What are Alder Lake CPUs?

What Is Alder Lake-N & Why Efficiency Cores?

Historically, Intel's "N" suffix has indicated processors that are low-power or ultra-low-power, primarily designed for notebooks or other mobile devices. These processors are engineered to be energy-efficient while still providing sufficient performance for general computing tasks. The question then arises: if Alder Lake CPUs are distinguished by their hybrid architecture, why does Intel also offer an “-N” series that only includes efficiency cores? 

To address this, it's essential to examine the characteristics of the efficiency core itself. Interestingly, the efficiency core isn't just about conserving energy; it's quite capable in terms of performance. Each efficiency core comes with 6MB of Smart Cache memory and is fundamentally a fourth-generation Atom processor, renamed from "Grace Mont." Unlike the performance cores, these do not have hyperthreading technology, which means they cannot split each physical core into two virtual cores for multitasking. Despite this, the efficiency cores are highly effective, delivering excellent performance efficiently. Intel labels it as “the world’s most efficient x86 core,” which outperforms even Intel’s most advanced architectures in terms of instructions per clock. This high efficiency allows Intel to offer the “-N” line within the Alder Lake series, specifically targeting scenarios where energy efficiency and lower power consumption are crucial, yet still requiring reliable performance.
 

Image source: Intel

 

Why N97? (N97 Vs Pentium 7505)

To really grasp how effective the Alder Lake E-core is, let's examine the Intel N97 (Alder Lake - N) and compare it with the 11th Gen Intel Pentium 7505 (Tiger Lake –U). This comparison will illuminate the unique capabilities of the E-core, as both processors share some similarities, yet exhibit distinct strengths and weaknesses.
 

The Intel Pentium 7505, part of the 11th Gen Tiger Lake –U series, boasts impressive features like support for up to 64GB of memory, a top speed of 3.5 GHz, and a reasonable thermal design power (TDP) of 15W. At first glance, the specs of the Pentium 7505 might seem superior to those of the N97. However, the N97 actually outperforms it in key areas.
 

Performance Difference

From the information provided, we see that the 7505 boasts a higher frequency, supports hyperthreading, and can handle larger memory sizes. However, the N97 excels in other significant areas. It supports the newer DDR5 memory type and is more energy-efficient, which are crucial factors in its overall superior performance. 
  
Adding to its advantages, the N97 is designed to be a "smarter" CPU by optimizing power usage while efficiently managing background tasks and workloads. In comparison to older processor generations like Skylake, the N97 features: 

• Increased instructions per clock (IPC): This means the processor can complete more tasks within a single clock cycle, enhancing its performance efficiency
• Improved branch prediction: This feature allows the processor to better anticipate the directions of future operations, minimizing unnecessary processing and boosting speed
• Enhanced vector instructions: These enable the processor to handle multiple data elements at once, speeding up complex tasks such as image and video processing

Then What is Intel I3-N305?

The Intel Core i3-N305 is part of the 12th Gen Alder Lake – N series. Like other processors in this family, it focuses on low power consumption and efficiency, but still maintains the performance standards expected of a Core i3.
 

I3-N305 vs N97

The i3-N305 has twice as many efficient cores as the N97 and its earlier version, the N300, boasting 8 Alder Lake-N efficient cores. These cores are designed for low power use while efficiently managing background tasks and overall workload. This processor emphasizes efficiency rather than sheer power, but still delivers higher instructions per clock (IPC) and improved branch prediction compared to older i3 models, ensuring better performance for each watt of power used. 
  
Strengths of the i3-N305:  

• 8 Efficient Cores (Alder Lake-N): The increased number of cores significantly boosts performance for various workloads 
• Higher Burst Frequency (3.80 GHz): Offers quicker responsiveness and speedier task execution 
• Improved Intel 7nm Process: Similar to the N97, this process enhances transistor density, which helps in reducing power consumption 
• Supports DDR5 Memory: Depending on the system setup, it can handle more data at once, improving performance over systems like the N97 
• Fanless Designs: Its low power consumption enables the design of fanless systems, which are dependable and suitable for tough industrial environments.

Low Power Consumption

To fully appreciate the significance of the Alder Lake-N processors like the N97, it’s essential to focus on one of their key attributes: low power consumption. This feature is vital for several important reasons, particularly in relation to its intended applications: 

• Enabling Thin and Light Hardware Design: The low power consumption of the N97 means it generates less heat, often removing the need for large cooling fans. This allows for the development of slim, light devices that are easier to carry and more durable 
• Extended Battery Life: Using less power means the battery lasts longer. This is especially important for users who need their devices to operate for extended periods when on the move 
• Fanless Designs: The N97’s ability to operate on low power is perfect for devices that require quiet operation and durability, as it supports designs without cooling fans. Such designs are ideal for harsh industrial environments where durability is a priority. 
• Improved Thermal Management: With lower power usage comes less heat production, which simplifies managing the device’s internal temperature. This can lead to more reliable operation and a longer lifespan for the device. 

Thus, the N97’s low power consumption is not just a minor spec; it’s a crucial aspect that supports the processor’s main functions, ensuring efficient and effective performance.