AMD Ryzen 5 8640HS vs Intel Core i9 11980HK: The Ultimate Battle of CPUs!

Choosing the right CPU for your laptop can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options from different manufacturers. Today, we’re diving deep into the battle of two popular processors: the AMD Ryzen 5 8640HS and the Intel Core i9 11980HK. These CPUs represent different tiers in their respective lineups, with the Ryzen 5 8640HS being a mid-range offering and the Core i9 11980HK a high-end powerhouse. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll analyze their performance, features, and price to help you determine which CPU best suits your needs.

Core Architecture and Performance

The AMD Ryzen 5 8640HS is built on the latest Zen 4 architecture, boasting a 6-core, 12-thread configuration. It operates at a base clock speed of 3.4 GHz and can boost up to 4.8 GHz, delivering impressive performance for everyday tasks and demanding applications. On the other hand, the Intel Core i9 11980HK is based on the older Tiger Lake architecture, featuring an 8-core, 16-thread design. It runs at a base clock speed of 2.6 GHz and can turbo boost to 5.0 GHz.
While the Intel Core i9 11980HK boasts a higher core count and a slightly faster boost clock speed, the AMD Ryzen 5 8640HS benefits from the newer Zen 4 architecture, which offers significant performance gains in terms of IPC (Instructions Per Clock). This translates to better overall performance in many real-world scenarios, especially when it comes to single-threaded tasks and gaming.

Power Consumption and Thermal Efficiency

The AMD Ryzen 5 8640HS is designed with a focus on power efficiency. It boasts a 35W TDP (Thermal Design Power), which is significantly lower than the Intel Core i9 11980HK’s 45W TDP. This means the AMD CPU consumes less power, leading to longer battery life and potentially cooler operation.
However, the Intel Core i9 11980HK can utilize Intel’s Turbo Boost Max Technology 3.0, which dynamically allocates power to the fastest core for maximum performance. This can result in a slight performance advantage in short bursts, but it also comes at the cost of increased power consumption and potentially higher temperatures.

Graphics Performance

Both CPUs come integrated with graphics processors, but there’s a significant difference in their capabilities. The AMD Ryzen 5 8640HS features the Radeon 760M graphics, which is a powerful integrated GPU capable of handling modern games at decent settings. The Intel Core i9 11980HK, on the other hand, integrates the Intel Iris Xe Graphics, which is a more basic integrated graphics solution that’s primarily suited for everyday tasks and less demanding games.
If you’re looking for a laptop that can handle demanding games, the AMD Ryzen 5 8640HS with its Radeon 760M graphics is the clear winner. However, if you’re mainly focused on productivity and casual gaming, the Intel Core i9 11980HK’s integrated graphics might suffice.

Price and Value

The AMD Ryzen 5 8640HS is generally found in laptops that are priced more competitively than those equipped with the Intel Core i9 11980HK. This makes the Ryzen 5 8640HS a more attractive option for budget-conscious users who are looking for a powerful CPU without breaking the bank.
While the Intel Core i9 11980HK offers higher performance in some areas, its higher price point and older architecture make it less appealing for most users, especially considering the advancements in the latest AMD Ryzen processors.

The Verdict: Choosing the Right CPU for You

Choosing between the AMD Ryzen 5 8640HS and the Intel Core i9 11980HK depends on your specific needs and priorities. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:
Choose the AMD Ryzen 5 8640HS if:

• You prioritize power efficiency and **long battery life**.
• You need a CPU with good graphics performance for gaming or creative tasks.
• You are on a budget and looking for good value.

Choose the Intel Core i9 11980HK if:

• You require maximum performance for demanding workloads.
• You need high core count for multi-threaded applications.
• You are willing to pay a premium for the latest Intel technology.

Final Thoughts: Beyond the Benchmarks

Ultimately, the best CPU for you depends on your individual needs and priorities. While the AMD Ryzen 5 8640HS offers a compelling combination of performance, efficiency, and value, the Intel Core i9 11980HK still holds its own for users who demand the absolute highest performance.
By carefully considering your usage patterns and budget, you can make an informed decision and choose the CPU that best suits your needs.

Basics You Wanted To Know

Q: What is the difference between the AMD Ryzen 5 8640HS and the Intel Core i9 11980HK?
A: The AMD Ryzen 5 8640HS is a newer, more efficient processor with a focus on overall performance and value, while the Intel Core i9 11980HK is an older, more powerful CPU that excels in multi-threaded workloads.
Q: Which CPU is better for gaming?
A: The AMD Ryzen 5 8640HS offers better integrated graphics performance, making it a better choice for gaming.
Q: Which CPU is better for video editing?
A: The Intel Core i9 11980HK’s higher core count and Turbo Boost Max Technology 3.0 can provide a slight advantage in video editing, but the AMD Ryzen 5 8640HS’s newer architecture and improved IPC can also deliver excellent performance.
Q: Which CPU is better for general productivity tasks?
A: Both CPUs are capable of handling general productivity tasks, but the AMD Ryzen 5 8640HS’s efficiency and overall performance might give it a slight edge in everyday use.
Q: Which CPU is better for multitasking?
A: The Intel Core i9 11980HK’s higher core count gives it an advantage in multitasking, but the AMD Ryzen 5 8640HS’s faster clock speeds and improved IPC can also handle demanding multitasking scenarios.