CPU 6 Core vs 8 Core Gaming | Which One to Choose? - Hardware Centric (2024)

byJim Eddy March 15, 2023March 15, 2023

Today, game developers have adapted to the new normal of high-core-count processors. You want a PC that’ll last you for years if you’re going to be using it for a long time.

However, choosing between a 6-core CPU and an 8-core CPU is more complex than saying that more cores equal better performance.

This article discusses What’s Better for Gaming, an 8 or a 6-core CPU. After considering four significant factors, you should make a nuanced decision.

What’s Better for Gaming – CPU 6 Core Or 8 Core

Compared to a few years ago, most CPUs today are multicore. 6-core vs. 8-core processors are now being considered more by builders and gamers. In the first place, processors have multiple cores to allow for higher clock speeds and multitasking (think gaming and streaming, for instance).

Due to size and technological limitations, single-core processors could not handle the loads, and multicore processors became popular. Several cores and processing units have been created to improve program performance.

Most people opt for a 6-core or 8-core processor for gaming, heavy workloads, and more because they are the most readily available. The purpose of 8-core and 6-core processors is almost the same, so are there any significant differences between them? Here’s what you need to know.

Does More Cores Mean Better Performance?

When playing graphics-intensive games or running multiple demanding apps, more cores actually give you better performance. when you are multitasking, more cores are always better.

However, more cores without higher clock speeds aren’t something that’s recommended. because although multiple cores working simultaneously achieve a higher processing rate, the actual application loading time depends on the clock speed.

Tip: You want to maintain a balance between clock speed and the number of cores.

A Comparison of 6 Cores and 8 Cores Based on Performance

Performance isn’t just about the core count. You can also affect real-life outcomes when you play games and at what resolution. The performance of single-core processors will matter more in games that do not use multicore processors. In the same generation, 6-core and 8-core processors have smaller, often negligible, differences in framerate.

6 Cores CPU

• The best processor for most work environments is a six-core CPU (also known as a Hexa-core processor) because they balance performance and price. They are adequate in most buildings if anyone is editing photos or videos or working with architecture software. You can use them for full-stack web development. However, heavier games may have some limitations as they become more common.

• Competitive gamers frequently use six-core CPUs, which are available on almost all platforms. You should use a six-core CPU if you need multithreading, but you can get some of its benefits. Your only task is ensuring your processor can handle what you intend to do.

• It is crucial to break down the individual cores for gaming because you need to analyze the performance of each core separately. However, you will generally be better off with 6 cores.

8 Cores CPU

• A CPU with eight cores (also known as an octa-core processor) is often chosen by gamers, developers, designers, and other professionals. Architects, editors, and graphic designers use these models because they process a lot simultaneously. Most work environments do not require them, but they are convenient.

• It is possible to buy eight-core computers assembled and ready to use or purchase them separately to build your system. The rest of its components must match a computer’s speed and bandwidth. With 8 cores, building a computer is more challenging but possible. Most computers will have 8 cores in the future, with higher versions for those who need more.

• If you are a serious gamer on a budget, 6 cores should suffice. There is a good chance you will only use cores in some situations. It is important to note that an 8-core CPU is a significant improvement for gamers who stream.

Important Notes:

1. Play open-world games on an 8-core processor if you enjoy them. Performance can also be affected by game optimization. Depending on the CPU family, 6-core CPUs outperform 8-core CPUs in one title and vice versa in rival titles.
2. You’ll also see less difference at higher resolutions. In some games, performance gaps nearly disappear when you move up from 1080p to 1440p. The graphics card is often ultimately burdened when you reach 4K. After reviewing specific test results, you’ll have a clearer picture of the chips you’re comparing.
3. When comparing older generations of processors, AMD 6-core parts may be more valuable than Intel 8-core parts on a budget. You could upgrade your AMD CPU to a newer socket AM4-compatible model (possibly an 8-core model) to keep costs low.

Frequently Asked Questions And Answers

Do I Need 8 Cores for Gaming?

For gaming, you need a minimum of four CPU cores. The optimal gaming experience in 2023 requires six cores. Future-proofing your gaming PC with eight cores is helpful, but it isn’t necessary.

Is 6 core enough for gaming and streaming?
Yes, for gaming and streaming simultaneously, six cores should suffice. since most games are optimized to run in four cores. and for streaming, it takes 2 cores at most.

Conclusion

A processor’s core count determines how many tasks it can simultaneously handle. Besides performance, there are other factors to consider, so you can only take six or eight heavy functions simultaneously. If you need 8 cores, such as gaming or doing heavy processing tasks, we recommend getting them instead of 6. Using your computer for general tasks like word processing will not require more than six cores.