Best Processors for Laptops (Updated 2021)

Another processor that brought AMD’s swagger back into the processor game, is the Threadripper 2nd Gen 2970 processor with a Turbo speed of 4.2GHz and a base clock of 3.0 GHz. It is an impressive threading processor. With fewer cores, this unit outperforms the 2990WX it’s bigger brother when it comes to speed and keeps up in all other capabilities.

The Ryzen Theadripper is a quad-core processor and features 24 cores with 48 threads. It also features an enhanced Precision Boost 2.0 cutting edge technology for better and faster multi-core turbo overclocking rates than its predecessors. All dies come with eight physical cores and 16MB L3 cache. This is a very nice offer from AMD because Intel usually disables cache in lower-end models with fewer cores. Also, like the 2990WX, the 2790 sports a rating of 250 watts.

Now, while this chip is a good option for lightweight tasks, like browsing and typing, it is not ideal for gaming. But it can still run games, just not how most gaming enthusiasts would want. For gamers, you can opt for dual die X series Theadrippers. At the moment, there are two main options available the 12C/24T 2920 Threadripper as well as the Ryzen Threadripper 2950x. Both units have a rating of 180W. That notwithstanding, 2970 is really punching above its class.

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If you are looking for a performance monster high-end processor, this Core i9-9980XE Extreme Edition is your best bet. The unit is currently Intel’s flagship processor for consumers and sports almost every state of the art non-corporate function the tech giant offers. This includes Hyper-threading, Turbo Boost, and a whopping 18 cores that are expendable to 36 concurrent threads.

This technically means that it can handle any processor workload you are planning to throw at it. But of course, for $2000. It will break your bank account with the same zeal! That notwithstanding, this unit is a task lust-worthy and powerful unit.

On the flip side, its closest competitors in the AMD platform are slightly cheaper, and the performance capability difference is not that big. Similarly, some consumers will not find it as multi-purpose as some alternatives like Intel’s Core i9-9900 or AMD’s Theadripper 2950x. So while its a sound option, it is perfect for deep-pocketed consumers who are looking for specific technologies such as Thunderbolt 3 or any other multi-threaded muscle.

Also, if you want to build a multi-faced workstation for both single and mixed-core-optimized apps, the Intel Core i9-9980XE will do the job well if your budget allows. The unit doesn’t comprise single-threaded performance for multi-thread prowess or vice-versa, making it a compelling processor when it comes to performance.

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Before AMD released AMD Ryzen, Intel’s Core i5 was the real deal, and AMD Ryzen 5 2600 was launched to tackle Intel’s premium models. And for sure, sporting killer improvements from its predecessors, it gave the Core I5 a formidable challenge.

If you already own a Ryzen 5 1600 chip, you won’t see much difference if you upgrade to this one; you will be better off skipping to the 2700x model. However, if you are developing a new computer, the 2nd gen Ryzen 5’s excremental update is far more attractive than Coffee Lake Core i5. Also, the chip is a good improvement for those that have a quad-core 1st gen Ryzen Processor.

The Ryzen 5 2600 clocks considerably higher than other processors in the same range and has enhanced DDR4 support. Also, it comes with a 12nm development process, StoreMI for blending several drives into one volume, XFR2 technologies, and Precision Boost 2. All these exciting features make this model ideal for system builders and standard users.
And there is more. The unit sports a rocking 3MB L2 cache, 16MB cache, 576KB L1 cache, and it uses an AM4 socket, which means it is compatible with all motherboards. Now, AMD made a considerable improvement in their recent processors, which is really changing the processor world. If you thought AMD units were not worth a penny, think again! This chip will surprise you.

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This X-series processor is designed to adjust according to your needs by utilizing the fastest cores at better speeds. It can also utilize the other remaining cores if intense multitasking is needed. Also, its high-speed memory and storage features, as well as impressive 4k visuals, are designed to make your content creation experience seamless. You can upload videos, edit them quickly while listening to music in the background without any problems.

Also, the X series processor is unlocked to give you additional flexibility. Features include Vccu volt control, AVX ratio control for stability as well as over-clock on every core singularly. These capabilities are blended with applications such as Extreme Memory Profile and Extreme Tuning Utility, and you have a robust and responsive unit to optimize performance.

And that’s not all. Intel’s Smart Cache function allows all cores to access last level cache when pre-gathering information before any requests go through. The smart feature also has power-saving features that flush memory depending on requests or when there is inactivity. This ensures all your tools keep up with your needs.

Another feature that enhances the processor’s power is the Turbo Boos Max function. It works by identifying the processor’s fastest cores and then reassigns your most vital loads to them. All these features ensure that you get nothing but the best from your PC.

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Offering six cores with 12 threads, AMD’s 5 3600 is slightly pricier for a good reason; it features considerably better performance than its counterparts in the same range. While it is slower than its latest sibling, the 3600x, you can easily overclock it with a stock cooler.

That said, this device is perfect for anyone who does not mind spending slightly more for a better stock cooler and better factory set clock speeds. Similarly, if you can get an aftermarket cooler when you overclock the unit, it becomes an even more attractive way to save a few dollars but still have a solid processor.

It is a great mid-range unit with six cores and 12 threads. The only difference between it and the 3600x is the TDP and clock speeds. The latest model comes with a boost and base clock speeds of 4.4GHz and 3.8GHZ, respectively, while the 3600 version comes with boost and clock speeds of 4.2GHz and 3.6GHz. The TDP(Thermal Design Power) is not a big issue as both coolers can keep the units within safe operating limits.

The 5 3600 is a good option for anybody who wants a great mid-range unit with high clocking speeds and a modest stock cooler fresh from the manufacturer. It sports everything a user needs to get started.

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With eight cores and 16 threads, the Ryzen 7 2700 is another high-end laptop processor. It was designed based on the new Zen+ cores and clocks 3.7GHz base and 4.3GHz precision boost speeds. All the cores plus threads can clock up to around 4GHz. Unlike the 1st gen Ryzen units, this unit is built in an enhanced process known as 12nm and comes with faster memory and cache speeds. It has 16MB L3 cache, 4MB L2 cache, and a TDP of 105 watts. The chip supports AMD’s X470 and DDR4 2933.

Memory compatibility, which was a big issue with the initial AMD releases, is now a non-issue. It also comes with a cooler. Its Wraith prism is an excellent RGB air cooler with direct contact heat pipes and a hefty heatsink. The system displaces Intel’s i7-8700k from the front seat, thanks to its vital enhancements designed with Zen+ and better clocking speeds, officially terminating Intel’s reign at the helm. Its competitor, the i7-8700k, is slightly slower on both the multi and single core front and does not offer satisfying gaming graphics to justify the exorbitant price tag.

While some may attribute this to Intel’s meltdown state or weakened post specter, the improvements in this chip are simply astonishing. For instance, the frequency puts it at par with team blue’s CPUs. The inclusion of Precision boost 2, XFR2, AMD’s StoreMI technology, and Wraith Prism cooler are an amazing value package.

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Intel’s Core i7-3370 unlocked multiplier processor clocks speeds of up to 100MHz. It also has four cores and eight concurrent threads when hyperthreading. It also features 3.50 GHz normal speed and a Turbo Boost of 3.90GHz but misses out on SIPP and Vpro technologies.

That notwithstanding, it has a solid media encoding performance. It comes with an enhanced integrated feature of HD 4000 graphics, which is higher than what was found 2nd gen core processors offering users a better and faster general grunt. While this is not enough to play first-person shooter games, it is more than enough to run games like Wow. For instance, it plays Battle 3 at a speed of 20 frames/second in automatic detail levels and a resolution of 1366 by 768.

Other notable features of the processor include an integrated two-channel DDR3-1699 memory controller, multiple security functions, and an 8MB Smart Cache. There is also a random number generator, also known as Intel Secure Key, for securing data when online. It also features Intel’s OS guard, a malware detection function for countering kernel-level attacks, and a six new instructions processor for optimum performance when decrypting or encrypting AES algorithms. Imaging and video applications are also catered for with Intel’s AVX( Advanced Vector Extensions). All these features mean great gaming for less heavy titles and better graphics performance for media centers and all-in-one laptops.

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Featuring a whopping 32 cores and 64 threads, the Ryzen Theadripper is one of the most powerful processors. Actually, there is no other processor that is more robust than this one. This includes Intel’s i9-7980XE. It is a ridiculous unit, and very few consumers will need its capabilities for personal use. It is only power creatives and users that will find it handy.

AMD did not just increase the number of cores with this 2nd Gen chip, but it is also developed based on the company’s high-end 12nm Zen+ architecture that allows up to 200MHz clock speeds and minimizes the number of cores needed at certain frequencies by up to 120mV. Also, the Precision Boost function still manages frequencies, but now it has an algorithm that makes sure the chip intelligently operates its electrical and thermal limit when working. Similarly, there is a Precision Overdrive capability that allows the unit to exceed its specifications and maximize power draw from VRMs on X399 motherboards.

Its extended frequency range can now enhance the processor’s performance across various cores and threads by up to 16 percent. This capability was initially limited to chips with fewer cores on Rygen Theadripper processors.

Simply put, this chip brings a considerable number of specs to a simple processor. But obviously, at a price tag of over $1500, it is not for everyone, and even if you can afford it, ask yourself if you really need its massive processing power. Nonetheless, if you want a powerful unit that will not stall or interfere with your downtime of watching videos as other things render, the 2990WX is an amazingly powerful device.

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The Intel Core 9900 is another reliable X series processor with ten cores. The Core i9 unit utilizes the X-series 9th Gen framework with socket 2066, and thanks to Hyperthreading, the cores are doubled to 20 effective threads. The processor has a 19.25MB L3 cache and runs at a 3.5 GHz base frequency but can be boosted up to 4.5GHz. That depends on the workload and task requirements. It is built based on a 14nm process, and the adjustable unlocked multiplier allows you to simplify overclocking considerably as you can key in your preferred overclocking frequency.

Now at a rating of 165W TDP, Intel’s Core i9 is very power-hungry. This means you need a state of the art cooling tool. The processor is compatible with a quad-channel interface with DDR4 memory, and for connections with other parts in the unit, it utilizes PCI Express Generation 3. However, note that it does not come with integrated graphics; you will have to get a separate graphics card if you want to play games or perform any other intensive tasks.

That said, another feature that makes the 9900X outstanding is virtualization, which considerably enhances virtual machine performance. Also, it supports IOMMU virtualization software meaning guest virtual machines can directly or indirectly use the host. Similarly, apps using AVX(Advanced Vector Extensions) will operate on the processor, enhancing performance for any calculation heavy programs.

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The Intel Core 9900 is another reliable X series processor with ten cores. The Core i9 unit utilizes the X-series 9th Gen framework with socket 2066, and thanks to Hyperthreading, the cores are doubled to 20 effective threads. The processor has a 19.25MB L3 cache and runs at a 3.5 GHz base frequency but can be boosted up to 4.5GHz. That depends on the workload and task requirements. It is built based on a 14nm process, and the adjustable unlocked multiplier allows you to simplify overclocking considerably as you can key in your preferred overclocking frequency.

Now at a rating of 165W TDP, Intel’s Core i9 is very power-hungry. This means you need a state of the art cooling tool. The processor is compatible with a quad-channel interface with DDR4 memory, and for connections with other parts in the unit, it utilizes PCI Express Generation 3. However, note that it does not come with integrated graphics; you will have to get a separate graphics card if you want to play games or perform any other intensive tasks.

That said, another feature that makes the 9900X outstanding is virtualization, which considerably enhances virtual machine performance. Also, it supports IOMMU virtualization software meaning guest virtual machines can directly or indirectly use the host. Similarly, apps using AVX(Advanced Vector Extensions) will operate on the processor, enhancing performance for any calculation heavy programs.

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