How To Fix Your GPU Not Working At Full Potential

When building your own computer, choosing the right CPU can feel overwhelming. There are so many different CPU models to choose from, each with their own set of benefits and drawbacks. 

It can be easy to forget that you’re building your own computer and just go with a standard model. 

But, as with any other part of the build, your choice of CPU will have an impact on the performance of your computer in addition to its cost.  

To help you decide which CPU is right for you, we’ve outlined a brief overview of the main features of each CPU model and how they can affect your computer’s performance.

What is a CPU?

A CPU, or Central Processing Unit, is the brain of a computer. It’s the part that performs all of the calculations and processes all of the information that a computer needs to function. 

A CPU is made up of two major parts: a processor and some memory. The processor handles most of the tasks in a CPU while memory helps maintain those tasks until they are complete.

Intel processors

Intel processors are one of the most popular CPU models on the market. They have a long history of being some of the best CPUs available and they’re also one of the cheapest. 

This is because Intel produces a wide range of products, many of which work as CPU models. Some people might be hesitant to go with an Intel processor because they can be easily overclocked (or their multiplier changed) to run faster than it should. 

However, this is actually a plus for anyone looking to build a gaming PC as overclocking will help make games run smoother and boost your computer’s performance. 

Intel processors are usually found in budget builds or mid-range builds but are not typically recommended for high-end builds unless you know what you’re doing.

AMD processors

AMD processors are generally less expensive than Intel processors, but they also offer lower performance and clock speeds. If you’re on a tight budget, AMD processors may be a good choice for you.

Intel vs. AMD: Which one is better?

Intel and AMD are the two main CPU manufacturers. Intel processors are generally more expensive but offer better performance than AMD processors. But, AMD offers a wider variety of CPUs for different needs. 

For example, if you want a powerful desktop computer, an Intel processor might be a better choice for you. On the other hand, if you want one that will be used primarily for web-browsing or basic tasks like word processing, an AMD processor might be sufficient enough to meet your needs.

Types of CPUs

There are two types of CPUs: desktop and laptop. Desktop CPUs are designed for use with a desktop computer while laptop CPUs are designed for use with a laptop computer. 

Laptop CPUs are typically slower than desktop CPUs but they consume less power and generate less heat.

Single Core

A single-core CPU is a microprocessor with only one central processing unit (CPU) on the chip. The term "single-core" is used to contrast against multi-core processors which have more than one CPU die on the same integrated circuit (IC) chip. 

A single-core processor executes a single instruction at a time (SISD) whereas a multi-core processor can execute multiple instructions simultaneously (MIMD). 

Many personal computers and laptops currently use single-core CPUs as they are sufficient for most general task computing needs such as word processing web browsing and light multimedia applications. However more demanding tasks such as video editing or gaming may require a multi-core processor for optimal performance.

Dual Core

 

A dual-core CPU is a central processing unit (CPU) that has two independent cores on the same die each with its own cache. 

A dual-core processor can theoretically double a computer's performance because it can work on two things at once. 

The actual speed increase will depend on the programs being run and other factors. Most new personal computers and laptops sold now have at least a dual-core CPU.

Quad Core 

A quad-core CPU is a central processing unit (CPU) that has four independent cores on a single silicon chip.

 

A quad-core processor provides more processing power and can handle more intensive tasks than a dual-core processor. Quad-core CPUs are typically used in high-end laptops and desktop computers.

Eight Core 

The octa-core processor is a central processing unit (CPU) that has eight processors on a single integrated circuit (IC) or chip. They are used in high-end smartphones and tablets. 

The advantage of an octa-core processor over a quad-core processor is that it can provide more processing power and therefore better performance. Octa-core processors are also more energy efficient than quad-core processors.

Dual Threading

A dual-threaded CPU is a type of central processing unit (CPU) that can process two threads of instructions simultaneously. 

It is also known as a hyper-threaded CPU. The advantage of a dual-threaded CPU is that it can finish two tasks at the same time thereby increasing the overall efficiency of the system.

For example if one thread is stalled waiting for data from memory the other thread can continue to execute instructions.

Conclusion

When it comes to buying a CPU, there are a lot of things to consider. You want to make sure that your CPU is compatible with your motherboard, and that it has the correct socket type and speed. 

You also want to make sure that it has enough cores and threads for the tasks you usually need it for. If you’re still confused about how to choose the right CPU, check out our guide on how to do just that.