Quick summary
- On the other hand, the Intel Core i9 10900x, launched in 2019, is a part of the tenth-generation Intel Core processor family, codenamed Comet Lake.
- The Intel Core i7 4770s features four cores and eight threads, while the Intel Core i9 10900x boasts a staggering 10 cores and 20 threads.
- While the 4770s has a slightly higher turbo boost, the 10900x’s overall higher clock speed across all cores makes it a faster processor for single-threaded tasks.
Choosing the right CPU for your needs can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a vast array of options. Today, we’re diving into a comparison between two processors from different generations, the Intel Core i7 4770s and the Intel Core i9 10900x. This comparison will shed light on their respective strengths and weaknesses, helping you determine which processor is best suited for your specific requirements.
Understanding the Generations
The Intel Core i7 4770s, released in 2013, belongs to the fourth-generation Intel Core processor family, codenamed Haswell. This processor was a powerhouse in its time, offering impressive performance for both gaming and productivity tasks.
On the other hand, the Intel Core i9 10900x, launched in 2019, is a part of the tenth-generation Intel Core processor family, codenamed Comet Lake. This processor represents a significant leap forward in performance and technology, boasting a higher core count and improved clock speeds.
Core Count and Clock Speed: A Tale of Two Processors
The Intel Core i7 4770s features four cores and eight threads, while the Intel Core i9 10900x boasts a staggering 10 cores and 20 threads. This difference in core count translates to a significant advantage for the 10900x in multi-threaded workloads.
When it comes to clock speed, the 4770s has a base clock speed of 3.4 GHz and a turbo boost of up to 3.9 GHz. The 10900x, on the other hand, has a base clock speed of 3.7 GHz and a turbo boost of up to 5.3 GHz. While the 4770s has a slightly higher turbo boost, the 10900x’s overall higher clock speed across all cores makes it a faster processor for single-threaded tasks.
Performance Benchmarks: The Numbers Don’t Lie
To understand the performance difference between these two processors, let’s delve into some benchmark scores:
- Cinebench R23: The 10900x scores significantly higher than the 4770s in both single-core and multi-core benchmarks, reflecting its superior core count and clock speed.
- Geekbench 5: Similar to Cinebench, the 10900x demonstrates a significant lead in multi-core performance, while maintaining a slight advantage in single-core performance.
- 3DMark Time Spy: The 10900x outperforms the 4770s in gaming benchmarks, showcasing its ability to handle demanding graphics-intensive titles.
These benchmarks clearly highlight the performance gap between the two processors. The 10900x offers a substantial performance boost, particularly in multi-threaded applications.
Power Consumption and Thermal Performance: Efficiency Matters
While the 10900x provides superior performance, it comes at a cost. The processor consumes significantly more power than the 4770s, leading to higher heat generation. This necessitates a more robust cooling solution to maintain optimal performance and prevent thermal throttling.
Price and Availability: Finding the Right Balance
The Intel Core i9 10900x comes at a higher price point compared to the Intel Core i7 4770s. This price difference reflects the 10900x’s advanced features and superior performance. However, the 4770s, being an older processor, is often available at a more budget-friendly price.
Choosing the Right Processor for Your Needs
So, which processor should you choose? The answer depends on your specific needs and budget.
The Intel Core i7 4770s is a great option if:
- You’re on a tight budget.
- You primarily use your computer for basic tasks like web browsing, email, and light productivity.
- You don’t require high performance for gaming or demanding applications.
The Intel Core i9 10900x is a better choice if:
- You need the highest possible performance for demanding tasks like video editing, 3D rendering, and gaming.
- You’re willing to invest in a more powerful and expensive processor.
- You prioritize multi-threaded performance.
Beyond the Numbers: Factors to Consider
While benchmarks and specifications provide valuable insights, they don’t tell the whole story. Here are some additional factors to consider when choosing between the Intel Core i7 4770s and the Intel Core i9 10900x:
- Motherboard Compatibility: Ensure your motherboard supports the chosen processor. The 4770s uses the LGA 1150 socket, while the 10900x uses the LGA 2066 socket.
- Memory Support: The 10900x supports faster DDR4 memory, while the 4770s supports DDR3 memory. This can impact overall system performance.
- Upgrade Path: The 10900x offers a more future-proof upgrade path as it belongs to a newer generation of processors.
The Final Verdict: A Matter of Perspective
The Intel Core i7 4770s and the Intel Core i9 10900x represent two distinct points on the performance spectrum. The 4770s offers a solid baseline for everyday tasks at a budget-friendly price, while the 10900x delivers unparalleled power for demanding applications. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs, budget, and priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Intel Core i9 10900x significantly better than the Intel Core i7 4770s?
A: Yes, the Intel Core i9 10900x offers significantly better performance than the Intel Core i7 4770s, especially in multi-threaded workloads. It has a higher core count, faster clock speed, and supports faster memory.
Q: Can I upgrade my motherboard to use the Intel Core i9 10900x if I currently have an Intel Core i7 4770s?
A: No, you cannot directly upgrade your motherboard to use the Intel Core i9 10900x. The two processors use different sockets, so you would need a new motherboard that supports the LGA 2066 socket.
Q: Is the Intel Core i9 10900x worth the extra cost compared to the Intel Core i7 4770s?
A: The answer depends on your needs and budget. If you require the highest possible performance for demanding tasks and are willing to invest in a more powerful processor, then the Intel Core i9 10900x is worth the extra cost. However, if you’re on a tight budget and only need a processor for basic tasks, then the Intel Core i7 4770s may be a better option.
Q: Which processor is better for gaming?
A: Both processors can handle modern games, but the Intel Core i9 10900x offers better performance due to its higher core count and faster clock speed. However, the difference in gaming performance may not be noticeable in all games.
Q: Are there any other processors I should consider besides the Intel Core i7 4770s and the Intel Core i9 10900x?
A: Yes, there are many other processors available on the market. Depending on your budget and needs, you could consider newer processors like the Intel Core i5 12600K or the AMD Ryzen 5 5600X, which offer excellent performance at a more affordable price point.
