Intel has completely revamped its manufacturing process and rolled out a completely new family of processors in the form of the core i3, core i5 and core i7 series. The broad processor range, spread over three classes is designed to cater to the varying computing needs of various consumers. These three series also include a separate mobile processor line. If you are planning to buy a new laptop or desktop computer and are in a dilemma about whether to opt for an core i3 or core i5 chip, this article may help you make a decision. The i3 vs i5 comparison that I provide here will highlight the major differences between the two processor lines.
Core i3 Vs Core i5 Comparison
Core i3 is intended to be the entry level series of processors while core i5 series is the new middle class of Intel processors. On a scale of ascending computing power, the order would be core i3, core i5 and finally core i7 series which is the high end line. Let us pick out the first two series and make an i3 vs i5 comparison according to technical specifications and performance.
i3 Vs i5: Technical Specifications
The core i3 5xx series (Code name: Clarkdale) consists of three chips (i3-530, i3-540 and i3-550) with a clocking frequency range starting from 2933 MHz and extending to 3200 MHz. All processors have a twin core and four threads, with an integrated graphic processing unit (GPU). These processors have a 4MB L3 cache and 2 x 256 Kb L2 cache. As part of the total architectural revamp, FSB bus that was usually used before is replaced by the DMI (direct media interface) bus, along with a new LGA 1156 socket. The major difference is the migration to a 32 nm based architecture which enables more transistors to be placed on the chip. With Intel's new Hyperthreading technology enabled in these chips, it provides greater multitasking ability. The cost of these chips is around $133.
Continuing with the Intel core i3 vs i5 comparison, let us have a look at the core i5 series. This line of processors is further divided into three series of processors named the core i5 7xx, core i5 7xxS and core i5 6xx. This line consists of processors with dual and quad cores with 4 and 8 threads respectively.
One main point of difference from the core i3 series is the enhanced 8MB L3 cache. All have an integrated GPU and a LGA 1156 socket with DMI bus. The processor clocking frequencies range from 2.4 Ghz to 3.33 GHz.
What sets this line ahead in the i5 vs i3 comparison is the Intel Turbo Boost technology. It can increase the clocking frequency and boost it beyond the set frequency when need be. Besides this, core i5 series processors have Intel HD graphics and Intel Smart Cache technology. The cost of these chips ranges from $176 to $256. You may go further and make a complete Intel core i3 vs i5 vs i7 comparison that will reveal the full range of the computing power provided by Intel at your disposal.
i3 Vs i5: Performance
Core i3 series is well suited for the entry level desktop and laptop computer market. With greater multitasking ability and Intel HD graphics technology, it provides the home user with a stunning visual experience. However, the core i5 series offers all this and a lot more. With Intel Turbo Boost technology and the additional two cores that have multithreading feature, core i5 goes beyond core i3 in terms of performance in every task. A core i5 vs core i7 comparison will reveal the computing power that the last line (i7) offers, which goes beyond the abilities of a core i5 chip.
Hope this i3 vs i5 comparison has helped you come to a decision about which one of the processor lines to opt for. Core i5 series has a range of extra features that puts it ahead of the core i3 series which is well suited for an entry level market. Core i3 was designed to replace the core 2 duo line of processors. As an Intel core i3 vs core 2 duo comparison would reveal, it has successfully bettered its predecessor in terms of processing power and speed. Core i5 offers more speed and multitasking ability. Choose which ever processor line that suits your budget and computing requirements. Among each of the core i3 and core i5 series, you have a range of processors to choose from. If you ask me, opting for the core i5 is the better option to choose for the long run!
my only option is HD4870 x2, so im asking wether its a better card than my previous (kaput) gtx280.. ??? 
