Which Variant of Intel i7 Processor Should You Choose: 7th Gen or 8th Gen i7?
When deciding between the Intel i7 7th Gen HQ and the 8th Gen i7 H variant, it's important to consider the performance differences and features of each model. In this article, we will delve into the key factors that differentiate these two generations of processors and help you make an informed decision.
Understanding the Performance Differences
When comparing the Intel i7 7th Gen HQ model (e.g., i7-7700HQ) to the 8th Gen i7 H variant (e.g., i7-8750H), the 8th Gen i7 generally offers better performance due to several key improvements. Let's break down these differences in detail:
Architecture and Core Counts
The 8th Gen Intel processors, known as Coffee Lake, feature a refined architecture that allows for more cores and threads compared to the 7th Gen Kaby Lake. Specifically, the i7 8th Gen typically has 6 cores and 12 threads, while the i7 7th Gen usually has 4 cores and 8 threads. This significant increase in core and thread counts can significantly improve multitasking and performance in applications that benefit from multiple threads, such as video editing, 3D rendering, and gaming.
Performance and Multitasking
The additional cores in the 8th Gen i7 can significantly enhance multitasking capabilities. This is particularly valuable for professionals who need to handle multiple tasks simultaneously, such as video editors and developers. While the i7-7700HQ can still handle demanding tasks with its quad-core architecture, the i7-8750H offers a more robust and flexible solution with its hexa-core configuration.
Clock Speed and Efficiency
Another crucial factor is the clock speed. The base and boost clock speeds may vary between specific models, but the 8th Gen processors often have higher base and boost clock speeds. For example, the i7-8750H has a boost clock speed of 4 GHz, while the i7-7700HQ typically offers a boost clock of 3.8 GHz. These higher clock speeds can lead to better overall performance, especially in applications that are sensitive to speed and responsiveness.
Power Efficiency and Battery Life
Power efficiency is another important consideration, especially for laptop users. The 8th Gen processors are usually more power-efficient, which can result in better battery life in laptops and less heat generation. This improvement in power efficiency benefits not only the 8th Gen i7 but also other Intel processors in this generation.
Integrated Graphics and Gaming
Additionally, the 8th Gen i7 may come with improved integrated graphics. While this may not be as critical for heavy gaming, it can be beneficial for light gaming or graphical tasks without a dedicated GPU. This can be particularly useful for users who need to perform both computational tasks and some basic gaming or graphic design work.
Conclusion and Recommendation
In conclusion, the 8th Gen i7 H variant is a better choice, especially for tasks that benefit from the additional cores and threads. The 8th Gen i7-8750H is a particularly strong candidate, especially for professionals who need to handle complex applications with high demand for cores and threads. If your specific needs lie in video editing, development, or other heavy-threaded applications, the 8750 is a clear winner. It's always a good idea to check the specific model numbers and their benchmarks to make the most informed decision based on your particular requirements.
For more information on the latest Intel processors and how they compare to other brands and models, visit our Processor Comparison Page.