The tech world today is rich with dozens of terms or abbreviations denoting technologies, software, or hardware. One of the most commonly used abbreviations by tech enthusiasts, reviewers, bloggers, etc., is CPU and GPU.
But what do these succinct forms mean, and what is the distinction between the two? What is the function of a GPU? And, what is the function of a CPU?
Okay, so we’ll elucidate the distinctions for you by describing them.
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What Is A CPU?
The CPU (central processing unit) is the intellect of every device out there. It’s a requirement for phones, computers, smartwatches, consoles, and everything else that is just as complicated.
This significant 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 billions of transistors forming multiple cores that can be focused on handling multiple 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.
Basically, the speed of your processor determines how fast 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 initiated, the task is offloaded to the GPU, which takes us to the next part of this article.
What Is A GPU?
Unlike the CPU, the GPU (graphics processing unit) has thousands of cores (compared to a dozen) that are dedicated to one type of task. So, instead of wasting energy working on multiple tasks, the GPU focuses its power on just one or only a few jobs.
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 markedly distinct. This is because they are designed for a disparate objective.
As we mentioned previously, the CPU handles an assortment of varied tasks. It splits its small number but very powerful cores to handle several tasks as quickly as possible. The processing lasts only a few microseconds and then immediately 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 graphics in video games.
Today’s realistic visuals in video games are extremely demanding, and GPUs require huge amounts of power. A great example of such power is Nvidia’s RTX 3090 with 24GB of VRAM.
Naturally, modern 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 last two decades, the purpose of CPUs and GPUs has stayed the same. However, the abilities of said hardware have changed. Graphics cards from today can do a lot more compared to the GPUs from the beginning of the 21st century.
A great 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 greatly enhance the FPS in-game while preserving the game’s graphical fidelity. It is essentially complimentary extra performance.
FSR is designed for the same purpose, but it doesn’t utilize hardware such as Tensor Cores or deep learning. Nonetheless, it still enhances speed and offers a clear picture.
Just imagining such a concept ten years ago was probably impossible even for the best GPU designers, let alone building a GPU that can handle such a 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 developed 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 maximum before 2017 for consumers. Today, you can get a 16-core/32-thread 5950X for only $700.
Beyond the regular world of buyers, a few CPUs boast a maximum of 64 cores and 128 threads. The quantity of cores has increased substantially, enabling individuals to exclusively run games using just the CPU. Watch this video of Linus Tech Tips utilizing an AMD Threadripper 3990X to play Crysis:
So, what lies in the future of CPUs? Could the core tally increase so much that we wouldn’t need GPUs anymore?
Certainly, we cannot anticipate this. All we can do is value the technology we presently possess and anticipate what lies ahead.
