What Generation is the Intel Core i5 3470?

The Intel Core i5 3470 falls under the 3rd generation of Intel processors, as indicated by the '3' in its model number. This generation is known for introducing several important features, such as enhanced performance and efficiency. Understanding the naming conventions of Intel processors can help you make more informed decisions when choosing a compatible hardware for your system.

Understanding Intel CPU Naming Conventions

Intel has a standardized naming convention for its processors, which helps in identifying the core features and capabilities of the CPU. The naming convention can be a bit complex, but it provides valuable information about the processor's generation, cache size, clock speed, and hyper-threading support. However, the '3' at the beginning of the model number, such as 3470, directly denotes the processor's generation.

The 3rd Generation Intel Core i5 Class

Intel's 3rd generation Core i5 processors, like the 3470, were part of the Sandy Bridge architecture. These processors were a significant improvement over their predecessors, the 2nd generation processors, in terms of performance and power efficiency. The 3470 specifically is a mid-range model that offers a balance of performance and cost.

Key Features of the Intel Core i5 3470

Quad-core processor with Hyper-Threading technology. Clock speed of 3.2 GHz with Turbo Boost up to 3.6 GHz. 6MB L3 cache. TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 77W.

For those looking to upgrade or build a new system, the Intel Core i5 3470 is a reliable choice. Its specification indicates that it is a powerful processor suitable for a range of tasks, from gaming to content creation and mainstream professional applications.

Comparing Intel Core i5 3470 with Other Generations

To provide a clear understanding, let's compare the Intel Core i5 3470 with its successors and predecessors:

With the 4th Generation Intel Core i5 (4th Generation)

The 4th generation Intel Core processors, like the Core i5 4460, were released a few years later and were built on a smaller 22nm process, resulting in better performance per watt. The 4th generation i5 processors generally offer higher base and turbo clock speeds, more L3 cache, and improved graphics capabilities. While the Core i5 3470 and 4460 both offer a quad-core configuration with Hyper-Threading, the 4th generation processors provide a higher level of performance in many scenarios due to better manufacturing processes and advancements in technology.

With the 5th Generation Intel Core i5 (5th Generation)

The 5th generation, also known as the Haswell series, introduced various enhancements over the 3rd generation. These processors featured improved graphics, faster cache, and a more efficient design, which allowed them to operate at higher frequencies without excessive power consumption. While the 5th generation processors like the Core i5 5400 could offer significantly better gaming performance and video encoding capabilities, the Intel Core i5 3470 remains competitive in terms of overall performance for non-gaming tasks.

With the 6th Generation Intel Core i5 (6th Generation)

The 6th generation processors were another generation with significant improvements. Known as the Skylake architecture, these CPUs brought increased efficiency, better I/O bandwidth, and enhanced features in both desktop and notebook form factors. For the Intel Core i5 6500, for instance, it offered performance comparable to the older but performance-boosted 3470, along with new features and technologies. In many cases, the 6th generation processors were seen as a direct competitor to the 3rd generation, offering better thermal performance and efficiency with comparable or enhanced performance.

Conclusion

Understanding the generation of your Intel Core i5 3470 helps in evaluating its performance and suitability for various tasks. It is a capable processor for a range of applications, particularly those that do not need the absolute latest specifications. Whether you are building a budget-friendly gaming PC or a workhorse for non-gaming tasks, the Intel Core i5 3470 stands out as a reliable choice. By knowing its place in the family of Intel processors, you can make informed decisions on your next build or upgrade.