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Processor Type
What does a processor do?
The processor, or Central Processing Unit (CPU), is your computer’s brain, so it makes all your apps and hardware work properly. Every laptop needs one, but how powerful it needs to be depends on what you’re doing. If you want to run lots of things at once or use demanding software, you’ll need a powerful processor, but for emails and web browsing, you won’t need as much oomph.
Why the CPU is the main processor
It’s the main processor because it’s designed to handle all your day-to-day tasks, like the operating system, apps, and any tasks you want to do.
CPU vs GPU
Every laptop’s got a CPU, but some models also have a Graphics Processing Unit (GPU). This handles all the image rendering needed for games and creative software without bogging down your CPU with these tasks. It makes demanding tasks more responsive because it’s sharing the load across 2 processing units instead of 1.
CPU
The CPU is designed for general tasks, complex logic and controlling your computer systems.
GPU
The GPU is made for graphics. It can run lots of different tasks at once, giving your images lifelike shading, lots of pixels, and rendering every picture or new environment.
GPUs are, of course, made for graphics, but they’re also really handy for AI, scientific software, and video processing. They take some of the load from the CPU, so it can focus on keeping up with all your day-to-day tasks while the GPU speeds up complex loading images and transitions.
You might also see terms like APU (Accelerated Processing Unit), which is a single chip with a CPU and GPU built in. They’re often used for laptops, games consoles, and more compact devices.
Some newer models even have a Neural Processing Unit, which is designed specifically with AI in mind. It helps the built-in assistants think and tweak things quicker.
For more computing inspiration and advice, explore our Computing Hub.
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FAQs
- What does CPU stand for?
CPU stands for Central Processing Unit, and it’s your laptop’s main processor.
- Is a GPU a processor?
Yes, a GPU is a type of processor, but instead of running all the basic tasks, it focuses on complex activities like rendering and creating lifelike images quickly.
- What is the difference between MCU and SoC?
Most laptops have 1 main SoC (System on Chip) and several MCUs (MicroController Units). The SoC delivers the power to run the operating system and apps, while the MCUs keep all the hardware functions, like fans, keyboards, and mice, running in the background.
- How do I find my processor number?
The quickest way to find your processor number on a Windows laptop is to go into your system settings, look under “device specifications” and find the processor there. It’ll look something like this: Intel® Core™ i7-1355U. For Chromebooks, go into your settings and “About ChromeOS” and choose “Diagnostics”. A Chromebook processor name may look similar to Windows, or it could be a model like “MediaTek Kompanio 520”. And if you’ve got an Apple MacBook, click the Apple Menu and “About this Mac”. You should see something like “Apple M4”.
- What do numbers on a processor mean?
Different numbers on a processor mean different things. There’s a number for the generation, which tells you how new it is. Then there’ll be another number straight after the brand and model, like AMD Ryzen™ 3 or Intel® Core™ i3, which tells you the range and how powerful the processor is. Then there’ll be a sequence of numbers which is the precise model you have.
- Is a higher number processor better?
Generally, yes. Most laptops with a newer generation and higher range are more powerful.
- What is the processor identification number?
This is mainly for helping you tell different models apart for specs, compatibility, support into, and any updates.
- What do numbes mean in intel® processors?
The first number on an Intel® processor tells you the range, which lets you know how powerful it is. This is followed by the generation, which lets you know how recent it is, and a unique model number. The numbers are usually followed by a letter, which tells you some extra info, like if it’s a low-power option or has a high-performance chip.
