What To Know
- On the other hand, the i7 870 is a quad-core processor built on the Nehalem microarchitecture, boasting a 2.
- However, the Xeon X3470 supports a higher memory speed of up to 1333 MHz, while the i7 870 supports a maximum memory speed of 1066 MHz.
- This is because the Nehalem microarchitecture used in the i7 870 is more overclocking-friendly than the Lynnfield microarchitecture used in the Xeon X3470.
In the realm of computing, the choice between Intel’s Xeon and Core i7 processors has always been a subject of debate. While Xeons are renowned for their server-grade capabilities, Core i7s are hailed for their exceptional performance in desktop applications. This blog post delves into a comprehensive comparison of the Intel Xeon X3470 and the i7 870, two processors that have stood the test of time.
Processor Architecture and Cores
The Xeon X3470 is a quad-core processor based on the Lynnfield microarchitecture, featuring a 3.2 GHz base clock and a 3.6 GHz turbo frequency. On the other hand, the i7 870 is a quad-core processor built on the Nehalem microarchitecture, boasting a 2.93 GHz base clock and a 3.6 GHz turbo frequency. Both processors support Hyper-Threading technology, which enables them to execute two threads per core simultaneously.
Cache Memory
The Xeon X3470 has a larger cache memory than the i7 870, with 8 MB of L3 cache compared to 6 MB. This additional cache memory helps improve performance for applications that heavily depend on data retrieval, such as databases and virtual machines.
Memory Support
Both the Xeon X3470 and the i7 870 support triple-channel DDR3 memory, allowing for a maximum memory capacity of 24 GB. However, the Xeon X3470 supports a higher memory speed of up to 1333 MHz, while the i7 870 supports a maximum memory speed of 1066 MHz.
Power Consumption
The Xeon X3470 has a higher thermal design power (TDP) of 95 watts compared to the i7 870’s 90 watts. This means that the Xeon X3470 consumes more power and generates more heat, requiring a more robust cooling system.
Benchmark Performance
In single-threaded benchmarks, the i7 870 outperforms the Xeon X3470 due to its slightly higher base clock speed. However, in multi-threaded benchmarks, the Xeon X3470 takes the lead thanks to its larger cache memory and higher memory speed.
Overclocking Potential
Both the Xeon X3470 and the i7 870 have some overclocking potential, but the i7 870 is generally considered to have better overclocking capabilities. This is because the Nehalem microarchitecture used in the i7 870 is more overclocking-friendly than the Lynnfield microarchitecture used in the Xeon X3470.
Which One Should You Choose?
The choice between the Intel Xeon X3470 and the i7 870 depends on your specific needs and budget. If you prioritize single-threaded performance and overclocking potential, the i7 870 is a better option. However, if you require a processor with larger cache memory, higher memory speed, and better multi-threaded performance, the Xeon X3470 is the way to go.
In a nutshell: The Best Choice for Your Specific Needs
Ultimately, the best choice between the Intel Xeon X3470 and the i7 870 comes down to your individual requirements. Consider your budget, performance needs, and whether overclocking is important to you. By weighing these factors carefully, you can make an informed decision and choose the processor that best meets your computing needs.
Popular Questions
Q: Which processor has a higher base clock speed?
A: The i7 870 has a higher base clock speed of 2.93 GHz compared to the Xeon X3470’s 3.2 GHz.
Q: Which processor has a larger cache memory?
A: The Xeon X3470 has a larger cache memory of 8 MB compared to the i7 870’s 6 MB.
Q: Which processor supports a higher memory speed?
A: The Xeon X3470 supports a higher memory speed of 1333 MHz compared to the i7 870’s 1066 MHz.
Q: Which processor has a higher thermal design power (TDP)?
A: The Xeon X3470 has a higher TDP of 95 watts compared to the i7 870’s 90 watts.
Q: Which processor is better for single-threaded performance?
A: The i7 870 is better for single-threaded performance due to its slightly higher base clock speed.
Q: Which processor is better for multi-threaded performance?
A: The Xeon X3470 is better for multi-threaded performance due to its larger cache memory and higher memory speed.
Q: Which processor has better overclocking potential?
A: The i7 870 generally has better overclocking potential due to its more overclocking-friendly microarchitecture.
Q: Which processor is more expensive?
A: The Xeon X3470 is typically more expensive than the i7 870.
Q: Which processor is better for gaming?
A: The i7 870 is generally better for gaming due to its higher single-threaded performance.
Q: Which processor is better for video editing?
A: The Xeon X3470 is generally better for video editing due to its larger cache memory and higher memory speed.
