The Age Old Question: Intel or AMD?

Today I wanted to talk a little bit more about computer hardware and specifically CPU’s (Central Processing Unit). “Intel or AMD” is a common question in the world of hardware and tech followers and is just about as controversial as saying: “Coke or Pepsi”. Just so we’re on a same page:

The CPU itself is a core component of what makes a computer a computer, but it isn’t the computer itself — it’s just the “brains of the operation”. It’s a small computer chip that sits atop the motherboard of a computer, whether that’s a desktop PC, laptop, tablet or even a smart phone. It’s distinctly separate from the memory, which is where information is stored, and the graphics card, which handles all rendering of video and 3D graphics and even video games to your monitor or screen. If you want to read more in-depth on what a CPU’s is and how they are made, you can go here.

The main manufacturer of CPU’s are two main companies: Intel and AMD (Advanced Micro Devices). I’m sure you’ve at least heard of Intel since they’re pretty mainstream. Intel makes several tiers of chips: Intel Core; Which consists of the i3-i9 processors designed for consumers. As well as the Intel Xeon which is more business orientated with more performance for complex servers.

As said before, AMD is basically the alternative to Intel. They currently have a very popular line called: Ryzen. Which consists of their consumer and business solutions for processors.

Price

Lets talk about price: for your average bargain shopper looking for a great deal AMD is surely a no-brainer as they offer great price to performance. As it sits right now, AMD’s Ryzen processors have proven their worth to be great for both entry level and high end performance level.

On the mid-range, AMD processors are currently taking the lead. For one, the $300  Ryzen 7 3700X has twice the processing threads, despite being cheaper than the competition, the Intel Core i7-9700K, which is available for $370.

On the high end, while Intel chips currently range from 4 to 18 cores, while AMD chips can now be found with up to a mind boggling 64-core processor. AMD’s new architecture the 7nm CPUs are at a much lower price point.

It was long-rumored that AMD’s Ryzen chips would offer cutting-edge performance at a lower price, and AMD’s 3rd-generation processors might be sealing the deal. Although, we still have to wait and see what Intel’s 10th-generation chips have to say about that.

It’s clear that AMD has won in this category over Intel.

Performance

In terms of performance, AMD’s Ryzen 3rd-generation processors are giving Intel a run for its money and nearly succeeding in that regard. Considering the high-end aspect, it’s no contest that Intel’s processors are typically on top; and for really good reason. The top of the line consumer chip is the Core i9-9900K, beats out many , as well as the Ryzen 9 3900X in single-core performance. Although, when it comes to multi-threaded performance Ryzen 9 3900X, which will set you back $499, does give the Core i9-9900K a run for its money.

Same can be said for the Ryzen 7 3700X when put side by side with Intel Core i7-9700K, with the Ryzen 7 3700X taking the lead in multi-threaded workloads, but falling behind in its single-threaded ones. So, in a way, it’s a catch-22. Additionally, AMD just unveiled the Ryzen Threadripper 3990x with 64 cores and 128 threads. For obvious reasons, this will beat out a “measly” 8-core processor.

In comparison to AMD’s 3800x vs the Intel i9-9900k, the 9900k would win in terms of raw gaming performance and would result in smoother gameplay. In terms of productivity the 9900k would also win this.

I’m giving this win to Intel.