Which Processor is Better: i5 7th Gen or i7 2nd Gen?
The choice between an i5 7th generation processor and an i7 2nd generation processor often comes down to specific use cases and performance needs. While the newer i5 7th generation processor generally offers some advantages, the perceived performance gap may not always justify the price difference.
Overview of the Comparison
Intel has been refining its processors over time, especially with the advancements seen in the 7th generation i5. These processors offer significant improvements in various performance metrics, including faster benchmarks, support for newer standards, and better power efficiency. However, the i7 2nd generation, despite being slightly older, can still hold its own in certain situations.
The Case for the i5 7600
When comparing the i5 7600 to the i7 2600, the 7600 comes out on top in a variety of benchmarks. It is about 8% faster and supports newer standards such as faster memory and graphics system bus, all while using less power. This makes the i5 7600 a compelling choice for users looking for a balance between performance and energy efficiency.
The i5 8400 Upgrade
The i5 8400, part of the 8th generation, represents a significant upgrade. With its 6 cores and up to 4.0 GHz, it offers much faster performance compared to the i7 2600. This newer model is particularly advantageous for users requiring high multi-threaded performance.
Performance and Use Cases
The choice ultimately depends on your workload. For most general use cases, the 7th generation i5 is the better choice, given the multiple refinements and improvements Intel has made since the 2nd generation. It will generally perform better in most tasks. However, if your workload is heavily multithreaded, there might still be a slight advantage in getting an older i7, especially if you can find a good price point.
Key Advantages of the i7 2nd Gen
Despite the newer i5 7th generation processors, there are reasons to consider older models like the i7 2600. The i7 2nd generation has double the cores, which can be advantageous in certain applications. However, Intel’s constant refinement means that the newer i5 processors offer notable improvements in areas such as:
Smaller die size for faster chip performance
Better energy efficiency
Noteable improvements in turbo technology, leading to better single-core performance
Enhanced bus communication with memory
Support for Quality-Density Rambus (QDR) memory
Improved on-chip graphics performance
Faster bus speeds for faster SSD transfers
These improvements make the newer i5 processors highly competitive, even when compared to the i7 2nd generation.
Conclusion
In summary, the i5 7th generation processors offer multiple advantages over the i7 2nd generation processors, including better performance efficiency, support for newer standards, and enhanced capabilities. For most users, the newer i5 represents a smart choice. However, the i7 2nd generation might still be the better option for users with highly multithreaded workloads or specific requirements that it excels in.