Battle of the Titans: AMD Ryzen 9 Pro 7940HS vs Intel Core i3 8120 – Who Dominates in the World of CPUs?

Choosing the right processor for your needs can be a daunting task, especially with the vast array of options available. If you’re looking for a powerful CPU to handle demanding tasks, you might be considering the AMD Ryzen 9 Pro 7940HS or the Intel Core i3 8120. These processors represent different tiers of performance and target different use cases. In this blog post, we’ll conduct a head-to-head comparison of the AMD Ryzen 9 Pro 7940HS vs Intel Core i3 8120, exploring their key features, performance benchmarks, and suitability for various applications.

A Look at the Contenders: AMD Ryzen 9 Pro 7940HS vs Intel Core i3 8120

The AMD Ryzen 9 Pro 7940HS is a high-end mobile processor designed for powerful laptops and workstations. It boasts a staggering 16 cores and 32 threads, making it a powerhouse for multitasking and demanding applications. This processor is based on AMD’s Zen 4 architecture, known for its efficiency and performance.
On the other hand, the Intel Core i3 8120 is a budget-friendly desktop processor designed for entry-level PCs. It features 4 cores and 4 threads, offering decent performance for everyday tasks like web browsing, office work, and light gaming. However, it falls short in terms of power and multi-core performance compared to the Ryzen 9 Pro 7940HS.

Core Count and Thread Count: A Tale of Two Processors

The Ryzen 9 Pro 7940HS significantly outperforms the Core i3 8120 in terms of core and thread count. With 16 cores and 32 threads, the Ryzen 9 Pro 7940HS can handle complex tasks with ease, effortlessly juggling multiple applications simultaneously. This makes it ideal for professionals who need to run demanding software like video editing, 3D rendering, or software development. The Core i3 8120, with its 4 cores and 4 threads, is better suited for casual users who primarily use their computer for basic tasks.

Clock Speed: The Pace of Processing Power

The clock speed of a processor determines how quickly it can execute instructions. The Ryzen 9 Pro 7940HS has a base clock speed of 3.3 GHz and a boost clock speed of 4.8 GHz. This means it can operate at a higher frequency when needed, delivering faster performance for demanding applications. The Core i3 8120, on the other hand, has a base clock speed of 3.6 GHz and a boost clock speed of 3.8 GHz. While the Core i3 8120 has a higher base clock speed, the Ryzen 9 Pro 7940HS’s higher boost clock speed and overall core count lead to superior performance in real-world scenarios.

Performance Benchmarks: Putting the Processors to the Test

To understand the real-world performance differences between these processors, let’s look at some benchmark results:

• Cinebench R23: The Ryzen 9 Pro 7940HS scores significantly higher in multi-core performance, demonstrating its ability to handle complex tasks with ease.
• Geekbench 5: The Ryzen 9 Pro 7940HS also outperforms the Core i3 8120 in single-core and multi-core benchmarks, showcasing its overall computational power.
• PCMark 10: This benchmark measures overall system performance, including productivity, content creation, and gaming. The Ryzen 9 Pro 7940HS scores significantly higher than the Core i3 8120, highlighting its superior performance across various tasks.

Power Consumption and Thermal Management: A Balancing Act

While the Ryzen 9 Pro 7940HS offers superior performance, it comes with higher power consumption. Its 16 cores and high clock speeds require more power than the Core i3 8120. However, AMD has implemented advanced thermal management technologies in the Ryzen 9 Pro 7940HS to ensure efficient operation and prevent overheating. The Core i3 8120, with its lower power consumption, is more suitable for budget-conscious users who prioritize energy efficiency.

Integrated Graphics: The Power of Visuals

The Ryzen 9 Pro 7940HS features integrated Radeon 780M graphics, capable of handling casual gaming and basic video editing tasks. While it’s not a dedicated graphics card, it offers decent performance for everyday use. The Core i3 8120, on the other hand, has integrated Intel UHD Graphics 630, which is suitable for basic tasks like web browsing and video playback, but not for demanding applications or gaming.

Use Cases: Choosing the Right Processor for Your Needs

The choice between the AMD Ryzen 9 Pro 7940HS and Intel Core i3 8120 ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget.

• The Ryzen 9 Pro 7940HS is perfect for:
• Professionals who need a powerful processor for demanding tasks like video editing, 3D rendering, and software development.
• Gamers who want a smooth and high-performance gaming experience on a laptop.
• Multitaskers who need to run multiple applications simultaneously without performance degradation.

• The Core i3 8120 is a good choice for:
• Casual users who primarily use their computer for basic tasks like web browsing, office work, and light gaming.
• Users on a tight budget who prioritize affordability over raw performance.

The Verdict: A Clear Winner for Performance

In the AMD Ryzen 9 Pro 7940HS vs Intel Core i3 8120 showdown, the Ryzen 9 Pro 7940HS emerges as the clear winner in terms of performance. Its superior core count, clock speed, and overall benchmark results make it a powerhouse for demanding tasks. However, it comes with a higher price tag and power consumption.

The Final Word: Beyond the Benchmarks

While benchmark scores provide a valuable comparison, it’s important to consider your specific needs and budget when choosing between these processors. The Ryzen 9 Pro 7940HS is a top-tier processor that delivers exceptional performance, while the Core i3 8120 is a budget-friendly option for casual users. Ultimately, the best processor for you depends on your individual usage patterns and requirements.

Information You Need to Know

Q1: What is the difference between the Ryzen 9 Pro 7940HS and the Ryzen 9 7940HS?
The Ryzen 9 Pro 7940HS is a commercial variant of the Ryzen 9 7940HS. It offers enhanced security features and support for enterprise-level functionalities, making it ideal for business applications.
Q2: Can the Core i3 8120 handle gaming?
The Core i3 8120 can handle some light gaming, but its performance will be limited due to its lower core count and clock speed. For more demanding games, you’ll need a more powerful processor like the Ryzen 9 Pro 7940HS.
Q3: Is the Ryzen 9 Pro 7940HS suitable for video editing?
Yes, the Ryzen 9 Pro 7940HS is an excellent choice for video editing. Its 16 cores and high clock speed provide ample processing power for rendering and exporting videos quickly.
Q4: What is the TDP (Thermal Design Power) of the Ryzen 9 Pro 7940HS?
The Ryzen 9 Pro 7940HS has a TDP of 35W, but it can be configured to run at higher power levels for improved performance.
Q5: Is the Core i3 8120 still a good option in 2023?
While the Core i3 8120 is a budget-friendly processor, it is now considered outdated compared to newer processors. It’s best suited for basic computing tasks and not for demanding applications or gaming.