CPU
The CPU (central processing unit) is the "brain" of your computer. While all CPUs are made from silicon, they're not all the same. Some processors run faster than others. Some have more multitasking capabilities. Some sacrifice both to use very little electricity and produce very little heat, while others maximize both but kick out a ton of heat and use quite a lot of watts. Which CPU you're going to use really depends on your workload, and we help you pick it out in the processor selection once you decide whether to go with Intel or AMD. Both companies offer powerful and efficient processors, so if you're unsure of who to go with, you can really pick either. You can check both processor companies here and see which one fits your use case best!
Some basic terminology, in case you're curious:
Cores: How many physical "centers" of thinking are available on your CPU.
Threads: How many logical "centers" of thinking are available on your CPU.
Speed: How fast processors go. While these are usually measured in gigahertz (GHz), we've opted to measure them in megahertz (MHz).
Cache: How much memory the processor has on hand. Yes, RAM is also memory for your system, but cache is much faster since the processor has this available right on its chip. The more cache you have, the faster your system generally is.
TDP: Thermal Design Power. This measures how many watts a processor is designed to draw from your power supply. This term also applies to graphics cards. With CPUs, any TDP over 90 watts generally calls for a better cooling solution than what would be otherwise available from the manufacturer.
Some basic terminology, in case you're curious:
Cores: How many physical "centers" of thinking are available on your CPU.
Threads: How many logical "centers" of thinking are available on your CPU.
Speed: How fast processors go. While these are usually measured in gigahertz (GHz), we've opted to measure them in megahertz (MHz).
Cache: How much memory the processor has on hand. Yes, RAM is also memory for your system, but cache is much faster since the processor has this available right on its chip. The more cache you have, the faster your system generally is.
TDP: Thermal Design Power. This measures how many watts a processor is designed to draw from your power supply. This term also applies to graphics cards. With CPUs, any TDP over 90 watts generally calls for a better cooling solution than what would be otherwise available from the manufacturer.
