Best Intel Processor 2012
Intel is the de facto leader of the semiconductor revolution that defined computing technology and took it to a whole new level. Founded by Gordon Moore and Robert Noyce (the inventor of the integrated circuit), in 1968, today Intel technology drives computers all over the world. When choosing a computer processor, Intel is the default choice for most people, though an alternative in the form of AMD exists. If you are in search for the best computer processor on Earth, it's an Intel chip right now and it is a part of the core i7 line of processors.
Choosing the Best Processor
The first question that comes to mind is, how to judge which computer processor is the best of the lot. You don't need to be a geek to be able to judge which processor to put your money on. All you need is a shrewd analysis of the processor specifications.
First thing I looked for was the clocking frequency of the processors. Most would think that the number of cores should be the first thing to be checked out first. However, according to the experts I've consulted, clocking frequency remains the deciding parameter. With an increase in clocking frequency, more number of tasks can be accomplished by the processor, in the same clock cycle. So looking for the processor with the highest clocking frequency, is the simplest way of separating the best from the also rans. After I've sorted them by frequency, I chose the ones with the highest number of cores, which may range from dual, quad to six core processors in case of Intel.
Further, I sorted the processors by the L3 cache size. Higher the caching capacity, more are the number of tasks that can be accomplished by a processor. Also look for the 'Thermal Design Power (TDP)' of the processor, which decides the heat output generated by it. Lesser the better, is the policy that should be adopted, as far as the TDP concerned, because it effectively reduces heating issues. Currently, the 22 nm architecture based Ivy Bridge set of processors are the best offering from Intel. Launched in three classes like the previous two, Sandy Bridge and Westermere based generations, it consists of core i3 (entry-level), core i5 (mid-level) and core i7 (high-end) processors. Currently, the third and second generation core i7 line of processors are the best ones on the planet, in terms of raw computing speed.
| Best Intel Processor (2012) | |
| Intel Core i7-3960X (For Desktop Computers) | The processor that emerged to be the best of the lot, for desktops and workstations was the Intel Core i7-3960X Processor (Extreme Edition). Based on a 32 nm (Sandy Bridge-E) manufacturing process, this processor can deliver a phenomenal 3.9 Ghz of clocking frequency, with a base frequency of 3.3 GHz. With 6 cores, 12 processing threads and 15 MB of smart cache, you will not find a processor, which can outperform this veritable beast of a computer chip. In benchmark tests, it outperforms its predecessors like the Intel core i7 990X, 2600K and its close competitors like AMD Phenom II X6, the AMD FX-8150 and others, in terms of single and multi-threaded processing. It outperforms all other high-end processors in video editing, encoding and running photo editing applications like Adobe Photoshop. In gaming too, the 3960X rules with its supreme rendering ability for most popular 3D games, though here its AMD competitors come close in matching performance. It overclocks well to boost performance but the only department it lacks in, is power consumption. With a maximum TDP of 130 W, make sure that you arrange for a proper cooling system, if you are planning to bring home this beast. It will cost you around $1000, but it's worth every penny. |
| Intel Core i7-3920XM (For Laptop Computers) | If you are looking for the best processor for a laptop computer, it is the Intel Core i7-3920XM. With a base frequency of 2.9 GHz, which can be boosted to 3.8 GHz with Turbo Boost, this is a quad core processor that is the ultimate choice for the gaming enthusiast. Despite the high clocking frequency, the thermal design power output for the chip is only 55 Watt. With 8 MB of L3 cache, this one will cost you $1096. With a high speed integrated graphics controller and an unlocked clock multiplier, this processor is built to scorch the gaming scene. |
The Core i7 3960X is unarguably the fastest processor launched by Intel in 2012, with 6 powerful cores built to outperform every other chip on Earth. Of course, this beast of a processor is designed for running heavy applications and using it for mundane computing jobs would be more than just overkill. It is designed to power workstations, servers and for extreme gaming purposes. If you want to build the ultimate gaming desktop computer, core i7 the core i7 3960X should be your default choice. As mentioned before, for laptop computers, the best choice is the Intel Core i7 2920XM. Of course, you can opt for the quad core i5 line which also offers plenty of choices for laptop and desktop computers. Know your requirements and choose wisely.
