AMD Ryzen 5 8640HS vs Intel Core i9 7920X: The Ultimate CPU Showdown Revealed!

Choosing the right CPU for your needs can be a daunting task, especially with the constant advancements in processor technology. Today, we’re comparing two processors from different generations and categories: the AMD Ryzen 5 8640HS, a powerful yet efficient mobile processor, and the Intel Core i9 7920X, a high-end desktop CPU. This comparison will delve into their core specifications, performance benchmarks, and real-world applications to help you understand which processor might be the better choice for you.

Understanding the Differences: Mobile vs. Desktop

Before we dive into the specifics, it’s crucial to understand that the AMD Ryzen 5 8640HS and the Intel Core i9 7920X are designed for different purposes. The Ryzen 5 8640HS is a mobile processor designed for thin and light laptops, while the Core i9 7920X is a desktop CPU intended for high-performance workstations and gaming rigs. This fundamental difference plays a significant role in their performance characteristics and power consumption.

Core Specifications: A Quick Look

AMD Ryzen 5 8640HS:

• Cores: 6
• Threads: 12
• Base Clock Speed: 3.4 GHz
• Boost Clock Speed: 4.8 GHz
• Cache: 16 MB L3
• TDP: 35W
• Architecture: Zen 4

Intel Core i9 7920X:

• Cores: 10
• Threads: 20
• Base Clock Speed: 3.5 GHz
• Boost Clock Speed: 4.3 GHz
• Cache: 13.75 MB L3
• TDP: 165W
• Architecture: Skylake-X

Performance Benchmarks: A Head-to-Head Comparison

While the Ryzen 5 8640HS is a mobile processor and the Core i9 7920X is a desktop CPU, we can still compare their performance in various benchmarks.
CPU-Intensive Tasks:

• Cinebench R23: The Core i9 7920X significantly outperforms the Ryzen 5 8640HS in multi-core performance due to its higher core count and higher clock speeds. However, the Ryzen 5 8640HS offers competitive single-core performance, which is important for tasks like video editing and rendering.
• 7-Zip: Similar to Cinebench, the Core i9 7920X achieves higher compression and decompression speeds due to its larger core count.
• Geekbench 5: The Core i9 7920X scores higher in both single-core and multi-core performance, showcasing its overall power.

Gaming Performance:

• 3DMark Time Spy: The Core i9 7920X offers a slight advantage in gaming performance due to its higher core count and clock speeds. However, the Ryzen 5 8640HS is still capable of delivering smooth gameplay in most modern titles.
• Real-World Gaming: The difference in gaming performance between the two CPUs might not be noticeable in most games, especially at high refresh rates.

Power Consumption and Efficiency: A Tale of Two Worlds

The Ryzen 5 8640HS shines in power efficiency. Its 35W TDP allows for longer battery life and cooler operation in laptops. The Core i9 7920X, on the other hand, consumes a significant 165W, requiring robust cooling solutions and potentially impacting energy bills. This difference is a direct consequence of their intended use cases: mobile vs. desktop.

Real-World Applications: Choosing the Right Processor

For Mobile Users:

• Thin and Light Laptops: The Ryzen 5 8640HS is the ideal choice for laptops that prioritize portability, battery life, and performance. It can handle demanding tasks like video editing, photo editing, and casual gaming without compromising on battery life.
• Budget-Friendly Options: The Ryzen 5 8640HS is often found in more affordable laptops, making it a great option for students, professionals, and casual users.

For Desktop Users:

• High-Performance Workstations: The Core i9 7920X is a powerhouse for professionals working with demanding applications like 3D rendering, video editing, and scientific simulations. Its high core count and clock speed ensure fast processing times for complex tasks.
• Gaming Enthusiasts: While the Ryzen 5 8640HS can handle most modern games, the Core i9 7920X can provide an edge in demanding titles and high refresh rate gaming.

The Verdict: A Matter of Needs and Priorities

The “better” processor between the AMD Ryzen 5 8640HS and the Intel Core i9 7920X depends entirely on your specific needs and priorities. If you’re looking for a powerful and efficient mobile processor for a laptop, the Ryzen 5 8640HS is an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you need a desktop CPU for demanding tasks like 3D rendering or high-end gaming, the Core i9 7920X offers exceptional performance.

Beyond Performance: Factors to Consider

While performance is a crucial factor, other considerations can influence your decision:

• Price: The Ryzen 5 8640HS is typically more affordable than the Core i9 7920X.
• Availability: The Ryzen 5 8640HS is widely available in various laptops, while the Core i9 7920X might be harder to find as it’s an older generation CPU.
• Upgradeability: Desktop CPUs offer more upgrade options compared to mobile processors.

The Future of Processors: A Glimpse into the Horizon

Both AMD and Intel are constantly pushing the boundaries of processor technology. We can expect even more powerful and efficient CPUs in the coming years, offering even better performance and energy efficiency.

Wrapping Up: Choosing the Right Tool for the Job

Ultimately, the choice between the AMD Ryzen 5 8640HS and the Intel Core i9 7920X comes down to your specific needs and budget. The Ryzen 5 8640HS is a powerful and efficient mobile processor ideal for laptops, while the Core i9 7920X is a high-end desktop CPU designed for demanding tasks and gaming. By carefully considering your requirements and comparing the performance characteristics, you can make an informed decision and choose the right processor to power your next device.

Questions You May Have

1. Which processor is better for gaming?
While the Core i9 7920X might offer a slight advantage in some demanding titles, the Ryzen 5 8640HS is still capable of delivering smooth gameplay in most modern games. The difference in gaming performance might not be noticeable in most cases, especially at high refresh rates.
2. How does the Ryzen 5 8640HS compare to other mobile processors?
The Ryzen 5 8640HS is one of the most powerful and efficient mobile processors available. It offers excellent performance for demanding tasks like video editing and gaming while maintaining good battery life.
3. What are the benefits of using a desktop CPU over a mobile processor?
Desktop CPUs generally offer higher core counts, clock speeds, and upgradeability compared to mobile processors. They are designed for demanding tasks and can handle more complex workloads.
4. Is the Core i9 7920X still a good choice in 2023?
While the Core i9 7920X is an older generation CPU, it can still provide excellent performance for demanding tasks. However, newer CPUs offer better performance and power efficiency.
5. What are the key differences between AMD and Intel CPUs?
AMD and Intel are the two main players in the CPU market. AMD CPUs are known for their competitive pricing and multi-core performance, while Intel CPUs are often favored for their single-core performance and high clock speeds. Both companies offer a wide range of processors to suit different needs and budgets.