Processor difference

Buford T Justice

Boffins, whats the difference in an i5 and an i7 by comparison to say an amd processor running at 2.5gig

I'm looking at laptops and the i processors are a lot more expensive

TerrorFirmer

AMD's processors offer better integrated graphics but generally have far worse performance.

Mobile i3's don't have turbo-boost, i5's do, and i7's are quad core (but sometimes dual core also, see below).

Intel ranges also come in ULV flavors, which are ultra low wattage parts, they're not as good as the full speed mobile counterparts but still fine. ULV i7's are dual core, not quad core.

As an example, some i3 ULV's are similar to AMD's higher end parts in performance. Intel's integrated video is far slower though, if you're into playing the odd game (AMD won't play the latest games either, but still offers a far better experience for older/less intensive titles).

ED E

Also worth noting AMD have a tendency to run a little hot, fine in a desktop, not great when you're mobile and battery is an issue.

Personally very fond of the i5 ULVs, strike a very nice balance but you do pay for it.