Quick notes
- The Intel Core i9 10900X offers a massive 20 MB of L3 cache, significantly surpassing the Intel Core i7 3720QM’s 6 MB L3 cache.
- The decision between the Intel Core i7 3720QM and the Intel Core i9 10900X boils down to your specific needs and budget.
- However, if you require a powerful CPU for demanding applications like gaming, video editing, or content creation, the Intel Core i9 10900X is the clear winner.
Choosing the right CPU for your needs can be a daunting task, especially when considering the vast array of options available. Today, we’ll delve into a comparison between two processors from vastly different eras: the Intel Core i7 3720QM and the Intel Core i9 10900X. This Intel Core i7 3720QM vs Intel Core i9 10900X showdown will shed light on their strengths, weaknesses, and overall performance capabilities, helping you make an informed decision.
The Contenders: A Quick Overview
The Intel Core i7 3720QM is a quad-core processor released in 2012, belonging to the Ivy Bridge generation. It features a base clock speed of 2.6 GHz and a Turbo Boost frequency of 3.6 GHz. It’s designed for mobile devices, offering a balance of performance and power efficiency.
In contrast, the Intel Core i9 10900X, a powerhouse released in 2019, belongs to the Comet Lake generation. It boasts a staggering 10 cores and 20 threads, with a base clock speed of 3.7 GHz and a Turbo Boost frequency of 4.7 GHz. This desktop processor is geared towards demanding tasks like gaming, video editing, and content creation.
Architecture and Technology
The Intel Core i7 3720QM uses the Ivy Bridge architecture, featuring a 22nm process technology. The Core i9 10900X, on the other hand, utilizes the Comet Lake architecture, built on a 14nm process technology. This advancement in process technology allows the 10900X to achieve greater performance and efficiency compared to the older 3720QM.
Core Counts and Threading
As mentioned earlier, the Intel Core i9 10900X dominates with 10 cores and 20 threads, enabling it to handle multi-threaded workloads with ease. The Intel Core i7 3720QM, with its four cores and eight threads, struggles to keep up in such scenarios. This difference in core count and threading capabilities significantly impacts performance in tasks that utilize multiple processor cores.
Clock Speeds and Turbo Boost
The Intel Core i9 10900X boasts a higher base clock speed of 3.7 GHz compared to the Intel Core i7 3720QM’s 2.6 GHz. This advantage is further amplified by the 10900X’s Turbo Boost frequency, which can reach up to 4.7 GHz, significantly exceeding the 3720QM’s 3.6 GHz Turbo Boost. These higher clock speeds translate to faster processing speeds and improved overall performance.
Cache Memory
The Intel Core i9 10900X offers a massive 20 MB of L3 cache, significantly surpassing the Intel Core i7 3720QM’s 6 MB L3 cache. This larger cache allows the 10900X to store more frequently accessed data, resulting in faster access times and improved performance, especially for applications that heavily rely on data caching.
Performance Benchmarks
When comparing performance, the Intel Core i9 10900X outperforms the Intel Core i7 3720QM in almost every benchmark. In CPU-intensive tasks like video editing, 3D rendering, and gaming, the 10900X’s superior core count, clock speeds, and cache size translate to significantly faster processing times. The 3720QM, while still capable of handling everyday tasks, falls short in demanding applications.
Power Consumption and Thermal Design Power (TDP)
The Intel Core i9 10900X consumes significantly more power than the Intel Core i7 3720QM. It has a TDP of 165W, while the 3720QM has a TDP of 45W. This higher power consumption leads to increased heat generation, requiring a more robust cooling solution for the 10900X.
Price and Availability
The Intel Core i9 10900X is significantly more expensive than the Intel Core i7 3720QM. This price difference reflects the 10900X’s superior performance, features, and newer technology. The 3720QM, being a much older processor, is readily available at a much lower price point.
The Verdict: Choosing the Right CPU
The decision between the Intel Core i7 3720QM and the Intel Core i9 10900X boils down to your specific needs and budget. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly processor for everyday tasks, the Intel Core i7 3720QM might suffice. However, if you require a powerful CPU for demanding applications like gaming, video editing, or content creation, the Intel Core i9 10900X is the clear winner.
Beyond the Comparison: Factors to Consider
While this comparison highlights the key differences between the two processors, there are other factors to consider when choosing a CPU:
- Motherboard Compatibility: Ensure your motherboard supports the chosen processor’s socket type.
- RAM Compatibility: Check if your motherboard supports the desired RAM type and speed.
- Cooling Solution: A suitable cooling solution is crucial for maintaining optimal performance and preventing overheating.
- Power Supply: Ensure your power supply can handle the power requirements of the chosen processor.
A Final Thought: The Evolution of Computing
The Intel Core i7 3720QM and the Intel Core i9 10900X represent a significant leap in computing technology. The 10900X showcases the advancements in processor architecture, core counts, and performance capabilities over the past decade. This evolution continues to drive innovation and pushes the boundaries of what’s possible with modern computers.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q1: Is the Intel Core i9 10900X worth the price premium over the Intel Core i7 3720QM?
A1: The answer depends on your specific needs. If you require a powerful CPU for demanding tasks like gaming, video editing, or content creation, the 10900X’s price premium is justified. However, if you’re on a budget and your needs are less demanding, the 3720QM might be a more cost-effective option.
Q2: Can I upgrade my computer with the Intel Core i9 10900X if I currently have the Intel Core i7 3720QM?
A2: No, you cannot directly upgrade your computer with the 10900X if you currently have the 3720QM. The two processors use different sockets and are incompatible. You would need to purchase a new motherboard that supports the 10900X.
Q3: What are some alternative CPUs to the Intel Core i9 10900X?
A3: Some alternative CPUs to consider include the Intel Core i9 12900K, the AMD Ryzen 9 5900X, and the AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3D. These processors offer comparable or even better performance than the 10900X, but they may also come with a higher price tag.
Q4: What are the benefits of using a newer CPU like the Intel Core i9 10900X over an older CPU like the Intel Core i7 3720QM?
A4: Newer CPUs offer significant advantages over older models, including improved performance, efficiency, features, and compatibility with newer technologies. They are often built on more advanced architectures, have higher core counts, faster clock speeds, and larger caches, resulting in faster processing speeds and better overall performance.
Q5: Is the Intel Core i7 3720QM still relevant in 2023?
A5: While the Intel Core i7 3720QM is a capable processor for everyday tasks, it’s not recommended for demanding applications or newer games. It’s best suited for older computers or tasks that don’t require the latest performance capabilities.
