Intel vs AMD: Which CPU Should You Choose?

AMD. Intel. Ryzen? Arrow Lake! Let’s face it, CPUs are heckin’ confusing. We’re breaking down everything you need to know to make an informed decision. 

Making the right decision for your new gaming PC can be hard. Should you choose Intel or AMD? Don’t panic, we’ve got all the deets you need. Here’s everything you need to know from architecture to pre-build AMD and Intel gaming PCs.  

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Intel Processors  

Intel Core Ultra 200 Series is Intel’s latest range of processors, offering exciting new features for gamers to sink their teeth into. Arrow Lake CPUs are designed to take full advantage of Windows 11, utilise hybrid core architecture, support next-gen technology, and have a dedicated NPU for AI acceleration. 

Hybrid Architecture & Enhanced Tech 

Hybrid architecture was introduced in the Alder Lake generation, and then advanced for Raptor Lake, Raptor Lake-S, and Arrow Lake. It harnesses two different types of processing cores. The P-core is designed for single-thread, high-frequency performance. This core handles the majority of the workload.  

The E-core is designed to spread background tasks across multiple cores and threads, maximising efficiency. Notably, this helps to conserve power when the performant cores are not needed, with a massive 40% improvement over Sky Lake Intel CPUs. This core also works alongside the P-cores to provide extra performance in applications that require it.  

What sets Intel Core Ultra 200 apart from the previous desktop CPU generations is the inclusion of an NPU. This is a neural processing unit, designed to make quick work of AI tasks. It takes away the extra strain AI can cause on your CPU and GPU, making everything work just that bit smoother. You’ll enjoy improved in-game performance because of it! 

This latest generation supports a whole host of modern tech, including DDR5 memory, PCIe 5.0, and the latest WiFi standards. 

Discover what you need to know about the differences between DDR4 and DDR5 RAM.

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Which Intel CPU should I choose?  

Intel Core CPUs come in four main tiers – i3, i5, i7, and i9 – while Core Ultra processors currently only come in three – Ultra 5, 7, and 9. These CPUs differ in performance and price – generally, the higher the number, the better the performance. There are also F, K, and KF variants which indicate whether the CPU is overclockable and whether it has integrated graphics. 

Ultra 9 

Intel Core Ultra 9 is the most powerful CPU of the series, boasting twenty-four cores and boost speeds up to 5.7GHz. Between the hybrid core architecture and the NPU, this processor can effortlessly handle all your heavy workloads, from 4K gaming to live streaming the latest AAA games. 

Ultra 7 

Like its Core i7 counterpart, the Ultra 7 is perfect for gamers who want to get the most out of their favourite titles. Leveraging twenty cores and threads with boost speeds up to 5.5GHz, these processors can seamlessly handle gaming, streaming, and content creation. 

Ultra 5  

For mainstream gamers, the Ultra 5 offers a great balance of performance and budget-friendly pricing. You can enjoy all the latest innovations without breaking the bank! 

Core i9 

Designed for pure power, the Core i9 will have the highest number of cores and threads, with 14^th Gen featuring up to 24 and 32, respectively. What’s more, they’ll have the highest boost clock speeds, the i9-14900KF can reach a whopping 6.0GHz! This processor is perfect for creators who need to both game and stream, or creative types utilising hyperthreading and high core counts. 

Core i7 

The Core i7 is a great choice for gamers demanding great performance in games and creator apps. Raptor Lake-S i7 processors feature up to 20 cores (28 threads), a base clock of 3.4GHz, max boost of 5.6GHz using Turbo Boost Max 3.0, and up to 125W TDP. 

Core i5 

Intel Core i5 CPUs are designed to be the mainstream gaming sweet spot. 14th Gen can feature up to 14 cores (20 threads), a base clock of up to 3.5GHz, max boost of up to 5.3GHz using Turbo Boost 2.0, and up to 125W TDP. 

Core i3 

The Intel Core i3 is all about entry level gaming whilst still providing optimised performance. 13^th Gen offers up to 4 cores (8 threads), a base clock of up to 3.4GHz, and a max boost of up to 4.5GHz. This tier is perfect for playing older games, media consumption, and internet browsing. 

Learn more about the latest Intel Core Ultra processors with our resident champion overclocker, Ian “8Pack” Parry.