Intel Core i9 vs. i7 vs. i5: Which CPU Should You Buy?

Intel Core i9 vs. i7 vs. i5: Which CPU Should You Buy?

Thu. 14 September 2023 - 10:10

Intel offers plenty of processor options to choose from which include i5, i7, and i9. Each processer works differently from the other and has its strengths and weaknesses. Selecting the right option will depend on your overall budget and requirements. 

Choosing between these options can be overwhelming, especially when you don’t know anything about processors. Luckily, we have put together a detailed guide on top Intel processors to help you make an informed decision. 

Intel Core i9. vs  i7 vs. i5: Overview

First, let’s briefly take a look at these processors and look at what they offer. 

Intel Core i5

Intel Core i5 is one of the budget-friendly options on the list. This processor can range from two to six cores along with up to 12 threads. This makes i5 processors a good option for basic tasks such as office work, browsing, and watching videos. 

Despite having a lesser cache size than i7, it is still able to run most of the applications. Compared to the older versions such as i3 and Celeron, the core i5 offers a better clock speed and gaming performance. This processor is a perfect mid-range option for anyone who wants to do basic work on a PC or laptop. 

However, if you want to do more intensive work such as gaming, video editing, or rendering, you will have to go for a higher core than this. 

Intel Core i7

Core i7 is a step up from i5 and offers excellent results in terms of performance. Typically an i7 ranges from 4 to 12 cores along with 24 threads. This makes it a good option for playing video games, creating content, and video editing. 

Compared to i5, it has a bigger cache size offers better performance, and handles most of the high-end applications. On the downside, it is more expensive than the i5 processor. If you have a good budget, it is better to invest in a Core i7. 

Intel Core i9

Core i9 is the most powerful processor Intel offers. It features a high number of cores (18) and up to 36 threads. These aspects make it ideal for different high-end tasks that include: 

  • High-End Gaming
  • 3D Rendering 
  • Video Editing 
  • Animations

Apart from an impressive number of cores and threads, it also has the largest cache size. This helps in faster data access and better performance. 

However, all these features come at a cost. This processor is the most expensive in Intel’s lineup which makes it out of reach for many customers. It also requires further upgrades such as a powerful motherboard and a cooling system to support and handle its output. 

If you are a professional who is looking for a fantastic processor speed and wants to save time, investing in an i9 processor is the right option for you. Its extra power can not only help you with professional tasks but also provide you with a thrilling gaming experience. 

Which is the Best Intel CPU for Gamers? 

List of Intel Processors

If you want to build a gaming PC, then an ideal option for you would be an i9 or an i7 processor. If you are on a budget, then go for an i7 with a higher generation. An i7 processor allows you the speed you need to run demanding gaming and applications. 

For instance, if we pick an i7 processor of the 12th gen, we can see that it gives better efficiency and performance compared to core i5. If we look at its gaming output, we can see that it offers undeniably swift performance. 

If you want to buy a gaming PC with an i7 processor, ZGames.ae has plenty of options for you. One standout example is our HertSkell Gaming PC which has a processor i7 12700KF with 5.0 GHZ. 

Which is the Best Intel CPU for Students?

If you are a student who doesn’t need heavy-duty gaming or applications, then going for an i5 processor would be a good option. Apart from that, it is also a good option that delivers excellent results in running specialized software and gaming. 

For students, it is an excellent all-in-one option for all their assignments and research needs. Apart from work, it can also handle low-end gaming on the go. An i5 option is not only cheaper but also offers amazing performance for its price.

Do I Need an i9 Processor? 

An i9 processor is not for everyone. While it is undoubtedly powerful, it is only suitable for certain professionals who are looking to save time and extra processing power. When it comes to gaming, it does not provide a dramatic improvement. 

You can benefit from an i9 processor if you work on heavier than usual workloads. This may include 4K video, high-end rendering, and live streaming. All in all, even an i7 processor can handle this workload as well.

Which Intel Processor Should You Buy?

It is not always the case that an expensive processor is the right option. So instead of choosing the priciest option, you should pick a processor that fits your needs. 

If you want to do high-end gaming or run intensive applications, then going for an i7 or i9 processor makes sense. However, if you want to use it for only work, browsing, and light gaming, then Intel i5 is the cost-effective option for you. 

In comparison to the Intel Core i9. vs  i7 vs. i5, the i9 is the best-performing processor followed by the other two.