999Computers

Intel Alder Lake and Raptor Lake compared - What makes the "smaller" processors so interesting

Compared to their 11th generation Rocket Lake processors, Intel managed to achieve a big jump in performance with the introduction of their hybrid CPUs. Based on the new 1700 socket and the new Z600 processor, the Intel Core i9-12900K featured 16 cores and 24 threads in total. Just under a year later, there was already a noticeable jump in performance with the release of the Rocket Lake series. One problem which has followed Intel's top-of-the-range models for multiple generations: In certain situations where the CPU finds itself at high load, the devices' power consumption can be quite high. Power consumption in the newest model measures 253 watts - but this is just a guideline, as the built-in cooling system and the resulting temperatures actually determine the processor's performance limit if all restrictions regarding TDP limits have been deactivated in the BIOS.

When it comes to performance, the smaller models such as the Intel Core i5-12400 or the Intel Core i5-13400 actually prove to be more interesting. Both models feature 6 P-cores and even at maximum load, they are very efficient - proving they don't necessarily need a high-performance and expensive cooling system. This makes both models perfect for a budget gaming system.

We see slightly better performance - but also much bigger power consumption - in mid-range processors such as the Core i5 and Core i7 models. The free multipliers make overclocking easy for users. But is this still relevant nowadays? We would say no - because if you follow current forums or groups on social media, you will quickly be confronted by the topic of undervolting. This essentially means running the processor at the smallest possible voltage while still achieving the same performance, leading to higher efficiencies and lower power consumption. Here, it is up to you to decide what is important for you and what you are expecting to achieve.

Lenovo Legion Pro 7 16IRX8H Review: High-end RTX 4080 performance powerhouse

With a retail price close to €4,000, the Lenovo Legion Pro 7 16IRX8H, which we now have for review, cannot really be considered a bargain. However, this price offers you a Core i9-13900HX, 32 GB of DDR5-5600-RAM (2x 16 GB), and a 1 TB PCIe Gen 4x4 NVMe M.2 2280 SSD.

The Nvidia GeForce RTX 4080 Laptop GPU with 12 GB GDDR6 VRAM takes care of demanding graphics tasks. The matte IPS display in a 16:10 format with a resolution of 2560 x 1600 pixels is rated to achieve 100% sRGB and 500 nits of peak brightness. Lenovo has equipped the 240 Hz panel with support for Nvidia G-Sync in addition to AMD FreeSync, which is a good thing.

Asus ROG Strix Scar 18 2023 G834JY review - Gaming laptop with RTX 4090
Equipped with a mobile RTX 4090, Core i9-13980HX, and 240-Hz 18-inch display, Asus offers the fastest, currently available components for laptop gamers in the Scar 18.