Introduction
Computers in the 21st century have a lot of different specifications: the processor, the CPU, the GPU, the display, processing power, performance, battery life and so on. With so many different variants of computers with different specifications being produced by so many computer manufacturers, there is a perfect device for just about everybody today. However, in 2021, manufacturers have come up with a new trend. They have replaced the Intel processors that have been used for so long with AMD Ryzen processors. In fact, there are a lot of computers out there that are completely identical in hardware and software, except for the processor. Hence, it becomes imperative for us to figure out what AMD Ryzen is and which processor is better for what category of users.
Differences Between AMD and Intel Processor
Price
Because Intel has been dominating the processor market for well over a decade now, it is natural for them to amp up their prices. However, AMD has made its turnaround in the last couple of years and hence, they’re hard to beat in terms of the value they offer. For a significantly lower price, the AMD versions deliver performance that is suited to most average computer users.
Gaming performance
In gaming computers, it is very important to have a processor that can handle extensive computing workloads for extended periods of time without heating up too much. In this category, both processors work really well. AMD’s relentless pressure has forced a renaissance in terms of CPU performance for PC gaming, which has in turn, spurred Intel to respond with more powerful processors of its own. Here, it is believed that AMD is better for mid-range gaming computers due to the price point while Intel works better in higher-end PCs.
Productivity and content creation
For professionals who need decent performance on their computers for content creation and running productivity applications, AMD is the clear winner in terms of performance and value. This is attributed to AMD’s higher strength on its higher core counts. However, if you are a professional who wants to build a rig without dedicated graphics, Intel is a better alternative because AMD lacks integrated graphics on its 8-core and above CPUs.
Specifications and features
These are the processors that are offered by AMD:
- Ryzen 3
- Ryzen 5
- Ryzen 7
- Ryzen 9
- Threadripper
These are the processors that are produced by Intel:
- Core i3
- Core i5
- Core i7
- Core i9
- Cascade Lake-X
Both of these manufacturers have different families within these broad categories which allow users to customize their computers according to their requirements.
Heat
In judging the heat produced by both these processors under an extensive task load, AMD emerges as the clear winner. The latest Ryzen processors consume less power on a performance-vs-power basis, which generates less heat overall compared to the Intel for similar tasks. Hence, cooling requirements on AMD computers are lighter compared to Intel.
Verdict
AMD’s dedication comes back into the market and its launch of the latest Zen-based processors have redefined consumers’ expectations for both the mainstream desktop and the HEDT markets. The AMD processors in the last few years have come up with value-focused and power-hungry solutions to problems faced by consumers by adding more cores, more performance and lower power requirements.
On the other hand, Intel still holds considerable influence with a large section of customers who don’t use a discrete GPU. Intel’s latest Lake processors have also performed well in the mid-range category which has given it some leeway to win back the average customer.
As a whole, AMD processors are winning the war. However, this should not be the only criteria that drive you to buy one if an Intel chip suits your requirements better.
- If you want productivity performance without an external GPU, get an Intel.
- If you want a balance of price, performance and power for average to high usage, AMD’s the one.
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