Are you looking for the new Intel processor but confused about which one to buy and how to choose it? Well, you are at the right place. This blog will explain and decode the various Intel processor list. However, before we dive deep into it, let us first understand what an Intel processor is and why it is important.
What is an Intel Processor?
A processor is one of the essential components to consider when it comes to choosing any desktop or laptop. Why? The reason behind it is – it serves as the brain of any PC or laptop. It is responsible for the calculation of all generic operations.
For decades, Intel has been one of the biggest players in this market, and in this buyer’s guide, we will help you narrow down the list of Intel processors so you can find the one that best suits your requirement.
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Intel Processors: Key Terms You Must Be Aware Of
When choosing any processor, there are main four terms that you must be aware of, and you will see these terms again and again.
Clock Speed
The clock speed is measured in gigahertz (GHz). It tells how many operations a processor can do each second. The higher the operation number = the faster computer. When the clock speed is high, you will notice your PC or laptop will work fast while opening programs, files, and exporting photos.
Number of Cores
Usually, any laptop or desktop chips have two or four cores. It is known as dual- and quad-core. Nowadays, some newer models have six and even eight cores. The more cores = better PC/Laptop. The reason behind it is when there are more cores, it will allow your computer to run multiple tasks at the same time and that also without slowing down. Therefore, if your requirement includes lots of programs running or opening lots of web browser tabs, more cores will be excellent for you.
Threads
It refers to the number of independent processes a processor can handle at the same time. In short, more threads = enhanced performance & multitasking capabilities. Intel calls it Hyper-Threading (HT) technology.
Overclocking
It is the practice of manually setting the higher clock speed, which ultimately provides you with improved performance. When a processor has overclocking capabilities, it can be easily adjusted to boost performance within its cores & speed processing times.
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Intel Processors: Numbers & Letters
It is where things start to get a little bit confusing. However, in this blog, we have simplified the naming convention of Intel processors. To understand the difference between the unique Intel CPUs, you must know the parts of each name. Each Intel processor name contains a brand, brand modifier, generation, SKU, and product line. Once you understand what each of these means, you can easily identify any processor; let’s have a look at each in brief.
Brand
It shows the overall product line such as Core, Xeon, Pentium, or Celeron.
Brand Modifier
In Intel’s Core brand chips, you will find a brand modifier like i3, i5, i7, or i9, after the ‘’Core’’ name. Higher modifier numbers = better performance & more features. The other brand names like the Xeon, Pentium, and Celeron do not have these modifiers.
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Generation Indicator
After the brand and the modifier, you will observe a generation indicator such as 9,10, or 11, which is closely followed by an SKU number sequence. It shows when the particular chip was made.
| 8th Generation | Released Date 2017 to 2019 | Coffee Lake, Kaby Lake, Whisky Lake |
| 9th Generation | Released Date 2018 to 2019 | Coffee Lake Refresh (Desktop) |
| 10th Generation | Released Date 2019 to 2020 | Comet Lake (Desktop), Ice Lake (Mobile) |
| 11th Generation | Released Date 2020 to 2021 | Rocket Lake (Desktop, Comet Lake Refresh (Desktop), Tiger Lake (Mobile) |
| 12th Generation | Released Date October 2021 | Aldar Lake Desktop |
SKU
It shows a more specific model number within each brand & generation. A higher model number = more full-featured processor. However, you cannot compare model numbers from one brand to another, like Core vs Xeon.
Product Line
The product line suffix at the end of each Intel processor lets you know what processor is generally meant for. Here is the Core suffix meaning:
Intel Processor: Core Suffix Meaning
| C | Desktop processor along with high-end graphics |
| F | The high-performance processor with distinct graphic cards used for gaming |
| H | High-performance graphics |
| K | Unlocked for overclocking |
| M | Mobile |
| Q | Quad-core |
| R | Desktop processor, high-end graphics |
| S | Performance-optimized |
| T | Power-optimized for best desktop computing |
| U | Ultra-low-power |
| X | Extreme unlocked for high desktop performance |
| Y | Extreme low power |
Intel Processor: Xeon Suffix Meaning
| E | Embedded |
| H | Large memory support up to 1.12TB per socket |
| HL | Large memory support up to 4.5TB |
| L | Large memory support up to 4.5TB |
| M | Medium memory support up to 2TB |
| N | Networking specialized |
| P | Performance & power |
| R | Refresh |
| S | Search optimized |
| T | Thermal/low power/long life cycle |
| U | Uniprocessor |
| V | Virtual Machine Destiny Optimized |
| Y | Speed select |
Intel Processor: Celeron Suffix Meaning
| E | Embedded |
| J | The processor has the No-execute feature |
| L | Mobile low power |
| S | Small form factor CPU |
| P | Mobile power-optimized |
| Q | Desktop or mobile quad-core |
| T | Extended temperature range |
| U | Mobile ultra-low power |
| X | Desktop or mobile extreme power |
Intel Processor: Pentium Suffix Meaning
| H | High Power |
| U | Medium Power |
| T | Low Power |
Tips to Buy an Intel Processor
You should keep in mind the following things while shopping for a PC/laptop that features an Intel processor.
Understand Your Requirement
- Understand your requirement well before choosing an Intel processor. For example, if you are a video editor and edit HD video footage, go for a Core i5 or i7 processor.
- Consider your work style. If being mobile is vital to you, choose a hyper-efficient Core m processor. It will let you enjoy longer battery life than other alternatives.
- Keep in mind that Intel carries the same naming conventions across generations. Therefore, remember it if you are planning to buy an old PC.
- Of course, the processor is the most vital part that affects the computer’s performance, but that does not mean you should overlook the RAM, the GPU, and the hard drive.
- If your computer does not support a dedicated graphics card, you should never buy it. It is because higher-end Intel processors offer Intel HD or Intel Iris Integrated graphics, which are more powerful and a sensible choice if you are a gamer or a creative.
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Consider the Processor’s Performance Parameters
- Keep in mind the processor performance parameters like Clock Speed, Cores, and Cache. Usually, a clock speed of 1.5 to 2GHz is adequate for most users. However, if you are a gamer or a creative, go for a high-end Intel processor that offers approx. 3GHz clock speed. It will be more than enough to run most software and games. Such high-end processors boast Turbo Boost Technology to make processors run efficiently when not under duress.
- Choose the core wisely. For most users, a dual-core processor is enough if the usage is limited to everyday tasks, casual gaming, or watching HD media. If you do intensive tasks like 4K video editing, go for four cores.
- Decide on Cache memory precisely. It is the processor’s onboard memory which is graded as L1, L2, and L3. L1 = smallest and fastest. L2 & L3 = larger and slower. However, the more L2 and L3 cache is there, the faster the computer can run.
Decide Intel Technology Wisely
| Intel Core i3 | Perfect for everyday tasks. Well suited for laptops and entry-level desktops |
| Intel Core i5 | Perfect for most users. You can enjoy 4K visuals, high speed, and power on demand. |
| Intel Core i7 | Specially designed for the most demanding tasks like UHD video editing and 4K gaming at 60fps. |
| Core m3, m5, & m7 | Intel’s Core m range processors offer long battery life & better responsive performance in mobile devices. Vary in performance. An m7 chip offers better performance than an m3 chip. However, check the CPU you are comparing are from the same generations. It is because the latest m3 chips can provide better performance than older m5 or m7 chips. |
| Atom x7 | It provides faster processing than x5. You can do on-the-go easy work with ease. |
| Atom x5 | Offer robust security features, ample power for mobile gaming, and better performance to complete everyday tasks. |
| Celeron Processors | Suitable for entry-level PCs. Suppose your computer needs are everyday tasks like social media updates, web browsing, casual gaming, and media playback. |
| Pentium Processors | Reliable performance at an affordable price. Well-suited for HD media playback and everyday office tasks. |
The Best Intel Processor for 2022
Here are some of the best Intel processors you can buy in 2022.
Intel Core i5-12600K
It is one of the best Intel processors available on the market these days. If you are a professional gamer who needs a little extra bandwidth, you can go for this processor.
Intel Core i5-11600K
If you are a gamer and searching for the deal, this is a solid midrange CPU you can usually find it on sale.
Intel Core i5-10400F
If you are on a tight budget, it is a decent choice. It is a budget option that comes with only a few cores.
Intel Core i9-12900K
It is the most powerful Intel processor these days. If you need the best of the best processor, go for it.
Intel Core i7-11375H
Choose this processor, if you are a mobile user and require a little more power than a normal mobile CPU.
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Final Thoughts
In a nutshell, Intel makes hundreds of various processors models every year. To help you make the right decision, here is a quick breakdown:
If you are planning to buy a desktop/laptop for business and personal use, the Intel Core CPU processor is the perfect pick for you. On the other hand, if your work is related to science and data-heavy workflows, the Intel Xeon processor is the right choice. If you are on a tight budget and searching for the right Intel processor, the Intel Pentium family of processors is the correct option for you. Last but not least, if you are an entry-level shopper and have light-level workflows, go for an Intel Celeron processor. It will provide you with fast performance.
Hopefully, this article has provided you with all information that you need to understand while choosing an Intel processor. However, if you have any questions, share them in the comment section below.
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