Essential Information
- While both processors have the same core count and thread count, the Zen+ architecture in the Ryzen 7 3700U offers a significant performance edge, particularly in multi-threaded workloads.
- The Intel Core i7 6785R, on the other hand, features the Iris Pro 580 graphics, which is a decent performer but falls short of the Radeon Vega 10 in terms of overall graphics capabilities.
- While the AMD Ryzen 7 3700U’s Radeon Vega 10 graphics are capable of handling casual gaming, the Intel Core i7 6785R’s Iris Pro 580 graphics offer a slightly better gaming experience, particularly in older and less demanding titles.
Choosing the right CPU for your laptop can be a daunting task, especially with the wide range of options available. Two popular choices often come up in discussions: the AMD Ryzen 7 3700U and the Intel Core i7 6785R. Both processors offer impressive performance, but they cater to different needs and price points. This comprehensive guide will delve deep into the AMD Ryzen 7 3700U vs Intel Core i7 6785R comparison, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision.
Core Architecture: Zen vs Skylake
The AMD Ryzen 7 3700U is built on AMD’s Zen+ architecture, known for its efficiency and multi-core prowess. This processor boasts four cores and eight threads, enabling it to handle multitasking and demanding applications with ease. On the other hand, the Intel Core i7 6785R leverages the Skylake architecture, featuring four cores and eight threads. While both processors have the same core count and thread count, the Zen+ architecture in the Ryzen 7 3700U offers a significant performance edge, particularly in multi-threaded workloads.
Clock Speeds: A Close Race
The AMD Ryzen 7 3700U operates at a base clock speed of 2.3 GHz, which can boost up to 4.0 GHz. This impressive boost capability ensures that the processor can deliver top performance when needed. The Intel Core i7 6785R, on the other hand, has a base clock speed of 3.1 GHz and a boost clock speed of 3.9 GHz. While the Intel processor boasts a higher base clock speed, the Ryzen 7 3700U’s higher boost clock speed allows it to keep up in performance-intensive tasks.
Integrated Graphics: Radeon vs Iris Pro
The AMD Ryzen 7 3700U integrates the Radeon Vega 10 graphics, offering a significant advantage in terms of graphics performance. This integrated graphics unit is capable of handling casual gaming and demanding multimedia tasks with ease. The Intel Core i7 6785R, on the other hand, features the Iris Pro 580 graphics, which is a decent performer but falls short of the Radeon Vega 10 in terms of overall graphics capabilities.
Power Consumption: Efficiency Takes the Lead
The AMD Ryzen 7 3700U is renowned for its power efficiency, consuming less energy compared to the Intel Core i7 6785R. This translates to longer battery life and reduced heat generation, making the Ryzen 7 3700U an ideal choice for users who prioritize portability and energy efficiency.
Benchmark Performance: A Comparative Analysis
Benchmarks provide a clear picture of the performance differences between the AMD Ryzen 7 3700U and the Intel Core i7 6785R. In multi-threaded benchmarks like Cinebench R23, the Ryzen 7 3700U consistently outperforms the Intel Core i7 6785R, showcasing its superior multi-core capabilities. However, in single-threaded benchmarks like Geekbench 5, the Intel Core i7 6785R holds a slight edge, benefiting from its slightly higher base clock speed.
Gaming Performance: A Mixed Bag
While the AMD Ryzen 7 3700U’s Radeon Vega 10 graphics are capable of handling casual gaming, the Intel Core i7 6785R’s Iris Pro 580 graphics offer a slightly better gaming experience, particularly in older and less demanding titles. However, both processors are not designed for high-end gaming and will struggle with modern AAA games.
Price and Availability: A Factor to Consider
The AMD Ryzen 7 3700U is generally more affordable than the Intel Core i7 6785R, making it a more attractive option for budget-conscious users. The availability of laptops equipped with these processors can vary depending on the region and time of year.
The Verdict: Choosing the Right Processor
Ultimately, the choice between the AMD Ryzen 7 3700U and the Intel Core i7 6785R boils down to your specific needs and priorities. If you prioritize multitasking, demanding applications, and energy efficiency, the AMD Ryzen 7 3700U is the clear winner. However, if you value slightly better single-threaded performance and a slightly better gaming experience, the Intel Core i7 6785R might be a better fit.
Final Thoughts: A Powerful Duo
Both the AMD Ryzen 7 3700U and the Intel Core i7 6785R are powerful processors that can deliver impressive performance in various tasks. The Ryzen 7 3700U excels in multi-threaded workloads and energy efficiency, while the Core i7 6785R offers slightly better single-threaded performance and gaming capabilities. The best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and budget.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q1: Is the AMD Ryzen 7 3700U better than the Intel Core i7 6785R?
A1: The AMD Ryzen 7 3700U offers better multi-threaded performance and energy efficiency, making it a better choice for users who prioritize these aspects. However, the Intel Core i7 6785R has a slight edge in single-threaded performance and gaming capabilities.
Q2: Which processor is better for gaming?
A2: While both processors are capable of handling casual gaming, the Intel Core i7 6785R offers a slightly better gaming experience due to its Iris Pro 580 graphics. However, both processors are not designed for high-end gaming.
Q3: Which processor is more affordable?
A3: The AMD Ryzen 7 3700U is generally more affordable than the Intel Core i7 6785R.
Q4: Which processor is better for video editing?
A4: The AMD Ryzen 7 3700U is generally better for video editing due to its superior multi-core performance and integrated Radeon Vega 10 graphics.
Q5: Can I upgrade the processor in my laptop?
A5: Most laptops use soldered-on processors, making upgrades impossible. You’ll need to purchase a new laptop with the desired CPU.
