Which CPU is better I3 4th Gen or 6th Gen?

When comparing the 4th Gen Intel Core i3 and the 6th Gen Intel Core i3, several factors can help determine which is better for your needs.

Key Differences

• Process Technology:

  • 4th Gen (Haswell): Uses a 22 nm process.
  • 6th Gen (Skylake): Uses a more advanced 14 nm process, which generally offers better power efficiency and performance1.

• Clock Speed:

  • 4th Gen (e.g., i3-4130): Typically runs at a base frequency of around 3.4 GHz.
  • 6th Gen (e.g., i3-6100): Offers a slightly higher base frequency of around 3.7 GHz1.

• Integrated Graphics:

  • 4th Gen: Features Intel HD Graphics 4400.
  • 6th Gen: Features Intel HD Graphics 530, which provides better graphics performance1.

• Memory Support:

  • 4th Gen: Supports up to DDR3 memory at 1600 MHz.
  • 6th Gen: Supports DDR4 memory at up to 2133 MHz, offering better memory bandwidth1.

• Power Consumption:

  • Both generations typically have similar thermal design power (TDP) values, around 54-65W, depending on the specific model3.

Conclusion

The 6th Gen Intel Core i3 generally offers better performance, improved power efficiency, and superior integrated graphics compared to the 4th Gen. If you prioritize newer technology and slightly better performance, the 6th Gen is likely the better choice. However, if budget is a concern or you're working with existing hardware, the 4th Gen might still be viable depending on your specific needs.