Intel Processors - Prebuilt PCs

Frequently Asked Questions

Is an Intel or AMD processor better for a gaming PC?

For pure gaming frame rates, AMD’s X3D processors are currently in the lead. For everything else, Intel is typically considered the better all-rounder, as its higher core counts handle gaming whilst streaming, running many applications at once, and creative work alongside play. The honest answer is that the two are close enough that you can’t really buy the wrong one. In a prebuilt PC, the graphics card, memory and cooling will make more difference to your experience than the badge on the processor. Our service team are available via email, call and live chat to walk you through the full differences between Intel prebuilt PCs and AMD prebuilt PCs, which can be worth comparing if you only play games.

What is the difference between an Intel Core i5, i7 and i9?

The higher the number on the processor means the more cores that it has and the faster it runs. An i5 is the sensible choice for gaming at 1080p, an i7 suits gaming alongside streaming or creative work, and an i9 is for people running heavy tasks, from video editing, 3D rendering, AI development or many programs at once. For gaming alone, the jump from i5 to i7 is very noticeable and the jump from i7 to i9 usually is not, as the graphics card sets your frame rate.

What is the difference between Intel Core and Intel Core Ultra?

The Intel Core Ultra Series is the newer range, and it replaced the original Intel Core i5, i7 and i9 naming. A Core Ultra 5 sits where an i5 used to, Ultra 7 where an i7 was, and so on. The newer chips use more cores, run cooler and draw less power than the Core i generation, and they sit on a newer motherboard socket, so they are not a direct upgrade from an older Core i machine.

What graphics card should I pair with an Intel processor?

Match the graphics card to the screen you actually use or play on, not to the CPU itself. Intel processors work equally well with NVIDIA and AMD graphics cards, so there is no pairing that is specifically better. For a Full HD monitor, an RTX 5060 is considered more than enough. For 1440p, an RTX 5070 may be a better choice. For 4K, an RTX 5080 or above is a sensible choice. What matters more is balance: a very fast processor with a weak graphics card, or the reverse, wastes money on the part you overspent on. Our prebuilt PCs pair the best current components to ensure a well-balanced machine for the optimal gaming experience.

Can an Intel PC handle video editing and 3D work?

Yes, and this is where Intel’s higher core counts earn their price. Video editing, 3D rendering and software development all use every core available, so an Intel Core Ultra 7 or Ultra 9 will get through those jobs a lot faster than a CPU aimed only at gaming. You will still want plenty of memory, 32GB as a sensible starting point, and a fast drive, as both matter as much as the processor for large projects. The graphics card does also help, particularly for video exports and 3D previews.