AMD Ryzen Embedded R2312 vs Intel Processor N97 Comparison

The Verdict

The data shows a clear split based on workload. For sustained multi-threaded rendering, the AMD Ryzen Embedded R2312 is the superior choice, leading by 15.3% in Cinebench R23 multi-core. For single-thread performance and lighter multi-core tasks, the Intel Processor N97 dominates, with a 51.3% lead in Cinebench R23 single-core and a 29.4% lead in Cinebench R15 multi-core. The database results indicate that the Intel Processor N97 wins 2 out of 3 head-to-head benchmarks, but the AMD chip wins the more demanding Cinebench R23 multi-core test. Purchasers should select the AMD Ryzen Embedded R2312 for applications that stress all cores over a long duration, while the Intel Processor N97 suits general-purpose use, especially where single-threaded responsiveness is prioritized.

Architecture Differences

The two processors come from different architectural philosophies. The AMD Ryzen Embedded R2312 is based on the Zen+ architecture, codenamed Picasso, and belongs to the Ryzen Embedded 2000 series generation. It is manufactured on a 12 nm process at GlobalFoundries, with a substantial transistor count of 4,940 million and a die size of 210 mm². The Intel Processor N97 uses the Gracemont architecture, part of the Alder Lake-N generation, and is built on a 10 nm process at Intel. Interestingly, the Intel chip has no recorded transistor or die size data in the database.

Cache layouts differ markedly. The AMD chip features a per-core L1 cache of 96 KB, per-core L2 cache of 512 KB, and a shared L3 cache of 4 MB. The Intel chip has the same per-core L1 cache of 96 KB, but shares a 2 MB L2 cache across all cores and a larger 6 MB shared L3 cache. This structural difference contributes to the distinct performance profiles recorded in the benchmarks.

Memory support and expansion capabilities also diverge. The AMD supports DDR4 memory in a dual-channel configuration, while the Intel supports both DDR4 and DDR5 but only in a single-channel configuration. Both record the same memory bandwidth at 38.4 GB/s, though the channel arrangements differ. ECC memory is supported on the AMD but not on the Intel. For PCIe, the AMD offers Gen 3 with 8 CPU-only lanes, while the Intel offers Gen 3 with 9 CPU-only lanes. The integrated graphics differ as well: the AMD uses Radeon Vega 3, while the Intel uses UHD Graphics 730.

Head-to-Head Benchmarks

The recorded head-to-head data reveals a nuanced performance picture. In Cinebench R15 multi-core, the Intel Processor N97 scores 479, which is 29.4% ahead of the AMD Ryzen Embedded R2312's 338. This shows that in this legacy test, the Intel chip's four physical cores outperform the AMD's two cores with simultaneous multithreading.

The Cinebench R23 multi-core test tells a different story. The AMD Ryzen Embedded R2312 scores 3359, while the Intel Processor N97 scores 2913. This gives the AMD a 15.3% advantage. This result is particularly notable because the AMD has only 2 cores and 4 threads, while the Intel has 4 cores and 4 threads. The Zen+ architecture's efficiency in sustained workloads appears to yield a significant win in this modern multi-threaded test.

The single-core difference is the most dramatic. In Cinebench R23 single-core, the Intel Processor N97 scores 973, while the AMD Ryzen Embedded R2312 scores only 474. This is a 51.3% deficit for the AMD chip. The Gracemont architecture on the Intel clearly delivers far superior single-threaded performance, likely due to the higher boost clock of 3.60 GHz compared to the AMD's 3.50 GHz, combined with architectural efficiency.

Specification Differences

The database records several key differences between the two processors. The AMD Ryzen Embedded R2312 has 2 cores and 4 threads, while the Intel Processor N97 has 4 cores and 4 threads. The AMD's base clock is 2.70 GHz with a boost clock of 3.50 GHz. The Intel has a base clock listed as 2000.00 (interpreted as 2.00 GHz) and a boost clock of 3.60 GHz.

Thermal design power differs, with the AMD rated at 15 watts and the Intel at 12 watts. The sockets are distinct: the AMD uses AMD Socket FP5, while the Intel uses Intel BGA 1264.

Cache configuration varies as described above: the AMD has 512 KB L2 per core and 4 MB shared L3, while the Intel has 2 MB shared L2 and 6 MB shared L3. The memory bus is dual-channel for AMD and single-channel for Intel, though both record the same 38.4 GB/s bandwidth. ECC memory support exists only on the AMD.

Production status is active for both. The AMD was released on 2022-06-20, and the Intel on 2023-01-02. The market segment differs: the AMD is classified as Desktop, while the Intel is classified as Mobile. The database records the AMD's part number as YE2312C4T2OFH and the Intel's as SRMLM.

FAQ

Q: Which processor is faster in single-core workloads?

A: The Intel Processor N97 is significantly faster. In Cinebench R23 single-core, it scores 973 versus 474 for the AMD, a 51.3% advantage. The Intel also has a higher boost clock at 3.60 GHz versus 3.50 GHz.

Q: Which processor has better multi-core performance?

A: It depends on the test. The Intel wins in Cinebench R15 multi-core with 479 versus 338 (a 29.4% lead). However, the AMD wins in the more modern Cinebench R23 multi-core test, scoring 3359 versus 2913, a 15.3% advantage.

Q: How many cores and threads does each processor have?

A: The AMD Ryzen Embedded R2312 has 2 cores and 4 threads. The Intel Processor N97 has 4 cores and 4 threads.

Q: Do these processors support ECC memory?

A: Yes, the AMD Ryzen Embedded R2312 supports ECC memory. The Intel Processor N97 does not support ECC memory.

Q: What is the difference in memory channel support?

A: The AMD uses dual-channel memory, while the Intel uses single-channel memory. Both record the same maximum memory bandwidth of 38.4 GB/s in the database.

Q: Which has a higher boost clock speed?

A: The Intel Processor N97 has a slightly higher boost clock at 3.60 GHz, compared to the AMD's 3.50 GHz.

Where Each One Wins

The AMD Ryzen Embedded R2312 wins in the Cinebench R23 multi-core test with a 15.3% margin. This indicates a sustainable advantage in modern multi-threaded applications that can utilize the architecture's deeper processing capabilities over time. Users running long compile jobs, video encoding, or other workloads that stress all cores for extended periods should favor the AMD. The AMD also offers dual-channel memory and ECC support, which is beneficial for data integrity in embedded or server-like applications. Its process node is older at 12 nm, but the larger die and higher transistor count suggest a more robust design for these tasks.

The Intel Processor N97 wins in Cinebench R15 multi-core and Cinebench R23 single-core. The single-core lead of 51.3% is massive and will directly benefit everyday tasks like web browsing, office applications, and light coding. The R15 multi-core win of 29.4% further shows a strong showing in older multi-threaded benchmarks that may be more representative of typical desktop workloads. The Intel's larger L3 cache (6 MB shared versus 4 MB shared) and higher boost clock support these wins. The Intel is also 3 watts lower in TDP, which is relevant for mobile or constrained thermal environments. The market segment is classified as Mobile, which suggests the Intel is intended for portable purposes, while the AMD is for desktop deployments.