CPU. It is with this component that the computer begins. It is the processor that determines which programs and games can be launched on a PC and laptop. At the moment, there are two manufacturers - AMD and Intel. These companies traditionally compete with each other. But while the advantage is on the side of the blue brand. That's just the labeling of their processors is easy to get confused. Indeed, even “stones” with a slight change in characteristics are positioned by the company as a breakthrough. So what to choose for the poor user? Core i5 or i7? This question is rather complicated, since both types of processors are almost identical. Nevertheless, we will try to determine their distinctive features. Moreover, the price differs significantly.
A little bit about the company
Intel began its journey back in the 70s of the last century. Even then, she was engaged in the release of processors such as i386. And even then, the blue brand was in full swing with the red. Years passed and ... nothing has changed. However, to this day, Intel products are considered more productive and energy efficient than AMD processors. Here are just the "blue" with might and main wise with modifications. Prices may vary by hundreds of dollars, and changes will be minor. And now, many potential buyers think what to purchase: i5 or i7? The difference in price is significant. But the design changes are not visible to the average user.
Nevertheless, both Intel processors are very popular. Most users simply do not understand the difference between these models and instinctively take the product more expensive, hoping that it will be better. But this is not always the case. There is an opinion that Intel specialists (especially marketers) specially created such a system of models in order to pump out more money from gullible consumers. And their marketing ploy was a complete success. It's time to figure out whether it is worth overpaying for ghostly performance, or can you save even on the processor? So, Intel Core i5 vs i7.
Specifications
In the case of processors, it is precisely on the technical characteristics that you should pay special attention. And for all the numbers. For it is in them that the difference between two almost identical "stones" lies.
So, Intel Core i5 2550K. This processor operates at a frequency of 3400 megahertz (in turbo mode), has at its disposal 4 cores and boasts a third-level cache of 6 megabytes. What does it mean? The performance of this processor is enough to solve all problems, including modern games and working with video editors. The volume cache of the third level allows the processor to keep more operations in memory, which positively affects the performance. So what is better - i5 or i7? We will answer this question. In the meantime, consider the main characteristics of the opponent.
As an opponent taken Intel Core i7-3960X Extreme Edition. The processor consists of 6 cores, a clock frequency of 3300 megahertz and a third-level cache of 12 megabytes. Performance is, of course, at the highest level. But if you look with an open mind, you will see that there is no point in overpaying. Six cores are needed for complex calculations that the average user does not need. And the core operating frequency is even less than the previous i5. This “stone” is only interesting in the rather voluminous L3 cache, which can be useful to the user. There are not many differences. And the price difference is about 400 US dollars. So the question arises: Core i5 or Core i7? But for now, let's not rush. Consider other features of the "stones".
Integrated graphics
The processors of the Core lineup include a graphics core, which is used in the absence of a discrete graphics card. Integrated graphics, of course, cannot replace a good graphics accelerator, but some processors have a rather powerful adapter. And this cannot but rejoice. In this regard, the difference between i5 and i7 is visible to the naked eye. The Intel Core i5 2550K integrates the Intel HD Graphics 5500 graphics chip. It cannot boast of special performance. Moreover, video memory is limited to 650 megabytes. But there are decent core frequencies and memory buses. However, there is nothing to count on modern games. Here i5 is clearly losing.
Now let's move on to the Intel Core i7-3960X Extreme Edition. Here you can find the Intel Iris Pro Graphics Accelerator. It is worth noting that just such an adapter is used by Apple in their MacBooks. This alone speaks volumes. The amount of video memory of this chip is unlimited (if only there was enough RAM). The frequencies are comparable to discrete mid-range video adapters. In general, if you want to play some modern masterpiece, then this graphic chip will not hit the face in the dirt. In this regard, the superiority of i7 is perfectly noticeable. So which is better - i5 or i7? Let us not rush to conclusions and consider some other features.
Overclocking capabilities
Here, too, the superiority of i7 is noticeable. The fact is that Intel Core i5 2550K cannot be overclocked. The manufacturer did not provide such an option. The only thing you can do is scalp the processor. This will give a small performance boost. But no more than that. While it is noticeable that the “battle” Intel i5 vs i7 wins the latter, as it supports extreme overclocking. The processor frequencies can be significantly increased without any problems. But before that, it is recommended to install liquid cooling. Yes, i7 wins. But the fact is that ordinary users do not need such subtleties. Integrated graphics are not required if there is a good discrete adapter. Overclocking is also insignificant for a regular user. So all the benefits of the Seven are clearly inflated.
Energy efficiency
And here the confident victory of the "five". As a less powerful processor, it is characterized by low power consumption. This means that heat transfer will be noticeably lower. And therefore, the user does not have to spend money on a cool cooling system. As for the Seven, things are much worse here. To power this processor, you need a good power supply. Also, not every fan will cope with heat. In terms of saving energy and money, i5 is more attractive.
I5 user reviews
Those who have purchased Intel Core i5, are well aware that this is not a top processor. And so the dilemma of "i5 or i7" is not worth them. Nevertheless, almost all owners of this stone note a clear and stable processor over the years. He copes with all tasks perfectly and does not give up even before the coolest games. People note that this “stone" is enough for them with a head. They did not overpay and were terribly pleased.
I7 user reviews
The owners of this "monster" honestly admit that they spent their money in vain. Most of the processor power is idle. No matter how hard people try, it’s impossible to load the “stone” to the full on a regular home computer. The five would do just fine with all the tasks. Moreover, for some reason i7 has throttling (the processor is "choked" at high frequencies and terribly slows down). It is not known what this is connected with, but many owners of the "stone" already regret buying it. So there is something to think about.
Conclusion
So, we examined two models of central processors from Intel and tried to answer the question of which is better - Intel Core i5 or i7. If you look at these two models with an open mind, we can say with confidence that the average user can easily have the power that i5 can offer. In addition, it works more stable. Core i7 is needed for those who can not imagine their life without overclocking devices. However, such a power home computer is useless. So why overpay for frequencies and functions that you will not use? That's right - no reason.