AMD Ryzen 7 3700U vs Intel Core i7 6820HQ: Which CPU Reigns Supreme?

Choosing the right CPU for your needs can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Today, we’ll be diving into a head-to-head comparison between two popular processors: the AMD Ryzen 7 3700U and the Intel Core i7 6820HQ. These CPUs represent different generations and target different segments, making their comparison even more interesting.
The AMD Ryzen 7 3700U is a powerful, energy-efficient processor designed for thin and light laptops, while the Intel Core i7 6820HQ is a high-performance CPU aimed at gaming laptops and workstations. Both processors offer compelling features, but which one comes out on top? Let’s delve into their specifications, performance, and other key aspects to find the answer.

Core Count and Architecture: A Tale of Two Approaches

The AMD Ryzen 7 3700U boasts a quad-core, eight-thread architecture, utilizing the Zen+ microarchitecture. This means it can handle multiple tasks simultaneously with ease. On the other hand, the Intel Core i7 6820HQ features a quad-core, eight-thread design based on the Skylake architecture. While both CPUs offer the same number of cores and threads, their underlying architecture and clock speeds play a crucial role in determining their performance.

Clock Speeds and Boost Performance: The Race to Higher Frequencies

The AMD Ryzen 7 3700U operates at a base clock speed of 2.3 GHz, which can boost up to 4.0 GHz. This dynamic frequency scaling allows the CPU to adapt its performance based on the workload, ensuring optimal efficiency. The Intel Core i7 6820HQ, on the other hand, has a base clock speed of 2.7 GHz and can reach a maximum boost frequency of 3.6 GHz. While the Intel processor starts at a higher base frequency, the AMD Ryzen 7 3700U’s potential for higher boost speeds could provide an advantage in demanding tasks.

Cache and Memory Support: A Balancing Act

Both CPUs feature a 4 MB L3 cache, which allows them to store frequently accessed data for faster retrieval. The AMD Ryzen 7 3700U supports DDR4-2400 memory, while the Intel Core i7 6820HQ supports DDR4-2133 memory. This difference in memory speeds can impact overall system performance, with the AMD processor potentially benefiting from faster memory access.

Integrated Graphics: The Power of Integrated Solutions

The AMD Ryzen 7 3700U integrates the Radeon Vega 10 graphics unit, which provides decent performance for everyday tasks and light gaming. The Intel Core i7 6820HQ, however, lacks integrated graphics and relies solely on a dedicated graphics card. While this may seem like a disadvantage for the Intel CPU, it allows for greater flexibility in choosing a dedicated GPU that suits your needs.

Power Consumption and Thermal Design Power (TDP): Efficiency vs Power

The AMD Ryzen 7 3700U is designed for energy efficiency with a TDP of 15 watts. This low power consumption makes it ideal for thin and light laptops, as it reduces heat generation and extends battery life. In contrast, the Intel Core i7 6820HQ has a TDP of 45 watts, indicating a higher power consumption and potential for greater heat output. This higher TDP allows for more powerful performance but may require more robust cooling solutions.

Benchmark Performance: A Head-to-Head Comparison

When it comes to benchmark performance, the AMD Ryzen 7 3700U generally outperforms the Intel Core i7 6820HQ in multi-threaded tasks. This is due to its efficient Zen+ architecture and higher boost clock speeds. However, the Intel CPU may still hold an advantage in single-threaded applications, owing to its higher base clock speed.

Application Performance: Real-World Scenarios

In real-world scenarios, the AMD Ryzen 7 3700U shines in tasks like video editing, photo editing, and multitasking. Its multi-threaded capabilities make it a powerful choice for content creators and professionals who require a smooth workflow. The Intel Core i7 6820HQ, on the other hand, excels in gaming and other demanding applications that rely on single-threaded performance.

The Verdict: Choosing the Right CPU for Your Needs

Ultimately, the decision between the AMD Ryzen 7 3700U and the Intel Core i7 6820HQ boils down to your specific needs. If you prioritize energy efficiency, portability, and multi-threaded performance, the AMD Ryzen 7 3700U is the better choice. However, if you require high single-threaded performance for gaming or demanding applications, the Intel Core i7 6820HQ might be a better fit.

Beyond the Benchmarks: Factors to Consider

While benchmark scores provide a valuable insight into performance, they don’t tell the whole story. Consider these factors when making your decision:

• Laptop form factor: The AMD Ryzen 7 3700U is ideal for thin and light laptops, while the Intel Core i7 6820HQ is better suited for larger laptops with more robust cooling solutions.
• Price: The AMD Ryzen 7 3700U is generally more affordable than the Intel Core i7 6820HQ, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
• Future-proofing: The AMD Ryzen 7 3700U is a newer generation CPU and may offer better longevity in terms of software compatibility and performance.

Final Thoughts: A Powerful Showdown

The AMD Ryzen 7 3700U and the Intel Core i7 6820HQ are both capable CPUs with strengths and weaknesses. The AMD Ryzen 7 3700U excels in multi-threaded performance, energy efficiency, and portability, while the Intel Core i7 6820HQ shines in single-threaded performance and gaming. Choose the CPU that best aligns with your needs and budget for an optimal computing experience.

What You Need to Know

Q1: Which CPU is better for gaming?
A: The Intel Core i7 6820HQ is generally considered better for gaming due to its higher single-threaded performance. However, the AMD Ryzen 7 3700U can still provide a decent gaming experience, especially with lower-demanding titles.
Q2: Which CPU is better for video editing?
A: The AMD Ryzen 7 3700U is a better choice for video editing due to its multi-threaded capabilities, which can significantly speed up rendering and other demanding tasks.
Q3: Which CPU is more energy-efficient?
A: The AMD Ryzen 7 3700U is significantly more energy-efficient than the Intel Core i7 6820HQ, with a lower TDP and better battery life.
Q4: Which CPU is more affordable?
A: The AMD Ryzen 7 3700U is generally more affordable than the Intel Core i7 6820HQ.