Question from Dummy: i7 720QM vs i5 520M

[idata]

Would just like to know which is better, cost does not really matter but in terms of performance speeds etc. Please go into clear detail.

Many thanks

[John_S_Intel]

Which processor is "better" kind of depends upon what you expect from your laptop. There is a web site you can use to review and compare the features & specs of these two processors side-by-side. Please see the link: http://ark.intel.com/Compare.aspx?ids=47341,43122 http://ark.intel.com/Compare.aspx?ids=47341,43122.

In general, here are some ways you might differentiate the two processors you are trying to compare.

First off the Intel Core i5-520M processor is intended for systems with integrated graphics. The CPU and graphics controller share the same package. The Intel Core i7-720QM, on the other hand, is intended for systems with discrete graphics. If you are using graphics-intensive applications, then it is up to you whether integrated or discrete graphics will meet your needs.

Next is the number of cores & threads and cache memory size each processor features. The Core i7-720QM has double the cores, threads, and cache size of the i5-520M, which means the Core i7-720QM should provide more performance. The trade off is that the i7-720QM (45W) requires more power than does the i5-520M (35W), so you may get better battery life with an i5-520M based system.

Please note though that battery life and performance are relative and are really dependant upon how a given system manufacturer optimizes their systems, so battery life and performance may vary between laptop vendors even when using the same processor.

Processor Numberi5-520Mi7-720QM# of Cores24# of Threads48Clock Speed2.4 GHz1.6 GHzMax Turbo Frequency2.933 GHz2.8 GHzCache3 MB Intel® Smart Cache6 MB Intel® Smart Cache

John S.

Intel Customer Support*Other names and brands may be claimed as the property of others.