AMD Ryzen 3 Vs Intel Core i3: The Best Budget CPU?

Making a call from the Ryzen 3 vs Intel Core i3 processors is going to be influenced by a lot of factors. Your usage, value for money, performance and, so on will determine the worth. We understand that buying a PC/Laptop is in itself a difficult task. However, choosing from Ryzen 3 vs i3 will give you much long term satisfaction as you start using the PC.

While both the CPUs are priced under Rs. 15,000, there are some significant differences between them. In this article, let’s compare AMD Ryzen 3 and Intel Core i3 and see which one is the better pick.

Also read: Intel Processor: A Complete Buying Guide

AMD Ryzen 3 vs Intel Core i3

Intel i3 processor is one of the most popular processors released over the last decade. It has become the standard choice for most budget laptops or PCs. But how do the Intel Core i3 processors compare with other popular processors like the AMD Ryzen 3? To keep the battle of AMD Ryzen 3 vs i3, fair, we have laid down the detailed specifications. A side-by-side comparison of AMD Ryzen 3 vs Intel i3, will help you understand the technicals.

AMD Ryzen 3 vs Intel Core i3: Specifications

AMD Ryzen 3 vs Intel Core i3: Architecture

AMD Ryzen 3 is built on the Zen Microarchitecture which promises improved performance and more power efficiency. This is the architecture that brings Simultaneous Multi-Threading to AMD’s CPU line-up. For instance, the latest AMD Ryzen 3 3300X is built on Zen 2 architecture. This consists of up to two Core Complex Die (CCD), each housing eight 7nm cores. These are are tied to a 12nm central I/O Die (IOD) via the Infinity Fabric.

On the other hand, the latest 12th gen Intel Core i3 (12100/F) is built with Alder Lake architecture. This is built on 10nm Enhanced SuperFin technology and this is the 2nd gen of Intel’s 10nm process. The new Alder Lake architecture brings a hybrid x86 design. The Intel Core i3 12100F has four Golden Cove P-Cores active. It focuses more on traditional design than on hybrid architecture.

More On The Architectural Differences Between Ryzen 3 vs i3

Before we compare the actual performance of these two processors there are some fundamental differences between them. First of all, the Intel Alder Lake processors for Core i3 comes with integrated graphics processing circuitry. This means that it will have the ability to run an output display without having a dedicated graphics card. A secondary Maximum Turbo Power (MTP) parameter was also introduced to show the peak power level during boost activity.

On the other hand, the AMD Ryzen 3 processors lack such graphics processing capabilities on-chip. So, if you are wondering about using another display on your system, these factors will come into play. This is also the reason why the final cost of building your system using the AMD processors can significantly increase. This is because you would need some kind of dedicated GPU to run an external display. So, let’s take a look at the performance of the Ryzen 3 processors compared to the Intel counterparts.

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AMD Ryzen 3 vs Intel Core i3: Performance

For Ryzen 3 vs i3 benchmark report, we can clearly see that the Intel Core i3 processors can achieve better performance. They have more cores than Ryzen 3. Also, more of the Ryzen variants coming out today have only entry-level specs. So, in general, you will get a better performance-to-power ratio if you opt for Intel.

Overall, the Intel Core i3-12100 provided a 28.8 per cent higher performance than the single-core score of AMD Ryzen 3 in Cinebench R23. Even in multi-core scores, the scales tipped in favour of Intel with 26 per cent better performance than the Ryzen 3 3300X. So we know, in Ryzen 3 vs i3 for these aspects, core i3 is doing much better.

Where AMD Ryzen 3 shines in AMD Ryzen 3 vs Intel i3, is the multithreaded performance that it provides using all of its four threads. It has provided some benchmark scores that can go either toward Core i5 or Core i3. It will depend on the type of optimizations. We can say that AMD has vastly improved its single-threaded performance since it launched the FX-8350. Knowing it has a strong single-threaded performance, the multithreaded performance is also impressive. All of this stands quite well against the Intel Core i3.

Also Read: AMD Ryzen 5 vs Intel Core i5: The Mid-Range CPU Faceoff

AMD Ryzen 3 vs Intel Core i3: Use Cases

When you have to choose amongst Ryzen 3 vs i3 for gaming, a high-performance CPU cooler is recommended for the best results.

While a powerful GPU is a must for gaming, the CPU is also important. A slow CPU can bottleneck the GPU, causing lower framerates and stuttering. Key factors for CPU gaming performance include the single-core boost frequency and the number of cores.

The CPU handles tasks like scene management, gameplay logic, physics calculations, and game asset loading. Our evaluation considered these factors for gaming performance.

Having more CPU cores can improve performance, but not all games use more than 6–8 cores effectively. Adding more cores may not always significantly boost game performance.

Intel i3 vs Ryzen 3: CPU Pricing and Value

When it comes to buying a CPU (Central Processing Unit), pricing is usually the most important factor for many people. AMD has been known for providing great value for money. However, the situation has changed recently. Intel is now working hard to regain market share, and its new Raptor Lake processors are making it tough for AMD.

Though this range of processors is not as extensive as others, it still covers a wide price range from around ₹7,000 to ₹15,000. The newest addition to this series is the 8300G, which is significantly more expensive than its competitors. However, AMD tends to be more affordable in the long run.

Intel i3 vs Ryzen 3: Cache Size

The AMD Ryzen 3 3300X is equipped with a 16 MB L3 cache, while the Intel Core i3-12100F features a 12 MB L3 cache. A CPU’s cache, a small memory pool near the CPU cores, stores recently accessed data. An optimal L3 cache capacity for games and professional tool performance is considered to be at least 20MB.

Increasing the cache size can contribute to enhanced performance in games and professional applications by reducing delays in retrieving frequently used data from memory. Although a CPU’s cache is utilised for various tasks, our findings suggest that a larger cache has a diminishing impact on general PC usage, such as web browsing. It’s important to note that cache sizes often correlate with core counts, so opting for a CPU with more cores may be necessary to increase your L3 cache.

AMD Ryzen 3 vs Intel Core i3: Gaming

Many of the gaming benchmarks in terms of FPS (Frames Per Second) indicate that Ryzen 3 loses against the Intel Core i5 but performs significantly better against the Core i3. We compared both the processors out of Ryzen 3 vs i3 in several modern games at 1080p resolutions. 

The AMD Ryzen 3 3300X processor managed to hold in most of the intensive games, while, on the other hand, the Intel Core i3-12100 managed to score approximately 10 per cent more FPS compared to Team Red.

Comparing the peak temperature during our tests, the Core i3 12100F has a TDP of 58W and the peak temperature ranges at around 100°C. While the Rhyzen 3 has a TDP of 65W and peak temperature is at 95°C.

Moreover, on the other hand, the AMD Ryzen 3 performed better in terms of heat dissipation and the credit goes to its use of a metal interface. It has also improved the current heat sink fan design so the processor can remove the heat faster and in a better way. So in the past, many users complained that the AMD processors are often hot and can’t provide good performance, that is not the case now. The times have changed and the AMD processors are now more power-efficient and run much cooler compared to the Intel chips.

Also read: AMD Vs Intel: Who’s The Showstopper?

AMD Ryzen 3 vs Intel Core i3: Availability

Both the processors offer on-par performance but if you want the best you can also opt for the latest Intel Core i3 12300 processors which are a bit expensive. But you will have the latest new Laminar RM1 cooler, compatible memory, and other things to consider. Lastly, you can always get the latest laptops from AMD or Intel to get more value for money. 

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Best AMD Ryzen 3 Processors Available!

This table gives you a glance at the best AMD Ryzen 3 processors and their specs, helping you differentiate between them.

Best Intel Core i3 Processors Available!

Here’s a table for you to take a glance at the best Intel Core i3 processors and comparing their specs to help you choose the right one.

Update by Intel Regarding Frequent Crashing of its Processors

Intel is currently facing a stability problem with some of its processors, which it plans to fix with a microcode update scheduled for mid-August. This bug doesn’t affect all of their processors; it seems to show up on certain models that are already being shipped, but not on others. Intel has not specified how many processors are affected, but they are confident that their upcoming patch will resolve the issue. The problem impacts all processors that use 65W or more. You can find more details about the issue here.

Which You Should Choose: Ryzen 3 or Intel Core i3?

Ryzen 3 is generally considered better than Intel Core i3 for several reasons:

1. Price: Ryzen 3 is usually cheaper than Core i3.
2. RAM Speed: Ryzen 3 supports higher RAM speeds.
3. Gaming Performance: Ryzen 3 offers better graphics performance for gaming.
4. Technology: Ryzen 3 is built on 7nm technology, while Core i3 is built on 14nm technology, making Ryzen 3 faster.
5. Performance: Ryzen 3 has better single-core and multi-core performance compared to Core i3.
6. Data Handling: Ryzen 3 is better at compressing and decompressing data.
7. Speed: Ryzen 3 takes less time to export or import files, making it faster overall.
8. Rendering: Ryzen 3 has shorter rendering times, resulting in smoother video rendering compared to Core i3.

Conclusion

In conclusion, AMD’s Ryzen 3 processors are a great option for budget gamers seeking better multithreaded performance compared to Intel’s Core i3 processors. While Intel’s CPUs come with integrated graphics, they may not deliver impressive 1080p performance. For those who prioritize value and performance for gaming, AMD is the better choice. However, if you’re willing to spend a bit more for integrated graphics, Intel’s Core i3 processors could be a suitable option for basic tasks. Overall, both Ryzen 3 and Core i3 have their strengths, but Ryzen 3 stands out for budget-conscious gamers.

Also Read: Guide To Buy the Right Graphics Card For PC

FAQs

Which is better, Ryzen 3 or i3?

When it comes to single-core performance, the i3-12100 edges out the Ryzen 3 5300G by a small margin due to its slightly higher boost clock. This matters most in tasks that don’t fully use multiple threads.

Is Ryzen 3 better than i5?

In laptops, the i5-1135G7 is a bit better than the Ryzen 3 5300U. However, for desktop CPUs with higher power limits, the Ryzen 5 5300G surpasses the i5-1135G7 in performance.

Is Ryzen 3 faster than i3?

Yes, the Ryzen 5600 is faster than the Core i3-13100. When using the Radeon 6650 XT graphics card, the Ryzen 5600 performed 17% better than the Core i3-13100 and was 11% faster when looking at the lowest 1% of frame rates.

Is Ryzen 3 good for students?

Yes, Ryzen 3 is a good choice for students. It is reliable and affordable, making it perfect for students, professionals, and casual gamers. While it might not be the best option for serious gamers, it can handle popular games well.

Is Ryzen 3 good for programming?

Yes, Ryzen 3 is also good for programming. Laptops with the AMD Ryzen 3 3250U processor, which runs at 2.6 GHz, offer quick performance for everyday tasks and coding. The AMD Radeon Graphics chip provides decent graphics performance, too.

Is Ryzen 3 good for a laptop?

Lenovo AMD Ryzen 3 laptops are a great choice for those who want a powerful and portable device. They offer fast performance, long battery life, high-quality displays, and ample storage and memory.

Is Ryzen 3 good for office work?

The AMD Ryzen 3 3200G is a capable processor, making it suitable for office tasks like word processing, web browsing, and light photo and video editing. It delivers good performance for productivity-focused activities.

Is Intel Core i3 more expensive than AMD Ryzen 3?

While some Core i3 CPUs may cost close to ₹12,000, most of them still cost around the ₹8,800 mark, which is the same price for an average Ryzen 3 CPU.

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