CPU vs Core vs Socket – Difference and Comparison

What is CPU?

Your computer’s brain is known as the central processor unit (CPU). It handles all the instructions your computer receives and coordinates the actions of the computer’s other parts. The CPU is sometimes referred to as the processor or central processor.

The control unit and the arithmetic/logic unit are the two components that make up the CPU. The control unit tells the other parts of the computer what to do and when to do it. The arithmetic/logic unit performs all the calculations and makes all the decisions.

The control unit is made up of the instruction register, the program counter, and the control logic. The instruction register contains the current instruction that is being carried out. The program counter keeps track of which instruction is next.

What is Core?

A core is a central processing unit (CPU) that performs the basic operations of a computer. Instructions from a computer programme are carried out by the hardware in a computer.

A core contains a number of processing units, including an arithmetic logic unit (ALU), a floating-point unit (FPU), and a control unit (CU). A core receives instructions from a computer program and executes those instructions. The instructions are stored in the form of an instruction set.

The control unit controls the sequence of operations that are performed by the core. The memory stores the instructions and data that are used by the core. A core can be either a stand-alone component or it can be part of a multi-core processor.

What is Socket?

A socket is a computer hardware device that provides the mechanical, electrical, and electromagnetic interface between a computer and a network. They are used in Ethernet networks, but can also be used in other types of networks.

Sockets come in a variety of shapes and sizes and can be found in a variety of places, including on the back of computers, in data centres, and in homes. They are made of plastic, metal, or a combination of both.

Sockets can be used to connect a variety of devices to a computer, including printers, scanners, modems, and even storage devices. They can also be used to connect a computer to a network. Sockets can be found in a variety of shapes and sizes.

Difference Between CPU, Core and Socket

  1. A CPU can have multiple cores that work in parallel to increase its computational power.
  2. Cores are faster and more energy efficient than CPUs.
  3. Core processors are faster and more powerful than socket processors.
  4. Core processors tend to have more onboard cache memory than socket processors.
  5. Sockets are physical interfaces between CPUs and motherboards, while CPUs are processors that fit into those sockets.
  6. Sockets have pins that make contact with corresponding contact points on the CPU, while CPUs have pins that make contact with corresponding contact points in the socket.

Comparison Table Between CPU, Core and Socket

Parameters of ComparisonCPUCoreSocket
FunctionIs a microprocessorAdopting a modular structureIs a slot that connects the CPU to the motherboard
SpeedCPU is fasterCore processors are faster and more powerfulThe socket is slower than the CPU and Core
Number of pinsCPU has more pinsMay have different pinsThe socket has fewer pins
PowerRequires a lot of powerIs dependedRequires less amount of power
CostCPU is more expensive than the Core processor and socketThe core is more expensive than a socket and less expensive than a CPUSocket is cheaper