What To Know
- The AMD Ryzen 7 8840HS and Intel Core i9 9980HK are two powerful processors vying for a spot in your next ultra-portable laptop.
- However, in single-core benchmarks like Geekbench 5, the Core i9 9980HK maintains a slight edge, indicating better performance in applications that rely heavily on single-threaded performance.
- While the Intel Core i9 9980HK still holds its ground with its single-core performance and legacy features, it lags behind in the face of the Ryzen 7 8840HS’s modern advancements and overall superiority.
The AMD Ryzen 7 8840HS and Intel Core i9 9980HK are two powerful processors vying for a spot in your next ultra-portable laptop. Both offer exceptional performance, but which one emerges as the champion? This comprehensive comparison dives deep into their architecture, performance metrics, and key features to help you make an informed decision.
Architecture and Core Count: A Tale of Two Designs
The AMD Ryzen 7 8840HS is built on the Zen 4 architecture, featuring 8 cores and 16 threads. This architecture boasts significant improvements in IPC (Instructions Per Clock) and power efficiency compared to its predecessor. On the other hand, the Intel Core i9 9980HK is based on the Coffee Lake Refresh architecture, offering 8 cores and 16 threads. While this architecture is still capable, it falls behind Zen 4 in terms of modern advancements.
Performance: Benchmarking the Powerhouses
To gauge their true performance, we turn to industry-standard benchmarks. In multi-core workloads like Cinebench R23, the Ryzen 7 8840HS demonstrates a clear advantage, scoring significantly higher than the Core i9 9980HK. This translates to faster rendering times in video editing software and smoother multitasking experiences. However, in single-core benchmarks like Geekbench 5, the Core i9 9980HK maintains a slight edge, indicating better performance in applications that rely heavily on single-threaded performance.
Power Consumption and Efficiency: A Balancing Act
Power consumption is a crucial aspect for ultra-portable laptops. The Ryzen 7 8840HS, thanks to its Zen 4 architecture, boasts remarkable power efficiency. It consumes significantly less power compared to the Core i9 9980HK, leading to longer battery life and reduced heat generation. This advantage is particularly noticeable during demanding workloads, where the Ryzen 7 8840HS maintains optimal performance while consuming less power.
Integrated Graphics: A Visual Showdown
Both CPUs offer integrated graphics solutions. The Ryzen 7 8840HS integrates the Radeon 780M, a powerful iGPU capable of handling light gaming and casual multimedia tasks. The Core i9 9980HK relies on the Intel UHD Graphics 630, a more basic iGPU primarily suited for everyday tasks and light workloads. While neither CPU is designed for hardcore gaming, the Radeon 780M provides a noticeable performance boost for casual gaming and content creation.
Features and Technologies: Unveiling the Innovations
The Ryzen 7 8840HS benefits from AMD’s latest technologies, including:
- AMD Ryzen AI: This technology leverages the CPU’s cores for AI-accelerated tasks, enhancing performance in applications like photo editing and video conferencing.
- AMD FreeSync Premium: This technology ensures smooth and tear-free gaming experiences on compatible displays.
- AMD FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR): This upscaling technology enhances visual fidelity and performance in games.
The Core i9 9980HK also offers some notable features, including:
- Intel Turbo Boost Max Technology 3.0: This technology dynamically boosts clock speeds for individual cores, maximizing performance during demanding tasks.
- Intel Optane Memory: This technology provides faster boot times and application loading speeds.
Choosing the Right CPU: A Decision-Making Guide
Ultimately, the best CPU for you depends on your specific needs and priorities:
- For demanding multi-threaded workloads and long battery life: The Ryzen 7 8840HS is the clear winner. Its exceptional performance, power efficiency, and advanced features make it ideal for content creators, gamers, and professionals who require a robust and reliable CPU.
- For single-core performance and a slight edge in gaming: The Core i9 9980HK might be a better choice. While it falls behind in multi-core performance and power efficiency, its slightly higher single-core performance could be beneficial for certain gaming scenarios and applications that rely heavily on single-threaded processing.
The Final Verdict: A Champion Emerges
The AMD Ryzen 7 8840HS emerges as the champion in this showdown. Its impressive performance, exceptional power efficiency, and advanced features make it a compelling choice for users seeking a powerful and versatile CPU. While the Intel Core i9 9980HK still holds its ground with its single-core performance and legacy features, it lags behind in the face of the Ryzen 7 8840HS’s modern advancements and overall superiority.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q1: Is the Ryzen 7 8840HS compatible with DDR5 memory?
A1: Yes, the Ryzen 7 8840HS supports DDR5 memory, offering faster data transfer rates and enhanced performance.
Q2: Does the Core i9 9980HK support Thunderbolt 4?
A2: No, the Core i9 9980HK does not support Thunderbolt 4. The Ryzen 7 8840HS, on the other hand, can support Thunderbolt 4, depending on the specific laptop model.
Q3: Which CPU is better for gaming?
A3: For casual gaming, the Ryzen 7 8840HS’s integrated Radeon 780M offers a better experience than the Core i9 9980HK’s Intel UHD Graphics 630. However, for hardcore gaming, both CPUs would require a dedicated graphics card for optimal performance.
Q4: What is the TDP (Thermal Design Power) of each CPU?
A4: The Ryzen 7 8840HS has a TDP of 35W, while the Core i9 9980HK has a TDP of 45W. This means the Ryzen 7 8840HS consumes less power and generates less heat.
Q5: What about the price difference?
A5: The Ryzen 7 8840HS is generally more affordable than the Core i9 9980HK. This makes the Ryzen 7 8840HS an even more attractive option for budget-conscious users who prioritize performance and efficiency.