What To Know
- On the other hand, the Intel Core i9 10920X, released in 2020, is part of the Comet Lake generation, a refresh of the Skylake architecture with a focus on increased core count and improved performance for demanding workloads.
- The Core i9 10920X boasts a much newer architecture, a higher core count, and significantly faster clock speeds, offering a substantial performance advantage over the older Core i5 3470s.
- This is because the Core i5 3470s is an older processor that has been discontinued, while the Core i9 10920X is a high-end processor that commands a premium price.
The world of CPUs is constantly evolving, with new generations of processors emerging with improved performance and features. This constant evolution can make it challenging to compare processors from different eras, especially when the gap between them is significant, as is the case with the Intel Core i5 3470s and the Intel Core i9 10920X.
This blog post will delve into a head-to-head comparison of these two processors, exploring their key specifications, performance capabilities, and suitability for various tasks. We’ll analyze their strengths and weaknesses, helping you understand which processor is the better choice for your specific needs.
A Look at the Generations: Ivy Bridge vs. Comet Lake
The Intel Core i5 3470s, released in 2012, belongs to the Ivy Bridge generation, known for its improved power efficiency and performance compared to its predecessor, Sandy Bridge. On the other hand, the Intel Core i9 10920X, released in 2020, is part of the Comet Lake generation, a refresh of the Skylake architecture with a focus on increased core count and improved performance for demanding workloads.
This eight-year gap between the two processors highlights the significant advancements in CPU technology during that time. The Core i9 10920X boasts a much newer architecture, a higher core count, and significantly faster clock speeds, offering a substantial performance advantage over the older Core i5 3470s.
Core Count and Clock Speed: A Tale of Two Processors
The Core i5 3470s is a quad-core processor with a base clock speed of 3.1 GHz and a Turbo Boost frequency of 3.6 GHz. In contrast, the Core i9 10920X is a 12-core processor with a base clock speed of 3.5 GHz and a Turbo Boost frequency of 4.6 GHz.
The impressive core count and higher clock speeds of the Core i9 10920X translate to significantly better performance in multi-threaded applications. This processor excels in tasks that require parallel processing, such as video editing, 3D rendering, and gaming with high frame rates.
Cache Memory: A Crucial Performance Factor
The Core i5 3470s comes with 6 MB of L3 cache, while the Core i9 10920X boasts a massive 19.25 MB of L3 cache. This larger cache size allows the Core i9 10920X to store more frequently accessed data, reducing the need to access slower main memory and resulting in faster processing speeds.
Integrated Graphics: A Notable Difference
The Core i5 3470s features integrated Intel HD Graphics 2500, while the Core i9 10920X does not have integrated graphics. This means that the Core i5 3470s can be used in systems without a dedicated graphics card, while the Core i9 10920X requires a dedicated graphics card for display output.
Performance Comparison: A Clear Winner
In terms of performance, the Core i9 10920X is a clear winner. Its higher core count, faster clock speeds, and larger cache size result in significantly better performance in multi-threaded applications. For single-threaded applications, the Core i9 10920X still outperforms the Core i5 3470s due to its newer architecture and higher clock speeds.
However, it’s important to note that the Core i9 10920X is a power-hungry processor with a high TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 165W. This means that it requires a powerful cooling solution and a high-wattage power supply.
Power Consumption: A Significant Difference
The Core i5 3470s has a TDP of 77W, which is significantly lower than the Core i9 10920X’s 165W. This difference in power consumption is mainly due to the Core i9 10920X’s higher core count and clock speeds.
Price: A Factor to Consider
The Core i5 3470s is a much more affordable processor than the Core i9 10920X. This is because the Core i5 3470s is an older processor that has been discontinued, while the Core i9 10920X is a high-end processor that commands a premium price.
Choosing the Right Processor: A Matter of Needs
The choice between the Intel Core i5 3470s and the Intel Core i9 10920X ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget.
Here’s a breakdown of which processor might be best for you:
Core i5 3470s:
- Best for: Budget-conscious users who need a reliable processor for everyday tasks, such as web browsing, office work, and casual gaming.
- Pros: Affordable, low power consumption.
- Cons: Older architecture, limited performance in demanding applications.
Core i9 10920X:
- Best for: Professionals and enthusiasts who require high performance for demanding tasks, such as video editing, 3D rendering, and high-end gaming.
- Pros: High core count, fast clock speeds, excellent performance.
- Cons: High power consumption, expensive.
The Verdict: A New Era of Performance
While the Intel Core i5 3470s was a capable processor for its time, the Intel Core i9 10920X represents a significant leap forward in terms of performance and features. The Core i9 10920X offers a compelling blend of power, versatility, and efficiency, making it a top choice for demanding users who are willing to invest in the latest technology.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Core i9 10920X still a good choice in 2023?
A: While the Core i9 10920X is still a powerful processor, newer generations of CPUs have surpassed its performance in some areas. However, it remains a viable option for demanding tasks if you can find it at a reasonable price.
Q: Can I upgrade the Core i5 3470s to the Core i9 10920X?
A: No, you cannot directly upgrade from the Core i5 3470s to the Core i9 10920X. The two processors use different sockets and are incompatible with each other.
Q: What are some alternative processors to the Core i9 10920X?
A: Some alternatives to the Core i9 10920X include the AMD Ryzen 9 5900X, the Intel Core i9 12900K, and the AMD Ryzen 9 7900X. These processors offer comparable or even better performance while being more power-efficient.
Q: Is the Core i5 3470s still a viable option for light gaming?
A: The Core i5 3470s can still handle light gaming at lower resolutions and settings. However, for modern games, a more powerful processor like the Core i9 10920X is recommended for optimal performance.