The tech world today is abundant with dozens of terms or abbreviations denoting technologies, software, or hardware. One of the most frequently used abbreviations by tech enthusiasts, reviewers, bloggers, etc., is CPU and GPU.
But what do these short forms mean, and what is the distinction between the two? What is the function of a GPU? And, what is the role of a CPU?
Okay, so we’ll clarify the differences for you by demonstrating them.
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What Is A CPU?
The CPU (central processing unit) is the core of every device out there. It’s a requirement for phones, computers, smartwatches, consoles, and everything else that is equally complex.
This essential part has multiple roles in a computer. It communicates with all the components, performs calculations, and directs the components on tasks to be completed.
CPUs are made from countless transistors forming multiple cores that can be focused on handling various tasks simultaneously. The CPUs from today, such as Intel’s upcoming 12th generation or AMD’s Ryzen 6000 series, boast multiple cores of up to 16 cores or 32 threads and sometimes even more.
Essentially, the velocity of your processor determines how rapidly your computer can handle tasks. So, whether you are trying to start a game or open a browser, the CPU is doing most of the work.
But, once the game is launched, the task is transferred to the GPU, which takes us to the following part of this article.
What Is A GPU?
Unlike the CPU, the GPU (graphics processing unit) has numerous cores (compared to a dozen) that are dedicated to one type of task. So, instead of wasting energy working on various tasks, the GPU focuses its power on just one or only a few particular assignments.
What Is The Difference?
So, we’ve explained the functions of a GPU and a CPU in one computer, but what are their primary differences?
Well, at their core, both of these pieces of hardware are quite similar. Both are vital for every computer, and both are processing units – a processor.
However, the architecture found inside of this hardware is remarkably distinctive. This is because they are designed for a specific purpose.
As we mentioned previously, the CPU handles an assortment of diverse tasks. It splits its limited number but immensely powerful cores to handle several tasks as quickly as possible. The processing lasts only a few microseconds and then instantly jumps to other processes.
The graphics card (or GPU), however, is designed specifically for particular tasks. Typically, this involves accelerating the rendering and processing of graphics/visuals, like YouTube videos, 3D models/scenes in Blender, and visuals in digital games.
Today’s realistic visuals in video games are exceptionally demanding, and GPUs require enormous amounts of power. A prime example of such power is Nvidia’s RTX 3090 with 24GB of VRAM.
Naturally, contemporary GPUs are more advanced than before, enabling them to handle various tasks like decoding, encoding, and plenty more.
The Future Of CPUs And GPUs
Over these final two decades, the purpose of CPUs and GPUs has remained unchanged. However, the capabilities of said hardware have improved. Graphics cards from today can do a lot more compared to the GPUs from the start of the 21st century.
A notable example is Nvidia’s DLSS (deep learning super sampling) or AMD’s FSR (FidelityFX Super Resolution). DLSS utilizes its Tensor Core AI processors and the power of deep learning to dramatically enhance the FPS in-game while maintaining the game’s visual fidelity. It is essentially free additional performance.
FSR is designed for the same purpose, but it doesn’t utilize hardware such as Tensor Cores or deep learning. Nevertheless, it still enhances speed and offers a sharp picture.
Just imagining such a concept ten years ago was probably unthinkable even for the top GPU designers, let alone building a GPU that can handle such a demanding task. This means that in the future, the GPU’s role as part of the computer could potentially change.
The same can be said for CPUs. They have progressed so much over the years, especially during the Ryzen era. The core count in 2021 is several times higher compared to the CPUs of 2016 or earlier.
Four cores/eight threads were the peak before 2017 for consumers. Today, you can get a 16-core/32-thread 5950X for just $700.
Beyond the conventional world of buyers, a few CPUs boast a maximum of 64 cores and 128 threads. The quantity of cores has increased dramatically, enabling individuals to solely run games using just the CPU. Watch this video of Linus Tech Tips employing an AMD Threadripper 3990X to play Crysis:
So, what lies in the future of CPUs? Could the core count increase so dramatically that we wouldn’t need GPUs anymore?
Certainly, we cannot predict this. All we can do is value the technology we presently possess and await what lies ahead.
