosing a processor from Intel, the question arises: which chip from this corporation to choose? Processors have many characteristics and parameters that affect their performance. And in accordance with it and some features of the microarchitecture, the manufacturer gives the appropriate name. Our task is to highlight this issue. In this article, you will learn what exactly the names of Intel processors mean, and also learn about the microarchitecture of chips from this company.

Note

It should be noted in advance that solutions before 2012 will not be considered here, since technology is moving at a fast pace and these chips have too little performance with high power consumption, and are also difficult to buy in new condition. Also, server solutions will not be considered here, since they have a specific scope and are not intended for the consumer market.

Attention, the nomenclature set out below may not be valid for processors older than the period indicated above.

And if you encounter any difficulties, you can visit the website. And read this article, which talks about. And if you want to know about integrated graphics from Intel, then you should.

Tick-Tock

Intel has a special strategy for releasing its “stones”, called Tick-Tock. It consists of annual consistent improvements.

• A tick means a change in microarchitecture, which leads to a change in socket, improved performance and optimized power consumption.
• This means that it leads to a reduction in power consumption, the possibility of placing a larger number of transistors on a chip, a possible increase in frequencies and an increase in cost.

This is what this strategy looks like for desktop and laptop models:

But for low-power solutions (smartphones, tablets, netbooks, nettops), the platforms look like this:

It should be noted that Bay Trail-D is made for desktops: Pentium and Celeron with the index J. And Bay Trail-M for is a mobile solution and will also be designated among Pentium and Celeron by its letter - N.

Judging by the company's latest trends, performance itself is progressing quite slowly, while energy efficiency (performance per unit of energy consumed) is growing year by year, and soon laptops will have the same powerful processors as large PCs (although such representatives still exists).

· 02/16/2017

Everyone knows what a processor (CPU) is, as well as its importance. The phrase that this is the “brain” of any computer stuck in my teeth. However, this is true, and the capabilities of a laptop or desktop PC are largely determined by this component. When planning to buy a new computer, you need to understand that one of the main characteristics is the processor. Each model indicates the name of the CPU used and the main characteristics. How can you determine at first glance which one is faster and which one is slower, which one to prefer if you often have to work autonomously, and which processor is better for games? This material is a kind of small guide in which I will tell you what Intel processor markings exist, how to decipher it, determine the generation and series of the processor, and give the main characteristics. Let's go.

Main characteristics of processors

In addition to the name, each processor has its own set of characteristics, reflecting the possibility of using it for a particular job. Among them the main ones can be noted:

• Number of cores. Shows how many physical processors are hidden inside the chip. Most laptops, especially those with “U” version processors, have 2 cores. More powerful options have 4 cores.
• Hyper-Threading. A technology that allows you to divide the resources of the physical core into several threads (usually 2) running simultaneously in order to increase performance. Thus, a 2-core processor in the system will appear as a 4-core processor.
• Clock frequency. Measured in gigahertz. In general, we can say that the higher the frequency, the more powerful the processor. Let’s immediately make a reservation that this is far from the only criterion that reflects the performance of the CPU.
• Turbo Boost. A technology that allows you to increase the maximum processor frequency under high loads. The i3 versions do not have automatic frequency change, while the i5 and i7 have this technology.
• Cache. A small (usually 1 to 4 MB) amount of high-speed memory that is part of the processor. Allows you to speed up the processing of frequently used data.
• TDP (Thermal Design Power). A value indicating the maximum amount of heat that must be removed from the processor to ensure normal temperature conditions for its operation. Typically, the higher the value, the more powerful the processor and the hotter it is. The cooling system must cope with this power.

Intel processor markings

The first thing that catches your eye is the marking, consisting of letters and numbers.

What the name is is clear. The manufacturer produces its processors under this trade name. This can be not only “Intel Core”, but also “Atom”, “Celeron”, “Pentium”, “Xeon”.

The name is followed by the processor series identifier. This can be "i3", "i5", "i7", "i9" if we are talking about "Intel Core", or the characters "m5", "x5", "E" or "N" can be specified.

After the hyphen, the first digit indicates the processor generation. At the moment, the newest is the 7th generation Kaby Lake. The previous generation Skylake had serial number 6.

The next 3 digits are the serial number of the model. In general, the higher the value, the more powerful the processor. So, i3 has a value of 7100, I5 – 7200, i7 is marked as 7500.

The last character (or two) indicates the processor version. These may be "U", "Y", "HQ", "HK" or others.

Processor series

With the exception of budget models of laptops or desktop PCs, the rest use processors of the Core i3, Core i5, and Core i7 series. The higher the number, the more powerful the CPU. For most everyday work applications, an i5 processor will be optimal. A more productive one is needed if the computer is used as a gaming computer, or if it requires special computing power to work in “heavy” applications.

Processor generation

Intel updates generations of its processors approximately every year and a half, although this interval tends to increase to 2-3 years. From the “Tick-Tock” scheme they switched to the “Tick-Tock-Tock” release scheme. Let me remind you that this processor release strategy implies that in the “Tick” step there is a transition to a new technical process, and the changes made to the processor architecture are minimal. In the “So” step, a processor with an updated architecture is produced using an existing technical process.

The transition to a thinner technical process allows you to reduce power consumption and improve processor performance.

Processor version

This indicator may turn out to be almost more important than simply comparing, say, i3 with i5. If we talk about laptops, in most cases 4 versions of Intel Core processors are used, which have different TDP values ​​(from 4.5 W in the Y version to 45 W for the HQ), and, accordingly, different performance and power consumption. Long battery life depends not only on the processor, but also on the inherent capacity of the battery used.

I will give the versions of Intel Core processors, starting with the most low-power ones.

"Y" / "Core m" - low performance and passive cooling

Used in portable devices and small laptops. Passive cooling allows you to make your computer silent. However, it is not suitable for serious tasks. At the same time, even taking into account the TDP of 4.5 W, the compactness of the devices does not allow installing a serious battery, which negates all the advantages of low power consumption.

In general, if the task is not to buy something like the Apple MacBook 12 or ASUS ZENBOOK UX305CA, then you should give preference to more powerful processors.

"U" - for everyday use

“U” series processors are the best choice for a laptop for every day. This is the best combination of performance, energy consumption and cost. A TDP of 15 W allows you to achieve both the ability to cope with almost any task and get good battery life.

There are modifications of the 7th generation processors with a TDP of 28 W, which use an improved Intel Iris Plus 640 or 650 graphics subsystem.

It is not possible to get by with passive cooling, but this is compensated by performance. The difference from more powerful versions is the presence of only 2 cores, even in the “i7” series.

Examples of processors in the table.

"HQ" / "HK" - quad-core, high-performance

The best choice if you are looking for a laptop for gaming or working with resource-intensive applications. The “HQ” version has 4 cores, which in combination with Hyper-Threading technology gives 8 threads. Power consumption (TDP) of 45 W is bad for battery life. In order for the laptop to withstand several hours on battery power, it is advisable to choose batteries with a larger capacity, for example, with 6 cells.

“HK” differs from “HQ” in that it has an unlocked multiplier, which makes it possible to engage in “overclocking” by manually increasing the operating frequency of the processor. Similar versions of 7th generation processors were announced only in January 2017, so at the moment almost all laptop models are based on processors of the “HK” and “HQ” versions of the previous, 6th generation. However, we obviously won’t have to wait long for new models.

Examples of processors in the table.

Xeon E – for high-performance workstations

These processors are used in powerful laptops that serve as high-performance workstations. This technique is aimed primarily at those who are engaged in 3D modeling, animation, design, and perform complex calculations where high power is required. The processors have 4 cores and Hyper-Threading technology.

Usually there is no need to talk about the ability to work on batteries for a long time. Autonomy is not the strong point that laptops using such processors have.

Examples of processors in the table.

Now I will list the remaining processors that can be found in laptops, but which are not part of the “Intel Core” family.

“Celeron” / “Pentium” - for those who are economical and not in a hurry

You should forget about games (except for very simple), difficult tasks. The destiny of laptops with such processors is leisurely office work and surfing the Internet. You can only give preference to models with a CPU of this level if price is one of the main selection criteria, or if you plan to use Linux or OS from Google. Unlike Windows, the hardware requirements are noticeably lower.

Celeron processors have power consumption ranging from 4 to 15 watts, with those models starting with the letter “N” (for example, N3050, N3060, etc.) consuming between 4 and 6 watts. Models with the letter “U” at the end (for example, 2957U, 3855U, etc.) are more productive and their power already reaches 15 W. There is usually no gain in battery life when using the Celeron Nxxxx, since budget laptop models also save on batteries.

Pentium processors are more productive than Celeron, but still belong to the budget segment. Their TDP is at the same level. Battery life can last for several hours, which, while the performance is not as dull as that of the Celeron, allows you to get a very decent office laptop.

These processors come in both dual-core and quad-core variants.

Examples of processors in the table.

"Atom" - long battery life and dismal performance

Examples of processors in the table.

Integrated Graphics

All processors have a built-in video card, which is labeled as “Intel HD Graphics”. For 7th generation processors, the video core marking begins with “6” (for example, HD Graphics 610), for the 6th generation – with “5” (for example, HD Graphics 520). Some top-end processors have a more powerful built-in video card, labeled “Iris Plus”. Thus, the i7-7600U processor has an Intel HD Graphics 620 video card on board, and the i7-7660U has an Iris Plus 640.

We are not talking about serious competition with solutions from NVidia or AMD, however, for everyday work, watching videos, simple games or at low settings, you will still be able to have some fun. For more serious gaming requests, a discrete graphics card is required.

UPD. 2018. It's time to add to what has been said. Recently, models have appeared in the line of Intel processors that are marked with the letter “G” at the end. For example, i5-8305G, i7-8709G and others. What's special about them? To begin with, I will say that these CPUs are aimed at use in laptops and netbooks.

Their peculiarity is the use of a “built-in” graphics video processor produced by AMD. This is the joint creativity of two sworn competitors. It’s not for nothing that I put the word “built-in” in quotation marks. Although it is considered one with the processor, physically it is a separate chip, although located on the same substrate as the CPU. AMD supplies ready-made graphics solutions, and Intel only installs them on its processors. Friendship is friendship, but the chips are still apart.

“In short, Sklifosovsky!”

“So which processor is best for me,” many will probably ask. A lot has been written, you can get lost in the varieties, characteristics, etc., but you need to choose something. Well, for the impatient, I’ll put everything in one table, which will rank the processors according to their applicability for certain purposes.

Upd. 2018. Time does not stand still and after the emergence of the new, 8th generation of processors, we have to significantly reconsider the applicability of processors for certain tasks. In particular, particularly noticeable changes have occurred in the segment of energy-efficient “U” processors. In the 8th generation, these are finally full-fledged 4-core “stones” with significantly better performance than their predecessors, while maintaining the same TDP value. Therefore, I don’t see the point in choosing something like i7 7500U, i5 7200U, etc.

The only argument that can influence the decision to prefer these particular CPUs is a significant discount on laptops with them on board. In other cases, the old Us have no chance against new processors.

I’ll say right away that this is an average classification that does not take into account financial costs or the need to choose one option or another. And overall performance depends not only on the processor. Even a powerful “stone” may not reach its potential if a small amount of memory is installed, a budget hard drive is used, and programs that are “hungry” for hardware resources are used.

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189 comments

The next 3 digits are the serial number of the model. In general, the higher the value, the more powerful the processor. So, i3 has a value of 7100, I5 – 7200, i7 is marked as 750; what does this mean? Why are the 7th generation processors listed?

1. Hi all!
   I wanted to know about Intel processors. I have long noticed that when buying a newly released processor, the year is indicated on its cover, but the year does not correspond to the year of purchase, for example, the processor was presented in 2018, but the Intel processor is ’13.
   Is this the year of development?

2. Andrey, hello. help me choose a laptop for playing Dota 2. The amount is up to 70 thousand. Tomorrow I will go for a laptop, I still haven’t decided which one I want) I read a lot which one to get, etc. But since I don’t know much about this, it gave me almost nothing)) please help with advice, thanks in advance.

3. Hello. And I have this one on my desktop PC
   asustek computer inc motherboard M4A785T-M (AM3)
   amd phenom iix4 965 deneb 45nm technology. Is it possible to find a replacement motherboard?

4. Good article, informative :)
   But there is one remark and, subsequently, a question. The article does not contain a description of the T, K, S markings. There are also G-series Pentiums, but that doesn’t matter)
   And the next one is about marking k. As far as I know, k means the unlocked multiplier, i.e. The processor can be overclocked, is that true?
   Does k-multiplier have anything to do with Hyper-Threading technology?
   I can’t understand why the i7-3770k has 4 cores and 8 threads, and the similar performance i5-3570k has 4 cores and 4 threads, although both are labeled k.

5. Hello. I'm looking for a laptop to work with AutoCad 2016. Please help me with advice on which one to choose. There is a lot of information, but it’s impossible to put it all together. Thanks in advance.

6. Good afternoon. Super article. I have been interested for a long time and have a question... just about the letter M... I saw that you answered about mobility... but I would like to know whether the difference with U and HQ/HK is significant. What percentage, say, in terms of games and working with graphic editors?

7. Please tell me what is better: lenovo i5-7200U+mx130 8ram ddr4-2133 or acer i3-8130U+mx150 8ram ddr4-2133? Does it make sense to overpay for a more expensive Acer?

8. Hello, I have a laptop Acer Aspire 7750g intel core i5 2450M 2.50GHz +turbo boost I want to install an external video card via EXP GDC
   does it make sense and what is the best video card to take for games thanks

9. Hello!
   There are still questions.....
   I found three interesting options with an i7 8750H with a GTX 1070...and one with an i7 7700HQ with a GTX 1080.
   i7 7700HQ with GTX 1070 many options and lower price.
   Generally stuck with the choice of Acer, Asus or Del. All very cool (in my opinion)…..in the same price niche.
   With a cool card it's ASUS ROG GL702VI.....does it make sense?
   Plus I found an option with an i7 7820HK processor (it seemed to be very popular before).
   And how much operational intelligence is better for this matter?
   I take it mainly for games... what do you recommend?
   Until now I have used simpler technology. Muchooo.
   It’s not possible to change often, I want to spare. Thank you.

10. Good evening, thank you for providing some clarification on this topic, if it’s not too much trouble, can you recommend several gaming laptops in a budget of up to 45 thousand, I’ve looked at the HP 15-bs105ur 2PP24EA, but would like to hear your options.
    Thank you in advance.

11. Good afternoon Please tell me I need a laptop for programming. We are considering options like Aser swift 5 with 16 Gb of RAM and Intel Core i7 8550U. I know that ultrabooks limit the processor frequency to reduce overheating. Do you think this will greatly affect the operation of the laptop? Or is it better to consider heavier, but air-cooled laptop options?

12. Andrey, good evening. Thanks for the article, very informative. I would be grateful if you could clarify one point. I roughly narrowed the circle, taking into account my needs (diagonal 17, not for games, for AutoCAD 3D? budget up to 65tr) to ACER Aspire A717. But then I got confused in the modifications. There are two similar modifications with the only difference being the series. The first cheaper screen: 17.3″; screen resolution: 1920×1080; processor: Intel Core i5 7300HQ; frequency: 2.5 GHz (3.5 GHz, Turbo mode); memory: 8192 MB, DDR4; HDD: 1000 GB, 5400 rpm; SSD: 128 GB; nVidia GeForce GTX 1050 - 2048 MB second more expensive by 6tr (65tr) Intel Core i7 7700HQ; frequency: 2.8 GHz (3.8 GHz, in Turbo mode); memory: 8192 MB, DDR4; HDD: 1000 GB, 5400 rpm; SSD: 128 GB; nVidia GeForce GTX 1050 - 2048 MB;
    Is it worth overpaying for the series? and generally normal hardware for my requirements? I’m also puzzled by the fact that these prices are relevant, provided that the Linux operating system on Windows will be 7-10 thousand more expensive.

    • Hello.
      Linux is, consider it, without an operating system. They don't charge money for it. And licensed Windows costs at least several thousand.
      AutoCAD loves processors with higher frequencies. In general, the i7 is better, but there is one thing - cooling. It’s not a fact that the laptop will cope with cooling the i7 under prolonged load. I mean, he can handle it, but how much faster the i7 will work in this mode compared to the i5 is a question. And it would be better to have more memory. I would still put in 16 GB of memory. There's probably no need for more. Although you can upgrade it yourself later if necessary. SSD is a must. 240-256 GB would be better, 128 is still not enough. I think i5 will be enough.
      Why a laptop? Wouldn't a hospital be better for such tasks? It’s easier to upgrade, and there are no problems with cooling.

      • Thank you very much. The specifics of the work are such that a laptop is more convenient. with cooling, I’ll buy a stand so that I don’t have to worry)) can I buy it cheaper without an ssd, but do I have to remove the entire back cover to add an ssd? which is fraught with loss of warranty, and modifications with higher capacity come with more expensive components. There is a separate window for a regular hard drive, maybe you can put a hybrid hhd+ssd version there? It’s also very interesting how much worse or better is the 8th generation processor but with the U series (2 cores) than the 7th series processor with the HQ series?

13. The modification indicated on the box is NH.GTVER.006. I don’t see such an assembly at all on the manufacturer’s website. The city link doesn't say anything about the matrix, but the phone managers say it's ips. I looked in other stores, they also write ips. In any case, I will try to return or exchange, insisting that within 7 days I have the right by law and contract)

14. Hello, could you comment on this unit:

    Dell Vostro 5568 (Intel i5-7200U 2500MHz / 8192MB / SSD 256GB / nVidia GeForce 940MX / gold)

15. Good day, Andrey!

    I'm looking for advice on choosing a laptop.

    Budget - up to 50-55. But if you can get it cheaper, then it’s much better.

    The main goal is to connect to a 4K TV and be able to view content (video) in this format. Games are not relevant, but the ability to run them (in 4K, or FullHD) would be a good addition. Working with documents, surfing.

    Nominees:
    1. Acer Aspire A715-71G-51J1 NX.GP8ER.008
    2. ASUS FX553VD-DM1225T 90NB0DW4-M19860
    3. Dell G3-3579 G315-7152 Blue

    Keep in mind that we will increase the HDD and SSD on our own, and we will install additional RAM in the future.

    Thanks in advance!

    PS From your publication and responses to comments, I found out that it is necessary to select a laptop without an OS. This significantly reduces its final cost.

16. Hello.
    Please tell me. The choice of laptop is from Asus and MSI models.
    Which model would be preferable?
    The main thing is computing power and RAM. For example, for working with data programs.

17. Hello. I'm looking for a gaming laptop in the price category up to 70,000:
    In stores they advise
    — Asus VivoBook 15 K570UD
    — Lenovo IdeaPad 330 Series 330-15ICH
    Please rate and tell me which other models may be suitable. The company is preferable to Asus, but I won’t turn my nose up at others. I would like to choose the optimal selection of processor (i5 8300H/ i7 8550U/ i7 8750H and higher) and video card (GeForce® GTX 1050/ GeForce® GTX 1050 Ti and higher) + SSD. Screen 17 is preferable.
    Thanks in advance.

    P.S. Is it true that the i5 8300H will discharge faster and overheat the laptop? Should I focus on it or the i7 line within my budget?

18. Good afternoon. Please recommend a laptop for: development (with IDE - no problem), photoshop, illustrator. It is advisable to have ssd + hdd (but you can also just have a hdd, with the possibility of adding an ssd), 8GB of RAM (more is possible). I'm confused about the options...
    The previous one had a 2nd generation i5, 6 GB of RAM and an integrated + discrete video card. I want no worse, budget 50k.
    Thank you!

19. Hello, Andrey! I understand that the article is about processors, but I see that you are also helping with choosing a laptop. I will make the same request. I've already broken my head - I've read a lot of information, watched videos... everything is mixed up.)) The laptop is needed for use at home, mainly for my daughter for studying, but sometimes my husband and I will use it - for him to make presentations, for me - for working with photos, watching movies . My daughter has vision problems - we are only looking at a 17-inch screen with good resolution. We are not gamers - we do not plan to play tanks. Maybe if only for light games, and even then for children. Budget up to $1500. Well +\- $200. We are considering the companies Asus, Aser and Dell. We give preference to the latter. We are not considering HP, there are no arguments, we just don’t intuitively want to. I would also like a metal laptop. The weight doesn't bother me - we'll only use it at home. Please recommend several models that you think are suitable for our family. Thank you so much in advance!

20. Hello.
    I'm looking for a laptop for work. I do accounting and look at the screen a lot. Budget about $850. I wanted to choose a laptop with a good 15.6-inch screen and the ability to sometimes play games (at medium and low settings, but modern games). Of all the models for this money, I liked the Acer Aspire 7 A715-72G-513X NH.GXBEU.010 Black Laptop and the Lenovo IdeaPad 330-5ICH 81FK00FMRA Onyx Black Laptop (https://ktc.ua/goods/noutbuk_lenovo_ideapad_330_15ich_81fk00fmra_onyx_black. html, https:/ /ktc.ua/goods/noutbuk_acer_aspire_7_a715_72g_513x_nh_gxbeu_010_black.html). The filling seems to be the same. I can't decide. Help me make a choice. Maybe I missed something? Maybe there is a more interesting model? I'll install the OS myself. Can an SSD be delivered to any laptop or does it require a special connector?

21. Hello! Could you recommend a reliable laptop in the region under 40,000? Needed for watching movies, listening to music, Internet. I don’t play games. I previously looked at the HP 15-bw065ur 2BT82EA Laptop, but it’s very confusing that there aren’t very good reviews about this company. (cooling problem). Now I’m looking at the ASUS R542UF-DM536T laptop. But what’s confusing about it now is that it has a 2.2 GHz Core i3-8130U processor. As I understand it, if the letter is U, then you shouldn’t take it. In general, I'm confused about the characteristics and don't know which one to choose. Please advise.

22. Hello from Kyrgyzstan, and I would like to know if I have a choice between an i5 8265U with 8 GB RAM, a 4 GB mx130 video card and an i5 7300HQ with 8 GB RAM, a GTX 1050 Ti video card. What to choose (the purpose of the purchase is programming and maybe in the future toys to play with), given that the second option is sold used? The price of the first is 43.5k, and the second is sold for 45k soms (at the rate of som and rubles almost 1 to 1). I will be grateful for your answer)

23. Good day!
    Please advise on budget RAM.
    I bought a laptop with 4GB RAM soldered on board. I checked the availability of a free slot for an additional bracket.
    In terms of volume and frequency, I will buy additional DDR4 2133 8GB.
    A search found the following brands:
    1. Apacer
    2. Goodram
    3. Foxline

    Which manufacturer? is it better to give preference? The price for all is around 3300-3700 rubles. Or maybe there are other manufacturers?
    Thanks in advance!

24. Hello. Tell me which laptop to choose for working and watching movies. I need an inexpensive one, so far I have looked at two options: Laptop ASUS F540BA-GQ193T (AMD A6 2.6GHz/15.6”/1366x768/4GB/500GB HDD/AMD Radeon R4/DVD no/Wi-Fi/Bluetooth/Win10 Home x64) and Laptop Lenovo IdeaPad 330-15AST (81D600FQRU) (AMD A4-9125 2.3GHz/15.6”/1366x768/4GB/500GB HDD/AMD Radeon 530/DVD no/Wi-Fi/Bluetooth/Win10 Home x64). And also, what is the difference in two almost identical laptop models, but only different letters: Lenovo IdeaPad 330-15AST (81D6002GRU) and Lenovo IdeaPad 330-15AST Laptop (81D600FQRU). Designation in brackets. Info from the websites of two well-known retail chains. I would really appreciate your answer. Thank you.