Intel Core I3 7100 Vs Amd Fx 8350: The Battle Of The Budget Cpus

In the realm of budget CPUs, the Intel Core i3 7100 and AMD FX-8350 stand as two prominent contenders. Both processors offer a compelling combination of affordability and performance, making them ideal choices for budget-conscious builders and everyday users. However, discerning the finer distinctions between these two CPUs can be a daunting task. This comprehensive comparison aims to shed light on the key differences between the Intel Core i3 7100 and AMD FX-8350, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and requirements.

Architecture and Core Configuration

The Intel Core i3 7100 is built on the 14nm Kaby Lake architecture, featuring a dual-core, four-thread configuration. This modern architecture boasts improved power efficiency and IPC (instructions per clock) performance compared to its predecessors. On the other hand, the AMD FX-8350 utilizes the older 32nm Piledriver architecture, packing eight cores and eight threads. While the higher core count may seem impressive on paper, the FX-8350’s aging architecture often struggles to keep up with the efficiency and IPC gains of Intel’s newer offerings.

Clock Speeds and Turbo Boost

The Intel Core i3 7100 operates at a base clock speed of 3.9GHz, with a Turbo Boost frequency of up to 4.2GHz. This means that the processor can dynamically increase its clock speed when performing demanding tasks, providing a noticeable performance boost. In contrast, the AMD FX-8350 has a lower base clock speed of 4.0GHz and a Turbo Core frequency of 4.2GHz. While the FX-8350’s higher base clock speed may offer a slight advantage in certain scenarios, the Intel Core i3 7100’s superior Turbo Boost technology often provides a more consistent and reliable performance boost under sustained workloads.

Cache and Memory Support

The Intel Core i3 7100 comes equipped with 3MB of L3 cache, while the AMD FX-8350 offers a more generous 8MB of L3 cache. A larger L3 cache can help improve performance in applications that frequently access large datasets, such as video editing software or CAD programs. However, the Intel Core i3 7100’s smaller L3 cache is often sufficient for everyday tasks and gaming. Both processors support dual-channel DDR4 memory, with the Intel Core i3 7100 supporting speeds up to 2400MHz and the AMD FX-8350 supporting speeds up to 2133MHz.

Integrated Graphics

The Intel Core i3 7100 features Intel’s HD Graphics 630 integrated graphics, while the AMD FX-8350 lacks integrated graphics entirely. This means that users who opt for the AMD FX-8350 will need to purchase a dedicated graphics card to output video signals. The HD Graphics 630 is a capable integrated graphics solution for basic tasks such as web browsing, video playback, and light gaming. However, users who plan on playing graphically demanding games or engaging in intensive video editing or 3D rendering should consider investing in a dedicated graphics card.

Power Consumption and Thermal Performance

The Intel Core i3 7100 has a TDP (thermal design power) of 51W, while the AMD FX-8350 has a TDP of 125W. This significant difference in power consumption is a reflection of the different architectures and manufacturing processes used by the two processors. The Intel Core i3 7100’s lower power consumption not only translates to lower energy bills but also allows for more compact and efficient cooling solutions. In contrast, the AMD FX-8350’s higher power consumption requires a more robust cooling system to maintain stable temperatures under load.

Price and Availability

The Intel Core i3 7100 and AMD FX-8350 have comparable prices, typically ranging from $100 to $150. However, the availability of these processors may vary depending on region and retailer. The Intel Core i3 7100 is still widely available, but its production has been discontinued, making it more difficult to find in some markets. The AMD FX-8350 is also becoming increasingly difficult to find as AMD has shifted its focus to newer Ryzen processors.

Takeaways

The Intel Core i3 7100 and AMD FX-8350 represent two distinct approaches to budget-friendly computing. The Intel Core i3 7100 offers a more modern architecture, higher clock speeds, and integrated graphics, making it a well-rounded choice for general-purpose use. On the other hand, the AMD FX-8350 boasts a higher core count and larger L3 cache, making it a potential choice for users who prioritize multi-threaded performance. Ultimately, the best choice between these two processors depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you value efficiency, single-threaded performance, and integrated graphics, the Intel Core i3 7100 is the better option. If you prioritize multi-threaded performance and are willing to invest in a dedicated graphics card, the AMD FX-8350 may be a more suitable choice.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: Which processor is better for gaming, the Intel Core i3 7100 or AMD FX-8350?
A: The Intel Core i3 7100 is generally better for gaming due to its higher clock speeds and superior single-threaded performance. However, both processors will require a dedicated graphics card to achieve playable frame rates in modern games.

Q: Which processor is more power-efficient, the Intel Core i3 7100 or AMD FX-8350?
A: The Intel Core i3 7100 is more power-efficient than the AMD FX-8350, consuming significantly less power under load. This makes the Core i3 7100 a better choice for users who prioritize energy efficiency.

Q: Which processor is better for multitasking, the Intel Core i3 7100 or AMD FX-8350?
A: The AMD FX-8350 is better for multitasking due to its higher core count. The additional cores allow the FX-8350 to handle multiple tasks simultaneously more efficiently than the Core i3 7100. However, the Core i3 7100’s superior single-threaded performance may still provide a better experience in lightly-threaded applications.