AMD Vs Intel: Which CPU Is Best For Gaming?

Intel i7? AMD Ryzen 3? As the brain to your computer, the best CPU for gaming can make all the difference when you’re trying to max out gaming frames per second performance. If you’re buying a brand new laptop or building a custom desktop, you’ll definitely have wondered which is the superior CPU choice. With 2020’s newest processors up for grabs, it begs the age old question of which is better — AMD or Intel? From clock speeds to power consumption, we cover everything you’ll need to know when comparing AMD vs Intel CPUs to find out which is the best CPU for gaming!

AMD vs Intel — Price comparison at a glance

One of the first things to consider when comparing the best AMD vs Intel CPUs for gaming is price! Across all three CPU families, AMD’s Ryzen processors are the best value for money given their more affordable price tag. Although Intel’s 10th generation processors feature a newer architecture and design, we don’t think they justify the price hike as their manufacturing processes and CPU design has remained stagnant for the past five years. This is compared to AMD’s CPU futureproof Zen architecture, which continues to stay relevant years after their launch. After all, the end goal is to buy a CPU that doesn’t need replacing after just a few years. 

Ultimately, it’s AMD Ryzen’s timeless Zen 2 architecture that proves its worth in the long run. With wallet-friendly options like the Ryzen 3 3100 (available on Galaxy Tech) and Ryzen 5 3600 (available on Yuanyo Tech Store), you’re basically futureproofed as these AMD Ryzen CPUs balance price with core count and clock speeds. Despite not reaching the gaming highs of Intel CPUs, AMD CPUs are our recommendation for gamers stringing together a rig on a limited budget.

Our verdict: AMD as they focus on delivering performance at budget-friendly price points 

AMD vs Intel — Gaming performance

There’s no straightforward answer when it comes to comparing AMD vs Intel processors in terms of gaming performance. With numerous factors like cores, threads and clock speeds impacting overall performance, it can seem like you’re comparing apples with oranges. This is especially so when one has lower clock speeds but somehow manages to outperform the other thanks to core and thread count. To resolve this, let’s first understand what each CPU brand excels at:

AMD CPUs: Superior core count

CPU cores refer to the processor’s ability to handle multiple tasks concurrently at any given time. With today’s video games becoming increasingly processor-intensive when it comes to the sheer number of background rendering, more cores can be key to ensuring your game doesn’t lag while loading realistic shadow and lighting effects! Thanks to multithreading, modern CPUs can effectively double their core count as each existing core can be further divided to handle more tasks. With premium models like the Ryzen Threadripper 2990WX (available on Bizgramsg Official Store), AMD CPUs can offer up to 64 cores, making broadcasting games and multitasking a cinch!

Intel CPUs: Faster clock speeds

Clock speeds reflect how well a CPU can handle a single task! While factors like multithreading and core count matter, CPU clock speeds are the deciding factor when it comes to gaming experience. On this front, Intel places far ahead of the competition thanks to boosted clock rates of Intel CPUs like the i9-10900K (available on I Save Store) reaching up to 5.3-GigaHertz! This lets Intel CPUs perform individual game rendering tasks better and reduces the chugging that it otherwise might experience. While this might not matter for budget and mid-range setups with entry level graphics cards that will cause a bottleneck, premium desktops can leverage on this Intel specialty by pairing their high-end CPUs with huge monitors and powerhouse video cards.

Our verdict: Intel as their high-end CPUs push your rig to the limit

AMD vs Intel — Power consumption

There’s no sugarcoating this one — Intel CPUs like the i7-10700K (available on mydigital2u) are in dire need of innovation when it comes to their process nodes. As Intel continues to rely on its age-old 14-nanometres process and are still transitioning to 10-nanometres, AMD CPUs like the Ryzen 7 3700X (available on mydigital2u) are making their impact felt with their 7-nanometres process! From lower power consumption to better thermal regulation, the denser AMD chips maintain a better power-to-performance ratio — making them the preferred choice if you’re using a stock fan or cooler. The last thing you’ll want is your CPU overheating when it’s faced with a strenuous task like gaming or multitasking.

Our verdict: AMD for their power-efficient 7nm process nodes

AMD vs Intel — Overclocking

Are you someone who wants to supercharge your computer’s performance? Then you’ll certainly want to give overclocking a shot! By boosting CPU clock speeds beyond recommended levels, you’ll grant your PC a performance boost which can mean extra frames when you’re playing your favourite games. Both come with caveats so let’s first understand what each brand offers:

AMD CPUs: Accessible but less impactful

Have an AMD CPU? Might as well give overclocking a shot — all AMD CPUs come unlocked so you’re free to experiment as long you have a compatible motherboard. Even if you’re an overclocking newbie with a budget AMD CPU like the Ryzen 3 3100 (available on Make Fine Computer (S) Pte Ltd), you can easily get into it with AMD’s Precision Boost Overdrive that automatically tweaks your system to extract additional performance without hassle.

Intel CPUs: Overclocking for a premium

Intel CPUs take overclocking seriously — so much so that they charge you a premium price by locking it away in high-end processors like the i9-10900X (available on ITCOM ONLINE). However, if you look past this price barrier, you’ll discover that Intel CPUs offer much more overclocking potential, with 10th-generation chips reaching highs of 5-GigaHertz! This definitely makes overclocking a must if you’ve already splashed the cash on an unlocked Intel CPU and competent motherboard and cooler.

Our verdict: Intel as they have greater overclocking capacity

AMD vs Intel — Final verdict on which is the best CPU for gaming

We hope this comparison guide has been useful in helping you make your final decision on which is the best CPU for gaming! To summarise, pick a CPU that fits your gaming needs. Seeking the most frames and smoothest gaming experience? Consider Intel CPUs for their exceptional raw performance. Want a CPU for gaming that’s better value for money? Check out AMD Ryzen CPUs as they better cater to budget builds. 

For this AMD vs Intel debate, it seems like team blue edges out when it comes to offering the best CPU for gaming. However, this may change with AMD’s upcoming Zen 3 CPUs on the horizon this November! Make sure to check back with us to secure the best deals possible. For more on customising your rig, check out our handy guide on how to build a PC that highlights all the components you’ll need to get started. Additionally, enhance your gaming experience with other computer peripherals like these best gaming monitors and best gaming mouse models.