Quick Answer
The AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 and Ryzen 9 8945HS are both high-performance mobile processors, but they belong to different generations. The Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 is a newer chip featuring a more advanced neural processing unit (NPU) for AI tasks and a newer CPU architecture, while the Ryzen 9 8945HS is a powerful processor from the previous generation with a strong focus on traditional CPU and integrated graphics performance.
AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 vs AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS: Full Comparison
Introduction
Choosing the right processor for a laptop involves understanding the specific strengths and technological advancements of each option. This comparison examines two notable AMD mobile processors: the newer Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 and the previous-generation Ryzen 9 8945HS. We will analyze their architectures, performance profiles, and key features to highlight where they differ and where they are similar, helping you understand which might align better with different computing needs.
Architecture and Manufacturing Process
The fundamental difference between these processors lies in their underlying technology. The Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 is built on AMD’s newer “Zen 5” CPU architecture and is typically manufactured using a more advanced 4nm process. In contrast, the Ryzen 9 8945HS is based on the “Zen 4” architecture and is generally built on a 4nm process as well, but with the older design. The newer architecture in the HX 370 aims to provide improvements in instructions per cycle (IPC), which can lead to better performance at similar clock speeds.
- Ryzen AI 9 HX 370: Features the newer Zen 5 CPU cores and a 4nm process.
- Ryzen 9 8945HS: Utilizes the previous-generation Zen 4 CPU cores on a 4nm process.
Core Configuration and CPU Performance
Both chips offer a high core count suitable for demanding multitasking and content creation. The Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 typically features a 12-core, 24-thread design. The Ryzen 9 8945HS is an 8-core, 16-thread processor. While core count is higher on the HX 370, the real-world performance difference depends on the workload; the newer architecture may offer greater efficiency and speed per core.
- Core/Thread Count: The HX 370 generally offers more cores and threads (12C/24T) compared to the 8945HS (8C/16T).
- Clock Speeds: Both have high boost clock speeds, but the base and boost frequencies differ between the models, with the HX 370 often having a slightly higher maximum boost potential.
- Target Workloads: Both are capable of handling intensive tasks like video editing, 3D rendering, and software compilation.
Integrated Graphics and AI Performance
This is a major area of differentiation. The Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 includes AMD’s RDNA 3.5-based integrated graphics and, more notably, a significantly more powerful Neural Processing Unit (NPU). The Ryzen 9 8945HS features capable RDNA 3 graphics and an earlier-generation NPU.
- Integrated Graphics (iGPU): The HX 370’s RDNA 3.5 iGPU is an evolution of the 8945HS’s RDNA 3, potentially offering better gaming and creative application performance.
- NPU and AI Acceleration: The HX 370’s NPU is rated for a higher TOPS (Trillions of Operations Per Second), making it more suited for on-device AI tasks like real-time language translation, advanced noise cancellation, and AI-assisted creative tools.
- Platform Support: The HX 370 is part of the “Ryzen AI” platform, which is designed with a stronger focus on enabling and optimizing AI-powered features in laptops.
Power, Thermals, and Platform Features
Both processors are designed for high-performance laptops, but their thermal and platform characteristics can influence the design of the devices they power.
- Thermal Design Power (TDP): Both chips have configurable TDP ranges, often starting around 28W and going up to higher power limits for maximum performance in robust laptop designs.
- Memory Support: The Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 typically supports faster LPDDR5x memory, while the 8945HS supports LPDDR5 and DDR5. This can impact bandwidth for both the CPU and iGPU.
- Connectivity: The newer HX 370 platform may offer support for more modern connectivity standards, such as Wi-Fi 7 and newer versions of Bluetooth.
Comparison Table
| Feature | AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 | AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS |
|---|---|---|
| CPU Architecture | Zen 5 | Zen 4 |
| Process Node | 4nm | 4nm |
| Core / Thread Count | 12 Cores / 24 Threads | 8 Cores / 16 Threads |
| Max Boost Clock | Up to 5.1 GHz (model dependent) | Up to 5.2 GHz |
| Integrated Graphics | AMD Radeon 890M (RDNA 3.5) | AMD Radeon 780M (RDNA 3) |
| NPU (AI Engine) | AMD Ryzen AI (50 TOPS) | AMD Ryzen AI (16 TOPS) |
| Memory Support | LPDDR5x-7500, DDR5-5600 | LPDDR5x-6400, DDR5-5600 |
| PCIe Support | PCIe 5.0 | PCIe 4.0 |
| Platform | AMD Ryzen AI (Strix Point) | AMD Hawk Point |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the main difference between the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 and Ryzen 9 8945HS?
The primary differences are the CPU architecture (Zen 5 vs. Zen 4) and the strength of the Neural Processing Unit (NPU). The Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 has a significantly more powerful NPU designed for next-generation on-device AI applications.
Which processor is better for gaming?
Both have capable integrated graphics. The Ryzen AI 9 HX 370, with its newer RDNA 3.5-based Radeon 890M graphics, generally provides better gaming performance than the Radeon 780M in the 8945HS. For serious gaming, a laptop with a discrete graphics card paired with either CPU is typically recommended.
Is the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 worth the upgrade over the 8945HS?
This depends on your needs. If your work involves AI-assisted tasks, or you prioritize having the latest CPU and iGPU architecture for potential performance and efficiency gains, the HX 370 is the newer technology. For general high-performance computing, the 8945HS remains a very capable processor.
Do both processors support Windows Studio Effects and other AI features?
Yes, both have dedicated NPUs that support Windows Studio Effects like background blur and eye contact correction. However, the more powerful NPU in the HX 370 can handle more complex or multiple AI tasks simultaneously and is better positioned for future, more demanding AI software.
Final Thoughts
The AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 represents the next step in mobile processing, bringing a newer CPU architecture, enhanced integrated graphics, and a substantial leap in dedicated AI processing power. The AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS is a proven, high-performance chip from the previous generation that continues to offer robust performance for demanding applications. The choice between them often comes down to the specific laptop models available, their other specifications, and whether the user’s workflow is likely to benefit from the advanced AI capabilities and newer platform features of the HX 370. For tasks centered on traditional computing power, both processors offer a high level of performance.