Intel core questions

TheTerminator8 · Sep 1, 2014

Hey everyone, I'm new to this, but for only a couple of questions, the core i7 is better than the i5.....right? I mean, the core i5 has 4 cores and the i7 has 8. So if, let's say, the GHz is 3.0, and this other core i7 is "3.2" than does that mean each core in the processor has that ability?

C12Friedman · Sep 1, 2014

Both the Core i5 and Core i7 have 4 cores (unless mobile, that's different) but the Core i7 features "hyper-threading" which act as 8 cores. Enabling hyper-threading increases the heat on the CPU so unless aftermarket cooling is used, most actual speeds will be lower on the i7 as it throttles itself from the additional heat (aftermarket cooling will help achieve spec'd speeds on an i7).
The actual ability of the cores is through turbo (or overclocking if available for your CPU) and in most cases only a few cores will peak at any given time unless stressing your CPU or running a distributed computing program such as SETI@home or Folding@home, etc.

geofelt · Sep 1, 2014

I7 has hyperthreads, not extra cores. A hyperthread uses residual cycles of the main cores. Each hyperthread is equivalent to perhaps 1/4 of a real core.

If your usage is for gaming, then a i5 and 4 cores is very good.
If your usage is rendering or other multithreaded apps, then a i7 will give you a bit extra.

TheTerminator8 · Sep 1, 2014

This* lol

TheTerminator8 · Sep 1, 2014

Wow, thanks guys! THis helps a bunch! Yes, my main usage would be gaming, and a little bit for school. XD

Thanks again!

Your freindly neighborhood Terminator8

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