Who makes processors besides Intel and AMD? This is a question that has been asked by many in the tech industry, and for good reason. Intel and AMD have been the dominant players in the processor market for decades, but there are other brands out there that are worth exploring. In this article, we will take a comprehensive look at the various processor brands that are available besides Intel and AMD. From ARM-based processors to specialized chips for specific applications, we will explore the options that are available and what makes them unique. Whether you’re building a new computer or looking to upgrade your existing one, this article will give you a better understanding of the processor market and help you make an informed decision.
Processor Brands You Need to Know
1. AMD
Overview of AMD’s History and Current Status
Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) is a leading global semiconductor company that has been in the market for over four decades. The company was founded in 1969 and is headquartered in Sunnyvale, California. AMD is known for designing and manufacturing a wide range of innovative semiconductor products, including microprocessors, graphics processors, and other related technologies.
AMD has a long history of competing with Intel in the microprocessor market. While Intel has traditionally been the market leader, AMD has consistently offered competitive products at lower prices, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious consumers.
Comparison to Intel in Terms of Performance and Pricing
When it comes to performance, AMD processors have traditionally lagged behind Intel processors. However, in recent years, AMD has made significant strides in closing the performance gap with its rival. AMD’s Ryzen series of processors, in particular, have received widespread acclaim for their impressive performance and competitive pricing.
In terms of pricing, AMD processors are generally cheaper than their Intel counterparts. This makes AMD a popular choice for budget-conscious consumers who are looking for high-performance processors without breaking the bank.
List of AMD Processor Models
AMD offers a wide range of processor models across different product lines. Some of the most popular AMD processor models include:
- AMD Ryzen 5000 series
- AMD Ryzen 3000 series
- AMD Ryzen 2000 series
- AMD Athlon 3000 series
- AMD FX series
Each of these processor models offers unique features and specifications, making them suitable for different types of applications and users.
Overall, AMD is a strong player in the microprocessor market and offers a range of competitive products that are worth considering for those in the market for a new processor.
2. Intel
Intel is one of the most well-known and widely used processor brands in the world. The company was founded in 1968 and has since become a leader in the semiconductor industry. Intel’s processors are known for their high performance and reliability, making them a popular choice for both personal computers and servers.
In terms of performance, Intel processors are generally considered to be among the best on the market. They consistently outperform processors from other brands in benchmark tests and real-world usage scenarios. However, this performance comes at a price, as Intel processors are often more expensive than those from other brands.
One of the most popular lines of Intel processors is the Core i series. This includes the Core i3, i5, and i7 processors, which are widely used in both desktop and laptop computers. In addition to these consumer-focused processors, Intel also produces a range of server-grade processors, including the Xeon series.
Overall, Intel is a top choice for those looking for high-performance processors, but it’s important to consider the cost when making a decision.
3. ARM
ARM is a British semiconductor and software design company that is well-known for its low-power processor designs. The company was founded in 1990 and has since become a leading player in the global semiconductor industry. ARM’s processors are used in a wide range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, and IoT devices.
When it comes to power efficiency and performance, ARM processors are known for their energy-efficient design and low power consumption. This makes them a popular choice for devices that require long battery life, such as smartphones and tablets. In terms of performance, ARM processors are designed to be highly scalable, which means they can be used in a wide range of devices, from low-end to high-end.
Some of the most popular ARM-based processor models include the Cortex-A series, Cortex-M series, and Cortex-R series. The Cortex-A series is designed for high-performance applications, while the Cortex-M series is designed for low-power, low-cost devices. The Cortex-R series is designed for real-time applications, such as automotive and industrial systems.
Overall, ARM processors are a popular choice for device manufacturers looking for low-power, high-performance processors. With their energy-efficient design and scalable architecture, ARM processors are well-suited for a wide range of applications, from smartphones and tablets to IoT devices and automotive systems.
4. VIA
Overview of VIA’s History and Current Status
VIA Technologies is a Taiwanese technology company that was founded in 1987. The company initially focused on producing add-on cards for IBM-compatible computers, but it eventually expanded its product line to include motherboards, processors, and other computer components. Today, VIA is known for its low-power processor solutions for the embedded systems market.
Comparison to Intel and AMD in Terms of Power Efficiency and Performance
When compared to Intel and AMD, VIA processors generally offer lower performance but higher power efficiency. This makes them well-suited for use in embedded systems that require low power consumption and high reliability, such as industrial control systems, medical devices, and automotive electronics. However, for applications that require high performance, such as gaming or video editing, Intel and AMD processors are generally preferred.
List of VIA-Based Processor Models
VIA has produced a range of processor models over the years, including:
- VIA C7: A low-power, x86-compatible processor that is commonly used in embedded systems.
- VIA Nano: A high-performance processor that is designed for use in small form factor PCs and other low-power applications.
- VIA Samara: A low-power, dual-core processor that is optimized for use in thin clients and other embedded systems.
- VIA Quark: A low-power, ARM-based processor that is designed for use in embedded systems and Internet of Things (IoT) devices.
These are just a few examples of the many processor models that VIA has produced over the years. The company continues to innovate and develop new processor solutions for a wide range of applications.
5. Qualcomm
Overview of Qualcomm’s History and Current Status
Qualcomm, founded in 1985, is a leading American multinational semiconductor and telecommunications equipment company. Qualcomm initially gained recognition for its digital signal processing (DSP) technology, which was utilized in the early days of mobile phones for improving call quality. Since then, the company has expanded its product offerings to include a wide range of semiconductor solutions, including application processors, wireless communication chips, and more.
In recent years, Qualcomm has continued to grow its presence in the processor market, offering competitive solutions to Intel and AMD. Its processors are known for their power efficiency and performance, making them popular choices for a variety of devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops.
When comparing Qualcomm’s processors to those of Intel and AMD, it’s essential to consider the specific use case and target market. In general, Qualcomm’s processors tend to excel in power efficiency, making them particularly appealing for mobile devices where battery life is a critical factor. However, in terms of raw performance, Intel and AMD often provide better results in tasks that require intense computational power.
List of Qualcomm-based Processor Models
Qualcomm has a diverse portfolio of processor models catering to different market segments. Some of the most popular Qualcomm-based processor models include:
- Snapdragon 888: This high-end mobile processor is designed for premium smartphones and offers excellent performance, power efficiency, and support for 5G connectivity.
- Snapdragon 732G: A mid-range processor that delivers reliable performance for mid-tier smartphones and tablets.
- Snapdragon 450: A budget-friendly processor aimed at entry-level smartphones and feature phones.
- Snapdragon 8cx: A series of processors designed for Always Connected PCs, providing excellent performance and extended battery life.
- Snapdragon 7c: A processor designed for entry-level and mid-range laptops, offering improved performance over integrated solutions like Intel’s HD Graphics.
These are just a few examples of the extensive range of Qualcomm-based processor models available across various market segments.
6. MediaTek
MediaTek is a Taiwanese company that has been producing processors for over 20 years. The company was founded in 1997 and has since become one of the largest producers of mobile processors in the world. MediaTek’s processors are used in a wide range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs.
One of the key advantages of MediaTek’s processors is their power efficiency. The company’s processors are designed to consume less power than those of its competitors, which means that devices that use MediaTek processors can have longer battery life. MediaTek’s processors are also known for their high performance, which makes them well-suited for use in devices that require a lot of processing power, such as gaming devices and high-end smartphones.
Some of the most popular MediaTek-based processor models include the Helio P70, Helio X20, and Helio P90. These processors are used in a wide range of devices, including the popular Redmi Note 7 and Redmi Note 8 series of smartphones. MediaTek’s processors are also used in many other smartphone brands, such as Samsung, Huawei, and Xiaomi.
In terms of performance, MediaTek’s processors are competitive with those of Intel and AMD. While they may not offer the same level of performance as high-end Intel processors, MediaTek’s processors are well-suited for the majority of smartphone and tablet users. MediaTek’s processors are also less expensive than those of Intel and AMD, which makes them an attractive option for device manufacturers looking to keep costs down.
Overall, MediaTek is a major player in the processor market and is likely to continue to be a key supplier of processors for a wide range of devices in the years to come.
7. IBM
Overview of IBM’s History and Current Status
IBM, or International Business Machines Corporation, has a long and storied history in the technology industry. Founded in 1911, the company has been at the forefront of innovation for over a century, and its contributions to the world of computing are vast. IBM was instrumental in the development of the first mainframe computers, and its research and development efforts have led to many significant advancements in the field of computer science.
Today, IBM is a multinational technology company that specializes in a wide range of products and services, including hardware, software, cloud
8. Marvell
Overview of Marvell’s History and Current Status
Marvell Technology Group Ltd. is a leading global manufacturer of storage, networking, and semiconductor solutions. Founded in 1995, the company has its headquarters in Santa Clara, California, and operates in several countries worldwide. Over the years, Marvell has expanded its product portfolio to include a wide range of processors for various applications, including embedded systems, IoT devices, and data center infrastructure.
When compared to Intel and AMD, Marvell processors are known for their low power consumption and cost-effectiveness. While they may not match the performance of Intel Core or AMD Ryzen processors for high-end computing tasks, Marvell processors are well-suited for power-sensitive applications, such as IoT devices, where battery life is a critical factor.
List of Marvell-Based Processor Models
Some of the popular Marvell-based processor models include:
- Armada E6xx series
- Armada 38x series
- Kirkwood series
- Kirkwood-Lite series
- MV88Fxx series
- MV88Wxx series
These processors are widely used in various embedded systems, including routers, set-top boxes, and industrial control systems. They offer a balance of performance, power efficiency, and cost-effectiveness, making them a popular choice for OEMs and system integrators in the embedded systems market.
Processor Brands to Watch Out For
1. Apple
Apple, a technology giant known for its innovative products, also manufactures processors for its line of devices. While it may not be as well-known as Intel or AMD, Apple’s processors have gained a reputation for their performance and integration with the company’s software and hardware ecosystem.
Overview of Apple’s history and current status
Apple’s journey into processor manufacturing began in the late 1970s when it created the Apple II, one of the first personal computers. Since then, the company has evolved and expanded its product line, which now includes iPhones, iPads, Macs, and other devices. In recent years, Apple has transitioned from using third-party processors to designing its own, such as the A-series chips used in its mobile devices and the M-series chips for Macs.
Comparison to Intel and AMD in terms of performance and pricing
Apple’s processors are often compared to those of Intel and AMD in terms of performance and pricing. While it is difficult to make a direct comparison due to the different architectures and target markets, Apple’s processors generally offer competitive performance at comparable price points. For instance, the A15 Bionic chip in the iPhone 13 outperforms many Android devices with comparable processor specifications.
List of Apple processor models
Some of the most notable Apple processor models include:
- A-series chips for mobile devices (e.g., iPhone, iPad)
- M-series chips for Macs (e.g., MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, Mac Mini, Mac Studio)
- S-series chips for Apple’s specialized devices (e.g., Apple Watch, Apple TV)
In conclusion, Apple’s presence in the processor market should not be underestimated. The company’s commitment to designing its own processors ensures seamless integration with its software and hardware ecosystem, resulting in a unique user experience that sets it apart from its competitors.
2. Nvidia
Overview of Nvidia’s History and Current Status
Nvidia has been a prominent player in the tech industry for several decades, known primarily for its graphics processing units (GPUs) and graphics cards. However, in recent years, the company has been making significant strides in the processor market, particularly with its ARM-based processors.
When it comes to performance, Nvidia’s processors are on par with those of Intel and AMD, offering competitive speeds and efficiency. However, Nvidia’s processors tend to be more expensive than those of its competitors. This is likely due to the fact that Nvidia’s focus has traditionally been on graphics, and the company has invested heavily in research and development for its GPUs.
List of Nvidia Processor Models
Nvidia offers a range of processor models, including:
- Tegra: Nvidia’s line of ARM-based processors for mobile devices and embedded systems.
- Jetson: Nvidia’s line of processors for AI and machine learning applications.
- Tensor Core: Nvidia’s line of processors specifically designed for AI and deep learning.
- Orin: Nvidia’s upcoming processor for autonomous vehicles.
Overall, Nvidia’s processors offer a unique combination of graphics and AI capabilities, making them a strong contender in the processor market.
3. Samsung
Samsung is a multinational conglomerate that has been in the technology industry for decades. While the company is best known for its smartphones, televisions, and memory chips, it has also been producing processors for several years. In fact, Samsung’s Exynos series of processors have been used in many flagship smartphones, including Samsung’s own Galaxy series.
When it comes to performance and power efficiency, Samsung’s processors are considered to be on par with Intel and AMD. However, Samsung’s processors are not as widely used in desktop computers and servers as Intel and AMD.
Some of the Samsung-based processor models include:
- Exynos 980
- Exynos 990
- Exynos 1080
- Exynos 2100
These processors are designed for use in mobile devices, such as smartphones and tablets. However, Samsung has also been working on developing processors for other applications, such as automotive and IoT devices.
4. TSMC
TSMC, or Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company, is a Taiwanese multinational semiconductor foundry that has become a major player in the processor market. The company was founded in 1987 and has since grown to become the world’s largest dedicated independent semiconductor foundry. TSMC is known for its advanced manufacturing processes and cutting-edge technology, and it has been a key supplier of processors for some of the world’s leading tech companies.
In terms of power efficiency and performance, TSMC’s processors have been steadily improving over the years. The company has made significant investments in research and development, and its processors are now able to compete with those of Intel and AMD in many areas. In fact, TSMC’s 7-nanometer process technology is considered to be one of the most advanced in the industry, and it has enabled the company to produce processors that are both powerful and energy-efficient.
There are a number of TSMC-based processor models available on the market, including those from major tech companies such as Apple, Qualcomm, and Nvidia. For example, the Apple M1 chip, which powers the company’s latest Mac computers, is based on TSMC’s 5-nanometer process technology. Similarly, Qualcomm’s Snapdragon processors, which are used in many smartphones and tablets, are also manufactured by TSMC. Nvidia’s GPUs, which are used in a wide range of devices from gaming computers to data centers, are also made by TSMC.
Overall, TSMC is a major player in the processor market and is known for its advanced manufacturing processes and cutting-edge technology. Its processors are used by many of the world’s leading tech companies, and they are becoming increasingly popular as more and more devices rely on powerful and energy-efficient processors.
5. Huawei
Overview of Huawei’s History and Current Status
Huawei, a Chinese multinational technology company, has made significant strides in the field of processor manufacturing. Founded in 1987, the company initially focused on producing mobile phones and networking equipment. Over the years, Huawei has expanded its product offerings to include laptops, smart home devices, and enterprise-level IT solutions.
As of 2021, Huawei ranks as the world’s second-largest smartphone manufacturer, shipping over 240 million units globally. The company’s revenue has steadily increased, reaching $100 billion in 2020. Huawei’s success has been driven by its commitment to innovation and its ability to produce high-quality products at competitive prices.
When comparing Huawei’s processors to those of Intel and AMD, it is essential to consider various factors, such as power efficiency, performance, and cost. In terms of power efficiency, Huawei’s processors have been known to outperform both Intel and AMD. This is particularly true for Huawei’s mobile processors, which are designed to optimize battery life while maintaining high performance levels.
In terms of performance, Huawei’s processors hold their own against Intel and AMD. The company’s flagship mobile processor, the Kirin 9000, is capable of rivaling the performance of the best processors from Intel and AMD. However, it is important to note that Huawei’s processor offerings are primarily focused on mobile devices and not on the desktop market, where Intel and AMD still hold a significant advantage.
List of Huawei-Based Processor Models
Huawei’s processor offerings are primarily focused on mobile devices, with the Kirin series being the most well-known. Some of the most popular Huawei-based processor models include:
- Kirin 9000: Found in Huawei’s flagship smartphone, the Mate 40 Pro, the Kirin 9000 is a powerful mobile processor that offers excellent performance and efficiency.
- Kirin 810: This mid-range processor is found in Huawei’s mid-range smartphones, such as the Nova 7 and the P40.
- Kirin 710A: A more budget-friendly option, the Kirin 710A is found in Huawei’s lower-end smartphones, such as the Y9s and the P Smart+.
In conclusion, Huawei is a major player in the processor market, offering high-quality, power-efficient processors for mobile devices. While the company’s processor offerings are not yet on par with those of Intel and AMD in the desktop market, Huawei’s commitment to innovation and its success in the mobile market make it a brand to watch out for in the future.
6. Qualcomm
Qualcomm, founded in 1985, is a leading American multinational semiconductor and telecommunications equipment company. Known for its innovative work in the field of wireless communications, Qualcomm has been a key player in the development of cellular phone technology, including 3G and 4G networks. In recent years, the company has expanded its focus to include the production of high-performance processors for various devices, including smartphones, laptops, and tablets.
Qualcomm’s processors are renowned for their power efficiency and performance. While Intel and AMD are known for their high-performance desktop and server processors, Qualcomm’s expertise lies in producing processors optimized for mobile devices. As a result, Qualcomm’s processors typically consume less power and generate less heat than their Intel and AMD counterparts, making them ideal for use in laptops, tablets, and smartphones. In terms of performance, Qualcomm’s processors often deliver impressive results in benchmark tests, particularly in the areas of single-core performance and power efficiency.
Qualcomm has produced a wide range of processor models over the years, each designed to meet the unique needs of different devices. Some of the most notable Qualcomm-based processor models include:
- Snapdragon 865: This high-end processor is designed for premium smartphones and features advanced AI capabilities, support for up to 8K video recording, and a powerful Adreno 650 GPU.
- Snapdragon 765: This mid-range processor is designed for budget and mid-range smartphones and offers excellent performance, a powerful GPU, and support for 5G connectivity.
- Snapdragon 730: This processor is designed for mid-range smartphones and offers a balance of performance, power efficiency, and affordability.
- Snapdragon 675: This processor is designed for budget smartphones and offers decent performance, a capable GPU, and support for 4G connectivity.
- Snapdragon 450: This entry-level processor is designed for budget smartphones and offers basic performance, a modest GPU, and support for 4G connectivity.
7. MediaTek
MediaTek is a Taiwanese company that has been producing processors for mobile devices since 2004. It started as a supplier of chips for feature phones, but has since expanded its offerings to include processors for smartphones, tablets, and other devices.
In terms of power efficiency and performance, MediaTek’s processors are known for their cost-effectiveness and reliability. They are popular among manufacturers of budget and mid-range smartphones, as they offer a good balance of price and performance. However, they are not as powerful as processors from Intel and AMD, and are not typically used in high-end devices.
Some popular MediaTek-based processor models include the Helio P60, Helio P70, and Helio X20. These processors are used in a wide range of devices from various manufacturers, including Samsung, Xiaomi, and Huawei.
FAQs
1. Who makes processors besides Intel and AMD?
While Intel and AMD are the most well-known processor manufacturers, there are several other companies that produce processors. Some of these include:
* ARM Holdings: ARM is a British semiconductor and software design company that designs and licenses microprocessors and other technologies. Many mobile devices, including smartphones and tablets, use processors based on ARM architecture.
* Qualcomm: Qualcomm is an American multinational semiconductor and telecommunications equipment company that designs and markets processors for mobile devices.
* MediaTek: MediaTek is a Taiwanese multinational semiconductor company that designs and manufactures processors for smartphones, tablets, and other devices.
* Apple: Apple designs and produces its own processors for its Mac computers and mobile devices, such as the iPhone and iPad.
* IBM: IBM produces processors for servers and other enterprise-level computing devices.
2. What are some other processor brands besides Intel and AMD?
In addition to ARM Holdings, Qualcomm, MediaTek, Apple, and IBM, there are several other brands that produce processors. Some of these include:
* Broadcom: Broadcom is an American multinational semiconductor company that designs and manufactures processors for a variety of devices, including smartphones, tablets, and servers.
* Nvidia: Nvidia is an American multinational technology company that designs and produces graphics processing units (GPUs) and processors for gaming and other applications.
* Texas Instruments: Texas Instruments is an American multinational technology company that designs and manufactures processors for a variety of applications, including automotive, industrial, and consumer electronics.
* Marvell Technology Group: Marvell Technology Group is an American semiconductor company that designs and manufactures processors for storage, networking, and other applications.
3. Are there any differences between processors made by Intel, AMD, and other brands?
There are some differences between processors made by Intel, AMD, and other brands. These differences can include:
* Architecture: Different processor brands may use different architectures, which can affect their performance and compatibility with other components.
* Features: Different processors may have different features, such as support for virtualization or advanced security measures.
* Price: Processors from different brands can vary in price, with some being more expensive than others.
* Performance: Processors from different brands can also vary in performance, with some being more powerful or efficient than others.
4. Are there any advantages to using processors from brands other than Intel and AMD?
There can be advantages to using processors from brands other than Intel and AMD, depending on your needs and preferences. Some of these advantages may include:
* Competition: Having multiple brands producing processors can help drive innovation and improve overall performance.
* Compatibility: Processors from different brands may be more compatible with certain systems or applications.
* Cost: Processors from other brands may be more affordable than those from Intel and AMD.
* Performance: Processors from other brands may offer unique features or performance benefits that are not available from Intel and AMD.
5. Are there any disadvantages to using processors from brands other than Intel and AMD?
There can also be disadvantages to using processors from brands other than Intel and AMD. Some of these disadvantages may include:
* Compatibility: Processors from other brands may not be compatible with certain systems or applications.
* Support: You may have less support available for processors from other brands, especially if they are less well-known.
* Durability: Processors from other brands may not be as durable or reliable as those from Intel and AMD.
* Compatibility: Some systems may only be compatible with processors from Intel and AMD, limiting your options.