Broadwell vs. Haswell: The difference

Although it know many computer professionals, we come across customers, which terms such as "Broadwell" or "Haswell" say nothing. Therefore we want to briefly explain something and discuss the differences, since so slow to come, the first devices with the new Broadwell chips on the market it here. 

Broadwell and Haswell, the code name for a processor micro-architecture of the chip manufacturer Intel. Processors with Haswell chip are sometimes called "Intel Core i processors 4th generation," while the processors are designed with the Broadwell chips, the 5th generation. Recognizable is the generation of the processor with Core i-series based on the model number. Haswell processors all have a model number that starts with a "4" as they begin in processors with Broadwell chip with a "5". Here's an example: "Core i7 4 790 "(Haswell) or" Core i7 5 600U "(Broadwell).

Processor with Haswell chip (left) vs. with Broadwell-chip (right)

Haswell is thus the predecessor of Broadwell and the biggest difference between the two generations is the reduced 14-nm process technology. Haswell chips were still manufactured in 22 nm process. By changing the process, not only the size of the chip is reduced in itself, but it also reduces the power consumption or it can be higher clock speeds at the same current consumption.

In addition, Intel has made targeted improvements to the architecture that will lead up to 5% more performance at the same clock. In addition, the integrated graphics card has also been optimized and should bring few percentage points more power.

Conclusion: The differences between Haswell- and Broadwell processors are limited.Due to the structure of 22nm to 14nm reduction, the chips have become smaller, which allows devices with compact dimensions. Whether you need a processor from the 5th generation or whether it is a one of the 4th generation, it does depends above all on whether one puts much emphasis on long battery life. The Broadwell processors have on average a low power consumption, which is of course a positive impact on the battery life.