The Intel Core i5 3470 is a third-generation processor from Intel’s Core series, released in 2012 as part of the Ivy Bridge lineup. This processor has been a staple in many desktop computers for its balance of performance and power efficiency. Understanding how fast the i5 3470 is requires delving into its specifications, performance benchmarks, and comparing it with other processors in its class and beyond.
Introduction to the Intel Core i5 3470
The Intel Core i5 3470 is built on the 22nm process technology, which was a significant improvement over its predecessors, offering better performance per watt. It features 4 cores but lacks Hyper-Threading, meaning it can handle 4 threads simultaneously. The base clock speed of the i5 3470 is 3.2 GHz, with a turbo boost capability of up to 3.6 GHz. This turbo boost feature allows the processor to temporarily increase its clock speed when needed, providing a performance boost for demanding tasks.
Specifications Overview
- Cores/Threads: 4 cores, 4 threads
- Base Clock Speed: 3.2 GHz
- Turbo Boost Speed: Up to 3.6 GHz
- Cache Memory: 6 MB SmartCache
- Integrated Graphics: Intel HD Graphics 2500
- TDP (Thermal Design Power): 77W
These specifications indicate that the i5 3470 is designed for general computing, gaming, and content creation, offering a good balance between performance and energy efficiency.
Performance Benchmarks
To understand how fast the i5 3470 is, we need to look at its performance benchmarks. Benchmarks provide a standardized way to compare the performance of different processors. For the i5 3470, we can consider benchmarks from various sources, including Cinebench, Geekbench, and PCMark.
Cinebench and Geekbench Scores
Cinebench and Geekbench are popular benchmarking tools that test CPU performance. The i5 3470 scores around 4.5-5 points in Cinebench R15 multi-threaded tests and approximately 3,500-4,000 points in Geekbench 5 multi-core tests. These scores are indicative of its capability to handle multi-threaded workloads, which include tasks like video editing, 3D modeling, and gaming.
PCMark Scores
PCMark benchmarks focus on real-world applications and productivity tasks. The i5 3470 achieves respectable scores in PCMark 10, reflecting its ability to handle everyday computing tasks efficiently, including web browsing, office work, and media consumption.
Comparison with Other Processors
Comparing the i5 3470 with other processors in its generation and subsequent generations helps in understanding its performance relative to the market. The i5 3470 competes closely with AMD’s FX series from the same era, offering better performance per watt but generally lower multi-threaded performance due to the lack of Hyper-Threading.
Against Subsequent Generations
When compared to newer generations of processors, such as the 8th and 9th gen Core i5 processors, the i5 3470 shows its age. Newer processors offer significant improvements in single-thread performance, multi-thread performance (especially with the introduction of more cores and threads), and integrated graphics capabilities. However, for tasks that do not heavily rely on the latest CPU features or high core counts, the i5 3470 can still provide satisfactory performance.
Gaming Performance
For gaming, the i5 3470’s performance is adequate when paired with a dedicated graphics card. The processor’s 4 cores and high clock speeds ensure that it can handle the CPU-bound aspects of modern games. However, the integrated Intel HD Graphics 2500 is not suitable for demanding games at high resolutions or detail settings.
Dedicated Graphics Performance
When paired with a mid-range to high-end graphics card from its time or even slightly newer models, the i5 3470 can handle 1080p and some 1440p gaming without significant bottlenecks. The key factor in gaming performance with this setup would be the graphics card’s capabilities rather than the CPU’s.
Power Efficiency and Overclocking
The i5 3470 has a TDP of 77W, which is relatively low for a desktop processor of its performance class. This makes it suitable for systems where power efficiency is a consideration, such as small form factor PCs or those intended for 24/7 operation.
Overclocking Potential
For enthusiasts, the i5 3470 offers some overclocking headroom. With a good cooling system, it’s possible to push the processor beyond its stock speeds, potentially reaching overclocks of 4.0 GHz or more, depending on the quality of the CPU and the cooling solution. Overclocking can provide a significant boost to performance in both gaming and content creation tasks.
Conclusion
The Intel Core i5 3470 is a solid processor for its generation, offering a good balance of performance and power efficiency. While it may not compete with the latest processors in terms of raw performance or features, it remains a viable option for those looking to build or upgrade a system on a budget. Its ability to handle everyday tasks, gaming at lower resolutions, and content creation makes it a versatile choice. However, for those requiring the latest CPU features, high core counts, or superior integrated graphics, newer generations of processors may be more suitable.
In terms of speed, the i5 3470 is fast enough for most users, especially when considering its release time and target market. It provides respectable performance in both single-threaded and multi-threaded applications, though it may show its limitations in heavily multi-threaded workloads or when compared to much newer CPUs. For its intended use cases and considering its age, the i5 3470 remains a capable processor that can still meet the needs of many users today.
What are the key features of the Intel Core i5 3470 processor?
The Intel Core i5 3470 is a third-generation Core processor, based on the Ivy Bridge architecture. It features a quad-core design, with a base clock speed of 3.2 GHz and a maximum turbo boost frequency of 3.6 GHz. The processor also comes with 6 MB of cache memory, which helps to improve performance by reducing the time it takes to access frequently used data. Additionally, the Core i5 3470 supports a range of technologies, including Hyper-Threading, which allows it to handle multiple threads simultaneously, and Intel HD Graphics 2500, which provides integrated graphics capabilities.
In terms of power consumption, the Intel Core i5 3470 has a thermal design power (TDP) of 77 watts, which is relatively moderate compared to other processors in its class. This makes it a good option for users who want a balance between performance and power efficiency. The processor also supports a range of socket types, including LGA 1155, which makes it compatible with a wide range of motherboards. Overall, the Intel Core i5 3470 offers a strong set of features that make it well-suited for a variety of applications, from gaming and video editing to general productivity and multitasking.
How does the Intel Core i5 3470 perform in gaming applications?
The Intel Core i5 3470 is a capable gaming processor, thanks to its quad-core design and high clock speeds. In games that are heavily dependent on CPU performance, such as strategy games and role-playing games, the Core i5 3470 is able to deliver smooth and responsive performance. It also handles games with multiple threads well, thanks to its support for Hyper-Threading. However, it’s worth noting that the processor’s integrated graphics capabilities may not be sufficient for demanding games, and a separate graphics card may be needed to achieve optimal performance.
In terms of specific gaming benchmarks, the Intel Core i5 3470 is able to deliver frame rates that are competitive with other processors in its class. For example, in games like World of Warcraft and League of Legends, the Core i5 3470 is able to deliver frame rates of over 60 FPS at high settings. However, in more demanding games like Assassin’s Creed and Crysis, the processor may struggle to maintain high frame rates, and a separate graphics card may be needed to achieve optimal performance. Overall, the Intel Core i5 3470 is a good option for gamers who want a balance between CPU and GPU performance.
What are the benefits of overclocking the Intel Core i5 3470?
Overclocking the Intel Core i5 3470 can provide a significant boost to its performance, particularly in applications that are heavily dependent on CPU speed. By increasing the clock speed of the processor, users can achieve faster execution times and improved responsiveness. Overclocking can also help to improve the processor’s performance in games and other graphics-intensive applications, by allowing it to handle more complex calculations and render more detailed graphics. Additionally, overclocking can be a cost-effective way to improve the performance of the processor, as it does not require the purchase of a new CPU.
However, it’s worth noting that overclocking the Intel Core i5 3470 also carries some risks, particularly if it is not done properly. Overclocking can cause the processor to run hotter, which can reduce its lifespan and increase the risk of overheating. It can also cause system instability, particularly if the overclocking is not done in a controlled and gradual manner. To minimize these risks, users should ensure that they have a good understanding of the overclocking process, and that they have the necessary hardware and software to monitor and control the processor’s temperature and performance. They should also be prepared to invest in a high-quality cooling system, to help keep the processor at a safe temperature.
How does the Intel Core i5 3470 compare to other processors in its class?
The Intel Core i5 3470 is a mid-range processor that competes with other processors in the $200-$300 price range. In terms of performance, it is comparable to other quad-core processors from AMD and Intel, such as the AMD FX-4350 and the Intel Core i5 3570. However, the Core i5 3470 has a number of advantages that set it apart from its competitors, including its high clock speeds, large cache memory, and support for Hyper-Threading. It also has a relatively low power consumption, which makes it a good option for users who want a balance between performance and power efficiency.
In terms of specific benchmarks, the Intel Core i5 3470 is able to outperform many of its competitors, particularly in applications that are heavily dependent on CPU performance. For example, in benchmarks like Cinebench and Geekbench, the Core i5 3470 is able to deliver scores that are significantly higher than those of its competitors. It also performs well in gaming benchmarks, particularly when paired with a separate graphics card. Overall, the Intel Core i5 3470 is a strong competitor in the mid-range processor market, and it offers a good balance of performance, power efficiency, and price.
What are the power consumption and heat generation characteristics of the Intel Core i5 3470?
The Intel Core i5 3470 has a thermal design power (TDP) of 77 watts, which is relatively moderate compared to other processors in its class. This means that it is able to operate at a relatively low temperature, particularly when compared to more powerful processors. However, the processor’s power consumption can vary depending on the workload, and it may consume more power when running demanding applications. In terms of heat generation, the Core i5 3470 is able to dissipate heat effectively, thanks to its compact design and high-quality thermal interface material.
To minimize the risk of overheating, users should ensure that they have a good cooling system in place, such as a high-quality air cooler or liquid cooling system. They should also ensure that the processor is installed correctly, and that the thermal interface material is applied properly. Additionally, users can take steps to reduce the processor’s power consumption, such as adjusting the power settings in the BIOS or using power-saving software. By taking these steps, users can help to minimize the risk of overheating and ensure that the processor operates reliably and efficiently.
Can the Intel Core i5 3470 be used for video editing and other content creation applications?
The Intel Core i5 3470 is a capable processor for video editing and other content creation applications, thanks to its quad-core design and high clock speeds. It is able to handle demanding tasks like video encoding and color grading with ease, and it is also able to handle multiple threads simultaneously, thanks to its support for Hyper-Threading. Additionally, the processor’s large cache memory helps to improve performance by reducing the time it takes to access frequently used data. However, the processor’s integrated graphics capabilities may not be sufficient for demanding video editing applications, and a separate graphics card may be needed to achieve optimal performance.
In terms of specific video editing benchmarks, the Intel Core i5 3470 is able to deliver performance that is competitive with other processors in its class. For example, in benchmarks like Adobe Premiere Pro and Final Cut Pro, the Core i5 3470 is able to deliver render times that are significantly faster than those of its competitors. It also performs well in other content creation applications, such as 3D modeling and animation. Overall, the Intel Core i5 3470 is a good option for content creators who want a balance between performance and price, and it is able to handle a wide range of demanding applications with ease.
Is the Intel Core i5 3470 still a good option for users who want a high-performance processor?
The Intel Core i5 3470 is an older processor that has been largely superseded by newer models, such as the Intel Core i5 4690 and the Intel Core i7 4790. However, it is still a capable processor that is able to deliver high performance in a wide range of applications. It is also relatively affordable, particularly when compared to newer processors, which makes it a good option for users who are on a budget. Additionally, the Core i5 3470 is still widely supported by motherboard manufacturers, which makes it easy to find compatible hardware.
However, users who want the latest and greatest technology may want to consider newer processors, which offer a range of advantages over the Core i5 3470. For example, newer processors like the Intel Core i5 11600K and the AMD Ryzen 9 5900X offer higher clock speeds, more cores, and better power efficiency, which makes them better suited to demanding applications like gaming and video editing. Additionally, newer processors often come with newer features, such as support for PCIe 4.0 and Wi-Fi 6, which can provide a range of benefits for users. Overall, the Intel Core i5 3470 is still a good option for users who want a high-performance processor, but it may not be the best choice for users who want the latest technology.