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Intel Core i3 4170 vs Intel Core i9 9820X: Which CPU is the Best Choice for Gaming?

Hi there! I'm Zachary, the founder and lead writer of this travel blog. I'm on a mission to help fellow adventurers, explorers, and tourists make the most of their journeys around the world. A little about me - I'm a self-proclaimed travel addict with a slight case of OCD. From...

What To Know

  • This is particularly true when we’re looking at a significant gap like the one between the Intel Core i3 4170 and the Intel Core i9 9820X.
  • This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between the Intel Core i3 4170 and the Intel Core i9 9820X, exploring their architecture, performance, features, and ultimately helping you determine which processor is best suited for your needs.
  • The price difference between the Intel Core i3 4170 and the Intel Core i9 9820X is a clear indicator of their performance disparity.

The world of CPUs can be a confusing place, especially when comparing processors from different generations. This is particularly true when we’re looking at a significant gap like the one between the Intel Core i3 4170 and the Intel Core i9 9820X. While both are Intel processors, they represent vastly different performance tiers and target completely different use cases.
This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between the Intel Core i3 4170 and the Intel Core i9 9820X, exploring their architecture, performance, features, and ultimately helping you determine which processor is best suited for your needs.

Architecture: A Tale of Two Generations

The Intel Core i3 4170, released in 2013, belongs to the fourth-generation Intel Core series, codenamed Haswell. Meanwhile, the Intel Core i9 9820X, released in 2018, is part of the ninth-generation Intel Core X series, codenamed Skylake-X. This generational gap translates to significant architectural advancements in the Core i9 9820X.
The Core i3 4170 utilizes a dual-core design with Hyper-Threading technology, allowing it to handle four threads simultaneously. It operates on a 22nm manufacturing process, which was considered cutting-edge in 2013. In contrast, the Core i9 9820X boasts a massive 18-core design with 36 threads, utilizing a 14nm manufacturing process. This allows for significantly higher performance, especially in tasks that benefit from multi-core processing.

Performance: A League of Its Own

The performance gap between the Intel Core i3 4170 and the Intel Core i9 9820X is substantial. The Core i3 4170, with its dual-core design, struggles to keep up with modern workloads. While it can handle basic tasks like web browsing and office productivity, it falls short in demanding applications like gaming, video editing, or 3D rendering.
The Core i9 9820X, on the other hand, is a powerhouse designed for high-performance computing. Its 18 cores and 36 threads enable it to tackle complex tasks with ease. This makes it an ideal choice for professionals in fields like software development, scientific research, or high-end content creation.

Features: A Focus on Performance

Both processors offer a range of features, but the focus shifts towards performance in the Core i9 9820X. The Core i3 4170 features integrated graphics, which is sufficient for basic tasks but not for demanding gaming. It also supports DDR3 memory, which is considered outdated compared to the DDR4 memory supported by the Core i9 9820X.
The Core i9 9820X emphasizes performance with features like support for Intel Turbo Boost Max Technology 3.0. This technology dynamically boosts the clock speed of the processor’s highest-performing cores, further enhancing performance in demanding applications. It also offers support for Intel Optane Memory, which can significantly speed up storage access.

Power Consumption and Heat: A Trade-Off

The Core i9 9820X, with its powerful architecture and high core count, consumes significantly more power than the Core i3 4170. This higher power consumption translates to increased heat generation, requiring a more robust cooling solution. The Core i3 4170, on the other hand, is relatively energy-efficient and generates less heat.

Price: A Reflection of Performance

The price difference between the Intel Core i3 4170 and the Intel Core i9 9820X is a clear indicator of their performance disparity. The Core i3 4170 is significantly cheaper, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious users. However, the Core i9 9820X, due to its high core count and advanced features, comes at a premium price.

When Should You Choose the Intel Core i3 4170?

The Intel Core i3 4170 is a suitable choice for users who primarily need a processor for basic tasks like web browsing, office productivity, or casual gaming. Its low price point makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious users who don’t require high performance.

When Should You Choose the Intel Core i9 9820X?

The Intel Core i9 9820X is a powerhouse designed for demanding tasks like video editing, 3D rendering, software development, or scientific research. Its high core count and advanced features ensure exceptional performance in these demanding applications.

The Final Verdict: Choosing the Right Processor

The choice between the Intel Core i3 4170 and the Intel Core i9 9820X boils down to your specific needs and budget. The Core i3 4170 is a budget-friendly option for basic tasks, while the Core i9 9820X is a high-performance beast for demanding workloads.
Consider your intended use cases, performance requirements, and budget before making your decision.

Basics You Wanted To Know

Q1: Is the Intel Core i9 9820X still relevant in 2023?
While the Intel Core i9 9820X was a powerful processor in its time, newer processors like the 13th Gen Intel Core i9 series offer better performance and efficiency. However, the Core i9 9820X can still be a viable option for budget-conscious users who require high core count for specific tasks.
Q2: Can I upgrade the Intel Core i3 4170 to an Intel Core i9 9820X?
No, the Intel Core i3 4170 and the Intel Core i9 9820X use different sockets and are not compatible with each other. You would need to upgrade your entire motherboard and potentially other components to use the Core i9 9820X.
Q3: Will the Intel Core i3 4170 be able to run modern games?
The Intel Core i3 4170 is not recommended for modern gaming. Its dual-core design and older architecture will struggle to handle demanding games, resulting in low frame rates and stuttering.
Q4: Which processor is better for video editing?
The Intel Core i9 9820X is a much better choice for video editing due to its high core count and advanced features. Its ability to handle complex tasks with ease will significantly speed up video editing workflows.
Q5: Is the Intel Core i9 9820X worth the price?
The Intel Core i9 9820X is worth the price if you require high performance for demanding tasks like video editing, 3D rendering, or software development. However, if your needs are more basic, a more affordable processor might be a better choice.

Zachary Cooper

Hi there! I'm Zachary, the founder and lead writer of this travel blog. I'm on a mission to help fellow adventurers, explorers, and tourists make the most of their journeys around the world. A little about me - I'm a self-proclaimed travel addict with a slight case of OCD. From triple checking my bags before a flight to color-coding my itineraries, I like to stay organized and on top of every little detail when I travel. But don't worry, my attention to detail just means you can rely on my advice to be thorough and accurate!
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