AMD APU vs Intel iGPU: Which Integrated GPU Reigned Faster in 2023?

When comparing the performance of AMD Accelerated Processing Units (APUs) and Intel integrated GPUs (iGPUs), several factors come into play, including specific model comparisons, the tasks performed, and the generation of the chips. This article delves into the general trends and performance benchmarks of AMD APUs and Intel iGPUs, helping you make an informed decision.

General Trends

Architecture: AMD APUs typically combine a CPU and a GPU on the same die, often utilizing the Radeon architecture which has historically provided strong graphics performance. In contrast, Intel’s integrated graphics have significantly improved over recent generations, particularly with the Iris Xe graphics found in the latest processors. Performance: AMD APUs: Generally, AMD's latest APUs, such as the Ryzen 5000 series with integrated Radeon graphics, tend to deliver better performance in gaming and graphics-heavy tasks compared to Intel's iGPUs. This is especially true for titles that benefit from more cores and threads, as many AMD chips have a higher core count. Intel iGPUs: Intel's integrated graphics, especially the newer Iris Xe models, have made significant advancements and can perform quite well for casual gaming and everyday tasks. However, they often lag behind AMD's offerings in more demanding scenarios.

Understanding these trends can offer valuable insights into the performance parameters of each technology.

Use Cases

The choice between AMD APU and Intel iGPU should also consider the specific applications you intend to use. If you are focused on gaming or graphic-intensive applications, an AMD APU is often the better choice. For general productivity tasks, Intel's integrated graphics are typically sufficient.

Conclusion: In summary, while both AMD APUs and Intel iGPUs have their strengths, AMD APUs tend to be faster for gaming and graphics-intensive applications due to their superior architecture and graphics capabilities. However, the specific performance will vary based on the exact models and their intended use cases.

Why is Intel's iGPU Faster?

Beyond the general trends, Intel focuses on offering a solution that allows users to save the most money but still have playable games. This approach makes their integrated GPUs ideal for budget-conscious users.

On the other hand, AMD takes a different approach. The APU from AMD is included as a convenience. For example, if your GPU fails or if you need to boot without a discrete card, AMD’s APUs are ready to go. Intel's integrated GPUs, especially the newer models, are designed for broader appeal, providing a balance between performance and power consumption.

Understanding the reasons behind these choices can help you better evaluate which integrated GPU best suits your needs.