Which i5 processor to choose

The Intel Core i5 series includes mid-level processors that are suitable for most users (even for undemanding gamers).

Which i5 processor to choose: what to look for?

When choosing a processor series of Intel Core i5 should pay attention to the following device parameters:

1. Generation (defines socket and performance);

2. Type of;

3. Base clock frequency and heat dissipation;

4. Components (BOX or OEM).

Almost all the parameters of the processor can be found directly from its name. More precisely, from the alphanumeric code that is listed immediately after the series and has the form "8350U".

For example, Intel Core i5-8350U belongs to the eighth generation, provides a fairly average peak performance and is intended for use in ultrabooks. This is clear from the model code. The first digit in the record - in this case "8" - means the generation of the model. The second is performance. The higher it is, the greater the base clock frequency of the processor. The last character - in this case “U” - means the type of processor.

Cpu generation

Intel updates its processors annually. Therefore, in the fourth quarter of 2017, the eighth generation of chips, Coffee Lake, is relevant.

The generation of chips determines not only the performance and other operational characteristics, but also the compatibility of the processor with the motherboard. The fact is that the socket (connector) connects about once every two to three years. Thus, the processors of the Haswell and Broadwell generations (the fourth and fifth, respectively) are designed for installation in the LGA1150 socket, while Skylake, Kabu Lake and Coffee Lake (the sixth, seventh and eighth) are in LGA1151.

Since there is no cross-compatibility between Intel sockets, you need to choose a processor based on which connector is installed in the existing motherboard. So, if it is equipped with a LGA1150, then an upgrade or replacement processor is available only within the Haswell and Broadwell generations.

If you want to buy a more recent processor, you will need to replace the motherboard with one that is equipped with the most up-to-date socket version (at the end of 2017, this is Intel LGA1151-v2, designed specifically for Coffee Lake).

Processor type

Intel Core i5 processors are available in various configurations. So, today on the market you can find the following versions of chips:

1. Y - for laptops and subnotebooks. Have the lowest power consumption;

2. U - for ultrabooks. They have low power consumption, but optimal performance, especially in multi-threaded mode;

3. Q - quad version;

4. K - version with unlocked multiplier. Provide the highest performance, suitable for gamers. They can be overclocked directly through the computer's BIOS.

It is worth considering that many Intel Core i5 models, which are sold in BOX and OEM configurations in the retail market, simply do not have a letter in their name. This means that these processors are oriented for use in desktop systems and correspond in their capabilities and characteristics to Q-configurations.

Base clock frequency and heat dissipation

Base clock frequency is a parameter that indirectly determines processor performance.In fact, it’s not worth pursuing its maximum value within the Intel Core i5 line. If you replace the seventh generation processor with a base clock frequency of 2.5 GHz with a processor of the same generation, with only 3.0 GHz, a noticeable increase in speed will not occur.

But heat dissipation and energy consumption will increase. And these parameters also have to be considered. You may need a new cooler and power supply.

Thus, an expedient method of choosing a processor when upgrading:

1. First try to find a more “fresh” model (of the next generation);

2. When it is impossible - to purchase a model with a higher clock frequency.

However, this is true only when upgrading from within the Intel Core i5 family. If an update is required to improve computer performance, it is advisable to replace the chip with one belonging to another family (i7).

Processor performance is determined by 2-4 digits in the model number. The higher they formed a three-digit number - the faster the chip works.

Equipment

In the retail market, Intel Core i5 processors are available in two configurations - BOX and OEM.

The first is really focused on the retail market. In addition to the processor itself, the BOX package includes numerous instructions for it, a cooler with a mount, as well as a three-year warranty.

In the second version - OEM - the buyer gets only the processor. And the warranty on it is 1 year.

However, the purchase of a complete set of BOX is impractical. It is more expensive than OEM, and the cooler included in it is usually not very productive and very noisy. Therefore, many professional collectors immediately change it to something else. The only plus of the BOX configuration is a three-year processor warranty. But if the chip works for the first year without any complaints, it will function normally in the rest.

Summary

Thus, when choosing a processor, it is worthwhile to build on the characteristics of an existing one, and the method of selection itself for the upgrade is as follows:

1. Try to "raise" the generation. Sandy Bridge can be upgraded to Ivy Bridge, Haswell to Broadwell, Skylake to Kabu Lake or Coffee Lake, Kabu Lake to Coffee Lake;

2. If Ivy Bridge or Broadwell generation processors are already installed in the computer, then you can choose a more efficient chip configuration (with a higher clock frequency) or purchase a model from the i7 family;

3. If the computer has already installed a top-end processor of the Ivy Bridge or Broadwell generations, then the only way out is to replace the motherboard with a more recent one.

If we are talking about buying a processor for the first assembly of a computer, then it is advisable to look at the models of Lake-families.

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Attention! This material is the subjective opinion of the authors of the project and is not a guide to purchase.