What To Know
- The Intel Core i3-3220 is based on the Ivy Bridge microarchitecture, while the AMD Phenom II X4 955 is based on the Thuban microarchitecture.
- The Intel Core i3-3220 is a dual-core processor with four threads, while the AMD Phenom II X4 955 is a quad-core processor with four threads.
- The Core i3-3220 typically has a slight edge in single-threaded performance, while the Phenom II X4 955 has a slight edge in multi-threaded performance.
In the world of budget-friendly CPUs, the Intel Core i3-3220 and AMD Phenom II X4 955 have long been popular choices. Both processors offer solid performance at an affordable price, but which one is the better choice for your needs? In this detailed comparison, we’ll pit the Intel Core i3-3220 against the AMD Phenom II X4 955 and explore their key differences in terms of performance, features, and value.
Core Architecture
The Intel Core i3-3220 is based on the Ivy Bridge microarchitecture, while the AMD Phenom II X4 955 is based on the Thuban microarchitecture. The Ivy Bridge architecture features a smaller 22nm process node compared to the 45nm process node of the Thuban architecture. This allows the Core i3-3220 to achieve higher clock speeds and better power efficiency.
Number of Cores and Threads
The Intel Core i3-3220 is a dual-core processor with four threads, while the AMD Phenom II X4 955 is a quad-core processor with four threads. This means that the Phenom II X4 955 has a physical advantage in terms of core count, which can benefit certain multi-threaded applications.
Clock Speed
The Intel Core i3-3220 has a base clock speed of 3.3GHz, which can be boosted up to 3.8GHz with Turbo Boost technology. The AMD Phenom II X4 955 has a slightly lower base clock speed of 3.2GHz, but it can also be boosted up to 3.6GHz with Turbo Core technology.
Cache Size
The Intel Core i3-3220 has a 3MB L3 cache, while the AMD Phenom II X4 955 has a 6MB L3 cache. A larger cache size can help improve performance by reducing the need to access slower main memory.
Integrated Graphics
The Intel Core i3-3220 has integrated Intel HD Graphics 2500, while the AMD Phenom II X4 955 does not have integrated graphics. This means that the Core i3-3220 can be used in systems without a dedicated graphics card, which can save money and reduce power consumption.
Power Consumption
The Intel Core i3-3220 has a TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 55W, while the AMD Phenom II X4 955 has a TDP of 125W. This means that the Core i3-3220 is more power-efficient and will generate less heat.
Price
The Intel Core i3-3220 is typically priced around $100, while the AMD Phenom II X4 955 is typically priced around $80. This makes the Phenom II X4 955 a slightly more affordable option.
Performance Comparison
In terms of performance, the Intel Core i3-3220 and AMD Phenom II X4 955 are very close. The Core i3-3220 typically has a slight edge in single-threaded performance, while the Phenom II X4 955 has a slight edge in multi-threaded performance. In most real-world applications, the difference in performance between these two processors will be negligible.
Which CPU is Right for You?
When choosing between the Intel Core i3-3220 and AMD Phenom II X4 955, the best decision depends on your specific needs and budget. If you’re looking for a processor that offers the best possible single-threaded performance, the Core i3-3220 is the better choice. If you’re looking for a processor with more cores and threads for multi-threaded performance, the Phenom II X4 955 is the better choice. If you’re on a tight budget, the Phenom II X4 955 is the more affordable option.
Verdict
Both the Intel Core i3-3220 and AMD Phenom II X4 955 are excellent budget-friendly CPUs. The Core i3-3220 offers better single-threaded performance, integrated graphics, and lower power consumption. The Phenom II X4 955 offers more cores and threads, a larger cache size, and a lower price. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your specific needs and budget.
What People Want to Know
Q: Which processor is better for gaming?
A: The Intel Core i3-3220 is generally better for gaming due to its higher single-threaded performance.
Q: Which processor is better for video editing?
A: The AMD Phenom II X4 955 is generally better for video editing due to its more cores and threads.
Q: Which processor is better for multitasking?
A: The AMD Phenom II X4 955 is generally better for multitasking due to its more cores and threads.
Q: Which processor is more power-efficient?
A: The Intel Core i3-3220 is more power-efficient than the AMD Phenom II X4 955.
Q: Which processor is more affordable?
A: The AMD Phenom II X4 955 is more affordable than the Intel Core i3-3220.
