There are several differences between a dual core processor and a hexa core processor apart from the number of cores and their respective definitions.
If you want to make the right choice between the two it is necessary that you know how to differentiate between the two and make a precise comparison.
In This Article
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- The dual core processors will be pretty slow in processing data having four cores less than a hexa core processor.
- The higher number of cores in the hexa core processors will consume more energy and generate more heat than a dual core processor.
- The dual core processors will be best to use for day to day and basic computing tasks while the hexa core processor will be able to handle much more complex tasks than that.
5 Differences Between Dual Core and Hexa Core Processor
1. Number of Cores
The dual core processors, just as the name signifies, come with two cores in them.
On the other hand, the hexa core processors come with six cores in them.
2. Power Consumption
The power consumption of the dual core processors is comparatively less than the hexa core processors because they have less number of cores in them.
3. Speed of Processing
The dual core processors can process data at a reasonably high speed.
However, in comparison, the hexa core processors can process data and instructions much faster than the dual core processors, once again, due to the higher number of cores and threads in them.
4. Performance
The dual core processors can be used for doing all basic computing tasks along with a few demanding tasks such as surfing the web, sending emails, and playing games.
On the other hand, the hexa core processors can handle most of the demanding tasks and graphics intensive games due to the powerful cores and higher number of threads.
5. Heat Generation
Since there is less number of cores in a dual core processor, the heat generated is relatively less during operation.
The higher numbers of cores as well as the need for more energy to operate by the hexa core processors make them generate more heat during the process.
Which is Better – Dual Core or Hexa Core Processor?
Well, apparently, simply considering the number of cores present in these two processors as well as the major differences mentioned above, it may seem that the hexa core processor is a good option to invest in.
However, it may not be so if the type of computing tasks that you perform on your computer is not demanding or it does not need a high end processor such as a hexa core processor.
A dual core processor is good enough and will be quite efficient to handle all your daily computing tasks that involve basic computing, web browsing, playing games and listening to music.
The two cores of the processor can handle different tasks separately at the same time. Therefore, if your computer comes with a dual core processor you can think of it as a computer with two processors or Central Processing Units.
It will also be quite cheaper as compared to a hexa core processor that usually comes with a heavy price tag.
This means that, for doing basic and average computing tasks on a computer, a dual core processor will offer higher value in return for your money as compared to a hexa core processor.
On the other hand, if you are into playing high-end games and doing professional computing jobs that are ‘more than the basic’ then a hexa core processor will be a better choice.
The benefits that you will gain by using a hexa core processor in your computer include:
- More efficient, faster, and seamless streaming of videos, games and other online contents which will cut down your time for any task and increase your productivity in return and
- Improved multitasking ability due to the higher number of cores than a dual core processor which makes it a more useful processor to do a lot at the same time without experiencing any performance drops.
Also, the hexa core processors will have a much greater visual proficiency due to the large number of threads which will enhance your gaming experience even further.
However, you should take note of the drawbacks of the hexa core processors as well, one of which is its high price tag and the high maintenance cost.
Another significant concern should be its high energy consumption as compared to the dual core processors due to its advanced and powerful construction.
Therefore, a hexa core processor is best suited for those who want to perform some high-end task on their computer and are looking for better quality performance.
However, it is also very important to keep in mind that simply having more cores in a processor may not always offer a higher and faster performance even though it may be capable of executing multiple tasks at the same time.
In the end, it all depends on the data path to the main board and the memory shared by the cores.
Technically speaking, a hexa core processor may execute instruction three times faster in comparison to a dual core processor.
However, for that it has to receive the particular instructions from the RAM three times faster as well in the first place.
Most importantly, the software in your system should also know how exactly the additional number of cores available should be utilized.
Otherwise, a hexa core processor would not be able to produce results three times as fast as a dual core processor.
Therefore, consider these factors while making your choice for the best computing results and value in return.
The cores of the dual core processors will typically give the users twice as much speed and power in performance with a single chip as compared to a single core processor.
However, in order to make the dual core processors work efficiently and take its full advantage, it is required to ensure that it runs on an operating system and applications that support TLP.
A hexa core processor will be much more comfortable in handling demanding tasks as well as reasonably high graphics intensive games.
This means that if your computer comes with a hexa core processor you can do almost any type of computing tasks on it such as read, write, play games, watch and edit videos at higher frame rates.
Your system will not be overloaded since the hexa core processor will typically have 12 threads in it to enhance its level of performance even higher.
Greater number of threads means stronger processors which can handle any given set of data strings and instructions without experiencing any issues.
Conclusion
Therefore, now you know that there are a lot of other factors that differentiate the hexa core and dual core processors apart from the number of cores.
With such knowledge along with the benefits, you will surely find it much easier to make your choice.