The exact definitions for a 5th Generation U-series processor and a 10th Generation U-series processors are slightly different but their overall purpose and market positioning is more-or-less consistent. The various suffixes that Intel uses - and their meanings - can often shift between generations. However, other processors - like the “ Intel Core i7-8650U” - do include a letter at the end, with the " U" standing in for “Ultra Low Power”. This means that, in our example, our Intel Core i7 is a fourth-gen one.
The first digit here - “ 4” - refers to the generation of the CPU while the rest - “ 790” - is the SKU, which is sort of like a serial or ID number. In our earlier example, this would be “ 4790”. Next, you’ve got the SKU and gen-markers. Credit: IntelĪs a general rule of thumb, Core i5 and i7 desktop processors are usually quad-core (and beyond) while lower-end Core i3 desktop processors are dual core. In Intel’s case, the different classes (either i3, i5, i7 or i9) of Core brand CPUs are varied by their specs: the number of cores, clock speed, cache size, as well as support their for more-advanced technical features like Turbo Boost 2.0 and Hyper-Threading. However, the exact way in which they go about that function can vary between car brands and engine types. Within the big-picture context, these engines all serve the same function. If it helps, think of this as similar to how different cars feature different classes or kinds of engines. Then, “ i7” refers to the style or design of the micro-architecture inside the CPU. However, this article is focused on understanding Intel’s Core processors so we're just gonna pretend they don't exist for now. Intel do offer other ranges of processors like Celeron, Pentium and Xeon. The Core is Intel’s biggest and most-popular range of products, so you’ll probably find this prefix on most consumer-grade desktops and notebook PCs.
The first part of the name - in this case, “ Intel Core” - tells you that this CPU is made by Intel and is part of their Core series of processors. However, understanding what those numbers mean isn’t actually all that difficult to parse.īreaking things down using our earlier example: Credit: Intel This detail might initially seem a bit intimidating and/or confusing. We’ll come back around to this and go into a bit more detail later in this article.įor now, focus on the long string of numbers attached to your CPU’s name.
You’ll also be given a rough indicator of your CPU’s clock speed, measured in Ghz. For example, Intel Core i7-4790 ( Amazon) or Intel Core i7-8500U ( Amazon).
Under processor, you should be given the full title for your current Intel CPU. Credit: Fergus Hallidayįrom here, you’ll get a quick overview of the CPU, RAM and OS currently installed on your PC. The fastest way to do this is usually to open up your Control Panel, go to “System and Security” subheader and select ”System”. Understanding your current Intel processorīefore looking at buying new processors, it’s worth giving your current Intel CPU a quick once-over to get a better picture of where your PC’s power and performance level currently sits. This article is a follow-up to our older Haswell-based and Kaby Lake Intel CPU comparisons that can be found here and here. So, what is the difference between an Intel Core i3, i5, i7 and i9? What do vendors mean when they talk about generations of chip-sets? What is hyper-threading and how do you tell if your clock speed is any good?