I've always used a MB with built in graphics as I only use my computer for internet and business applications. I've never noticed a problem. I'm thinking about a new build and wondering if the cpu's with the integrated graphics such as the AMD A6-6400K would be a step up over the mb's with built in graphics?
Since I do no gaming or other high intensity graphics applications are ther any downsides to these type cpu's?
No, not really. I recommend integrated gpu's for my users that are just using the web and email. The A6 has a integrated HD 8470D gpu. I think that is very similar to the Intel HD4000 series. It should give you HD graphic capabilities at 1920x1200, possoble as high as 2560x1600 depending on the monitor.
You do not get the high frame rate of a new gen gpu in a 16x pcie slot.
Assuming you're talking desktop, yeah, it probably would.
For what you do, a processor with the IGP (integrated Graphics Processor) chip will suit you fine. As you said, you aren't a gamer so a dedicated graphics card probably wouldn't benefit you much.
My laptop has an Intel i7-3517U which has an Intel 4000 IGP and it works very well for what I do with it. Outside of gaming, I do all sorts of stuff including Photo editing with Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom, latest versions, no problems.
And though I've not tested it, I'm quite sure I could do some light gaming on it. In fact in one of the reviews on it someone ran Skyrim on it and it played at mid setting, although I'd not attempt to play the entire game on it, I got the point.
Don't know anything about AMD, but if you get a Haswell processor, the IGP in it would be even better, and handles gaming better - Tested: How much has Intel really improved integrated graphics with Haswell's HD 4600? | Digital Trends
I know you said you don't do gaming but the reason I bring it up is to show these processors with the IGP chips should be able to handle your needs no problem.
Good luck
Thanks so much for the info. Things have certainly changed since my last build about 3 years ago, and the idea of integrated graphics is great for someone like myself. Now is a matter of finding the right processor and MB. I'm a little disappointed looking at some of the low ratings of the AMD mb's on Newegg. Think I might entertain going back to Intel.
One other question regarding the integrated graphics. I currently run dual monitors, one off the VGA port the other off the DVI port. Will I be able to do the same with integrated graphics cpu's? In fact many of the boards offer all 3, VGA, DMI, and HDMI. Can all 3 ports be used at the same time??
The i5-i7 Intell should have a HD4400+ igp and that's a good step up from the AMD A6 igp. The A6 cost $50, a i7 starts at $300.
Step up to the $100 A8 amd chip and you get a Radeon HD 8570D igp.
AMD A series info.
Meaningless, new users using intel setups on amd, it's not a pretty picture.low ratings of the AMD mb's on Newegg
If you want a powerful APU and Motherboard use this CPU Newegg.com - AMD A10-7700K Kaveri 3.5GHz Socket FM2+ 95W Quad-Core Desktop Processor AMD Radeon R7 series AD770KXBJABOX
Newegg.com - ASUS A55BM-A/USB3 FM2+ / FM2 AMD A55 (Hudson D2) HDMI USB 3.0 Micro ATX AMD Motherboard you will be good to go more powerful then HD4000 and will play Battlefield 4 if you wish to play Video games mind you i would get the highest rated ram and about 16gb of it to be a true powerhouse even 8Gb should suit you but the more ram the better the performance
Mind you AMD just released new APU's last quarter
Which ever way you go, do your research. We all have opinions, but yours is the final since you have to pay for, and live with it.
I've no advice on AMD processors since I've never used one, but an alternative should you go Intel...
Intel Core i5-4670 3.4GHz Quad-Core CPU & combo, $487 at Newegg - This is a comination kit - Processor, Motherboard, RAM, Power Supply, but the key is the I5-4670 processor, which is $219 by itself. Intel chips have always been more expensive than AMD chips, but they tend to be better performers.
The above is merely an example as there are many ways to go - AMD; Intel; more power, go up, less power, go down, stay at that lever but different components/combos.
The choices can be overwhelming, but this is where a little research and thought comes into play. I would start with what you want, followed by a budget, and go from there.
Good luck.
While what you do doesn't need a GPU card, I think one is better than one embedded in the CPU/APU. You don't have to spend 100's to get one that supports multiple monitors. There are many good GPUs under $100.
Newegg.com - Computer Hardware, Video Cards & Video Devices, Desktop Graphics Cards, $50 - $75
I haven't got to play with one of these new AMD's with the new IGP, I've read they are pretty darn good. They look very good for a budget build.
I have a Lian Li PC70 I've had for years, I've added a side window and some light custom touches and I hate to part with it. It has a DFI 64x2 Nforce4 mobo that is very outdated. A amd budget cpu may be just the ticket for it. It's got a good psu, ssd's usb3 and a 7750 gpu, a new cpu would add new life to it.
Based on the OP's stated needs, the IGP would be the way to go. They could always purchase a card later if they needed more power.
And not trying to be funny but I'm not sure most of those cards are that far above what say the IGP in the Haswell's offer in their 4600 IGP. And you know I'm a photog/gamer so I get it, but not everyone needs a dedicated GPU. The OP appears to be one of them.
Again, you can always get a card later if more GPU processing power is needed, and in this way, you don't have to skimp.
Anyway it's always good to have a myriad of opinions; that's a good thing
Peace
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