If you’re a desktop or laptop user, there’s a good chance your next computer will have an Intel processor inside of it. In fact, unless you’ve bought your last few computers secondhand or are about to graduate from high school, it’s probably going to be the only option available to you.
As the dominant player in the worldwide semiconductor market, Intel has become the go-to brand for computer manufacturers almost as fast as they can build new factory lines to produce their chips. But that quickly changing landscape could make buying a new desktop computer more expensive than usual — especially if you plan on using it for heavy-duty activities such as gaming or video editing.
Why is Intel Making Computers More Expensive?
The main reason Intel is making computers more expensive is that a growing number of computer manufacturers are pushing Intel to include more expensive components inside their computers.
These components are used in artificial intelligence and machine learning processes that allow computers to understand human speech and images better and perform advanced tasks on their own. Intel’s new ninth-generation Core processors,
which were released in September, have added hardware that can process data from these AI applications and are designed to improve performance for specific tasks such as computer vision, voice recognition, and natural language understanding.
Intel has added hardware for those functions into its chips in the past, but it’s never been as deeply integrated into the chip as it is now. The company’s decision to add that technology inside the chip itself instead of keeping it separate on the computer’s motherboard means computer manufacturers will have to pay more for their chips as well — which they’re passing on to consumers.
Pricier components than usual are also one of the only ways Intel can adjust its prices in response to the growing trade war between the United States and China.
What You Should Know Before Buying an Intel-Based Computer
The biggest thing you need to know before buying a new computer with an Intel processor inside it is that there are a few different types of Intel processors. In this case, the model number of the specific computer you’re looking at will matter. It’s also a good idea to know which type of Intel processor you’re buying a computer with. That way you’ll know what you’re getting.
Core i3: Your Best Bet for Desktop Computer Purchasing
If you’re looking to buy a new desktop computer from a manufacturer like HP or Dell, you’ll probably find it has a Core i3 processor inside of it. These computers are most useful for light computer tasks such as email and web browsing. Core i3 processors are also a good choice if you want to play light video games like Minecraft or Super Mario Brothers.
Core i5: Good for Light Gaming and Video Editing
If you’re buying a new computer that has the words “gaming” or “VR-ready” in its description, be sure you’re getting a laptop with a Core i5 processor inside of it. These computers are good for light gaming, but they’re even more useful for video editing and other high-intensity tasks like 3D rendering. Core i5 processors are also a good choice for a desktop computer that is regularly used for heavy word processing.
Core i7: Ideal for Heavy Gaming and Video Editing
If you’re looking for a computer that’s going to be regularly used for things like video editing, 3D rendering, or VR, you’re probably going to get the most value from a computer with a Core i7 processor inside of it. These Intel processors are ideal for power users who need a computer that can handle intense tasks on a regular basis without slowing down.
Conclusion
The Intel processors that are most useful for desktops are the ones that come in the Core i3 and Core i5 families. The i7 line is great for laptops and desktop computers that are regularly used for intense tasks like video editing. Core i3 processors are the best choice for buying a new computer that’s used regularly for light computer tasks such as email and web browsing. Core i5 processors are a good choice for computers that are regularly used for light gaming or video editing. Core i7 processors are best for computers that are regularly used for heavy gaming or video editing.