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When building a PC, purchasing a CPU is arguably one of the most difficult decisions to make. It should be future-proof, lasting a long time with moderate to high performance while remaining reasonably priced.
Until recently, that is, until the launch of RYZEN processors based on Zen architecture in 2017, Intel was the processor of choice. Despite having more cores, AMD was always the more cost-effective option, with less efficient CPUs. However, with the introduction of Zen architecture and aggressive pricing strategies, AMD is back in the market, competing for market share with Intel.
PRICING
When it comes to CPU pricing and value, both teams red and blue appear to be similar, but they are not. Despite being slightly less expensive, AMD processors provide comparable performance with the same, if not more, cores and threads as Intel counterparts. Add to that the better performing integrated graphics in AMD CPUs (APU), and we can conclude that AMD processors provide superior performance and are a more value for money option. One thing to keep in mind is that almost every Intel CPU includes Integrated Graphics, whereas only a few AMD CPUs do. (APU)
PERFORMANCE
Let's get one thing straight: if you buy CPUs from either of the two companies in a similar price range, you can't go wrong; both will provide more or less comparable performance. The performance difference will be minimal and will only matter if you are running synthetic benchmarks; otherwise, boh competitors will provide more than enough performance for even your most enthusiastic tasks.
AMD CPUs, based on the 7nm manufacturing process, typically have more cores and threads than Intel's 14nm CPUs, while also supporting hyperthreading. Because of their higher single-core performance, Intel chips offer slightly better overall performance than AMD chips. Intel chips, having higher single-core boost clock speeds, provide better performance at the expense of being less energy efficient when compared to AMD chips. Intel chips also have more headroom and better support for overclocking going up to speeds of 5.3 GHz compared to AMD chips.
Despite having lower single-core clock speeds, AMD outperforms Intel in multicore performance while being more energy-efficient. AMD chips also run cooler thanks to their smaller lithography(7nm), when compared to their Intel counterparts.
COMPATIBILITY
Even when it comes to upgrading, AMD has far more supported motherboards with AM4 sockets than Intel. Furthermore, AMD motherboards are forward and backward compatible, which means you won't have to worry about frequently upgrading your motherboard.
Furthermore, with the exception of the A-series, all AMD motherboards support overclocking, whereas Intel's B and H series motherboards do not. Aside from that, Intel's overclockable CPUs are more expensive, and you'll need to upgrade to a supporting motherboard as well. Add in Intel's frequent socket transitions, and you can't count on Intel motherboards to last long.
VERDICT
Overall, Intel and AMD chips provide comparable performance for the money, with only a minor difference visible when running benchmarks. Overall, Intel provides better performance due to higher single-core clock speeds resulting in faster performance, but AMD outperforms Intel by providing better value for money with significantly higher multicore performance. Both will deliver similar frames per second for gaming purposes, but AMD clearly outperforms Intel while being more energy efficient for creativity and productivity tasks thanks to the more number of cores, threads, and cache present.