What To Know
- When choosing a processor for your high-performance computing needs, two standout options are the Intel Core i7-3770 and the Intel Xeon E3-1245v2.
- The Intel Core i7-3770 has a Thermal Design Power (TDP) of 77 watts, while the Intel Xeon E3-1245v2 has a TDP of 84 watts.
- The choice between the Intel Core i7-3770 and the Intel Xeon E3-1245v2 ultimately depends on your specific requirements and budget.
When choosing a processor for your high-performance computing needs, two standout options are the Intel Core i7-3770 and the Intel Xeon E3-1245v2. Both processors offer impressive capabilities, but understanding their key differences is crucial for making an informed decision. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the intricacies of each processor, aiding you in selecting the ideal choice for your specific requirements.
Architectural Differences
The Intel Core i7-3770 is based on the Ivy Bridge architecture, while the Intel Xeon E3-1245v2 utilizes the Ivy Bridge-EP architecture. The latter is specifically designed for server and workstation applications, offering enhanced reliability, security, and virtualization capabilities.
Core Count and Clock Speed
The Intel Core i7-3770 features four cores with a base clock speed of 3.4 GHz and a turbo boost speed of 3.9 GHz. The Intel Xeon E3-1245v2, on the other hand, boasts four cores with a slightly higher base clock speed of 3.5 GHz and a turbo boost speed of 3.9 GHz. While the clock speed difference is marginal, the Xeon processor‘s server-grade architecture provides improved stability and performance under sustained workloads.
Cache Size
The Intel Core i7-3770 has 8 MB of L3 cache, while the Intel Xeon E3-1245v2 has 10 MB of L3 cache. A larger cache size can significantly improve performance for applications that frequently access large datasets, such as video editing or scientific simulations.
Memory Support
Both the Intel Core i7-3770 and the Intel Xeon E3-1245v2 support dual-channel DDR3 memory. However, the Xeon processor supports a wider range of memory speeds, including 1600 MHz, 1866 MHz, and 2133 MHz. This allows for increased memory bandwidth and improved overall system performance.
ECC Memory Support
One of the key advantages of the Intel Xeon E3-1245v2 is its support for Error-Correcting Code (ECC) memory. ECC memory can detect and correct single-bit errors, providing enhanced data integrity and reliability. This is particularly important for mission-critical applications or those handling sensitive data.
Virtualization Support
The Intel Xeon E3-1245v2 offers superior virtualization capabilities compared to the Intel Core i7-3770. It supports Intel Virtualization Technology for Directed I/O (VT-d) and Intel Virtualization Technology for Network I/O (VT-c). These technologies enable efficient resource allocation and improved security in virtualized environments.
Power Consumption
The Intel Core i7-3770 has a Thermal Design Power (TDP) of 77 watts, while the Intel Xeon E3-1245v2 has a TDP of 84 watts. The slightly higher power consumption of the Xeon processor is due to its enhanced features and server-grade design.
Price and Availability
The Intel Core i7-3770 is generally less expensive than the Intel Xeon E3-1245v2. However, the price may vary depending on factors such as market demand and availability.
Which Processor Should You Choose?
The choice between the Intel Core i7-3770 and the Intel Xeon E3-1245v2 ultimately depends on your specific requirements and budget.
- Intel Core i7-3770: Ideal for general-purpose computing, gaming, and moderate multitasking. It offers excellent performance at a more affordable price point.
- Intel Xeon E3-1245v2: Best suited for server and workstation applications, virtualization, and data-intensive tasks. It provides enhanced reliability, security, and memory support at a premium cost.
Summary: Making the Right Choice
Both the Intel Core i7-3770 and the Intel Xeon E3-1245v2 are capable processors. By carefully considering the differences highlighted in this comparison, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your specific needs and budget.
Questions You May Have
1. Which processor has more cores?
Both processors have four cores.
2. Which processor has a higher base clock speed?
The Intel Xeon E3-1245v2 has a slightly higher base clock speed of 3.5 GHz compared to 3.4 GHz for the Core i7-3770.
3. Which processor supports ECC memory?
Only the Intel Xeon E3-1245v2 supports ECC memory.
4. Which processor is more suitable for virtualization?
The Intel Xeon E3-1245v2 offers superior virtualization capabilities with support for VT-d and VT-c.
5. Which processor is more expensive?
The Intel Xeon E3-1245v2 is generally more expensive than the Intel Core i7-3770.
