Key points
- The Intel Core i9 9900 is a ninth-generation processor released in 2018, while the Intel Core i7 14700HX belongs to the 14th generation, making its debut in 2023.
- While the Intel Core i9 9900 has a higher base clock speed, the Intel Core i7 14700HX’s boost clock speed allows it to achieve higher peak performance in short bursts.
- The Intel Core i7 14700HX features integrated Intel Iris Xe graphics, which offer improved performance over the Intel UHD Graphics 630 found in the Intel Core i9 9900.
Choosing the right CPU for your needs can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Today, we’ll be comparing two popular processors: the Intel Core i7 14700HX and the **Intel Core i9 9900**. Both CPUs have their strengths and weaknesses, and this comprehensive analysis will help you determine which one is the best fit for your specific requirements.
A Glimpse into the Past and Present: Generation Gap
The Intel Core i9 9900 is a ninth-generation processor released in 2018, while the Intel Core i7 14700HX belongs to the 14th generation, making its debut in 2023. This significant generational gap highlights the advancements in technology and performance that have occurred in the intervening years.
Architecture: Raptor Lake vs Coffee Lake Refresh
The Intel Core i7 14700HX is built on the Raptor Lake architecture, which features a hybrid core design. It combines high-performance “Performance” cores with energy-efficient “Efficient” cores. This architecture allows for better multitasking and power management. The Intel Core i9 9900, on the other hand, is based on the Coffee Lake Refresh architecture, which solely relies on high-performance cores.
Core Count and Thread Count: More Cores, More Power
The Intel Core i7 14700HX boasts a significantly higher core count than the Intel Core i9 9900. It packs 6 Performance cores and 8 Efficient cores, totaling 14 cores, and 20 threads. The Intel Core i9 9900, with its 8 cores and 16 threads, falls short in this regard. This difference translates into superior multi-threaded performance for the Intel Core i7 14700HX, especially in demanding tasks like video editing, 3D rendering, and gaming.
Clock Speeds: Boosting Performance
Both CPUs feature impressive clock speeds, but the Intel Core i7 14700HX takes the lead with a base clock speed of 2.3 GHz and a boost clock speed of 5.0 GHz. The Intel Core i9 9900 has a base clock speed of 3.1 GHz and a boost clock speed of 5.0 GHz. While the Intel Core i9 9900 has a higher base clock speed, the Intel Core i7 14700HX’s boost clock speed allows it to achieve higher peak performance in short bursts.
Cache: A Memory Buffer for Faster Access
The Intel Core i7 14700HX offers a larger L3 cache of 30 MB compared to the Intel Core i9 9900’s 12 MB. This larger cache allows the Intel Core i7 14700HX to store more frequently accessed data, leading to faster retrieval and overall performance improvement.
Integrated Graphics: A Visual Enhancement
The Intel Core i7 14700HX features integrated Intel Iris Xe graphics, which offer improved performance over the Intel UHD Graphics 630 found in the Intel Core i9 9900. While neither CPU is designed for dedicated gaming, the Intel Core i7 14700HX’s integrated graphics provide a better experience for casual gaming and multimedia applications.
Power Consumption and Efficiency: Balancing Performance and Battery Life
The Intel Core i7 14700HX, with its hybrid core design, offers better power efficiency compared to the Intel Core i9 9900. This efficiency translates into longer battery life in laptops, making it a more suitable choice for mobile users.
Benchmarking the Difference: Putting Performance to the Test
Benchmarks provide a quantitative measure of performance. In CPU-intensive tasks, the Intel Core i7 14700HX consistently outperforms the Intel Core i9 9900 due to its larger core count and higher clock speeds. In single-threaded applications, the Intel Core i9 9900 might provide a slight advantage due to its higher base clock speed. However, the Intel Core i7 14700HX excels in multi-threaded workloads, making it a better choice for demanding applications.
Choosing the Right CPU: A Decision Based on Your Needs
The choice between the Intel Core i7 14700HX and the Intel Core i9 9900 ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget.
- For demanding tasks like video editing, 3D rendering, and multi-tasking: The Intel Core i7 14700HX is the clear winner with its superior core count and multi-threaded performance.
- For budget-conscious users seeking a powerful CPU: The Intel Core i9 9900 offers a good balance of performance and value, especially considering its older generation.
- For mobile users prioritizing battery life: The Intel Core i7 14700HX’s efficiency makes it a better choice for laptops.
The Verdict: A Modern Processor with a Legacy of Power
The Intel Core i7 14700HX emerges as the winner in this comparison. Its modern architecture, higher core count, and improved efficiency make it a compelling choice for users demanding high performance and versatility. While the Intel Core i9 9900 remains a capable processor, it falls short in terms of modern features and performance capabilities.
Answers to Your Questions
Q: What is the difference between the Intel Core i7 14700HX and the Intel Core i9 14900HX?
A: The Intel Core i9 14900HX is a higher-end processor with more cores, threads, and a higher boost clock speed than the Intel Core i7 14700HX. It also features a larger L3 cache.
Q: Is the Intel Core i7 14700HX good for gaming?
A: While the Intel Core i7 14700HX’s integrated graphics provide a decent gaming experience, it’s not designed for dedicated gaming. For optimal gaming performance, a dedicated graphics card is recommended.
Q: Is the Intel Core i9 9900 still a good CPU in 2023?
A: The Intel Core i9 9900 is still a capable CPU, but it’s outperformed by newer processors like the Intel Core i7 14700HX in terms of performance and features.
Q: What is the TDP of the Intel Core i7 14700HX?
A: The Intel Core i7 14700HX has a TDP of 45W, but it can be configured to run at higher power levels for improved performance.
Q: What are some alternative CPUs to consider?
A: You can also consider other processors depending on your budget and needs, such as the AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D, which excels in gaming performance, or the Intel Core i5 13600K, a more budget-friendly option with strong overall performance.
