What To Know
- The Intel Core i7 3820QM is a veteran of the CPU world, released in 2012 as part of the Ivy Bridge generation.
- If you’re looking for a CPU for a powerful desktop PC and value high performance across the board, the Intel Core i9 9900K is an excellent choice.
- However, if you’re on a tighter budget or need a processor for a mobile device, the Intel Core i7 3820QM might be a more suitable option.
Choosing the right CPU can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a vast array of options. Today, we’ll be comparing two processors from different eras: the Intel Core i7 3820QM and the Intel Core i9 9900K. This Intel Core i7 3820QM vs Intel Core i9 9900K comparison will delve into their core counts, clock speeds, performance, and more, helping you understand which processor might be better suited for your needs.
A Glimpse into the Past: Intel Core i7 3820QM
The Intel Core i7 3820QM is a veteran of the CPU world, released in 2012 as part of the Ivy Bridge generation. This quad-core processor boasts a base clock speed of 2.7 GHz and a turbo boost of up to 3.7 GHz. It’s designed for mobile devices, featuring a 35W TDP (Thermal Design Power) and a 45nm fabrication process. While it might seem ancient compared to its modern counterpart, the 3820QM was a powerhouse in its time.
The Modern Contender: Intel Core i9 9900K
The Intel Core i9 9900K, released in 2018, belongs to the Coffee Lake Refresh family. This 8-core processor, with a base clock speed of 3.6 GHz and a turbo boost of up to 5.0 GHz, is a true performance beast. It’s designed for desktop PCs, featuring a 95W TDP and a 14nm fabrication process. The 9900K represents a significant leap in performance and technology compared to the 3820QM.
Core Counts and Clock Speeds: The Numbers Tell the Story
The most obvious difference between these processors is their core count. The 9900K boasts 8 cores, while the 3820QM has 4. This translates to a significant advantage for the 9900K in multi-threaded applications, where tasks can be divided among multiple cores for faster processing.
The clock speeds also tell a story. The 9900K’s base clock speed of 3.6 GHz already surpasses the 3820QM’s turbo boost of 3.7 GHz. The 9900K’s turbo boost of 5.0 GHz further amplifies its performance advantage.
Performance: A Head-to-Head Showdown
In terms of raw performance, the Intel Core i9 9900K is undoubtedly the winner. It outperforms the 3820QM in virtually every benchmark, including CPU-intensive tasks like video editing, gaming, and 3D rendering. The 9900K’s higher core count and clock speeds translate to significantly faster processing times.
Architecture and Features: A Journey Through Time
The 9900K benefits from a more advanced architecture compared to the 3820QM. It features Intel’s 14nm fabrication process, which allows for higher clock speeds and lower power consumption compared to the 3820QM’s 45nm process. The 9900K also supports faster memory speeds and features newer technologies like Intel Optane Memory support.
Power Consumption and Thermal Design Power: Efficiency and Heat
The 3820QM, designed for mobile devices, boasts a lower TDP of 35W compared to the 9900K’s 95W. This means the 3820QM consumes less power and generates less heat. However, the 9900K’s higher TDP is necessary to achieve its higher performance levels.
Gaming Performance: A Battle for Frames
While both CPUs can handle modern games, the 9900K delivers a significant performance advantage, especially at higher resolutions and with demanding graphics settings. The extra cores and higher clock speeds allow the 9900K to render frames faster, resulting in smoother gameplay and higher frame rates.
Choosing the Right Processor: Matching Your Needs
Ultimately, the best processor for you depends on your specific needs and budget. If you’re looking for a CPU for a powerful desktop PC and value high performance across the board, the Intel Core i9 9900K is an excellent choice. However, if you’re on a tighter budget or need a processor for a mobile device, the Intel Core i7 3820QM might be a more suitable option.
A Legacy of Innovation: The End of an Era
While the Intel Core i7 3820QM might be considered outdated by today’s standards, it was a landmark processor in its time. It helped to usher in the era of quad-core processors for mobile devices and paved the way for the powerful CPUs we see today. The Intel Core i9 9900K, on the other hand, represents the pinnacle of desktop CPU performance, showcasing the incredible advancements in technology and design.
The Future of Computing: Beyond the 9900K
The Intel Core i9 9900K has since been superseded by newer and more powerful processors. However, it remains a formidable CPU, offering excellent performance for a wide range of tasks. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect even more powerful and efficient CPUs to emerge in the future.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
1. Can the Intel Core i7 3820QM still be used for gaming?
While the 3820QM can handle some games, it’s not ideal for modern titles, especially at higher resolutions and with demanding graphics settings. You might experience stuttering or low frame rates.
2. Is the Intel Core i9 9900K still a good choice in 2023?
The 9900K is still a capable processor, but newer CPUs like the Intel Core i9 12900K offer significantly better performance and efficiency. However, the 9900K can be found at a lower price point, making it a good value option for budget-conscious users.
3. What are the main differences between the Intel Core i7 3820QM and the Intel Core i9 9900K?
The 9900K boasts a higher core count, clock speeds, and a more advanced architecture compared to the 3820QM. It also offers better performance in gaming and other CPU-intensive tasks.
4. Is the Intel Core i9 9900K compatible with DDR4 RAM?
Yes, the 9900K supports DDR4 RAM. It’s important to note that the maximum supported speed varies depending on the motherboard you choose.
5. What are the best motherboards for the Intel Core i9 9900K?
The 9900K is compatible with Z390 and Z370 motherboards. Some popular options include the ASUS ROG Maximus XI Hero and the Gigabyte Z390 Aorus Master.