Overview of Intel processor lines by parameters: series, generation, number, version, name
What are Intel processors: Intel processor characteristics Intel processor designations: processor versions Processor series Processor generations Main processor lines: Atom, Y/Core m, Celeron/Pentium, Core i, Xeon Conclusions and recommendations when purchasing Intel processors
Intel has been operating since 1968 and is considered one of the best processor manufacturers. Because many CPU modifications have been produced over time, it can sometimes be difficult to choose the right one. This article will help you solve this problem.
What are Intel processors: Intel processor characteristics
Intel processors use designations consisting of letters and numbers. The first digit is the generation number, and the next three are the model code. The letters indicate the CPU line and designations. All of these symbols are closely related to the device's characteristics.
Intel Processor Designations: Processor Versions
This manufacturer's processors use 9 letters to denote different versions.
M – mobile processor. It differs from traditional CPUs in its slightly lower frequency and lower heat dissipation, so it does not require significant cooling. Often used in laptops to increase battery life.
U – ultra-mobile processor. Models with this designation are used in tablets, smartphones, and budget ultrabooks, but there are also quite powerful versions. The heat dissipation rate of these CPUs is only 15 W.
Y – processor with extremely low power consumption: an average of 11.5 W, but this is not the limit. Expecting "sky-high" performance from such processors is not recommended.
Q – quad-core processor with various modifications. A good example is the i5-7440: 4 cores, decent frequency, and affordable.
X – extreme processor. The highest-end solution, on which you can build a great workstation for video editing, graphics, and audio work. Perfect for future-proof gaming, providing ultra-high-performance graphics and stable FPS.
H – a processor packaged in a box. A CPU with this letter denotes an improvement in integrated graphics. These models won't replace a full-fledged graphics card, but their integration into the system is superior to competing products.
K – a processor that can significantly overclock its frequency. This allows the chip to better utilize its potential under heavy loads.
T – a processor with a reduced clock speed and reduced thermal design requirements. Such processors are easy to install even in entry-level computers.
F – a processor without integrated graphics. To render 3D or play games at high settings, you need a good graphics card.
Processor Series Indicated by a number. The higher the number, the more powerful the device. The first digit of the number indicates the generation of the model. The next numbers indicate the device modification – the higher the number, the better the performance.
Processor Generations To understand which generation is the best, it is worth checking the table.
Release Year
2009 – Nehalem: the beginning of a new stage of development, quad-core processors without built-in graphics.
2010 – Westmere: processors with two cores, support for Hyper-Threading.
2011 – Sandy Bridge: processors with increased performance compared to their predecessors.
2012 – Ivy Bridge: processors with 22 nm production technology.
2013 – Haswell: fourth generation with a large energy efficiency.
2015 – Broadwell: 14nm processors.
2017 – Skylake: performance boost thanks to 14nm technology.
2019 – Coffee Lake: new quad-core processors in the Core i3.
2020 – Ice Lake: 10nm processors with increased performance.
2021 – Tiger Lake: new Xe-LP cores and improved graphics.
Main processor lines
There are three main processor lines. They differ in parameters and intended use.
1. Atom
Microscale processors based on the x86 and x86-64 architectures.
Initially manufactured using 45 nm technology, but since 2014 using 14 nm technology.
Installed in tablets, netbooks, and nettops.
These models are only suitable for working with documents and browsing the internet, but they are characterized by high energy efficiency, ensuring long battery life.
2. Y / Core m
The next generation of mobile processors.
Most commonly found in thin, fanless laptops.
Great for typing and browsing the web.
It's worth noting that these models barely overheat, so in most cases they don't require a fan.
3. Celeron / Pentium
Celeron — the cheapest dual-core processors. They're not suitable for gaming, but are great for office tasks and browsing the web. The G4900 is quite good.
Pentium — also dual-core, but with higher performance than the Celeron. A good choice for home and office use. With enough RAM and a mid-range graphics card like the GTX 1050, you can play modern games, but on low graphics settings.
4. Core i
Core i3 — a versatile processor with multitasking capabilities. Until the 8th generation, these were dual-core processors operating at standard frequencies, but later the number of cores doubled.
Core i5 — more powerful processors that provide a solid foundation for building high-performance computers. Since the Skylake generation, all processors have at least quad-cores. For example, the i5-9600K has 6 cores.
Core i7 — powerful processors that can handle virtually any task. They are one of the best solutions for professional tasks and gaming. They usually have 4 cores and 8 threads, but this is not the maximum number of cores. For example, the Intel Core i7-9700K has 6 cores and 12 threads.
Core i9 — Intel's most powerful processors, offering plenty of power. The entry-level model in the line is the i9-9900K with 8 cores and 16 threads. The most powerful model, the i9-7980 XE, has 18 cores and 36 threads. There are virtually no tasks too challenging for this processor, and this is unlikely to change for the next few years.
5. Xeon
The Xeon line has been on the market since 1998, but only appeared as a separate unit a few years ago.
Previously, processors from this line were labeled "processor name + Xeon," meaning they were an enhanced variant of the processor.
Today, Xeon is a separate line of premium processors, designed for demanding applications such as servers and workstations.
For example, the Intel Xeon Gold 5220 is ideal for modern AI-based applications thanks to its Deep Learning Boost technology. It has 18 cores, 6 RAM channels, and 25.75 MB of L2 cache.
6. X-series
At the end of 2019, the brand new Intel X processor series was launched. These processors have an unlocked multiplier, allowing for even greater performance and the ability to run the most demanding applications, such as creating special effects in 4K videos.
X-series processors are also great for game developers. They can handle maximum graphics settings and ray tracing.
By 2021, these are Intel's most powerful processors, with up to 18 cores and 36 threads. Thanks to Turbo Boost Max 3.0 technology, the system can increase the performance of single threads, handling the most demanding tasks.
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