Every computer has a central processing unit (CPU), which executes multiple processing commands and runs different programs. Intel Corporation and Advanced Micro Devices Inc. (AMD) have aggressively attacked the market with fast processors, but Intel sits at the heap of the global market.
Moreover, besides manufacturing processors for PCs and laptops, both companies have heavily invested in research and are now developing CPUs for other smart devices, such as laptops and smartphones.
Intel’s most notable processors include the Core i3, i5, i7, Atom, and Celeron. On the other hand, AMD produces Ryzen 3, 5, 7, and 9. We have done our due diligence on the processors, but we will solely focus on the AMD Ryzen 7 and Intel i7 by comparing their design, performance, and compatibility.
Let’s get to it!
AMD Ryzen 7 vs. Intel i7: Side-by-Side Comparison
| AMD Ryzen 7 (7700X) | Intel i7 (13700K) | |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Limited (TSMC) | Intel Corporation |
| Launch Date | September 2022 | Fourth Quarter of 2022 |
| Total Cores | 8 | 16 |
| Threads | 16 | 24 |
| Total Cache | 40MB | 30MB |
| Base Frequency | 4.5 GHz | Performance Core – 3.4 GHz Efficient Core – 2.5 GHz |
| Max Frequency | 5.4 GHz | Performance Core – 5.3 GHz Efficient Core – 4.2 GHz |
| CPU Sockets | AM5 | FCLGA 1700 |
| Price | $349 | $409 – $419 |
AMD Ryzen 7 vs. Intel i7: What’s the Difference?
The AMD Ryzen 7 and the Intel i7 have an extensive range of models, as both companies release new generations of their chips yearly. This AMD Ryzen 7 vs. Intel i7 review will focus on two chips: The Ryzen 7 7700X and the Intel i7 13700K, released the same year (2022).
Manufacturer
Let’s first determine how both companies manufacture their semiconductors before proceeding to the processors’ differences. Intel manufactures its semiconductors, giving them better control over the manufacturing process and logistics.
In contrast, AMD usually designs the semiconductors before outsourcing production to TSMC, a Taiwanese semiconductor company. TSMC is also one of the largest chip manufacturers in the world, as evidenced by its well-known clients Apple and Nvidia.
Nevertheless, it’s surprising that AMD chips are cheaper than Intel’s, especially since the former doesn’t have much control over the production process.
Manufacturing Process
TSMC uses the 5nm manufacturing process to develop the AMD Ryzen 7 7700X, which increases the chips’ transistor density. As such, they can reduce the semiconductor’s size, ultimately providing more space for other components in a computer or smartphone.
Running on a high transistor density, the AMD Ryzen 7 7700X performs better because the processor’s electrical signals travel short distances, allowing the chip to process different algorithms and codes efficiently. In addition, the AMD Ryzen is energy efficient because it’s densely packed and the electrons usually travel a short distance.
- 8 Cores and 16 processing threads
- Based on AMD "Zen 4" architecture
- Can support PCIe 5.0 on select 600 Series motherboards
- 5.4 GHz Max Boost, 100+ FPS
Intel, however, uses the 7nm manufacturing process, meaning it cannot increase the transistor density. Hence, their processors will need more power and may overheat because of the increased distance electrons travel when sending signals.
This also affects performance when using rigorous apps like games and coding programs. Overall, the AMD Ryzen 7 wins this category due to its better manufacturing process, guaranteeing better results.
Design
The AMD Ryzen 7 7700X boasts a minimalistic design involving 8 cores, giving it sufficient power to handle rigorous programs. In contrast, Intel packs its Core i7 processor with the Intel Performance Hybrid Architecture, which splits the cores into performance and efficiency cores.
Operating on both core processors, Intel laptops usually subdivide the work. As a result, the performance core (P-core) handles single and light thread tasks like mathematical calculations. Then, the efficient core (E-core) handles multi-threaded and background tasks like typing in a Word document.
So, adding both cores in the Intel i7 13700K processor, expect sixteen performance and efficiency cores. All in all, most users agree that Intel’s resolve to split the cores boosts its processors’ performance.
Cache
Next, we have cache memory, available in both processors. It stores frequently used information for easier access. Manufacturers know that a high CPU cache translates to better performance so, unsurprisingly, most processors’ caches have three storage levels.
The AMD Ryzen 7 7700X has a level one storage space of 512KB, which is unsurprising because it’s usually the smallest. Level two’s storage space is 8MB, while level three’s is 32MB; normally the biggest and least used. In contrast, Intel packed its i7-13700K with a 30MB cache memory and allocated 24MB to the level two storage.
Performance
Before we talk about performance, we must consider the factors used to determine a processor’s performance. They include:
- Number of cores
- Thread count
- Base frequency
- Thermal design power
- Junction temperature
- Maximum boost frequency
Running on 16 cores and 24 threads, the Intel i7 13700K has more cores than Ryzen’s 8 cores and 16 threads. So, if we use both processors’ cores as a unit of measure to determine their performance, the Intel i7 is superior to the AMD Ryzen 7.
This is because a processor’s number of cores and threads is usually proportional to its processing power. Moreover, the Intel i7’s superior cores and threads mean that it can handle more work within a specific time without affecting your laptop’s computational speed.
- 16 cores (8 P-cores + 8 E-cores) and 24 threads
- Intel UHD Graphics 770 included
- Up to 5.4 GHz unlocked
- Turbo Boost Max Technology 3.0, as well as PCIe 5.0 & 4.0 support
As for base frequency, the Ryzen 7 7700X boasts a frequency of 4.5 GHz, which is impressive as it can process commands fast without overclocking. You can also conveniently use it for coding, gaming, and other intensive tasks.
Unfortunately, Intel added a 3.4 GHz and 2.5 GHz base frequency to its performance and efficient cores, which is still notable, but lags behind Ryzen’s. So, if you’re using your Intel laptop for basic school work or moderate browsing, it will handle itself properly, but it may struggle with some editing and gaming apps.
Furthermore, the AMD Precision Boost 2 technology takes credit for the Ryzen’s 5.4 GHz maximum boost frequency. In contrast, the i7 uses the Turbo Boost Max Technology for its frequency boost.
Lastly, Ryzen’s 105W thermal design power means the processor releases a lot of heat on full workload, especially when gaming. However, its maximum operating temperature is quite low at 95 °C.
In contrast, the Intel i7’s numbers will shock you because it has a 125W thermal design power and a 100-degree junction temperature. So, Intel laptops can handle high power usage and temperatures easily.
Graphics
Next in our discussion is both processors’ graphics. AMD packed the Ryzen 7 with the AMD Radeon Graphics model, an excellent graphics card that may allow you to play games at 1080p. Moreover, it gives you a good balance between performance and price if you buy an AMD Ryzen 7 laptop to edit music and videos on a budget.
Also, the AMD Ryzen 7 7700X has a graphics processing unit (GPU) base frequency of 400 MHz and a maximum graphics frequency of 2200 MHz, which isn’t bad for gaming, coding, or editing. Intel takes a different route with the Intel UHD Graphics 770, which doesn’t suit high-resolution games because it’s mainly ideal for games at 720p.
Furthermore, you may notice a lag performance when gaming with the Intel i7’s 300 MHz GPU base frequency and 1600 MHz graphics maximum frequency, especially if your laptop has a low processing speed.
Remember, higher clock speeds mean better graphics, so the Ryzen 7 processor is a safe choice for gamers who don’t want to compromise their gaming experience.
Compatibility
Next in our AMD Ryzen 7 vs. Intel i7 discussion are both processors’ compatibility features. Surprisingly, both support two memory channels and have a maximum memory capacity of 128GB.
Furthermore, they have an error-correcting code memory (EECC), which detects all the single-bit memory errors, thus protecting the internal data against corruption.
That said, we still have some compatibility differences. The AMD Ryzen 7 7700X is only compatible with the Double Data Rate 5 (DDR5), which supports multiple features like error transparency mode and higher capacity DRAMs. Adding to the AMD Ryzen compatibility features is an effective data rate of 5,2000 million transfers per second (MT/s), which is impressive.
Conversely, the Intel i7 supports DDR 5 and DDR 4 memory types. So, DDR 5 users will get a high base speed similar to the AMD Ryzen 7, but the effective data rate rises to 5,600 M/Ts. DRR 4 users with an older-generation memory module can still enjoy low latency levels and better stability, even though the model’s speed is 3,200 M/Ts.
Ultimately, the Intel i7 allows faster data movement between the processor’s components than the AMD Ryzen. But the most significant shortcoming is the AMD Ryzen 7’s failure to support DDR 4.
Price and Availability
Lastly, let’s discuss the prices and availability of both processors. After AMD released their Ryzen 7 7700X processor on the 27th of September 2022, it was clear they weren’t going to overcharge for the processor, which is also evident from its $349 price tag.
In contrast, Intel takes pride in its processors, so when the i7 13700K came out in the fourth quarter of 2022, we weren’t surprised the processor cost between $409 and $419. However, Intel may reduce its prices due to market volatility.
AMD Ryzen 7 vs. Intel i7: 5 Must-Know Facts
- AMD doesn’t manufacture its semiconductors, which is surprising because its processors are cheaper even though the company doesn’t control the production process.
- One of the reasons your Intel i7 can easily multitask your typing and browsing work is due to its superior cores and threads.
- Even though the Intel i7 is still powerful, its graphics may not suit some of your games, so for a gaming computer, you better buy one with the Ryzen 7.
- Unfortunately, the Ryzen 7 only supports DDR 5.
- The AMD Ryzen 7 has a high transistor density, which boosts its performance and makes it energy efficient.
AMD Ryzen 7 Vs. Intel i7: Which One Is Better? Which One Should You Choose?
Now that we have finalized our discussion, can you tell the difference between AMD Ryzen 7 and Intel i7? Even though both processors are good for your laptop, the Intel i7 edges out the AMD Ryzen 7, as it perfectly balances price and performance.
Running on more cores and threads, the Intel i7 will ensure your computer has sufficient power to handle most tasks. Moreover, Intel packed it with sufficient cache memory for your frequent tasks, so it won’t slow you when working on tight deadlines.
Also, the laptop’s compatibility with the DDR 4 and DDR 5 makes it a safer choice, irrespective of its high price tag. Its compatibility allows you to install your old-generation memory module.
Nevertheless, it’s not perfect. The Intel i7’s UHD Graphics aren’t great, especially if you like gaming after a long day at work. Moreover, video editors may prefer the AMD Ryzen 7 due to its high clock speed. Overall, choose a processor that best meets your needs.
- AMD Ryzen 7 7700X
- 8 Cores and 16 processing threads
- Based on AMD "Zen 4" architecture
- Can support PCIe 5.0 on select 600 Series motherboards
- 5.4 GHz Max Boost, 100+ FPS
- Intel Core i7 13700K
- 16 cores (8 P-cores + 8 E-cores) and 24 threads
- Intel UHD Graphics 770 included
- Up to 5.4 GHz unlocked
- Turbo Boost Max Technology 3.0, as well as PCIe 5.0 & 4.0 support
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