The choice of Laptop to purchase has usually been a major bone of contention to people who are new to computers. Most at times, they dont ask questions or seek directions before they buy, and they end up getting low specification laptops at a high price because of their ignorance. This happens most especially in Nigeria and some other nations in the world.
I have taken my time to study and research on the most important specification of a system which you must look at before you decide to make a purchase. I found out that it is the Processor. The processor is the most vital unit of a computer system because it determines the speed and the efficiency of the computer. I'm gonna do a critical analysis of the different type of Processors.
There are two major processors in the market; they are Intel and AMD. Intel is the most preferred because of its efficiency, versatility and high durability. In this context, we are gonna be dealing with Intel processors as described in the title of this article.
This article offers a basic explanation of these processors and will help you determine the best for your needs.
In this article, The folowing questions will be answered:
- What is a processor?
- What is a core?
- What is a multi-core processor?
- Why do I need multiple cores?
- How many cores do i3, i5, and i7’s have?
- How Do Core 2 Duo and Core 2 Quad Compare with Core i3, i5, and i7?
- What Does the “i” Stand for in i3, i5, and i7?
- Do I need an i3, i5, or i7?
What is a Processor?
The Processor or Central Processing Unit (CPU) component of your PC carries out instructions given to it by your Operating System (Windows.) Think of the processor as a brain that receives instructions and messages (i.e. “HOT HOT HOT Burning!!!”) and sends out instructions to other hardware (i.e. “Arm: lift hand” or “mouth: open; vocal chords: scream.”)
What is a Core?
A standard processor has one core (single-core.) Single core processors only process one instruction at a time (they do use pipelines internally, which allow several instructions to be processed together; however, they are still run one at a time.)
What is a Multi-Core Processor?
A multi-core processor is comprised of two or more independent cores, each capable of processing individual instructions. A dual-core processor contains two cores, a quad-core processor contains four cores, and a hexa-core processor contains six cores.
Why do I Need Multiple Cores?
Multiple cores can be used to run two programs side by side and, when an intensive program is running, (AV Scan, Video conversion, CD ripping etc.) you can utilize another core to run your browser to check your email etc.
Multiple cores really shine when you’re using a program that can utilize more than one core (called Parallelization) to improve the program’s efficiency and addressability. Programs such as graphic software, games etc. can run multiple instructions at the same time and deliver faster, smoother results.
If you use CPU-intensive software, multiple cores will likely provide a better computing experience. If you use your PC to check emails and watch the occasional video, you really don’t need a multi-core processor.
How many cores do i3, i5, and i7’s have?
- An i3 processor has two cores
- An i5 processor has two or four cores (depending on the model you have)
- An i7 processor has two, four, or six cores (depending on the model you have)
How Do Core 2 Duo and Core 2 Quad Compare with Core i3, i5, and i7?
If you’re looking for a good value PC and have decided on a Core 2 Duo, Core i3, or Core i5 (all best in value for casual computer use), please read on:
Core 2 Duo processors run two threads; i3’s and i5’s run four threads. Core 2 Duo processors are socket 775 (45/65nm); Core i3 and i5 processors are socket 1156 (nm) but only work with DDR3 RAM (Some Core 2 Duo’s work with both DDR2 and DDR3.)
For desktops, I’d stay clear of core 2 duos due to their lack of power and compatibility with the newest PC hardware; for laptops, it all depends on your usage. As laptops aren’t as easy to upgrade, buying dated technology might burn you in the future when you find your Core 2 Duo PC’s motherboard only supports 4GB RAM—for example.
i5’s come with “turbo boost”; however, i3’s overclock very well if that’s your thing. That’s where I’d put my money if you’re considering Core 2 Duo, i3, and i5: the i3 provides the best value for most casual PC users.
While I focused on i3, i5, and Core 2 Duo to answer a reader’s question, the principles apply when comparing i5, i7, and Core 2 Quad. I’d go for the i5 unless you are willing to pay a premium for a little more performance.
What’s the Difference between i3/i5/i7 Generations?
The 2nd generation processors use a new 32 nanometer technology (the current is 45 nanometer.) These processors are called the Sandy Bridge. A processor is made of millions of transistors; these transistors have a rectangular shape so if we change one of its sides is going to fulfill a smaller area. Intel has reduced that side to 32 nanometers. With a simple calculation we can see that this implies we can have double number of transistors.
Using this new technology Intel has opted to introduce a GPU, graphics processor unit, inside the CPU. This means that every processor will have its own graphics card.
The 3rd generation of the Intel Core processors brings many new features and improvements over the earlier 2nd generation of processors. Ivy Bridge is the codename of Intel’s new processor family. Ivy Bridge supersedes the earlier Sandy Bridge processor family. While Sandy Bridge is considered as the 2nd generation Intel Core processor family, Ivy Bridge is the 3rd generation of the Intel Core processors. The main difference is the the process architecture. Ivy Bridge uses the 22 nm architecture while Sandy Bridge uses 32 nm architecture. This means that Ivy Bridge can pack more electronic components in a smaller area, giving better power efficiency and performance.
Intel has also introduced a new 3D transistor technology in the Ivy Bridge processors. They are also called tri-gate transistors. According to Intel, this new architectural design would result in Ivy Bridge providing better performance while consuming significantly less power compared to an equivalent Sandy Bridge processor.
What Does the “i” Stand for in i3, i5, and i7?
I searched around the web and found speculation that the “i” stands for “Intel”; however, there’s no substantiation to that claim. After coming up with no explanation, I sent an email to Intel tech support. Here’s what they had to say
"The i# processors are just branded that way with no special meaning."
Do I need an i3, i5, or i7?
The reason you’re reading this guide is to find out which type of processor you need. I want to give a simple answer and, if you have more to add, please let us know in the comments. As with all computer hardware, the type of processor you need depends on your needs, for how long you want your computer to stay current, and your budget.
Here’s a very simple breakdown of what you should look to buy depending on your computing needs. All suggestions assume you are buying a pre-built PC (so you don’t have to worry about motherboard and RAM specs and so you don’t have to worry about upgrade compatibility.)
If you:
- Browse the internet, check email, and play the occasional flash game (like Farmville): Get a single core netbook or desktop (and don’t spend more than $300 USD — )
- Do word processing, spreadsheets etc., listen to music often, and watch movies, get an i3 processor (or any dual core processor i.e. core 2 duo)
- Play the occasional game and are happy with lower resolution and lower quality graphics (my suggestion assumes the graphics processor on the pre-built PC will be well-matched for the processor suggestions), watch HD movies etc., get an i5.
- If you do graphic publishing, music creation, programming (and compiling), watch HD movies, or like to play visually appealing games, get a quad core i5, or i7.
- If you like to have the very best hardware and play the most graphically intense games, get a quad core or hexa corei7 Extreme.
I realise my suggestions are somewhat generic but should point you in the right direction. If you have a specific question, please ask us in the comment box where we can help you find the right processor for you.
So… What Computer Should I Purchase?
A number of questions have come to me, asking me what computer to buy. I’m familiar with some good brands, but not with models and current pricing, I could help you in my capacity.
Now you have learnt, go get the right PC for yourself and enjoy with full satisfaction.
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