The central processing unit is one of the main components in your good gaming computer. It will dictate how quickly your computer can retrieve and process data and execute commands. Therefore, it is extremely important to choose a processor that will not only get the job done, but will do so in an outstanding fashion.
There are two main brands of computer processors: Intel and AMD. In this post we will discuss the many different features of the different Intel processors available. Intel produces many different processors, but today we're going to talk about their i3, i5, and i7 chips.
Intel's i3 Processors
Of Intel's new line of processors, the i3 is the least powerful. But that doesn't mean they won't get the job done. They will...
...the job just won't get done as fast as the others can get it done.
- i3 processors utilize hyperthreading technology (which was explained earlier in this post)
- At the very least, i3 processors are dual-core. There have been some quad-core i3's as well.
- They typically have 3-4 MB Cache (Cache is important--we will explain it later)
- 2.5-3.4 GHz
Ultimately, i3 processors are excellent choices for good gaming computers that must be built on a budget--they are good enough to support a quality gaming experience.
The best thing to do if you are on a budget (~$500), is to save some money by getting an i3 processor and then use that extra cash on a better graphics card.
Intel's i5 Processors
You really can't go wrong with an i5 processor. In fact, unless you've got an unlimited budget, then you're better off getting an i5 processor. The difference in gaming between an i5 processor and an i7 processor is not noticeable enough to warrant the higher costs.
If you have a moderate budget ($700-$1250) the i5 is a great processor. However, if you're also using your computer for other computing intensive tasks, like video rendering, you may want to consider an i7.
- Hyperthreading technology
- i5's come in either dual- or quad-core
- They can have between 3-8 MB Cache
- 2.5-3.6 GHz
At this point, you might be wondering where the difference between i3's and i5's are. Besides those extra MB's Cache (which is important) everything looks basically the same.
Ah, but there's a kicker. (There always is!)
The i5's have something that the i3's don't: Turbo Boost. It sounds cool and it is cool.
To understand Turbo Boost, you first have to understand that the clock speed on the box of the processor is much lower than that processor's max clock speed. This is done to protect the manufacturer from the worst case scenario. (However, many gamers get around this by 'overclocking' their processors--we will explain this in a later post.)
Turbo Boost allows the processor to temporarily reach higher GHz when the computer comes under heavy workloads.
To get a better idea of this boost, think of your computer as Mario and the Turbo Boost star-power. I need not say any more.
Intel's i7 Processors
Now, if you have an unlimited amount of money, then you might want to consider Intel's extreme i7 processors. These bad boys stand alone in the world of computer CPU's.
The i7's are especially good processors to get if you do a lot of heavy video editing and other processor intensive tasks. However, if you just want to build a good gaming computer and you don't have millions of dollars, an i5 will provide similar capabilities and the difference in gaming won't be so noticeable that you will regret your decision.
- Hyperthread technology (8 threads... mmmm so many hyperthreads... we don't need you, but we'll have you anyways!)
- Turbo Boost
- Quad-core (some extreme processors come with six cores!)
- Ranges from 4-8 MB Cache
- ~3.0+ GHz
Generally speaking, the i7's are for those gamers who'd rather put off going to the bathroom for 40 minutes than to miss an intense battle. (Guilty!)
Or, for those who'd rather ride a bike to work and have the sickest computer around than drive in the comfort of their own car.
Ultimately, it takes a different breed to go with the i7's. And, while they don't make you a better gamer, they do make you a lot cooler.
Choose A Quality Processor for Your Good Gaming Computer
In the end, the processor you choose will have a huge impact on your gaming experience. So, it's important that you take your time and choose a CPU that you know will do a good job.
For more information on good gaming computers, follow the link provided to continue reading.
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