What are the main differences between the processors Intel Core i3, i5 and i7?

When in 2010, Intel introduced the trade names Core i3, i5 and i7 processors for the main computer chip, there were many of those who is baffled. The ultimate goal of the company was totally different with the distinction between processor line, she tried to offer a quick and easy way to identify patterns of low, medium and high. Intel idea was to draw the attention of users the following message: “Core i7 processor better than the Core i5, which in turn is better than the Core i3“. Unfortunately, it does not answer the question of why some are better than others and how they differ.

After 2010, Intel further confuse their customers by releasing a number of new generations of processors based on different architectures: Sandy Bridge and Ivy, Haswell, Broadwell, Skylake. Despite the use of new technologies of trade names Core i3, i5 and i7 processors have not changed. The reason for this is more related to the fact that the main differences between them are still the same: chips i3 designed for computer systems base class, i5 computer mainstream level, and i7 for the most powerful gaming PCs or machines for serious work with photo / video.

the major differences between these classes of processors.

Key Technologies

Let’s start with debunking a very popular misconception – the names of the i3, i5 and i7 processors are not connected with the number of processor cores. These figures were chosen Intel more or less arbitrarily, and all the mass of chips that actually contain from two to four nuclei. Only a few elite super models for desktop PCs have to offer more. The main differences between the three rulers are in the other, namely the support of several key proprietary technologies – alone or in combination with each other.

Hyper-Threading

At the dawn of microprocessor technology, all processors has one nucleus that perform only one instruction set (thread / stream). The desire to improve the efficiency of computational operations has increased the number of physical cores (up to two, four, and then more). This has allowed processors to work in parallel with a large number of “flow” and do more work per unit of time.

The next logical step for the Intel became further optimization of the process. Thus was born the technology Hyper-Threading, which allows a single physical kernel handle more than one set of instructions (threads) simultaneously. In other words, a dual-core chip with Hyper-Threading technology can be regarded as a processor with four (albeit virtual) cores.

Turbo Boost

There was a time when the processor runs at a fixed frequency. In other words, their internal clock, counting down the data processing cycle “ticking” at a certain constant speed, which is set by the manufacturer. The only way to change the speed, called “overclocking“: it requires special knowledge, plus carries a real risk of irreparable damage to the processor.

Today things are very different. Nearly all modern processors (especially models developed for mobile computers) operate with a variable clock frequency (rate), which varies depending on the load. This achieves high energy efficiency and longer battery life for mobile devices.

Cache Size

All modern processors, regardless of the brand and model, working with the data. Many of the operations are routine, ie the same data is used again and again. To speed up the work of the CPU, they are stored in a special high-speed buffer. Thus, at the request of the processor, these data are available almost immediately, because it is not necessary to read them again and again with the disc or memory management.

The different processors cache size is varied within a relatively wide range. In the low-end models, it is about 3-4 MB. The chip high-level cache size reaches 6-12 MB.

Generally, the larger the cache memory, the more efficiently the appropriate processor. However, this “rule” does not apply universally to all types of applications. For example, programs to edit photos and videos willingly take advantage of large cache processor. Their work involves the re-use of identical instructions (data sets), so a large cache size positively affects their performance.

However, when performing common tasks (like browsing the web or working with office applications) cache size has a much more modest, often even a small impact.

Briefly about the types of Intel processors

Now that we have reviewed the main differences between the three classes of processors Intel, it’s time to look at the description of each:

Intel Core i3

Suitable for: daily work. Provide a smooth and quick execution of tasks related to the work in office applications, web browsing and video streaming in HD quality.

Intel Core i3

Brief description: The most affordable class family of processors Intel Core. They offer up to two physical cores and Hyper-Threading technology for virtual multithreading. I do not support Turbo Boost, but their power consumption relatively modest, so the notebooks that use them, usually boast long battery life.

Intel Core i5

Suitable for: intensive work with multiple applications at the same time, for the processing of digital photos and videos at home. Suitable for most modern games.

Intel Core i5

Brief description: a processor for desktops and laptops middle class. Offer from two to four physical cores, but not all models support Hyper-Threading. Includes a function of Turbo Boost, which increases the frequency per se under heavy loads.

Intel Core i7

Suitable for: 3D-modeling, heavy applications of video processing (editing video with high and ultra-high resolution 4K) and the most advanced 3D-games.

intel core i7

Brief description: The highest class of chips that the company offers. There are variants with two, four, six and eight cores, supports Hyper-Threading and Turbo Boost.