Intel Core i7 Vs i9 Processor | Which One To Go For in 2021?

i7 Vs i9 Processor is the latest in the line of debate in the ‘grand Intel family.’ With the Intel Core i3, i5, and i7 being around for over a decade, the latest in the line of succession has arrived. The i7 processor was released in the year 2017 and had since then managed to completely dominate the market. This new CPU is all things serious in being advance and its architecture in comparison to its predecessor. i7 vs i9 processor has bought about the brand-new launch of Intel’s 9th generation CPUs; and a plethora of possibilities. Let us check out how each of these is different from each other and what sets them apart. For this, we will need to dive deep into some of the features that define the fine workings of the CPU: 

i7 vs i9 Processor

The all-new Intel’s 9th Gen is well-known for its high core count. The two Processors comprise eight physical cores similar to the older generations. The Core i7 comprises six to eight cores, and the Core i9 starts with a minimum of eight cores. To be more precise, the Core i7 comprises 6 Cores and 12 threads, thus making them among the best for the Quad-Core variants. This makes this particular processor the perfect choice for multitasking requirements.
On the other hand, the Core i9 comprises 18 Core and 36 Threads. Also, it features the all-new Socket motherboard combination. This makes the Core i9 the right choice for gamers and other heavy-duty demands.

The Cache

The cache is one of the features of considerations when it comes to the Intel i9 vs i7 comparisonHowever, as one climbs up in the Processor family, the increase in the Cache size is evident. Simply put, the cache is responsible for the quick data transfer and is the CPU’s onboard memory. So to speak, the more the Cache size, the better are the multitasking capabilities of the CPU. The Cache size of the i7 processor is an L3 cache size of 12 MB. As for the i9, the cache size comprises 16MB.

The Case Of Hyper-Threading

Hyper-threading is one of the prime deciding factors when it comes to whether to go for i7 or i9. However, it has to be noted that with the launch of the 9th gen, Intel somewhat tarnished the banding of the i7 processors by eliminating the hyper-threading feature. As for now, only the 9th gen i9 models comprise the hyper-threading capacities of 8c/16t. Nevertheless, this makes the series rather perfect for the multitasking demands of professionals. 

The Clock Speed

The clock speed refers to the processing capabilities per second as executed by a specific processor. But is i9 better than i7 when it comes to clock speed? Well, to start with, the base speed of both the processors is 3.6 GHz. The maximum boost speeds of both slightly differ with 4.9/5.0 GHz, respectively. Hence, this makes it clear that both are quite similar when it comes to clock speed. However, one has to bear in mind that the HEDT processors run slow but can function in various applications simultaneously. 

For The Desktop: Intel Core i9 vs i7

The high-end i7 Processors, like that of 11700K and 11700KF, comprise Eight cores and 16 Threads, a base clock of 3.6GHz, and a single boost of 5GHZ. As for the one’s on a level slightly below, as in 11700 and 11700F, the base clock is 2.5 GHz and a single boost of 4.9Ghz. These also cut the TDP to 65W from 125W. Lastly, the 11700T has a TDP of a mere 35W and can drop up to 1.4GHz, but can still offer a boost of up to 4.6 GHz on one Core. 

So, when it comes to core i9 vs i7, what is it going to be? Before we finally decide, let us take a look at the i9 processor. One might note that the i9 CPU is almost similar to its competitor. Here, the 11900K and 11900KF can boost from 3.5 GHz to 5.3 GHz on a single core. Whereas the 11900 and 11900 F feature a top out of 5.1 GHz at 65 W. Finally, the 11900T is much similar to that of 11700T with a slight, quick boost clock of 4.9 GHz. Hence, we finalize on i9 processor that has the advantage of the Core, which makes it preferable when it comes to running various applications and heavy software. On a final note, the users should understand that both the processors are quite similar in specs, with a slight advantage of better overclocking in the i9. 

For The Laptops: Core i9 vs Core i7

When it comes to laptops, a lot depends upon the type you prefer to use. If it is sleek and thin, you might want to go for the 11th gen Tiger Lake processors. However, one might bear in mind that the i7 range of processors requires less power as compared to that of the Comet Lake i9 CPUs. As for which CPU should I buy for gaming? Well, opt for the i9 without a doubt. To better understand, let us take a better look at each of the two processor types when it comes to being ‘mobile.’ 

The latest Ice Lake processors like the top-tier Core i7-1068G7 CPU comprise four Core and Eight Threads for just 28 W. As for the i9 Processors, the same is reached at 45 W requirements. Also, the One Core i7 Ice Lake CPU, 1060G7, can fully function as low as 9W; and comprises capable 11th gem Intel Iris Plus Graphics. 

As for the i9 processor vs i7 in terms of laptops, the i9s has an impressive boost clock speed. For example, the i9-10980HK has an undisputed clock speed with a TDP of 45W, thus making it ‘the’ hot chip for mobile requirements. Therefore, it is quite clear that the i9s have a higher power requirement as compared to the i7s. But, this is something that the users who cannot compromise on performance would surely prefer. High performance and a high budget hardly matter when you have results and productivity to vouch for. 

i9 Vs i7 Processor: FAQs

Have you been wondering ‘which CPU should I buy?’ when it comes to the gaming requirements? One must understand that i7 is just as good for the gaming requirements and is also preferred by most gamers when it comes to being budget-friendly. In case of utilizing more professional software like Adobe or Adobe Premier, you might require an upgrade; until then, you are good to go. 

As you set about to purchase CPU, you might want to step back before an upgrade. To put it straight, the difference is too ‘mild’ to place your expenses for an upgrade. In other words, it is not exactly worth it. The i7 offers just as good a gaming experience as compared to the i9s with 8 cores and 16 threads. With not much performance to watch out for, the upgrade is not recommended. 

As you set about to purchase CPU online, you can get confused between i7 and i9. However, an i7 9700K is just fine as it is faster enough in most gaming cases. However, in case of more intensive requirements, the i9 steals the cake. Though the i9s are great when it comes to the gaming experience, the i7s are just as good and well within the budget.

Which processor should I buy when it comes to speed? Well, simply put, the i9 is faster as compared to i7. This is because it comprises of: 

    • It has a higher core count
    • More Cache
    • Core speed is 100-200Mhz
    • Have hyperthreading

If you need to buy a computer CPU, you better understand the specs well enough. The i9 tends to get quite hot, with a power consumption of 235W at 4.8Ghz. This results in 90C of temperature with a 240mm AIO of cooler.

You might want to refer to the CPU price list for the final decision before the purchase. As for which i7 to opt for, the 7th gen i7 7700K is the best. This is about the overclocking speed of 5 GHz.

i7 Vs i9 Processor: Conclusion: Which intel processor should I buy?

Well, that depends on a lot of factors. But for now:

 On A Budget: it is an i7, and that is quite a good bet, as it performs just as well and without burning your pockets. 

 High-End: If you are one of those who prefer ‘mobile’ and cannot compromise on performance, it is i9 for you. This CPU is also perfect if you wish to carry a sleek, thin, and portable laptop. Also, it is preferred if you require an impeccable gaming experience. 

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