As I am also a gamer, I take my gaming seriously. When I’m not playing games, I’m usually researching the best hardware for gaming so that I can get an edge on my opponents. So when it came time to upgrade my computer, the question of whether or not to buy an Intel Core i3 processor was at the top of my mind. In this blog post, I’ll share my thoughts on whether or not the Intel Core i3 is good for gaming, and what you need to consider before making a purchase.
Is an Intel core i3 good for gaming? The answer is a bit complicated – with some exceptions. When it comes to gaming, some people might think that you need the most expensive and powerful computer to have an enjoyable experience.
But this isn’t always the case. Several games can be played on computers that have lower specifications than what is recommended by the developers.
In this guide, I will share with you my findings on whether an Intel Core i Is Good for Gaming. I’ll also provide some insights as to what you need to keep in mind before making a purchase.
As a gamer, I can tell you that one of the most important factors in gaming is your processor. The processor is responsible for handling all of the game’s calculations, and if it’s not up to snuff, you’re going to have a bad time.
I did some research on the subject, and here’s what I found.
Is an Intel Core i3 Good for Gaming?
Yes, an Intel Core i3 is good for gaming, but only for low-end games. If you want to play the latest and greatest games, you’re going to need a more powerful processor. However, if you’re only interested in older or less demanding games, an Intel Core i3 is a perfectly adequate choice.
The latest Intel i3 12th Gen is a very powerful processor. It’s something you don’t want to miss. This state-of-the-art processor offers a total of 6 cores, with 2 performance cores and 4 efficient cores, and a total of 8 threads for unmatched processing power. And with a max turbo frequency of 4.40 GHz, you’ll be getting a lightning-fast performance. Plus, the 10 MB Intel Smart Cache ensures that your system always has access to the most frequently used data. So whether you’re gaming, browsing, or working on demanding applications, your system will always be running at top speed.
I have played the most popular games on the lowest graphics settings on my i3 10th Gen Desktop Processor, such as Tomb Raider, Assassins Creed, Batman, Fortnite, and League of Legends, but for the latest games, you will need a processor with more power.
It is possible to play those games on higher settings if you lower the resolution, but they will not look as smooth. If you want to be able to play the latest games on high settings, you should consider getting a computer with a more powerful processor, this would be the Intel Core i5 or i7.
How Does an Intel Core i3 Affect High-end Gaming Performance?
The Intel Core i3 affects gaming performance in a few different ways.
1. The number of cores and threads:
More cores and threads usually mean better gaming performance, as the game can spread its workload across multiple cores. The Intel Core i3 has two cores and four threads. They’re not the top choice for gaming, but they’re not the least desirable choice either. When you compare the i3 to a CPU with more cores, like the Ryzen 7 1700, you’ll see that the i3 falls behind in gaming performance.
2. The base clock speed:
The base clock speed is the minimum speed that the CPU can run at. It’s usually lower than the boost clock speed, which is the maximum speed that the CPU can reach. A higher base clock speed usually provides better gaming performance, as the game will have more time to process each frame. The Intel Core i3 has a base clock speed of 3.6 GHz.
3. The cache size:
As the game is running, the CPU will need to access data from the RAM. The larger the cache size, the more data the CPU can store locally, which can lead to better gaming performance. The Intel core i3 has a cache size of 4 MB which is on the lower end. So when you start playing a game, the CPU will have to fetch data from the RAM more often, which can lead to some slowdown.
4. The TDP:
The Thermal Design Power (TDP) is a measure of how much heat the processor can produce. The Core i3 has a TDP of 65 watts, which is on the high side. This means that it will generate more heat than other processors and will require a more powerful cooling system to keep it running at its peak performance. While gaming, the Core i3 will generate even more heat, so it is imperative to make sure that your computer has a reliable cooling system. Moreover, the higher the TDP, the more power the processor will consume, which could lead to higher electricity bills.
Generation of The i3 Processors
| Processor | Cores | Max Turbo Frequency | Base Frequency | Cache |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Intel® Core™ i3-1215UL Processor | 6 | 4.40 GHz | 1.20 GHz | 10 MB Intel® Smart Cache |
| Intel® Core™ i3-11100HE Processor | 4 | 4.40 GHz | 2.40 GHz | 8 MB Intel® Smart Cache |
| Intel® Core™ i3-10105 Processo | 4 | 4.40 GHz | 3.70 GHz | 6 MB Intel® Smart Cache |
| Intel® Core™ i3-9100E Processor | 4 | 3.70 GHz | 3.10 GHz | 6 MB Intel® Smart Cache |
| Intel® Core™ i3-8140U Processor | 2 | 3.90 GHz | 2.10 GHz | 4 MB Intel® Smart Cache |
| Intel® Core™ i3-7020U Processor | 2 | – | 2.30 GHz | 3 MB Intel® Smart Cache |
| Intel® Core™ i3-6006U Processor | 2 | – | 2.00 GHz | 3 MB Intel® Smart Cache |
| Intel® Core™ i3-5015U Processor | 2 | – | 2.10 GHz | 3 MB Intel® Smart Cache |
| Intel® Core™ i3-4170 Processor | 2 | – | 3.70 GHz | 3 MB Intel® Smart Cache |
Final Verdict
The Intel Core i3 is a cost-effective processor that can run the majority of entry-level games. When it comes to gaming performance, it lags some of the other processors available. Consider purchasing a more potent processor, such as the Intel Core i5 or i7, if you’re looking for one that can handle more demanding games.
In this article, I discussed how the Intel Core i3 affects gaming performance. I have also answered some frequently asked questions about this processor. So, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly gaming processor, the Intel Core i3 is a viable option.
FAQs
What is the most optimal graphics setting for an Intel core i3?
The appropriate graphics setting for an Intel Core i3 is the minimum setting. This is because the Intel core i3 is not as powerful as some of the other processors on the market. Consequently, if you try to play a game in a higher setting, you may not be able to play it efficiently.
Can I play Fortnite on an Intel Core i3?
Yes, you can play Fortnite on an Intel Core i3. The graphics settings must be lowered to the lowest level. It won't function properly otherwise.
How much RAM do I need for an Intel Core i3?
You will need at least 8 GB of RAM for an Intel core i3. You can also get 16GB of RAM for better performance.
What is the most suitable CPU for gaming?
There is no one ideal CPU for gaming. It depends on your spending limit and the types of games you enjoy. You will require a more potent processor, such as the Intel Core i7 if you want to play the newest games at their top settings. An Intel Core i3 will do, though, if you're on a tight budget or simply want to play less taxing games.
