Unpacking the Debate: Are AMD Processors a Reliable Choice?

The debate over the reliability of AMD processors has been a longstanding one in the world of computer technology. While some argue that AMD processors offer impressive performance at a fraction of the cost of their Intel counterparts, others claim that they are less reliable and prone to issues such as overheating and instability. In this article, we will explore both sides of the argument and unpack the facts to determine whether AMD processors are a reliable choice for your next computer build.

The Rise of AMD: Challenging Intel’s Dominance

A Brief History of AMD and Intel

The Early Years: Founding and First Steps

Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) was founded in 1969 by a group of engineers led by Jerry Sanders. Initially, the company’s primary focus was on developing and manufacturing customized integrated circuits for the United States’ military and aerospace industries. On the other hand, Intel, established in 1968 by Robert Noyce and Gordon Moore, initially concentrated on manufacturing memory chips.

The 1980s: AMD’s First CPUs and Intel’s x86 Dominance

In 1975, AMD entered the CPU market with the Am286, a reverse-engineered version of Intel’s 8086 processor. AMD continued to produce x86 processors throughout the 1980s, with its flagship product, the Am386, offering better performance than Intel’s 80386. However, Intel’s dominant position in the market, along with its aggressive pricing strategies, made it difficult for AMD to gain significant market share.

The 1990s and 2000s: Competition Intensifies

The 1990s saw both companies release processors based on the superscalar architecture, with Intel’s Pentium line and AMD’s K6 series competing for performance superiority. In 2001, AMD introduced the Athlon 64, which featured a 64-bit architecture, allowing it to outperform Intel’s 32-bit Pentium 4 processors.

The 2010s: AMD’s Resurgence and the Emergence of Ryzen

In 2011, AMD released its first CPU with a new microarchitecture, Bulldozer, which aimed to compete with Intel’s highly successful Sandy Bridge processors. However, Bulldozer’s performance failed to meet expectations, leading to a period of decline for AMD. In 2017, AMD announced its Zen architecture-based Ryzen processors, which finally challenged Intel’s dominance in the high-performance CPU market.

The Present: Continued Innovation and Competition

Since the introduction of Ryzen, AMD has maintained a competitive edge in certain market segments, such as multithreaded performance and price-to-performance ratio. In response, Intel has been working on its own 7nm process technology and has recently released the 11th Gen Core processors, which include the Rocket Lake-S and Tiger Lake CPUs. As both companies continue to innovate and compete, the debate over which brand offers the most reliable processors remains unresolved.

The Competition Heats Up: AMD’s Advantages

• Cost-Effectiveness:
  • AMD processors have traditionally been more affordable than their Intel counterparts, offering comparable performance at a lower price point.
  • This cost-effectiveness makes AMD an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers and small businesses seeking high-performance computing solutions without breaking the bank.
• Innovative Technologies:
  • AMD has been at the forefront of several innovative technologies, such as their Ryzen Threadripper lineup designed specifically for content creators and professionals requiring high single-core performance.
  • Additionally, AMD’s commitment to open-source hardware, such as their contribution to the RISC-V instruction set architecture, demonstrates their dedication to fostering a vibrant ecosystem of hardware and software developers.
• Energy Efficiency:
  • AMD processors have been known to consume less power than their Intel counterparts, particularly in multi-core workloads.
  • This energy efficiency is achieved through AMD’s innovative 7nm manufacturing process and design, allowing for improved thermal performance and reduced power consumption.
• Competitive Performance:
  • AMD’s Ryzen processors have consistently challenged Intel’s market dominance, offering competitive performance at a lower price point in recent years.
  • In particular, the Ryzen 5000 series processors have received widespread acclaim for their exceptional single-core performance and multicore efficiency, making them a strong contender in the desktop CPU market.
• Support for Open-Source Software:
  • AMD’s commitment to open-source software extends beyond their hardware contributions.
  • They actively collaborate with the Linux community, ensuring optimal performance and support for popular open-source operating systems like Ubuntu, Debian, and Fedora.
  • This commitment to open-source software aligns with the company’s mission to create a more inclusive and accessible computing ecosystem.

Decoding AMD Processors: Architecture and Innovations

AMD’s Ryzen Lineup: A Closer Look

When it comes to AMD’s processor offerings, the Ryzen lineup is often the focal point of discussion. It is essential to examine the architecture and innovations that have gone into this lineup to understand why it is such a critical component of the AMD ecosystem.

The Ryzen lineup, which was first introduced in 2017, has gone through several iterations and improvements since its launch. Each iteration has brought new features and enhancements, making it a compelling choice for those looking for a powerful processor.

One of the most significant innovations in the Ryzen lineup is the use of AMD’s Zen architecture. This architecture is designed to optimize performance by minimizing the number of clock cycles required to execute instructions. This approach is in contrast to the more traditional approach of increasing clock speeds, which can lead to increased power consumption and heat generation.

Another innovation in the Ryzen lineup is the use of a multi-core design. This design allows for the simultaneous execution of multiple instructions, leading to a significant increase in performance compared to single-core processors. Additionally, the Ryzen lineup incorporates simultaneous multi-threading (SMT) technology, which allows for even greater performance gains in multi-core workloads.

Furthermore, the Ryzen lineup also incorporates AMD’s Simultaneous Graphics and Memory Architecture (SGMA), which integrates the graphics processing unit (GPU) and memory controller into the processor itself. This integration helps to reduce latency and improve overall system performance.

In addition to these innovations, the Ryzen lineup also boasts impressive benchmarks and real-world performance. Many reviewers have praised the performance of AMD’s processors, particularly in multi-core workloads, where they have been shown to outperform Intel processors.

Overall, the Ryzen lineup represents a significant step forward in processor design and performance. Its innovative architecture and features make it a reliable choice for those looking for a powerful and efficient processor.

AMD’s Strengths: Efficiency and Affordability

AMD’s processors have garnered a reputation for being efficient and affordable, which are two of their key strengths. This section will delve into the reasons behind these strengths and how they contribute to AMD’s competitive edge in the market.

Energy Efficiency

One of the main reasons why AMD processors are known for their efficiency is due to their power consumption. AMD’s processors have a lower TDP (Thermal Design Power) compared to Intel processors, which means they consume less power while operating at the same clock speed. This translates to less heat generated and a lower power bill for consumers.

Furthermore, AMD’s processors are designed with power efficiency in mind, utilizing innovative technologies such as Turbo Core and Adaptive Power Management. These features allow the processor to adjust its power consumption based on the workload, ensuring that it only uses as much power as necessary.

Affordability

Another key strength of AMD processors is their affordability. AMD’s processors are typically priced lower than their Intel counterparts, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers. This is especially true for their entry-level and mid-range processors, which offer excellent performance at a lower cost.

In addition to their lower prices, AMD processors also offer better value for money in terms of performance per dollar. This means that consumers can get more performance for their money when they choose an AMD processor over an Intel processor.

Overall, AMD’s focus on efficiency and affordability has helped them establish a strong presence in the market, particularly among budget-conscious consumers who prioritize value for money.

Performance Showdown: AMD vs. Intel

Gaming Performance: A Comprehensive Comparison

In the world of gaming, performance is everything. The debate between AMD and Intel processors has long been a contentious one, with each side claiming superiority in gaming performance. To provide a comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the specific factors that impact gaming performance and analyze how AMD and Intel stack up against each other.

1. Frame Rate: The Holy Grail of gaming performance is the frame rate, which is the number of images displayed per second. A higher frame rate generally translates to a smoother, more responsive gaming experience. Both AMD and Intel processors have the potential to deliver high frame rates, but it ultimately depends on the specific model and the capabilities of the graphics card.
2. VR Performance: As virtual reality (VR) becomes increasingly popular, the importance of VR-ready gaming systems cannot be overstated. AMD has been at the forefront of VR-ready processors, with their AMD Radeon Graphics core technology designed specifically for VR gaming. However, Intel’s recent releases have also shown significant improvements in VR performance.
3. CPU and GPU Collaboration: The synergy between the CPU and GPU is crucial for optimal gaming performance. AMD processors are often praised for their seamless integration with AMD Radeon graphics cards, providing a more cohesive gaming experience. On the other hand, Intel processors may offer better compatibility with a wider range of graphics cards, but the specific performance gains can vary depending on the graphics card model.
4. Power Consumption: Heat and power consumption are critical factors to consider in gaming systems, as they can impact both performance and longevity. AMD processors have traditionally been known for their higher power consumption, which can lead to increased heat output and reduced lifespan. However, recent advancements in AMD’s 7nm+ Zen 3 architecture have resulted in more power-efficient processors. Intel processors have generally been more power-efficient, but their latest 10th and 11th Gen processors have seen a significant increase in power consumption as well.
5. Compatibility with Games and Game Engines: Game compatibility and the capabilities of game engines can also play a role in gaming performance. While both AMD and Intel processors can run a wide variety of games, certain titles or game engines may favor one brand over the other. It is essential to consider the specific games and engines you intend to use when evaluating processor performance.

In conclusion, the gaming performance of AMD and Intel processors is a complex topic that depends on several factors. By examining frame rate, VR performance, CPU and GPU collaboration, power consumption, and compatibility with games and game engines, you can make an informed decision about which processor is the best choice for your gaming needs.

Multitasking and Productivity: AMD’s Edge

While Intel processors have long been considered the gold standard for performance, AMD processors have made significant strides in recent years, particularly in the realm of multitasking and productivity. In this section, we will delve into the specific advantages that AMD processors offer in these areas.

Outstanding Multitasking Capabilities

One of the key strengths of AMD processors is their exceptional multitasking capabilities. This is due in part to the company’s innovative “Zen” architecture, which enables the processor to quickly switch between tasks and maintain high levels of performance even when running multiple applications simultaneously.

In contrast, some Intel processors can struggle with multitasking, particularly when it comes to running resource-intensive applications. This can result in slower performance and even system crashes in some cases.

Enhanced Efficiency and Power Management

Another advantage of AMD processors is their enhanced efficiency and power management capabilities. This is particularly important for users who rely on their computers for extended periods of time, as it can help to reduce heat generation and prolong the life of the system.

In contrast, some Intel processors can be less efficient, leading to higher energy consumption and increased heat generation. This can result in reduced performance over time and may even require users to replace certain components more frequently.

Cost-Effectiveness

Finally, AMD processors are often more cost-effective than their Intel counterparts. This makes them an attractive option for users who are looking to save money without sacrificing performance.

While the price difference between AMD and Intel processors has narrowed in recent years, AMD processors still tend to offer better value for money. This is particularly true when considering the enhanced multitasking and power management capabilities of AMD processors, which can result in longer-lasting systems and reduced maintenance costs over time.

Overall, these advantages make AMD processors a strong choice for users who prioritize multitasking, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. While Intel processors still hold a significant edge in certain areas, such as gaming and high-end content creation, AMD processors have proven themselves to be reliable and capable alternatives for a wide range of applications.

Real-World Applications: AMD’s Proven Potential

Content Creation: AMD’s Advantages

• Enhanced Performance: AMD’s Processors in Content Creation
  • Higher Clock Speeds: AMD’s processors are known for their ability to reach higher clock speeds than their Intel counterparts, providing content creators with a significant boost in performance.
  • Multi-Threading Capabilities: AMD’s processors offer advanced multi-threading capabilities, which allow for more efficient processing of multiple tasks simultaneously. This is particularly beneficial for content creators who often work with large files and demanding software.
• Advanced Technologies: AMD’s Innovative Features for Content Creation
  • Ray Tracing: AMD’s processors are equipped with advanced ray tracing capabilities, which enable more realistic lighting and shadows in video content. This feature is particularly valuable for video editors and 3D artists who strive for a higher level of realism in their work.
  • AI-Assisted Rendering: AMD’s processors incorporate artificial intelligence (AI) technologies that help speed up rendering times and improve overall performance. This is a significant advantage for content creators who need to quickly produce high-quality content.
• Compatibility and Affordability: AMD’s Processors as a Viable Alternative
  • Compatibility with Content Creation Software: AMD’s processors are compatible with a wide range of content creation software, including popular applications such as Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, and DaVinci Resolve. This ensures that content creators can utilize the full potential of AMD’s processors without sacrificing their preferred software.
  • Cost-Effective Solutions: AMD’s processors are often more affordable than their Intel counterparts, providing content creators with a cost-effective solution without compromising on performance. This makes AMD’s processors an attractive option for budget-conscious content creators who demand high performance.

Scientific Computing: AMD’s Impact

In recent years, AMD processors have made significant strides in the realm of scientific computing. Scientific applications, such as weather modeling, genomics, and high-performance computing, often require a large number of computations and massive data processing.

One of the key advantages of AMD processors in scientific computing is their high single-threaded performance. This is particularly important in scientific applications, where many calculations involve single-threaded execution. In addition, AMD processors offer a high level of floating-point performance, which is crucial for applications that involve complex mathematical calculations.

Furthermore, AMD processors are known for their energy efficiency, which is an important consideration in scientific computing. Many scientific applications require the use of high-performance computing clusters, which can consume a significant amount of energy. By using AMD processors, which are designed to be more energy-efficient than their competitors, researchers can reduce their carbon footprint and save on energy costs.

Moreover, AMD processors offer a wide range of features that are tailored to the needs of scientific computing. For example, the AMD EPYC processor is designed specifically for high-performance computing and offers features such as error-correcting code (ECC) memory, which helps to prevent data corruption and improve overall system reliability.

In conclusion, AMD processors have demonstrated their potential in scientific computing, offering high single-threaded performance, floating-point performance, and energy efficiency. With their wide range of features tailored to the needs of scientific applications, AMD processors are an attractive choice for researchers and scientists who require high-performance computing solutions.

Addressing Concerns: Issues and Limitations

Thermal Management: AMD’s Challenges

While AMD processors have been competitive in terms of performance and pricing, one area where they have consistently faced challenges is thermal management. This aspect of AMD’s processors has been a topic of concern for users and experts alike, and it is essential to delve into the specific issues and limitations that AMD faces in this regard.

• Power Consumption and Thermal Throttling: One of the primary concerns with AMD processors is their power consumption. AMD processors tend to consume more power than their Intel counterparts, which can lead to higher temperatures and a greater risk of thermal throttling. Thermal throttling occurs when the processor’s temperature exceeds a certain threshold, causing the processor to reduce its clock speed to prevent damage. This can result in a significant drop in performance, and it is a concern for users who rely on their processors for demanding tasks.
• Inadequate Cooling Solutions: Another issue with AMD processors is that they often come with inadequate cooling solutions. Many AMD processors, particularly those in the lower and mid-range segments, come with basic cooling solutions that are not up to the task of managing the processor’s heat output. This can result in higher temperatures and an increased risk of thermal throttling, which can negatively impact the performance of the system.
• Manufacturing Process: AMD processors are typically manufactured using a less advanced process than Intel processors. This means that AMD processors have more defects and are less reliable. As a result, AMD processors generate more heat, which can lead to thermal throttling and other issues.
• Compatibility with Cooling Solutions: Another issue with AMD processors is that they may not be compatible with all cooling solutions. Some cooling solutions that work well with Intel processors may not work as effectively with AMD processors, which can lead to higher temperatures and a greater risk of thermal throttling.

In conclusion, thermal management is a significant concern for AMD processors. The power consumption, inadequate cooling solutions, manufacturing process, and compatibility with cooling solutions are some of the factors that contribute to this issue. While AMD has made improvements in recent years, it remains to be seen whether these improvements will be sufficient to address the concerns of users and experts.

Compatibility and Driver Support: AMD’s Growing Pains

When it comes to AMD processors, one of the main concerns that have been raised by users and experts alike is the issue of compatibility and driver support. While AMD has made significant strides in recent years in terms of improving its software ecosystem, there are still some growing pains that need to be addressed.

One of the biggest challenges that AMD faces is ensuring that its processors are compatible with a wide range of systems and devices. While AMD processors are generally compatible with most systems, there are still some cases where users have reported issues with compatibility, particularly when it comes to older systems or systems with unique configurations.

Another challenge that AMD faces is ensuring that its processors are supported by a wide range of drivers and software. While AMD has made significant strides in recent years in terms of improving its software ecosystem, there are still some cases where users have reported issues with driver support, particularly when it comes to older systems or systems with unique configurations.

One of the main reasons why AMD has struggled with compatibility and driver support is due to the fact that it has historically been a smaller player in the market compared to Intel. This has meant that AMD has had to work harder to ensure that its processors are compatible with a wide range of systems and devices, and that they are supported by a wide range of drivers and software.

However, despite these challenges, AMD has been working hard to address these issues in recent years. The company has invested heavily in improving its software ecosystem, and has worked closely with hardware manufacturers and software developers to ensure that its processors are compatible with a wide range of systems and devices.

In addition, AMD has also been working to improve its driver support, particularly in areas where it has traditionally struggled, such as gaming and professional applications. The company has invested in developing its own drivers, and has also worked closely with hardware manufacturers and software developers to ensure that its processors are supported by a wide range of drivers and software.

Overall, while there are still some challenges that AMD faces in terms of compatibility and driver support, the company has been making significant strides in recent years in addressing these issues. As AMD continues to grow and expand its market share, it is likely that these issues will become less of a concern for users, and that AMD will become an increasingly reliable choice for those looking for high-performance processors.

Making the Right Choice: Factors to Consider

Budget and Cost-Effectiveness

When considering the purchase of a processor, it is essential to weigh the budget and cost-effectiveness of the option. While AMD processors have been known to offer competitive performance at a lower price point, it is important to assess whether they align with the specific needs and budget of the individual or business.

Comparison of Prices

AMD processors are generally priced lower than their Intel counterparts, offering a cost-effective solution for those looking to save money without sacrificing performance. This is particularly beneficial for those who prioritize affordability without compromising on essential features.

Value for Money

While AMD processors are typically more affordable, it is essential to consider whether they provide value for money. Assessing the specific requirements of the user and comparing the features and performance of AMD processors to other options on the market can help determine whether they offer the best value for the investment.

Long-term Costs

It is important to consider not only the initial purchase price but also the long-term costs associated with AMD processors. This includes factors such as energy efficiency, maintenance, and upgradability, which can impact the overall cost-effectiveness of the choice over time.

By carefully considering the budget and cost-effectiveness of AMD processors, individuals and businesses can make an informed decision that aligns with their specific needs and financial constraints.

Application-Specific Requirements

When deciding between AMD and Intel processors, it is crucial to consider the specific requirements of your applications. Here are some factors to consider:

• Performance: The performance of a processor depends on its clock speed, the number of cores, and the architecture. For example, AMD processors are known for their high core counts, which make them ideal for multitasking and heavy workloads. On the other hand, Intel processors are known for their single-core performance, making them better suited for tasks that require high single-core performance, such as gaming and video editing.
• Compatibility: Some applications may require specific processor features or compatibility with certain motherboards or memory modules. For example, some older games may require a specific graphics card or memory configuration that may only be compatible with certain processors. It is essential to research the compatibility requirements of your applications before making a purchase.
• Power Efficiency: The power efficiency of a processor can have a significant impact on the overall performance and longevity of your system. AMD processors are generally more power-efficient than Intel processors, which can help reduce your energy costs and prolong the life of your components.
• Price: Finally, the cost of the processor is an essential factor to consider. AMD processors are generally less expensive than Intel processors, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. However, it is essential to balance cost with performance and reliability when making a purchase.

Future-Proofing Your Investment

When it comes to investing in a processor, it’s important to consider not just its current performance, but also its potential for future upgrades and improvements. Here are some key factors to keep in mind when future-proofing your investment:

• Compatibility with new technologies: Make sure the processor you choose is compatible with the latest technologies, such as PCIe 4.0 or DDR4 memory, to ensure that it can take advantage of future upgrades.
• Support for multiple platforms: If you plan on upgrading your system in the future, choose a processor that is compatible with a range of platforms, such as desktops, laptops, and servers, to ensure maximum flexibility.
• Scalability: Look for a processor that is scalable, meaning it can handle increased workloads and upgrades over time. This is especially important if you plan on using your system for demanding tasks, such as gaming or video editing.
• Energy efficiency: Consider a processor that is energy efficient, as this can help reduce your power consumption and save you money in the long run.
• Upgradability: Make sure the processor you choose is upgradable, meaning it can be replaced or upgraded in the future if necessary. This is especially important if you plan on using your system for a long time.

By considering these factors, you can ensure that your investment in an AMD processor is future-proof and will meet your needs for years to come.

AMD’s Growing Presence in the Market

Over the years, AMD has steadily grown its presence in the processor market, becoming a viable alternative to Intel. The following points highlight AMD’s growing presence in the market:

1. Increased Market Share: AMD has managed to capture a significant portion of the processor market, with its market share increasing consistently over the past few years. This growth can be attributed to the release of competitive processors that offer excellent performance at a lower price point.
2. Competitive Performance: AMD processors have been consistently delivering competitive performance compared to Intel processors. The latest AMD Ryzen processors, for instance, have been praised for their high single-core and multi-core performance, making them a popular choice for both gaming and productivity tasks.
3. Improved Efficiency: AMD has also made strides in improving the efficiency of its processors. The company’s latest 7nm and 5nm manufacturing processes have resulted in more power-efficient chips, which not only help reduce power consumption but also contribute to better performance per watt.
4. Expanded Product Lineup: AMD has expanded its product lineup, offering processors for various segments, including high-end desktop, laptop, and mobile processors. This allows consumers to choose from a wide range of AMD processors based on their specific needs and budget.
5. Innovative Technologies: AMD has been actively investing in research and development, introducing innovative technologies such as Precision Boost Overdrive, XFR, and Ryzen Master Utility. These features help optimize performance and enhance user experience.
6. Partnerships and Collaborations: AMD has forged partnerships with key industry players, including leading motherboard manufacturers, to ensure compatibility and optimal performance. Additionally, AMD’s collaboration with other tech giants, such as Nvidia and Microsoft, has helped to improve the overall ecosystem for AMD processors.

Overall, AMD’s growing presence in the market can be attributed to its competitive performance, improved efficiency, expanded product lineup, and innovative technologies. As a result, AMD processors have become a reliable choice for many consumers seeking high-performance solutions at affordable prices.

The Future of AMD Processors: Promising Developments

While AMD processors have long been considered an alternative to Intel processors, recent developments suggest that they may be a more reliable choice in the near future.

• Improved Performance: AMD processors have been making strides in terms of performance, with their latest Ryzen series offering impressive single-core and multi-core performance. This improvement in performance has been attributed to the company’s shift to a 7nm manufacturing process, which allows for more transistors to be packed into a smaller space, resulting in faster and more efficient processing.
• Competitive Pricing: AMD processors have traditionally been more affordable than their Intel counterparts, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers. This pricing advantage is expected to continue, with AMD announcing plans to release even more affordable processors in the near future.
• Enhanced Efficiency: AMD processors have also been making strides in terms of efficiency, with their latest processors offering improved power efficiency. This means that they consume less power while still delivering high performance, making them a more eco-friendly choice.
• Expanding Product Lineup: AMD has also been expanding its product lineup, with the release of its latest processors for laptops and desktop computers. This expansion is expected to continue, with the company planning to release processors for a wider range of devices in the near future.

Overall, these developments suggest that AMD processors may be a more reliable choice in the near future, particularly for those looking for affordable and efficient processors. As the company continues to innovate and expand its product lineup, it will be interesting to see how its processors stack up against Intel’s offerings in the coming years.

FAQs

1. What are AMD processors?

AMD processors are a type of central processing unit (CPU) manufactured by Advanced Micro Devices (AMD). They are designed to perform various computing tasks, such as running applications, playing games, and performing calculations.

2. How do AMD processors compare to Intel processors?

AMD processors and Intel processors are both high-quality CPUs, but they have some differences in performance and price. AMD processors are generally less expensive than Intel processors, but they may not perform as well in certain tasks.

3. Are AMD processors reliable?

AMD processors are known for their reliability and durability. They are built with high-quality components and undergo rigorous testing to ensure that they can handle demanding workloads. Additionally, AMD processors have a reputation for being more energy-efficient than some other CPUs on the market.

4. What are some of the benefits of using AMD processors?

There are several benefits to using AMD processors, including their affordability, energy efficiency, and high performance. AMD processors are also known for their compatibility with a wide range of devices and operating systems.

5. Are there any drawbacks to using AMD processors?

One potential drawback to using AMD processors is that they may not perform as well as some other CPUs in certain tasks, such as gaming or video editing. Additionally, some users may prefer the brand recognition and customer support offered by Intel processors.

6. Can AMD processors be upgraded or replaced?

AMD processors can typically be upgraded or replaced, depending on the specific model and the user’s needs. Many AMD processors are compatible with a wide range of motherboards and other components, making it easy to upgrade or replace them as needed.

The ACTUAL Difference Between Intel and AMD