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 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 illustrating them.
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What Is A CPU?
The CPU (central processing unit) is the heart of every device out there. It’s a necessity for phones, computers, smartwatches, consoles, and everything else that is similarly complex.
This vital 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 innumerable transistors forming multiple cores that can be focused on handling numerous 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 speed of your processor determines how swiftly 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 transferred 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 multiple 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 principal differences?
Well, at their core, both of these pieces of hardware are quite analogous. Both are essential for every computer, and both are processing units – a processor.
However, the architecture found inside of this hardware is remarkably distinct. This is because they are designed for a different purpose.
As we mentioned previously, the CPU handles an assortment of diverse tasks. It splits its small 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 virtual games.
Today’s realistic visuals in video games are remarkably challenging, and GPUs require enormous amounts of power. A prime 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 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 beginning of the 21st century.
A outstanding 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 significantly enhance the FPS in-game while preserving the game’s visual 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. Nevertheless, it still enhances speed and offers a sharp picture.
Just imagining such a concept ten years ago was probably inconceivable 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 progressed so much over the years, especially during the Ryzen era. The core count in 2021 is multiple 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 just $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 count increase so substantially that we wouldn’t need GPUs anymore?
Certainly, we cannot foresee this. All we can do is appreciate the technology we currently possess and await what lies ahead.
