Intel Xeon E3-1505m V5 Vs I7-6820hq: Which Is The Ultimate Powerhouse?

In the ever-evolving landscape of computing, processors stand as the heart of every device, orchestrating the seamless execution of tasks. Two formidable contenders in this arena are the Intel Xeon E3-1505M v5 and the i7-6820HQ. Both processors boast impressive capabilities, catering to demanding workloads and intensive applications. However, discerning the finer distinctions between these two silicon powerhouses can be a daunting task. This comprehensive analysis delves into the intricate details of the Intel Xeon E3-1505M v5 vs i7-6820HQ, unveiling their strengths, weaknesses, and the ideal use cases for each.

Performance Prowess: Unraveling the Raw Power

At the core of any processor comparison lies the assessment of performance. The Intel Xeon E3-1505M v5 and the i7-6820HQ engage in a fierce battle for supremacy in this domain. The Xeon E3-1505M v5, armed with four cores and eight threads, unleashes a base clock speed of 2.8GHz, capable of reaching turbo frequencies of up to 3.7GHz. On the other hand, the i7-6820HQ, equipped with four cores and eight threads as well, boasts a slightly higher base clock speed of 2.7GHz, with a turbo boost of up to 3.6GHz.

In terms of raw processing power, the Xeon E3-1505M v5 holds a slight edge over the i7-6820HQ in single-threaded applications, owing to its marginally higher clock speeds. However, the i7-6820HQ’s larger L3 cache (8MB vs. 6MB) grants it an advantage in multi-threaded workloads, enabling it to handle complex tasks with greater efficiency.

Architectural Superiority: Delving into the Core Differences

The underlying architecture of a processor plays a pivotal role in determining its performance characteristics. The Intel Xeon E3-1505M v5 is built on the Broadwell microarchitecture, while the i7-6820HQ utilizes the Skylake microarchitecture. These architectural differences manifest in several key aspects:

• Instruction Set Support: The Xeon E3-1505M v5 supports the AVX2 instruction set, while the i7-6820HQ additionally supports the AVX-512 instruction set. This enhanced instruction set enables the i7-6820HQ to excel in highly vectorized workloads, such as scientific simulations and video encoding.

• Cache Hierarchy: The Xeon E3-1505M v5 features a 6MB L3 cache, whereas the i7-6820HQ boasts a larger 8MB L3 cache. This larger cache size provides the i7-6820HQ with faster access to frequently used data, resulting in improved performance in applications that exhibit high data locality.

• Power Consumption: The Xeon E3-1505M v5 is designed with a TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 45W, while the i7-6820HQ has a TDP of 45W as well. This indicates that both processors consume similar amounts of power, making them suitable for devices with limited thermal headroom.

Graphics Performance: Unveiling the Visual Prowess

In addition to their processing capabilities, both the Intel Xeon E3-1505M v5 and the i7-6820HQ integrate graphics processing units (GPUs) to handle visual tasks. The Xeon E3-1505M v5 features the Intel HD Graphics P530, while the i7-6820HQ is equipped with the Intel Iris Pro Graphics 580.

The Iris Pro Graphics 580 in the i7-6820HQ offers superior graphics performance compared to the HD Graphics P530 in the Xeon E3-1505M v5. This enhanced graphical prowess makes the i7-6820HQ a more suitable choice for users who engage in demanding graphics applications, such as video editing, 3D rendering, and gaming.

Memory Support: Exploring the Limits of Data Handling

The memory support capabilities of a processor are crucial for handling large datasets and ensuring smooth multitasking. The Intel Xeon E3-1505M v5 supports up to 32GB of DDR4-2133 memory, while the i7-6820HQ supports up to 64GB of DDR4-2133 memory.

The increased memory capacity supported by the i7-6820HQ grants it an advantage in memory-intensive applications, such as data analysis, virtual machine hosting, and CAD software. Additionally, the i7-6820HQ’s support for ECC (Error-Correcting Code) memory enhances data integrity, making it ideal for mission-critical applications where data accuracy is paramount.

Connectivity Options: Expanding the Communication Horizons

Connectivity options are essential for enabling communication between the processor and other components within a system. The Intel Xeon E3-1505M v5 and the i7-6820HQ both offer a comprehensive suite of connectivity features:

• PCIe Lanes: Both processors provide 16 PCIe lanes, allowing for the connection of high-speed peripherals, such as graphics cards, storage devices, and network adapters.

• USB Ports: The Xeon E3-1505M v5 and the i7-6820HQ support multiple USB ports, including USB 3.0 and USB 2.0, enabling the connection of a wide range of peripherals.

• Integrated Wi-Fi and Bluetooth: Both processors integrate Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, providing wireless communication capabilities without the need for additional adapters.

Price and Availability: Assessing the Value Proposition

The Intel Xeon E3-1505M v5 and the i7-6820HQ occupy different price segments, reflecting their varying capabilities and target markets. The Xeon E3-1505M v5 typically retails for around $300, while the i7-6820HQ is priced at approximately $400.

In terms of availability, both processors are readily available through various online retailers and authorized distributors. However, due to their specialized nature, they may not be as widely stocked as mainstream consumer processors.

The Ultimate Verdict: Choosing the Ideal Contender

The choice between the Intel Xeon E3-1505M v5 and the i7-6820HQ ultimately depends on the specific requirements and usage scenarios. Here’s a summary of the key factors to consider when making a decision:

• Single-Threaded Performance: If single-threaded performance is a priority, the Xeon E3-1505M v5 may be a better choice due to its slightly higher clock speeds.

• Multi-Threaded Performance: For applications that benefit from multi-threading, the i7-6820HQ’s larger L3 cache and support for AVX-512 instructions provide it with an edge.

• Graphics Performance: Users who require strong graphical capabilities should opt for the i7-6820HQ, as its Iris Pro Graphics 580 GPU outperforms the HD Graphics P530 in the Xeon E3-1505M v5.

• Memory Support: The i7-6820HQ’s support for up to 64GB of DDR4-2133 memory and ECC memory makes it more suitable for memory-intensive applications and mission-critical tasks.

• Price and Availability: The Xeon E3-1505M v5 is typically more affordable than the i7-6820HQ, and both processors are readily available through online retailers and authorized distributors.

Popular Questions

1. Which processor is better for gaming?

The i7-6820HQ, with its superior graphics performance, is a better choice for gaming compared to the Xeon E3-1505M v5.

2. Can I overclock either processor?

Overclocking is not officially supported by Intel for either the Xeon E3-1505M v5 or the i7-6820HQ. However, some motherboards may offer limited overclocking capabilities.

3. Which processor is more energy-efficient?

Both processors consume similar amounts of power, as indicated by their 45W TDP. However, the Xeon E3-1505M v5 may have a slight advantage in terms of energy efficiency due to its slightly lower clock speeds.