I3 5th Generation Vs I5 4th Generation
The current one is the 8th-generation series called Kaby Lake Refresh. Each family, in turn, has its own line of Core i3, Core i5, and Core i7 series of processors.
The processor is the brain of a computer, but understanding the difference between processors requires a lot of brainpower of your own. Intel has a confusing naming scheme, and the question we get asked most often is: What’s the difference between an i3, i5, or i7 processor? Which CPU should I buy?
It’s time to demystify that. In this article, we won’t be touching on Intel’s other processors like the Pentium series or the new laptop-centric Core M series. They’re good in their own right, but the Core series is the most popular and confusing, so let’s just focus on that.
The Differences Between Core i7, Core i5, and Core i3
An Intel Core i7 is better than a Core i5, which in turn is better than a Core i3. The trouble is knowing what to expect within each tier. Things go a little deeper.
First, i7 does not mean a seven-core processor! These are just names to indicate relative performance.
Typically, the Core i3 series has only dual-core processors, while the Core i5 and Core i7 series have both dual-core and quad-core processors. Quad-cores are usually better than dual-coresWhat Do 'Dual Core' and 'Quad Core' Mean?What Do 'Dual Core' and 'Quad Core' Mean?These days, most CPUs are dual-core, quad-core, or octo-core. But what does that even mean? Here's everything explained.Read More, but don’t worry about that just yet.
Intel releases “families” of chipsets, called generations. The current one is the 8th-generation series called Kaby Lake Refresh. Each family, in turn, has its own line of Core i3, Core i5, and Core i7 series of processors.
You can spot which generation a processor belongs to by the first digit in its four-digit model name. For example, the Intel Core i3-8250 belongs to the 8th generation.
Pro Tip: Here’s a useful rule of thumb. The other three digits are Intel’s assessment of how the processor compares to others in its own line. For example, an Intel Core i3-8145U is superior to the Core i3-8109U because 145 is higher than 109.
What Intel’s Model Numbers Mean: U vs. Q vs. H vs. K
As you can see, the model number will typically be followed by one, or a combination of the following letters: U, Y, T, Q, H, G, and K. Here’s what they mean:
- U: Ultra Low Power. The U rating is only for laptop processors. These draw less power and are better for the battery.
- Y: Low Power. Typically found on older generation laptop and mobile processors.
- T: Power Optimized for desktop processors.
- Q: Quad-Core. The Q rating is only for processors with four physical cores.
- H: High-Performance Graphics. The chipset has one of Intel’s better graphics units in it.
- G: Includes Discrete Graphics. Typically found on laptops, this means there is a dedicated GPU with the processor.
- K: Unlocked. This means you can overclock the processor above its ratingOverclocking For Gamers: Everything You Need To KnowOverclocking For Gamers: Everything You Need To KnowHere’s every a gamer needs to know about overclocking – and how to do it.Read More.
Understanding these letters and the numbering system above will help you know what a processor offers just by looking at the model number, without needing to read the actual specifications. Of course, before making a buying decision, it’s advisable to check the details at ark.intel.com.
You can find the meaning of other suffixes at Intel’s guidelines on processor numbers.
Intel Core i7 vs. i5 vs. i3: Hyper-Threading
The physical cores largely determine the speed of a processor. But with how modern CPUs workWhat Is A CPU and What Does It Do?What Is A CPU and What Does It Do?Computing acronyms are confusing. What is a CPU anyway? And do I need a quad or dual-core processor? How about AMD, or Intel? We're here to help explain the difference!Read More, you can get a boost in speed with virtual cores, activated through a system called Hyper-Threading Technology.
In layman’s terms, hyper-threading allows a single physical core to act as two virtual cores, thus performing multiple tasks simultaneously without activating the second physical core (which would require more power from the system).
If both processors are active and using hyper-threading, those four virtual cores will compute faster. However, do note that physical cores are faster than virtual cores. A quad-core CPU will perform much better than a dual-core CPU with hyper-threading!
The Intel Core i3 series has hyper-threading. The Intel Core i7 series supports hyper-threading, too. The Intel Core i5 series does not support it.
However, recent reports suggest Intel might be dropping hyper-threading on all its processors except the fastest Core i9 series.
Intel Core i7 vs. i5 vs. i3: Turbo Boost
The Intel Core i3 series does not support Turbo Boost. The Core i5 series uses Turbo Boost to speed up your tasks, as does the Core i7 series.
Turbo Boost is Intel’s proprietary technology to intelligently increase a processor’s clock speed if the application demands it. For example, if you are playing a game and your system requires some extra horsepower, Turbo Boost will kick in to compensate.
I7 5th Generation Vs 4th
Turbo Boost is useful for those who run resource-intensive software like video editors or video games, but it doesn’t have much of an effect if you’re just going to be browsing the web and using Microsoft Office.
Intel Core i7 vs. i5 vs. i3: Cache Size
Apart from Hyper-Threading and Turbo Boost, the one other major difference in the Core lineup is Cache Size. Cache is the processor’s own memory and acts like its private RAM. It’s one of the little-known specs that slows down your PC5 Little-Known Specs That Could Be Slowing Down Your PC5 Little-Known Specs That Could Be Slowing Down Your PCWe'll take a look at five lesser known factors that affect your computer's performance, and show you how you can always get maximum bang for your buck when upgrading.Read More.
Just like with RAM, more cache size is better. So if the processor is performing one task over and over, it will keep that task in its cache. If a processor can store more tasks in its private memory, it can do them faster if they come up again.
The Core i3 series typically has up to 3MB of cache. The Core i5 series has between 3MB and 6MB of cache. The Core i7 series has between 4MB and 8MB of cache.
Intel Graphics: HD, UHD, Iris, Iris Pro or Plus
Ever since graphics were integrated on the processor chip, it’s become an important decision point in buying CPUs. But as with everything else, Intel has made the system a little confusing.
There are now typically three levels of graphics units: Intel HD, Intel Iris, and Intel Iris Pro or Iris Plus. You’ll see a model name like Intel HD 520 or Intel Iris Pro 580… and that’s where the confusion begins.
Hp Core I5 4th Generation
Here’s a brief example of how mind-boggling it can be. Intel HD 520 is a basic graphics chipset. Intel Iris 550 is better than Intel HD 520, but also basic. But Intel HD 530 is a high-performance graphics unit and is better than Intel Iris 550. However, Intel Iris Pro 580 is also a high-performance graphics unit and better than Intel HD 530.
The best advice for how to interpret these? Just don’t. Instead, rely on Intel’s naming system. If the processor’s model ends with an H, you know it’s a model with high graphics performance. If it ends with a G, that means there is a dedicated GPU, not one of Intel’s chips.
Choosing Between Intel Cores i3 vs. i5 vs. i7
Generally speaking, here’s who each processor type is best for:
- Intel Core i3: Basic users. Economic choice. Good for browsing the web, using Microsoft Office, making video calls, and social networking. Not for gamers or professionals.
- Intel Core i5: Intermediate users. Those who want balance between performance and price. Good for gaming if you buy a G processor or a Q processor with a dedicated graphics processor.
- Intel Core i7: Power users. You multi-task with several windows open at the same time, you run apps that require a lot of horsepower, and you hate waiting for anything to load.
How Did You Choose?
This article provides a basic guide for anyone looking to buy a new Intel processor but is confused between Core i3, i5, and i7. But even after understanding all this, when it’s time to make a decision, you might need to choose between two processors from different generations because they’re priced the same.
When you’re comparing, my best tip is to head to CPU Boss where you can compare both processors and get a detailed analysis, as well as ratings. If you don’t understand the jargon, just go with the rating and the basic advice. Even if you understand jargon, CPU Boss has all the details you’ll need.
Note: Most People Don’t Need Intel Core i9
Intel also has a top-end, high-performance range of processors called the Intel Core i9. Typically, these have more cores (10 to 18 on desktop), leading to higher speed. But for most people, the extra performance is not really worth it.
The Core i9 is only useful if you’re a hardcore gamer who also streams live, or a video editor working on multiple tasks. For everyone else, the Intel Core i7 should be good enough, and maybe even the Intel Core i5. If you’re curious, here’s what you need to know when deciding between Intel Core i9 vs. Core i7 vs. Core i5Intel Core i9 vs. i7 vs. i5: Which CPU Should You Buy?Intel Core i9 vs. i7 vs. i5: Which CPU Should You Buy?Intel and AMD are back in a battle of processors, with Intel's Core i9 as the fastest consumer desktop processor ever.Read More.
Explore more about: Buying Tips, Computer Processor, CPU, Intel, .
Nicely explained article. Helped a lot to know the difference.
Thank you! Very informative and definitely made me realize I can't afford what I need ?
Excellent explanation and understandable even for non-techies. Writer is very smart and fluid with writing.
Sifting through an overwhelming amount of articles on which laptop is right for me was full of tech words that I don’t understand. Thank you for putting this article in basic language so that someone like me who knows nothing about technology was able to make a decision on the type of laptop was the best fit for me! You have no idea how much this article helped. Now it’s time to buy me a laptop. Thanks!
This article is out of date. How about updating for the 8th gen CPU's from intel that are being sold now.
I like how the article completely ignores the i9 series....
wORST ARTICLE
Saying that the i3 isn't for gaming is silly. My son has a PC with an i3 and a GTX1080 and plays most games in 4K on high or 1440p on Ultra. Games really don't take advantage of additional cores.
Wow, this whole article was super helpful! I learned so much I never knew and it has helped me make an informed decision about purchasing a new PC! Thanks so much!
The article is outdated. We have never generations of processors with more cache and that CPUBoss is dying website- it doesn't update its database to include the latest 8 series.
Very useful u have broadened my knowledge. Thank u
Well explained article.thanks for the details , I have more knowledge know to choose the right processesor now.
Excellent explanation
Its really good guidance...... thankyou.....
Thanks, gain a lot of knowledge about processors.
I think people over buy CPU's especially when many users just do web browsing, document creation and some video stream watching like Netflix. People should realize that all of these tasks are not going to strain any CPU these days. Core i3 will be fine for many, and core i5 for those who do more multi tasking. Probably more important to have enough RAM then anything. Gamers, video editing, and other intensive tasks will need a HQ type mobile CPU or go with a desktop CPU because most gamers find desktop CPU's much more flexible for over clocking, upgrading, and durability. You kind of limit yourself in a laptop, your pre disposed to what you buy in specs with no practical upgrade paths. How many times have I read people who bought weak U series CPU's who now want to play 3 D games. Those CPU's were never designed for that type of application. Neither are the graphic chips associated with those notebooks. Its always going to costs a lot more to get a mobile gaming notebook over a comparable desktop gaming system. Its why most gamer save the gaming for their desktops.
Many times however PC makers bump up hardware and features at the same time. Harder to find a core i3 notebook that has more premium features. Many times your stuck buying the better CPU just to get other features.I often feel that people who only need an i3 make the mistake of buying an i5. At work, I have a 4th Generation i3 Desktop with 16GB RAM. This PC host's web applications, runs up to 2 Virtual Machines Simultaneously, hosts a MySQL database used for testing, whilst allowing me to work with Chrome (many, many tabs open), Atom, Python, Visual Studio and MS Office.
Whilst i3s are less powerful than i5s, I often think they are underrated and should not be pushed into the same category as the low-end Pentiums and Celerons available at a very low price. Would I put one in my PC at home? No. I sometimes render video on this and feel the advantage of having an i5, but I really don't think most people would.
I think part of getting the most out of a less powerful CPU is running the bare minimum amount of processes you can get away with, and spending a little time optimizing what is run on startup. Also, generally using a computer efficiently helps. An i5 used inefficiently could easily perform tasks slower than an i3 being used efficiently.
If you want a computer that loads simple applications quickly and doesn't have too much trouble multitasking, you cant go far wrong with a newer i3, at least 8GB RAM and an SSD. If you can get an i5 for say another £30 though, you may as well.
I built my super duper computer with leading edge SSD & RAM components last year, but went with an i3. Why? For most of my usage, single core performance is what counts. The clock speed on an i3 was almost as fast as an i7 and faster than an i5. The i3 does have an additional core and hyperthreading. So when you can actually use mulitprocessing, it is up to the task. The extra cores of the i5 & i7 just do not provide all that much additional benefit but cost quite a bit more. Save the dough and put into a faster SSD and more RAM.
'The clock speed on an i3 was almost as fast as an i7 and faster than an i5' it is not true... I have bought i5 because it has 'turbo' so it is (usually) MUCH faster then i3... but only when it is on... so when I need it... so when it matter:)
THANKS FOR INFORMATION .
THAT MAKE ME KNEW , WHAT KIND OF MY LAPTOP MUST BE UPGRADEThank you for the clear comparisons between Intel Cores!
I am looking for a new laptop. I don't play video games, but occasionally edit photos with Win apps. For the rest, I mostly use the computer for Spotify, Explorer, Mail, Office, and the internet browser (but I often leave multiple tabs open).
Is an i3 sufficient for me, or is opting for an i5 worth it?
I think that an i3 will be sufficient. Tip: Look on eBay for better prices.
I suggest to decide following way:
If I really want to have great performance I choose i7
If I don't really need a great performance but I really need Virtualization technology I choose i5
If I don't really need Virtualization technology I choose i3As you see I put i5 and i3 in the same category in terms of performance. This is because I really don't see a huge step in performance between these two CPUs (obviouselly there is, but not worth to pay attention)
I don`t agree at all! For example a lot of games need 3-4 cores... So i5 'Q' (4 cores) is MUCH better than i3!
I put i5 (quad! it must be a quad!) and i7 (not i3) in the same category in terms of performance. This is because I really don't see a huge step in performance between 4 physical cores and 4 physical cores and 8 logical... (Hiper Treading) (obviously there is, but very rarely... 4 cores is enough.
Core i3 processors can be a perfectly fine for value-conscious and budget-constrained gamers. It offers similar performance to i5 processors in most games, and generally adequate performance even in games where the i5 does have an advantage. In a certain budget ranges, the $40-60 you can save by going with an i3 can allow you to go up a tier or two in the GPU department, which is generally much more important when it comes to gaming than CPU performance.
CPU Boss is not a good site for making a determination as to which processor to buy. A consumer layperson probably shouldn't put too much effort into trying to understand the technical properties of the processor they're buying, or pay any attention to synthetic benchmarks. Instead the focus should be on real-world performance benchmarks for the specific games (or types of games) and applications that they plan on using.
I am looking to purchase a new hp: i'm trying to decide which to choose from, the HP Pavilion w /Intel Core i5-6200U or the Intel Core i7-6500U Processor. This article really helped me in understanding the difference between the processors and the different tiers, but my question is:
Does the processor type and speed have anything to do with the life of the lap top? Of course in all things, as they age they slow down; but if an i7 processor lasts longer as far as speed and efficiency, i would consider making that investment.
I appreciate any help! Thank you
CPU choice shouldn't have any appreciable difference in the life or reliability of a laptop, especially when comparing CPUs with the same architecture and the same properties when it comes to power draw (as is the case with the i5-6200U and i7-6500U).
Also, most components in a PC do not slow down over time. The reason PCs seem to slow down is generally due to the fact that newer software is written with the expectation that it will be run on newer/more powerful hardware, and accumulated bloat from background processes as the user installs more stuff without doing any housecleaning.
Something like a broken fan or dust-clogged air intakes and heatsinks could result in lower speeds (since modern PCs will tend to throttle down in speed when temperatures get too high) and PC parts are subject to wear and tear, but usually part failures tend to result in symptoms like system instability or the loss of specific functions.
Good work. Technology explained in the best way!
very good script ! congratulations
its helpfull for laptop buyers!!!!
Some i5s do support hyperthreading; all the i5s used by MacBooks have this functionality.
From brousing ark, it seems i5 with 2 physical cores gets Hyper-Threading, while Q models with 4 physical cores dont. This seems to apply at least since Haswell. Ex. i5-6300HQ - 4 cores, but no hyper; i5-6300U - 2 cores, but has hyper.
Correct. i5 for laptops (Ultra low power) have hyperthreading while desktop i5 have 4 physical cores without hyperthreading. At least with 6th generation (look for i5-6400 for example)
Perfectly understood!! Very clear the concepts .. Great article
It varies with the application but hyper-threading typically increases throughput by 25% to 30% over non-hyper-threaded cores.
nuts!! HT when doesn't make performance worse gives 5% Máx!!!!
@beowulf: I'm just repeating what the crowd doing grid computing report. In those applications it's all cores running 24/7 all the time, so the results you get may depend on what you're doing.
Well-explained, Mihir. I had some confusion in choosing my next notebook. Your article cleared it.
Thanks, man.It is pointless if the software you run cannot use the extra CPU cores. If the application cannot use four or more cores, then adding these extra cores will see no better performances.
Why only cover intel. I'm using intel and generally very happy with my i7, but isn't AMD something for people to consider?
I was an AMD fan for years... Until I have an FX9370 (water cooled) AND a Vishera 8350 fry within a month of each other for no apparent reason. I have a Core Two Duo from a build when they cam out almost 10 years ago that still runs great, and I have to say, the i7 Skylake that I got in January (as a replacement for the 9370) absolutely blows the 9370 away, without sucking down 225 watts.
sorry but my core i5 mobile processor has 2 cores and 4 threads, is this not hyperthreading? seems to contradict the above
@neal
Same here. Two cores, four logical processors = hyperthreading. Some i5 do have hyperthreading, contrary to the article above. See: i68.tinypic.com/qxqds4.png
I have the sky lake i3 and am using a Gtx 960 oc and use it for gaming with no problem. At this point I don't really c how your processer matters unless you are doing virtual reality games or are using extream programs. Any game that I have played so far runs very smooth and looks better then any ps4 or Xbox 1 game I have played. So for this guy to say you can't game with I3 I say bull chit.
The U processors basically replaced the M. M is for mobile processors and hasn't been used for a few years, so yeah the author should have mentioned this if someone is buying a used laptop etc.
OK found the link to intel page... oops
My processor is i5-3210M. No mention of the 'M' suffix in your article?
Well....better get an ssd first and assume the cpu after...