Why is the i3 9100F Cheaper than i3 8100?

When considering the i3 9100F versus the i3 8100, several factors come into play, particularly the removal of integrated graphics and its end-of-life status. This article explores why the i3 9100F is significantly cheaper and what implications this has for potential buyers.

Why is the i3 9100F Considerably Cheaper?

The i3 9100F is a discontinued processor without integrated graphics. This lack of integrated graphics is a key reason for its lower price. Unlike its counterparts that include built-in graphics, the i3 9100F focuses solely on CPU performance, which can be a significant advantage in certain scenarios.

Intel has already retired the i3 9100F in favor of the newer i3 10100F. This means that the i3 9100F is no longer available for purchase, which can impact its market value. Additionally, the newer i3 10100F offers better performance for its price, further driving down the cost of the older model.

Competitive Market from AMD

The AMD Ryzen range has been a key competitor in the budget midrange market for quite some time. The i3 9100F competes directly with AMD's Ryzen 3 series, which offers better performance and integrated graphics. Since the i3 9100F lacks these features, it can be seen as inferior to both the AMD options and even to older AMD processors like the R3–2200G.

Impact on Performance and Use Cases

Without integrated graphics, the i3 9100F is somewhat limited in its use cases. It is not ideal for office PCs, as integrated graphics are essential for many office applications. Moreover, it lacks the performance reserves needed for comfortable gaming in the near future, which might be a concern for many users.

Another reason for the lower price is the silicon savings. Units like the i3 9100F that lack integrated graphics require less silicon, which can reduce manufacturing costs. This is not the only benefit; Intel's pricing strategy also plays a role. They may keep older models more expensive to maintain market interest and encourage the purchase of newer, more advanced processors.

Performance Comparison

The differences between the i3 9100F and i3 8100 are not significant in terms of core and thread count. The i3 9100F and i3 8100 both offer 4 cores and 4 threads. However, the absence of integrated graphics in the i3 9100F can make a difference in consumer choice. The i3 9100F lacks the dual benefits of both core capabilities and on-chip graphics, which may appeal to more specialized users.

It's important to note that Intel has a mixed reputation in the market. While the company occasionally offers lower prices to boost sales, its processors, especially the high-end models like the Intel i9 9900K, are among the best in the world. Intel's strategy can vary, but for budget-conscious users, the i3 9100F offers a lower-cost option compared to its predecessors and competitors.

Conclusion

In summary, the i3 9100F is cheaper than the i3 8100 due to its limited feature set, end-of-life status, and the strong competition from AMD. While it offers decent performance in certain tasks, it lacks the flexibility that integrated graphics provide in both work and play scenarios. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option with integrated graphics, the i3 8100 or similar AMD processors may be more suitable.