Intel Core i3 3220  vs AMD FX 4130 

The average person does a lot of work on his computer, like writing e-mails or drafting papers. Though common tasks need only a budget CPU, sometimes he may need extra performance for his other interests such as audio editing or Photoshop. For this matchup, we’re comparing two desktop CPUs which are capable yet reasonably priced: the Intel Core i3 3220 versus the AMD FX 4130. Which is the better value?

The 3220 is part of the Core i3 series, Intel’s entry level chip geared towards smart performance. It’s a Dual Core clocked at 3.3 GHz, with 3MB cache, integrated HD 2500 graphics and a power consumption of 55W TDP. One of its unique features is Hyperthreading, which efficiently optimizes each processor core for multi-threaded applications.

On the other side is the 4130, part of the FX series which, according to AMD, will transform your PC into a multimedia powerhouse. It’s a Quad Core clocked at 3.8 GHz, with 8MB cache and a much higher power consumption of 125W, twice that of the 3220. Moreover, it doesn’t come with integrated graphics, so you have to buy a discrete video card or else you won’t see anything on your monitor. On the plus side however, it has an unlocked multiplier which is ideal for overclocking.

Looking at their real world performance, the Quad Core 4130 is the more dominant CPU: it led by 6-12% in the PassMark and 3Dmark11 physics benchmarks. However, the 3220 was able to win by 26% in the Single Core test, which means that it’s the more efficient CPU.

Considering that the 4130 is also cheaper by $20, it seems that on paper, it’s the no-brainer choice. But factor in the higher power consumption and the need for a separate video card, and you’ll end up spending a lot more. Therefore, we recommend the stable and reliable Intel Core i3 3220 as the better value overall.