AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS vs Intel Core i9 9980HK: Which CPU Reigns Supreme?

The eternal debate between AMD and Intel continues to rage on, with each company pushing the boundaries of performance and efficiency. When it comes to laptops, two powerful processors stand out: the AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS and the Intel Core i9 9980HK. These CPUs are designed to deliver exceptional performance for demanding tasks like gaming, video editing, and content creation. But which one comes out on top? Let’s delve into a comprehensive comparison to find out.

A Glimpse into the Contenders

The AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS is a high-performance mobile processor based on AMD’s Zen 4 architecture. It boasts 8 cores and 16 threads, clocked at a base frequency of 3.3 GHz and a boost frequency of 4.9 GHz. This processor is designed to deliver exceptional performance for both single-threaded and multi-threaded workloads.
On the other hand, the Intel Core i9 9980HK is a powerful 8-core, 16-thread processor from Intel’s 9th generation Coffee Lake Refresh series. It features a base frequency of 2.9 GHz and a boost frequency of 5 GHz. This processor is known for its impressive single-core performance, making it a popular choice for gamers and content creators.

Comparing the Core: Performance Showdown

The performance of these two processors is closely tied to their core count, clock speeds, and underlying architecture. The AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS edges out the Intel Core i9 9980HK in multi-core performance thanks to its higher clock speeds and Zen 4 architecture. This translates to faster rendering times in video editing, quicker compilation times for software development, and smoother performance in demanding games.
However, the Intel Core i9 9980HK shines in single-core performance, making it a better choice for tasks that heavily rely on a single core, such as gaming at high frame rates or running demanding applications. The higher clock speed and optimized architecture of the 9980HK give it an edge in these scenarios.

Power Consumption and Thermal Efficiency

Power consumption and thermal efficiency are critical factors to consider, especially for laptops. The AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS is built with a focus on power efficiency, utilizing a smaller 15W TDP (Thermal Design Power). This allows for longer battery life and cooler operation, making it a more suitable choice for thin and light laptops.
The Intel Core i9 9980HK, on the other hand, has a higher TDP of 45W, requiring more power and generating more heat. This can lead to shorter battery life and potentially cause throttling, especially in thin and light laptops.

Integrated Graphics: A Tale of Two GPUs

Both processors feature integrated graphics, providing a basic level of graphics processing for everyday tasks. The AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS integrates the Radeon 780M graphics card, while the Intel Core i9 9980HK features the Intel UHD Graphics 630.
The Radeon 780M offers better performance compared to the Intel UHD Graphics 630, particularly in demanding games and applications. However, both integrated graphics solutions are more suitable for casual gaming and basic everyday tasks. For serious gaming, a dedicated graphics card is still recommended.

Pricing and Availability

The AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS is a newer processor, and its availability and price may vary depending on the laptop model. You can expect to find laptops with this processor in a range of price points, from mid-range to high-end.
The Intel Core i9 9980HK is a slightly older processor, so it might be found in laptops at more competitive prices. However, as it’s a high-end processor, it’s still likely to be found in premium laptops.

The Verdict: Choosing the Right Processor

Choosing between the AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS and the Intel Core i9 9980HK ultimately depends on your specific needs and priorities.
Choose the AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS if:

• You prioritize multi-core performance for demanding tasks like video editing, content creation, and multi-tasking.
• You value longer battery life and a cooler operating temperature.
• You are looking for a processor that offers a good balance of performance and efficiency.

Choose the Intel Core i9 9980HK if:

• You prioritize single-core performance for gaming and applications that heavily rely on a single core.
• You are willing to sacrifice battery life for maximum performance.
• You are looking for a processor that delivers top-tier performance in demanding scenarios.

Final Thoughts: Beyond the Benchmarks

While benchmarks and specifications provide a valuable comparison, the final decision should also consider your specific use case and budget. The AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS is a strong choice for a wide range of users, offering excellent performance and efficiency. The Intel Core i9 9980HK, on the other hand, is a powerful option for those who demand the absolute pinnacle of performance, even if it comes at the cost of efficiency.

What You Need to Know

Q1: Is the AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS better for gaming than the Intel Core i9 9980HK?
A: While the Intel Core i9 9980HK has a slight edge in single-core performance, which can benefit gaming in some cases, the AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS often provides a smoother gaming experience thanks to its superior multi-core performance and efficient power management.
Q2: Which processor is better for video editing?
A: The AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS is generally preferred for video editing due to its superior multi-core performance, which translates to faster rendering times.
Q3: Are there any other factors to consider besides performance?
A: Yes, other factors like the laptop’s overall design, display quality, and I/O ports should be considered.
Q4: What about the future-proofing aspect?
A: The AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS is a newer processor based on a more modern architecture, making it a better choice for future-proofing.
Q5: Can I upgrade the processor in my laptop?
A: Processors are typically soldered onto the motherboard in laptops, making them non-upgradable.