Intel Core i3 6th Generation vs. Intel Core i3 9th Generation

Attribute	Intel Core i3 6th Generation	Intel Core i3 9th Generation
Release Year	2015	2019
Number of Cores	2	4
Number of Threads	4	4
Base Clock Speed	2.3 GHz	3.6 GHz
Max Turbo Boost Speed	2.8 GHz	4.2 GHz
Cache	3 MB	6 MB

Introduction

Intel Core i3 processors have been a popular choice for budget-conscious consumers looking for a good balance of performance and affordability. With each new generation, Intel has made improvements to the Core i3 lineup, offering better performance and efficiency. In this article, we will compare the attributes of the Intel Core i3 6th Generation and Intel Core i3 9th Generation processors to help you make an informed decision when choosing a processor for your next build.

Performance

One of the key differences between the Intel Core i3 6th Generation and Intel Core i3 9th Generation processors is their performance. The 6th Generation Core i3 processors are based on the Skylake architecture and offer decent performance for everyday tasks such as web browsing, office work, and light gaming. However, the 9th Generation Core i3 processors, based on the Coffee Lake architecture, provide a significant performance boost, thanks to higher clock speeds and improved efficiency. This makes the 9th Generation Core i3 processors better suited for multitasking and more demanding applications.

Core Count and Threads

Another important factor to consider when comparing the Intel Core i3 6th Generation and Intel Core i3 9th Generation processors is the core count and threads. The 6th Generation Core i3 processors typically come with dual cores and support for two threads, which is sufficient for basic computing tasks. In contrast, the 9th Generation Core i3 processors feature quad cores and support for four threads, allowing for better multitasking performance and improved efficiency. This means that the 9th Generation Core i3 processors can handle more demanding workloads with ease.

Integrated Graphics

Integrated graphics performance is another area where the Intel Core i3 6th Generation and Intel Core i3 9th Generation processors differ. The 6th Generation Core i3 processors come with Intel HD Graphics 530, which is capable of handling basic graphics tasks and light gaming. On the other hand, the 9th Generation Core i3 processors feature Intel UHD Graphics 630, which offers improved performance and support for higher resolutions and frame rates. This makes the 9th Generation Core i3 processors a better choice for users who engage in casual gaming or graphic design work.

Power Consumption

When it comes to power consumption, the Intel Core i3 6th Generation and Intel Core i3 9th Generation processors also have differences. The 6th Generation Core i3 processors are known for their energy efficiency, consuming less power compared to previous generations. However, the 9th Generation Core i3 processors have further improved power efficiency, thanks to enhancements in the Coffee Lake architecture. This means that the 9th Generation Core i3 processors offer better performance per watt, making them a more environmentally friendly choice.

Overclocking

Overclocking is a feature that allows users to increase the clock speed of their processor for improved performance. When comparing the Intel Core i3 6th Generation and Intel Core i3 9th Generation processors, it's important to note that only certain models in the 9th Generation lineup support overclocking. This gives users the flexibility to push their processor beyond its stock speeds for even better performance. In contrast, the 6th Generation Core i3 processors do not support overclocking, limiting users to the stock clock speeds.

Price

Price is always a consideration when choosing a processor, and the Intel Core i3 6th Generation and Intel Core i3 9th Generation processors are no exception. The 6th Generation Core i3 processors are generally more affordable compared to their 9th Generation counterparts, making them a good choice for budget-conscious consumers. However, the improved performance and features of the 9th Generation Core i3 processors may justify the higher price for users who require better multitasking capabilities and graphics performance. Ultimately, the decision on which processor to choose will depend on your budget and computing needs.