Which processor is best for gaming - Overview by parameters. What is the best processor for a laptop

Considering the best processors of 2017, it is worth noting that the performance of each is enough to run gaming applications.

Even budget versions, together with the right memory and graphics card, can easily run a modern game with a good resolution.

And you can choose the model that suits you according to several parameters - cache memory, frequency, number of cores and threads, power consumption and, of course, price.

Features of choice

The processor frequency, which is an important parameter of this device, modern models is at the level of 3-4 GHz. And although some of them can increase this characteristic when overclocking or turning on the turbo mode, this does not matter much.

Much more important for running games and applications are the characteristics of a video card that works with the central processor.

Another important parameter is the energy consumption during operation, on which the power of the computer's power supply and cooling cooler depends. This figure is significantly lower for Intel models and higher for AMD processors. However, the higher the performance of the device, the smaller the difference in power consumption between the top versions - regardless of the manufacturer, they have a power of about 90 watts.

The speed of data processing depends on the number of cores and threads. The higher these numbers, the higher the likelihood of launching not only a modern and resource-demanding game on a computer, but also any applications over the next few years. Most modern processors have 4 to 8 cores. And dual-core are considered almost obsolete - especially if you use them for games.

Ryzen 7 1800X is the best gaming processor

Released in 2017, the Ryzen 7 series of processors includes a number of top models, the oldest of which is the 1800X. The performance of each thread and core is inferior to the capabilities of the similar Intel Core i7 model, but the device wins due to their number. The eight-core processor processes a lot of information and can be overclocked from 3.6 to 4 GHz.

Additional advantages of buying a processor include Neural Net Prediction technology, which, in fact, is a built-in artificial intelligence to speed up data processing. And among the minuses, one can note the absence of "boxed versions", that is, models that are immediately equipped with a powerful cooler. The cooling system for Ryzen 7 will have to be purchased separately.

Model characteristics:

• socket: AM4;
• frequency (normal / turbo): 3.6 / 4.0 GHz;
• L3 cache: 16 MB;
• cores/threads: 8/16;
• power: 95 W;
• price: from 28000 rub.

Rice. 1. Ryzen 7 1800X.

Core i7-7700K - maximum performance from Intel

The lineup Intel processors also have their own leader - i7-7700K, featuring high performance and clock speed. At the same time, the device consumes a relatively large amount of electricity - almost as much as the top-end AMD. And the processor frequency can vary within 4.2-4.7 GHz - enough to support any, even the most demanding games of 2016, 2017 and, most likely, 2018.

Although, in order for the device to run resource-intensive applications, it should be used together with a suitable memory and video card (from 8 GB and from 4 GB, respectively). The capabilities of the built-in graphics processor for the game will not be enough - but it will be enough to play video in the best resolution to date.

Main settings:

• power consumption: 91 W;
• socket: 1151;
• frequency: 4.2 GHz (4.5 GHz in turbo mode);
• L3 cache: 8 MB;
• number of cores/processes: 4/4;
• average price: 25,000 rubles.

Rice. 2. i7-7700K.

Core i5-7500 - fast gaming processor

If prices above 20 thousand rubles seemed too high to the user, he can buy an Intel processor of the previous series - Core i5-7500.

The price will be half as compared to the i7 models, and the performance and size of the third-level cache are practically not inferior to the "older" versions. With a good graphics card and 8-16 GB of RAM, this processor can run any game released to date.

The advantages of the model include the built-in graphics core Intel HD Graphics 630, which supports videos with a resolution of 4K. And support for DirectX 12 technology provides even better interaction with games, allowing you to call the processor both fast and gaming.

Model characteristics:

• power, W: 65;
• frequency, GHz: 3.4–3.8;
• socket: 1151;
• threads and cores: 4/4;
• cache L3, MB: 6;
• prices, rub.: from 11600 rub.

Rice. 3. Intel Core i5-7500.

Ryzen 5 1600X - Midrange AMD

A more economical, but practically not inferior in terms of capabilities to the top model, there is also an option in the Ryzen 5 line from AMD. The 1600X processor is in the top five of the manufacturer's best offers. However, it costs almost 40% less.

The operating frequency and cache model are fully consistent with the Rysen 7 series, and the only important difference is the smaller number of cores. However, if you do not use the processor at full capacity, the difference will be almost imperceptible. Moreover, the speed of the device is increased thanks to the same built-in "artificial intelligence".

Technical specifications:

• socket version: AM4;
• frequency: 3.6 (4.0 in turbo mode);
• L3 cache: 16 MB;
• cores/threads: 6/12;
• power consumption: 95 W;
• cost: from 16,000 rubles.

Rice. 4. Ryzen 5 1600X.

Intel Core i3-7100 is a good gaming processor

Users who prefer to build their computer based on Intel processors and not pay for system unit more than $1000, you should pay attention to the Core i3-7100 model.

A device with two cores, but with four threads will cope with the launch of even those games that have a Core i5 or i7 parameter in the minimum requirements. To do this, the processor must be installed on a PC with a sufficient amount of RAM and graphics memory. Although DirectX 12 support and integrated video are already built into this model, which allow it to work even without a discrete graphics card.

Main characteristics:

• frequency and socket: 3.9 GHz, 1151;
• L3 cache: 3 MB;
• number of threads/cores: 4/2;
• processor power consumption: 51 W;
• cost: 6300–9700 rubles.

Rice. 5. Intel Core i3-7100.

AMD FX-6300 - profitable and fast

The AMD manufacturer, whose products have always been less expensive compared to Intel models, allows you to choose an excellent alternative to a budget gaming processor.

For example, the FX-6300, which may come with an inexpensive motherboard and 8 GB of RAM.

This set will provide work with most modern games and applications. Moreover, with the help of the FX-6300 processor, it is quite possible to watch two different films on two monitors, record streams and process video.

Model Features:

• socket: AM3+;
• power consumption parameters: 95 W;
• processor frequency: 3.5 GHz;
• cache memory level 3: 8 MB;
• cores and threads: 6/6;
• online prices: from 4400 rubles.

Rice. 6. AMD FX-6300.

Pentium G4560 - cheap gaming processor

Another budget Intel model is the Pentium G4560, which you can buy when building an inexpensive gaming PC.

If you use this processor for assembly, the cost of the kit (without monitor) will not exceed $500. And the resources of the resulting computer will be enough either to run modern games at minimum settings, or for older gaming applications.

An RX 460 or GTX 7xx video card (for example, Nvidia 750 Ti) that matches its price and performance is best suited to such a processor.

Processor features:

• slot: Socket 1151;
• frequency: 3.5 GHz;
• power consumption: 54 W;
• Level 3 cache: 3 MB;
• cores/threads: 2/4;
• prices: from 3500 rubles.

Rice. 7. Pentium G4560.

Athlon X4 860K - budget processor from AMD

If the user does not care about the power consumption of the processor, it is advisable to pay attention to the X4 860K model, which differs in the optimal ratio of performance and price.

For only 2800-3000 rubles, the user gets at his disposal a device without an integrated graphics processor, but with a silent cooler and four cores. Moreover, another advantage of the processor is compatibility with inexpensive motherboards for the FM2 + socket, although they do not support either modern memory or new video cards.

Specifications:

• processor socket: FM2+;
• frequency: 3.7 GHz;
• number of cores and threads: 4/4;
• cache memory of the third level: no;
• power: 95 W;
• price: from 2800 rubles.

Rice. 8. Athlon X4 860K.

AMD A10-7890K - great opportunities and savings on video

For users who prefer integrated graphics, the AMD A10-7890K processor is a good option. Among its advantages is the ability to run many modern gaming applications even without using a powerful graphics card.

The characteristics of the device are roughly comparable to RX460 GPUs, which means it is suitable for most eSports games like DOTA2 and CS:GO with high image quality.

Subsequently, a discrete graphics card can be purchased for the A10-7890K, expanding the possibilities of using the computer. Often this is exactly what gamers do, buying parts for a budget gaming PC in stages - as far as their financial capabilities.

Part parameters:

• Socket: FM2+;
• processor frequency: 4.1 GHz;
• cores/threads: 4/4;
• power consumption: 95 W;
• average price: 8000 rubles.

Rice. 9. A10-7890K.

A10-7860K - the most profitable of gaming processors

If you want to buy a decent and inexpensive processor with integrated graphics, you can pay attention to the A10-7860K - the "younger" model A10-7890K.

The speed of work and most of the characteristics of the devices differ little from each other. But choosing more affordable option, the cost of assembling a computer is reduced by another $ 30–35, almost without noticing a decrease in performance.

Processor options:

• number of cores/threads: 4/4;
• socket: FM2+;
• frequency: 3.6 GHz;
• power: 65 W;
• cost in the network: 6000 rubles.

Rice. 10. A10-7860K.

conclusions

Based on the results of the review of the best modern processors in their class, we can draw conclusions about a good assortment of the modern market.

Depending on financial capabilities and computer requirements, any user can find a suitable chipset.

For example, Intel i7 and Ryzen 7 for powerful gaming and graphics work. Or the Athlon X4 860K and Pentium G4560 for less demanding gaming applications. And gamers who want to save money, run more or less modern games, should give preference to the i5 series from Intel or Ryzen 5 from AMD.

As for office applications, for them suitable models not in 2017 - all these programs run perfectly on PCs with processors released several years ago.

CES2017: Processors of the Year 2017

Everything that was shown at #CES2017 about central and hybrid processors: Intel Kaby Lake, AMD Ryzen Summit Ridge, Qualcomm Snapdragon 835.

Perhaps the key advantage of a personal computer as a platform is its impressive flexibility and customization possibilities, which today, thanks to the emergence of new standards and types of components, seem almost limitless. If ten years ago, pronouncing the abbreviation "PC", one could confidently imagine a white iron box entangled in wires and buzzing somewhere under the table, today there are no such unambiguous associations and cannot be.

Today's PC can be a powerful workstation focused on computing performance or a designer's work machine, "sharpened" for 2D graphics quality and fast data handling. It can be a top-end gaming machine or a modest multimedia system that lives under the TV...

In other words, each PC today has its own tasks, which correspond to one or another set of hardware. But how to choose the right one?

Start with the CPU. The video card will determine the performance of the system in games (and a number of work applications that use GPU computing). The motherboard is the format of the system, its functionality "out of the box" and the ability to connect components and peripherals. However, it is the processor that will determine the capabilities of the system in everyday household tasks and work.

Let's look at what is important when choosing a processor and what is not.

What you should NEVER pay attention to

Processor manufacturer

As in the case of video cards (and, indeed, with many other devices), our compatriots are always happy to turn an ordinary consumer product into something that can be raised to the standards and go to war against supporters of the opposite camp. Can you imagine a situation in which lovers of pickled cucumbers and canned tomatoes divided the store with a barricade, cover each other with the last words and often resort to physical assault? Agree, it sounds like complete nonsense ... however, in the field of computer components, this happens all the time!

Moreover, like any sectarians, brand fans see the world exclusively divided into black and white. Everything, absolutely all products with their favorite logo are an absolute ideal and perfection itself, and the solutions that oppose them are the very embodiment of evil, the receptacle of all possible shortcomings.

The fact that each of the two manufacturers of central processors - respectively, Intel and AMD, - there are fully formed product lines, consisting of devices with completely different characteristics with completely different prices, sectarians prefer to remain silent. As, in fact, the fact that in different price segments the real leader can change.

Recommendation #1: When planning to build a new PC or upgrade an old one, decide on a budget first. Calculate the amount that you have on hand, add some reserve to it, which you are ready to add if necessary, and then see which models of central processors fit into this budget.

Clearly realize that you are choosing these models, and it is their characteristics that are important to you. What happens and who leads the segments above or below your budget is none of your business. All you care about is how much performance you get now, for the money you have.

"Gaming" or "non-gaming" processor

The processor does not have a characteristic or feature that allows or does not allow it to run games (although the parents of some buyers would gladly pay for it). It has performance that may or may not be enough for a comfortable game. The division into play and not game models- nothing more than artificial marketing. Moreover, the division is very strange and often does not correspond to the real capabilities of the CPU.

Recommendation #2: Whatever goals you set for your future PC - whether it will be a gaming system, a workstation or the main element of a home multimedia system - be guided by the most simple parameter: how much processor performance is sufficient for these tasks.

openers

The crisis year of 2016, in which the incomes of the population fell, and, consequently, the sales of everything and everything, including central processors, "gave" us another myth, which will now sit on the Internet for a long time. And in the minds of ordinary buyers - even longer.

The essence of the phenomenon is simple: "old processors cannot work with new video cards, run to buy new ones!". Especially here are recommendations to replace quite suitable and current Core i5 processors of old generations with Core i3 processors of new generations, which are worse in all respects. Well, and, of course, advice to spend 40 thousand on a platform upgrade for the sake of games with a video card for 20 thousand.

Recommendation #3: Actually, and. The task of any opening is not to help you choose the right processor, but to “suck in” a newer and more expensive device, preferably complete with motherboard and memory. If you see the opening - step aside and do not listen. Otherwise, it will cost you more.

What SOMETIMES can be important

OEM and BOX equipment, also known as "cooling system included"

Central processing units can be supplied in two versions: "box" and OEM packages. The difference is extremely simple: a "box" is, in fact, a box in which, in addition to the processor itself, there is a warranty card and a standard cooling system (although in rare cases, like FX 9000 series processors, it may be absent). OEM is just a processor, absolutely nothing. No box, no cooler, no warranty card.

This is due to the fact that the OEM package, as conceived by the processor manufacturer, is intended for companies that assemble and sell finished PCs. The processors in this case are purchased in bulk and shipped in pallets containing more than 20 pieces. Again, according to the logic of the manufacturer, from these pallets they should go directly to the computers.

But in our country, the processor in the OEM configuration can be freely bought at retail (see angry reviews on the topic "They took out the processor in a bag"). Such a complete set is cheaper than a boxed one, and sometimes it is very significant.

Recommendation #4: Boxed equipment is always a compromise. The standard cooler is not the most efficient, not the quietest, and certainly not the most cost-effective. Someone can be bribed by a longer warranty period from the "box" against the OEM, but the processor is an extremely tenacious device, and it's not easy to break it (unless purposefully and mechanically). If he lived with you for the first day, with a 95% probability he will live for the next 10 years. Alternative coolers, again, can be cheaper and more efficient than stock ones.

On the other hand, everything depends on the price. If the cost of a "box" is only slightly higher than OEM - take the box, it won't get any worse.

Free multiplier and processor frequency

Not every user of even the most ordinary gaming PC is interested in overclocking, not to mention platforms on which this overclocking is not needed at all or is contraindicated. However, in some cases this option may be useful.

The frequency of modern processors consists of two parameters: the base frequency, set by the system bus, and a multiplier that varies from model to model. Accordingly, by changing one of the two parameters or both at once, we can change the final clock frequency processor and its performance. Nevertheless, not all modern platforms allow overclocking the processor via the bus (and even fewer platforms allow you to do this officially). So, if you are planning overclocking in advance, choose models CPU with unlocked multiplier, you will greatly facilitate your task.

As for the clock frequency of the processor (as basic, as well as in turbo mode) is a very specific parameter. Ceteris paribus - yes, the performance of processors is determined by the frequency. For example, if we compare two processors from the line Core i5 belonging to the same generation and based on the same core, the one with a higher frequency will be faster.

But if you compare Core i5 with Core i3 of the same generation or with Core i5 of the previous generation - the frequency will not be a determining factor at all! In the first case, the number of execution units will be important, in the second - architectural differences and support for individual technologies and instructions.

Recommendation #5: Free multiplier is a useful parameter, but not for everyone. Whether you need it or not depends on the situation, and it is impossible to give unambiguous recommendations here. As for the frequency - use this parameter with caution. It is only important if all other parameters are the same.

Integrated graphics core

Most modern processors, with rare exceptions, are equipped with integrated graphics. For some buyers, this causes dissatisfaction - they say, why am I overpaying for something that I will not use? However, in reality, the built-in graphics core does not take away, but SAVE your money.

How so? Everything is simple. You bought a computer with a powerful processor, an overclocking motherboard and a large amount of memory, and postponed the purchase of a gaming video card for later. Just 8-10 years ago, in such a situation, you would have to look for a “plug” for a slot at flea markets - an outdated or weak video card on which you could sit out until a more powerful modern device is purchased. Simply because otherwise the computer would not work - then the processors could not output video, and top-end motherboards and built-in video were incompatible things.

Today, you simply plug your monitor into the outputs on your motherboard and use your PC without spending extra time and money. Moreover, the performance of modern integrated graphics is such that undemanding users and those who need a computer not for games do not need a video card at all!

Stand apart here AMD APUs. Their key advantage is their powerful integrated graphics, which makes these processors a great option for HTPC and multimedia systems, but at the same time, their use with discrete video makes no sense. In fairness, the top models of modern Intel processors are equipped with a video core no worse, but they cost much more than an APU, and the performance of their processor part for an HTPC is extremely excessive.

Who lives today without integrated graphics? These are the top Intel processors for the platform LGA 2011-3- according to their status, they are supposed to work either with the most powerful gaming video cards or with professional computing accelerators. AMD processors are also deprived of graphics under the outgoing AM3+ platform. And family processors Athlon II- the same APUs, only with the graphic part disabled: extremely cheap and just as productive for their price tag.

In addition, some (but by no means all) processors do without integrated graphics. Intel Xeon made for mainstream LGA 115x platforms. Special mention should be made of these processors. Despite the "server" name, they are actually analogues of the desktop Core i5 / i7. Significant differences - the ability to install in motherboards that support multiprocessor configurations and support random access memory with error correction (ECC).

Recommendation #6: You should not be afraid of integrated graphics - this is a great bonus, which, moreover, will soon become the standard for all platforms with the exception of LGA 2011-3 and possibly its descendants. An embedded kernel can be very useful in some cases, or even save you from having to buy a discrete graphics card. But it's not worth chasing after him: processors without integrated graphics can also have a lot of advantages.

What you REALLY need to know

socket

A socket is a slot in which the processor is installed on the motherboard. Like any other connector, it has certain physical dimensions, design, number of pins, and so on. Accordingly, with rare exceptions, only one family of processors can be installed in one socket. For example, it is physically impossible to install a processor for socket AM4 into a motherboard with socket FM2 + or LGA 1151 (or rather, it is possible once, but after that you will need both a new processor and a new motherboard).

Accordingly, the choice of socket determines which processors will be available to you at the time of purchase, and which ones you can install in the future (and whether you can at all). The performance of the system, the possibilities and price of a future upgrade, and often the number of peripheral devices that can be installed in a PC depend on it.

Recommendation #7: Decide what you want to get from the PC. Yes, some modern platforms are absolutely universal (and some future platforms promise to be so) and can be flexibly configured for any task with the right amount of money, but this does not mean at all that they have no analogues. Some of your tasks can be solved with much less spending, and some can be done much more efficiently with the same spending.

If you are choosing a processor for an existing motherboard, do not be lazy to spend a few minutes going to the manufacturer's official website and looking at the list of CPU models compatible with it. It's free, it's not complicated at all, and it doesn't require any special knowledge, but in some cases it will help you save time and money.

It happens that the processor matches the socket, but it is not supported by the motherboard at all, or it requires a BIOS microcode update to start. The second can be done in advance before buying a new CPU, and the first is better to find out right away than to return a serviceable product to the store later, for which neither you nor the store employees are to blame for its incompatibility with your hardware.

There are also cases when the processor is nominally supported, but in fact cannot work in a particular motherboard - for example, when the motherboard's power subsystem is too weak, and the processor, on the contrary, is too voracious and demanding on power. It is also better to know about this in advance than to deal with the consequences later.

If you choose a processor under absolutely new system, you should pay attention to the actual sockets:

AM1 is an AMD platform designed for entry-level nettop, embedded systems and multimedia PCs. Like all APUs, it features relatively powerful integrated graphics, which is its main advantage.

AM4- AMD's universal platform for the mainstream segment. Combines desktop APUs and powerful CPUs of the Ryzen family, making it possible to build a PC for literally any budget and user needs.

TR4 AMD's flagship platform for Threadripper processors. This is a product for professionals and enthusiasts: 16 physical cores, 32 computation threads, a four-channel memory controller and other impressive numbers that give a serious performance boost in work tasks, but are practically not in demand in the home segment.

LGA 1151_v2- a socket that should never be confused with the usual LGA 1151 (!!!). It is the current generation of the Intel mainstream platform, and finally brings processors with six physical cores to the consumer segment - this is valuable. However, be sure to remember that Coffee Lake processors cannot be installed in motherboards with 200 and 100 series chipsets, and older Skylake and Kaby Lake processors cannot be installed in motherboards with 300 series chipsets.

LGA 2066- the current generation of the Intel platform, designed for professionals. It may also be of interest as a platform for a gradual upgrade. The younger Core i3 and Core i5 processors are practically no different from their counterparts under the LGA 1151 of the first version and are relatively affordable, but later they can be replaced with Core i7 and Core i9.

Number of Cores

This parameter requires a lot of reservations, and it should be used with caution, but it is it that allows you to more or less logically line up and differentiate the central processors.

Models with two computing cores, as well as with two physical cores and four virtual threads regardless of the clock frequency, the degree of dynamic overclocking, architectural advantages and fan mantras, today they are firmly established in the office PC segment, and even there they are not in the most responsible places. There is no need to seriously talk about the use of such CPUs in gaming machines, and even more so - in workstations today.

Processors with four processing cores look a little more relevant, and can satisfy the needs of both office workers and not the most demanding home users. It is quite possible to assemble a budget gaming PC on them, although in modern titles performance will be limited, and the simultaneous execution of several operations - for example, recording a game video - will be impossible or will lead to a noticeable drop in FPS.

Best choice for home processors with six cores. They are able to provide high performance in games, do not faint when performing several resource-intensive tasks at the same time, allow you to use your PC as a home workstation, and at the same time, they remain quite affordable.

Processors with eight cores- the choice of those who are busy with more serious tasks than games. Although they will cope with entertainment without problems, their advantages are most noticeable in work applications. If you are engaged in video processing and editing, drawing complex layouts for printing, designing houses or other complex structures, then it is worth choosing these CPUs. You will not notice an excess of performance, but fast processing and the absence of freezes at the most crucial moment will definitely please you.

Processors with 10 and 16 cores- this is already a server segment and very specific workstations, from previous version differing roughly like the work of a special effects designer for a big movie from the work of a video editor on youtube (in fact, they are used approximately there). Definitely recommend or vice versa, dissuade from buying them is difficult. If you really need such performance, you already know how and where you will apply it.

Recommendation #8: The number of cores is not the clearest parameter, and it does not always allow processors with similar characteristics to be assigned to one group. However, when choosing a processor, you should focus on this parameter.

Performance

The final and most important parameter, which, alas, cannot be found in any store catalog. Nevertheless, in the end, it is he who determines whether this or that processor is suitable for you, and how much the operation of a PC based on it will meet your initial expectations.

Before heading to the store for a processor that seems to suit you, do not be too lazy to study its detailed tests. Moreover, "detailed" are not YouTube videos that show you what you should see according to the intention of their author. Detailed tests are a large-scale comparison of the processor in synthetic benchmarks, professional software and games, conducted according to a clear methodology, involving all or most competing solutions.

As is the case with video cards, reading and analyzing such materials will help you determine whether a particular processor is worth the money, and what, if possible, it can be replaced with.

Recommendation #9: After spending a couple of evenings reading and comparing information from different sources (it is important that they are authoritative, and highly desirable - foreign), you will make an informed choice and save yourself a lot of problems in the future. Believe me, it's more than worth it.

Criteria and selection options:

According to the above criteria, the CPUs in the DNS directory can be distributed as follows:

Processors AMD Sempron and Athlon under socket AM1 suitable for building budget multimedia PCs, embedded systems and similar tasks. For example, if you want to install a full-fledged PC with desktop operating system or assemble a small nettop that will live secretly in the depths of a country house or garage - you should pay attention to this platform.

For office PCs Compatible with dual core processors Intel Celeron, Pentium and Core i3. Their advantage in this case will be the presence of a built-in graphics core. The performance of the latter is sufficient to display the necessary information and speed up browsers, but it is completely insufficient for games that should not be in the workplace anyway.

For home multimedia PC APUs from AMD, designed for the current socket AM4, will be the best choice. Representatives of the A8, A10 and A12 lines combine a quad-core processor and very good graphics under one cover, which can confidently compete with budget video cards. A PC on this platform can be made very compact, but its performance is enough to play any content, as well as a number of work tasks and a considerable list of games.

For budget gaming PC fit quad-core processors AMD Ryzen 3 and quad-core Core i3 for socket LGA 1151_v2 ( not to be confused with dual-core Core i3 for socket LGA 1151 !!!). The performance of these processors is enough for any home tasks and most games, but it’s still not worth loading them with serious work or trying to perform several resource-intensive tasks at the same time.

For budget workstation a compromise could be Quad-core AMD Ryzen 5 processors. In addition to physical cores, they also offer virtual computing threads, which ultimately allows you to perform operations in eight threads. Of course, this is not as efficient as physical cores, but the likelihood of seeing 100% CPU utilization and FPS drops below playable when recording or live streaming gameplay is much lower here than with the previous two options. And the subsequent editing of this video will be faster.

Optimal choice for home gaming pc- six-core processors AMD Ryzen 5 and Intel Core i5 for socket LGA 1151_v2 (not to be confused with their quad-core predecessors!!!). The cost of these CPUs is quite humane, they can even be called relatively affordable, unlike the top Ryzen 7 and Core i7 lines. But the performance is quite enough to play any games interesting to the user and work at home. And even at the same time, if there is such a desire.

For top gaming PCs or workstations processors are suitable without pretensions to be selected and elitism AMD Ryzen 7 and Intel Core i7, having respectively 8 cores/16 threads and 6 cores/12 threads. Being mainstream platforms, these processors are still relatively affordable and do not require expensive motherboards, power supplies and coolers. However, their performance is sufficient for almost all tasks that an ordinary user can put in front of a PC.

If it is still not enough - for high performance workstations processors are intended AMD Ryzen Threadripper, designed for installation in the TR4 socket, and top models of Intel processors for the LGA 2066 socket - Core i7 and Core i9 having 8, 10, 12 or more physical cores. In addition, the processors offer a four-channel memory controller, which is important for a number of professional tasks, and up to 44 PCI-express lanes, allowing you to connect a lot of peripherals without losing data exchange speed. It is not possible to recommend these CPUs for home use both because of their price and due to their "sharpening" for multi-threading and professional tasks. But in operation, processors for top platforms can literally be ahead of their desktop counterparts at times.

The processor (CPU, CPU) is the heart of the computer. The greater the power of your processor, the more gigahertz and cores, the faster the personal computer can work. Gamers also need a powerful graphics card.

Processor prices

There are many actual processors on the market now to build your computer. They can be divided into five groups according to their cost (including performance).

Processors up to 3 thousand rubles, for example AMD Athlon II / any Intel Celeron. Such models are most often bought in order to “sit out” on it until an upgrade to a better model.

Good inexpensive processor

The best processors in this category for mid-2017 are AMD Athlon II X3 460 and Intel Celeron G3900. Each of them will cost about 2000 rubles. The first one can be put into a motherboard with an AM3 + socket, and the second one into 1151. Put it in, use it and save up for a further upgrade to the processors that I will indicate below.

Budget gaming processor

Budget game processor for 4-9 thousand rubles. These include Intel Core I3 / Pentium Kaby Lake (G4600, G4620, G4560), as well as AMD FX-6000. Budget processors are suitable for video cards of the class, like the Radeon RX 460, 470 or analogues from GeForce - GTX 1050 and GTX 1050 TI.

At the moment, it is better to take a six-core AMD-FX 6300 processor for 5000 rubles or a dual-core Intel Pentium G4560 for 4000 rubles. The first is suitable for streaming due to the fact that it has 6 cores, and the second shows better performance in games.

Medium processors

Middle class for 7-14 thousand rubles. These include: AMD FX-8000 / any Intel Core I5. They are suitable for video cards of the Geforce GTX 1060 or Radeon RX 480 level. In this case optimal solution will take processors: AMD FX 8320e for 7000 rubles or Intel Core I5 ​​7400 for 12 thousand rubles.

Pre-top processor for 20-34 thousand rubles (AMD Ryzen 7, younger versions of I7 (I7-6700 and I7-6800K, also I7-700 and I7-7800K)). Processors of this class are the golden mean in terms of price and performance. They can handle graphics cards like the Geforce GTX 1070, GTX 1080, as well as the Radeon RX 480 or the expected RX 490. The pre-top segment is the bare minimum for serious streaming.

The best choice is Intel Core I7-7700K or AMD Ryzen 7 1700. Both cost about 21 thousand rubles.

Top processor

Top flagships for 60-120 thousand rubles are older versions of Intel Core I7 (I7-6900K and higher). Top flagships are worth buying if you are going to install two or more video cards, such as GTX 1070 or GTX 1080, as well as Geforce GTX Titan.

At the moment, it does not matter to buy such flagships, since in games there is no particular difference between such processors and, say, with the Intel Core I7-7700K.

What to choose, AMD or Intel?

If you need a top-end system for streaming or games, take Intel. At the moment, the best processor for these purposes is the Intel Core I7-7700K (it costs about 21,000 rubles). If you have the budget to buy it, take it. It runs all games at max and ultra settings.

If you have a limited budget, take AMD processors. Let's say the FX-8320E processor costs only 7,000 rubles, and on its basis you can assemble a full-fledged gaming computer that can pull all new games. This processor will provide you not only a smooth picture, but also a game without "Freezes" and "Statters". There is no alternative to this processor in terms of price and quality. In addition, this assembly can also be suitable for streaming or video rendering.

If you are ready to tinker with overclocking - take AMD. The performance of FX or Ryzen processors can be significantly increased by overclocking. FX processors need to be overclocked along with the RAM, as they are sensitive to the speed of the RAM. If you do not want to understand the intricacies of overclocking, then take Intel.

Were going to buy a cheap system for a further upgrade - take Intel. A good choice would be the Pentium G4560. In the future, it can be replaced with an Intel Core I7-7700, but you will have to take a motherboard with a margin.

Need performance in single-threaded applications - take Intel. In terms of performance per core, AMD is far behind Intel. This difference is especially noticeable in games and applications that are not optimized for multi-core processors. (Such games include World of Warships and World of Tanks).

Should I buy the Ryzen 7 line?

There are currently three Ryzen 7 models on the market priced from 21,000 to 35,000 rubles. In games, they lag behind the Intel Core i7-7700K. This is explained by the fact that most games are not optimized for the new architecture and do not use all 16 threads.

After the release of Ryzen, the prices of Intel products went down. You can buy an Intel Core i7-7700K for about the same money (about 21 thousand rubles) as the junior AMD Ryzen 1700. At the moment, there are no competitors for the I7-7700K, but if suddenly you are engaged in video processing or working in highly loaded applications, then AMD Ryzen 7 will be your preference.

What is better to buy, BOX or OEM processor?

The BOX-version is sold in branded packages and often together with coolers, which is often much more expensive than the usual "bulk" package. In addition, the boxed versions come with a 3-year warranty, and the "weighed" versions have a 1-year warranty. It's best to take the OEM version, as this is an extra waste of money and the cooler that is in the package will come out cheaper if you buy it separately.

How do I know if my old processor is weaker than what I want to buy?

There are many videos on YouTube for this, as well as many comparisons on the Internet.

The most current lines at the moment are NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1000 series and AMD Radeon 400 series. The video card is one of the most expensive parts of a PC, so in some cases it makes sense to take a video card from last year's line, which also supports all modern technologies but costs much less. It goes without saying that such a video card has a smaller backlog in terms of performance for the future.

The choice of graphics card is quite simple: the higher the position in the line, the higher the performance of the graphics chip. When choosing one model from different manufacturers, you should look not only at the cooling system, but also at the amount of memory of the video card, the frequency of the graphics chip, the memory frequency, the bus width and possible options monitor connections.

To build a good gaming computer for games in Full HD (1920x1080) format, an NVidia GeForce GTX 1060 / GTX 1070 or AMD Radeon RX 460 / RX 470 level video card will be enough. To build an advanced gaming computer with Quad HD (2560x1440) support and the ability to select maximum graphics settings, use NVIDIA cards GeForce GTX 1080 / AMD Radeon RX 480. And for the most powerful gaming systems with support for multiple monitors or 4K resolution, you will need at least two top-end graphics cards in a bundle of SLI or Crossfire.

RAM

Random access memory (RAM) is designed to store temporary data, such as game textures. The current RAM standard is DDR4. For most modern tasks, from 16 to 32 GB of RAM will be enough, at least 8 GB.

When choosing RAM, they rely on the volume of each module and its clock frequency. The return on buying high-frequency memory kits is inversely proportional to the investment: with a low performance increase, the cost of each module will be much higher, best option: 2400 - 2800 MHz. You should also pay attention to RAM heatsinks, which may not be compatible with some CPU air coolers.

When choosing a high-frequency memory kit, you need to look at the maximum frequency that is supported by the processor. If the memory frequency is higher, it will automatically be reduced to the one that the processor can support, and the capabilities of the RAM will not be fully disclosed.

Solid state and hard drives

A gaming computer most often uses a hybrid system: the system and related programs are installed on a solid state drive (SSD), and it is better to use more capacious and cheaper hard drives (HDD) to store user files.

SSDs come in two types of memory: TLC and MLC. The difference between them is in the way information is stored, but the differences in practice are more important. MLC memory is generally more reliable, has a greater number of rewrite cycles, but TLC memory is cheaper and more affordable. Modern solid state drives are built using 3D NAND technology, and here the line between TLC and MLC memory becomes almost imperceptible - the write resource and access speed of such drives are higher compared to their predecessors.

And it is to him that we must give maximum attention. The main characteristic of the system is the speed for which the processor is responsible. After all, you need a computer that will cope with the tasks at least for 3-4 years and will be able to pull the next version of our program or game. I hope this article will make the choice of processor easier and more transparent for you.

In this article, we will focus on choosing the most modern processors available on the market.

Among the most modern processors, we will proceed from reasonable limits and do not take into account monsters for Socket 2011, since their price / performance ratio is not at the proper level.

This article provides choosing a processor for a desktop or desktop computer.

Please read the entire article before asking questions, as they may be answered in the course of the article.

The article reflects my subjective point of view. I will be glad to any constructive remarks.

Purpose of the computer

What do I understand by appointment?

• Not a gaming computer or work
• Semi-game system
• game option

Going to which you can find at the top of the bookmark page. We are interested in bookmark processors .

Scroll down the page and pay attention to the first article with the title Best gaming processor. Why gaming, because games are a pretty decent load on the processor. And if our choice does a good job with them, then it will most likely pull your productive applications.

At the time of writing, the current information was for February 12, 2014. If you are interested, you can and should read the entire article, if you are too lazy, go to the last page and look for table of comparative performance of processors (CPU) in games. I will give part of the table. We should have enough to choose.

In the table, the processors are arranged by performance from the maximum at the top.

The most modern Intel processors are available for Socket 1150. These are Core i3, Core i5, Core i7.

Processor markings Intel 4th generation consists of 4 digits. The first 4 is the generation number. Example: Core i3 - 4340.

K - the letter at the end of the marking means that this processor can be overclocked.

S and T - designate processors with reduced heat dissipation and, as a result, power consumption. Naturally, the performance of such processors is lower than that of their full-fledged versions.

R - designate processors with a pumped video core. For example Intel® Core™ i7-4770R. This processor uses the most advanced graphics from Intel - Iris™ Pro Graphics 5200.

Difference between core i3, core i5 and core i7

For processors Intel Core i3- 2 physical cores. These processors support Intel® Hyper-Threading Technology, which allows a single physical core to perform 2 tasks at the same time. Therefore, in the task manager, these processors will also be 4-core. But you need to understand that these are virtual 4 cores.

Intel Core i5- have 4 physical cores. Having 4 physical cores is better than 4 virtual cores, so their performance will be higher than that of the Core i3. They do not support Intel® Hyper-Threading Technology, so you will see 4 cores in Task Manager as well. But these are real 4 cores. Core i5 support Intel® Turbo Boost Technology, which allows you to increase the frequency of the processor to the maximum (specified) until the maximum temperature (specified) is exceeded. As a result, we can get a small but pleasant performance boost for a short time.

Intel Core i7- top processors support all the technologies that Core i3 and Core i5 have. Physically they have 4 cores + Intel® Hyper-Threading Technology = 8 virtual cores. Supports overclocking - Intel® Turbo Boost. If you need a productive computer, this is the Intel Core i7.

Now it remains to go to the store and at the performance and price that suits you choose the best processor.

2. Processor for semi-gaming computer

A system with the highest possible integrated graphics to avoid buying a discrete adapter.

AMD is the leader in this segment. Her new processors Kaveri leave far behind the competitor in terms of graphics. That is why if you need a working computer and you will sometimes play, I recommend that you stop at this company when choosing a processor.

Here are the specifications of the top hybrid processors of the latest generations. (Hybrid is a processor + integrated graphics. Also referred to as APU)

Plus, AMD hybrid processors can work in tandem with simple discrete graphics cards Radeon R7 240 or Radeon R7 250. In some games, you can get a significant increase in frames per second.

Before buying a video card for a tandem, you need to look. So for example in Word of Tank you will even lose 1-2 frames per second.

All modern Intel processors also have a built-in video core. For desktop processors, it can be Intel® HD Graphics 4200, Intel® HD Graphics 4400, Intel® HD Graphics 4600, or Intel® Iris™ Pro Graphics 5200. The higher the number, the better the graphics, but it still loses a lot to integrated graphics in AMD APUs.

APUs from AMD support faster memory up to 2133 MHz. (Intel processors officially support up to 1600 MHz). The performance of AMD's integrated video core directly depends on the frequency of the RAM used. Therefore, it is desirable to choose at least 2133 MHz or even 2400 MHz for the top A10-7850K processor.

3. How to choose a processor for a gaming computer

When buying a gaming computer, a discrete graphics adapter is indispensable.

When choosing a processor for a gaming system, the table given in the first section will come in handy.

For a gaming machine, power is important. Concerning recommend choose processors from the highest cell of the table - these are Intel Core i5 and Core i7. As can be seen from the table, AMD has no competitors for these processors.

Comment! Overclocking of processors (with the letter K at the end of the model marking) is possible only on motherboards with a Z chipset.

Conclusion

In this article, we have addressed the issue how to choose a processor for a desktop computer. The main thing is to figure out what you need a computer for.

• If Not a gaming one, then lean towards Intel. Core i3 or better
• If for the home and so that the children have the opportunity to play a little - AMD A10
• If you need a gaming station, then in my opinion it would be better Intel Core i5 or Core i7 + modern graphics card.

Before choosing a processor for both Intel and AMD, it is recommended to carefully look at the specifications. For Intel processors, see http://ark.intel.com/. Open the specifications of the processors you are interested in and compare the differences. You will understand what you are paying for. This is necessary because usually the top models are overpriced, and the performance gain is minimal. Usually 100 MHz.

The higher or larger the 4-digit number in the processor model. the better or more powerful it is.

I would appreciate any discussion on this matter.