What To Know
- This can make it challenging for users to decide which processor is best for their needs, especially when comparing older models like the Intel Core i5 3470 with a newer powerhouse like the Intel Core i9 10900X.
- The Core i9 10900X clearly outperforms the Core i5 3470 in clock speeds, boasting a higher base clock and significantly higher Turbo Boost speeds.
- If you’re on a budget, the Core i5 3470 is a more affordable option, while the 10900X is a premium choice for those willing to invest in high-end performance.
The world of CPUs is constantly evolving, with new generations and models emerging at a rapid pace. This can make it challenging for users to decide which processor is best for their needs, especially when comparing older models like the Intel Core i5 3470 with a newer powerhouse like the Intel Core i9 10900X. This blog post will delve into this generational gap, comparing these two CPUs across various aspects to help you determine which one is the right fit for your specific requirements.
The Core i5 3470: A Legacy of Reliability
Released in 2012, the Intel Core i5 3470 was a popular choice for its balanced performance and affordability. It was part of Intel’s Ivy Bridge generation, featuring a 3.2 GHz base clock speed with Turbo Boost up to 3.6 GHz. This quad-core CPU, with no hyperthreading, was built on a 22nm process, offering decent power efficiency for its time.
The Core i9 10900X: A High-End Beast
Fast forward to 2019, and we encounter the Intel Core i9 10900X, a high-end desktop processor belonging to the Comet Lake generation. This 10th generation CPU boasts a 10-core design with 20 threads, thanks to Intel’s Hyper-Threading technology. It operates at a base clock speed of 3.7 GHz and can reach up to 4.7 GHz with Turbo Boost. Built on a 14nm process, the 10900X offers significant performance gains over its predecessor, the 3470.
Performance Comparison: Where the Generation Gap Widens
The performance gap between these two CPUs is substantial, primarily due to the advancements in processor architecture and manufacturing technology over the years. Let’s break down the key performance differences:
- Clock Speeds: The Core i9 10900X clearly outperforms the Core i5 3470 in clock speeds, boasting a higher base clock and significantly higher Turbo Boost speeds. This translates to faster processing speeds and quicker task completion.
- Core Count and Threads: The 10900X’s 10-core design with 20 threads offers a significant advantage in multi-threaded workloads compared to the 3470’s 4-core, 4-thread configuration. This makes the 10900X a better choice for demanding tasks like video editing, 3D rendering, and gaming.
- Cache: The Core i9 10900X features a larger L3 cache (19.25 MB) compared to the Core i5 3470 (6 MB). This larger cache allows the 10900X to store more frequently accessed data, improving performance for applications that heavily rely on data access.
- Integrated Graphics: The Core i5 3470 has integrated Intel HD Graphics 2500, while the Core i9 10900X lacks integrated graphics. This means you’ll need a dedicated graphics card for the 10900X to display anything on your monitor.
Gaming Performance: A Mixed Bag
While the Core i9 10900X excels in multi-threaded workloads, gaming performance can be a bit more nuanced. The 10900X’s higher core count and clock speeds contribute to better performance in modern games that can effectively utilize multiple cores. However, the Core i5 3470 can still hold its own in less demanding games, especially at lower resolutions. Ultimately, gaming performance is also influenced by the graphics card, so a high-end graphics card can compensate for a less powerful CPU in many scenarios.
Power Consumption: A Trade-Off for Performance
The Core i9 10900X’s superior performance comes at the cost of higher power consumption. It consumes significantly more power than the Core i5 3470, leading to higher electricity bills and potentially requiring a more robust cooling solution. The Core i5 3470, with its lower power requirements, is a more power-efficient option, especially if you’re concerned about energy consumption.
Price: The Cost of Progress
The Core i9 10900X is significantly more expensive than the Core i5 3470. This price difference reflects the advancements in technology and the higher performance capabilities of the 10900X. If you’re on a budget, the Core i5 3470 is a more affordable option, while the 10900X is a premium choice for those willing to invest in high-end performance.
Who Should Choose the Core i5 3470?
The Core i5 3470 is a solid choice for budget-conscious users who primarily use their computer for everyday tasks like browsing the web, checking emails, and light productivity work. It can also handle casual gaming at lower resolutions. If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable CPU for basic computing needs, the Core i5 3470 is a good option, especially considering its availability at low prices in the used market.
Who Should Choose the Core i9 10900X?
The Core i9 10900X is a powerful processor designed for demanding workloads like video editing, 3D rendering, gaming at high resolutions, and content creation. If you need the highest performance possible and are willing to invest in a high-end CPU, the 10900X is an excellent choice.
The Verdict: A Match Made for Different Needs
The Intel Core i5 3470 and Core i9 10900X are two CPUs from different generations, catering to distinct user needs. The Core i5 3470 is a reliable and affordable option for basic computing and casual gaming, while the Core i9 10900X is a high-end powerhouse designed for demanding workloads and exceptional performance. The best choice ultimately depends on your budget, specific needs, and desired performance level.
Questions You May Have
Q: Can I upgrade from the Core i5 3470 to the Core i9 10900X?
A: Yes, you can upgrade your system to the Core i9 10900X, but it’s important to ensure that your motherboard supports the new CPU and that your power supply can handle the higher power consumption. You may also need to upgrade other components like RAM and cooling to fully utilize the 10900X’s capabilities.
Q: Is the Core i5 3470 still a good option in 2023?
A: The Core i5 3470 is a legacy CPU, and its performance may be limited compared to newer processors. However, it can still be a viable option for basic computing tasks and casual gaming if you’re on a tight budget.
Q: What are some alternative CPUs to the Core i9 10900X?
A: If you’re looking for alternatives to the Core i9 10900X, you can consider newer CPUs from Intel’s 11th, 12th, or 13th generation, or explore AMD‘s Ryzen processors. These newer CPUs offer similar or even better performance with improved power efficiency and features.
Q: Is the Core i9 10900X still a good option in 2023?
A: The Core i9 10900X is still a powerful CPU, and it can handle demanding tasks like video editing, 3D rendering, and gaming at high resolutions. However, newer CPUs from Intel and AMD offer better performance and power efficiency, making them more attractive options for most users.