Intel's latest Core Ultra 120 processor will likely fail if retailers price them exorbitantly high
In the world of gaming and graphics processors (GPUs), interest often revolves around the latest and greatest offerings. One such processor that has recently been making waves is the Intel Core Ultra 120. However, let's take a step back and compare it with a mid-range CPU from 2021, the AMD Ryzen 5 5500, to understand its value better.
Nick Evanson, an engineering and computing lecturer with a background in physics and IT teaching, and a contributor to tech sites like Madonion, Beyond3D.com, and TechSpot.com, has a strong interest in this topic.
The AMD Ryzen 5 5500 was generally priced in the budget to mid-range segment in 2023, often around $100-$150 depending on retailer and market conditions. On the other hand, the Intel Core Ultra 120, a 12-core (10 performance + 12 efficiency threads) processor from the newer Intel Core Ultra series, is expected to be significantly more expensive.
While exact retail prices for the Core Ultra 120 in 2023 are not available as it likely was not released yet that year, its pricing is more relevant for 2024-2025. Based on its launch post-2023 and positioning as a higher mid-range chip with advanced features and newer architecture, its price at launch or available listings would likely be several hundred dollars, reflecting its newer technology and performance tier.
In summary, the Intel Core Ultra 120 would be substantially more expensive than the AMD Ryzen 5 5500 in 2023.
| Processor | Approximate Price Range in 2023 | Market Segment | |--------------------|-------------------------------------|------------------------| | AMD Ryzen 5 5500 | $100 - $150 | Budget/Mid-range | | Intel Core Ultra 120| Likely not available in 2023; expected $250+ in 2024-2025 | Upper mid-range/new generation|
It's important to note that the Core Ultra 120 has a base power limit of 65 W and a boost clock of 4.5 GHz, with 18 MB of L3 cache. However, its high price has been a subject of criticism, particularly in comparison to AMD's Zen 4 cores.
Meanwhile, in the gaming scene, the AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D takes the crown as the best overall processor, with the AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D leading in the high-end segment. The AMD Ryzen 7 5700X3D is the recommended upgrade for the AM4 (socket) platform, while the AMD Ryzen 7 9700X shines in the mid-range category. For budget-conscious gamers, the Intel Core i5 13400F is the go-to choice, and for those seeking a processor with integrated graphics, the AMD Ryzen 7 8700G is the recommended pick.
In conclusion, while the Intel Core Ultra 120 presents advanced features and newer architecture, its high price might raise concerns about its value, especially when compared to the AMD Ryzen 5 5500 and other offerings in the market.
- Some budget-conscious gamers might question the value of the Intel Core Ultra 120, given its high price compared to more affordable options such as the AMD Ryzen 5 5500.
- The latest advancements in gaming technology are not limited to high-priced processors, as evidenced by the AMD Ryzen 7 5700X3D, which dominates in the mid-range category.
- As the gaming season unfolds and gadget enthusiasts search for the best technology, they may find themselves choosing between the latest offerings like the Intel Core Ultra 120 and the tried-and-true options like the AMD Ryzen 5 5500.
