What Are Laptop Generations and Why Do They Matter?

Laptop generations refer to different versions of laptops that are released over time. It refers to the generation of the central processing unit (CPU) inside the computer. Like the engine in a car, the CPU runs your device. 

Newer cars have more powerful engines, which make a vehicle more efficient. Similarly, each new generation of laptops comes with updated processors that improve speed and performance.

Laptop Processor Generations Explained

Intel and AMD both use different naming styles for their processors across different generations. For example, a label like Intel Core i5-1240P or Intel Core i7-1135G7. The first digits (12 or 11) indicate the generation. The 14th Gen or Intel Core Ultra is the latest Intel Generation, released in 2023-2024. It focuses on accelerating Artificial Intelligence, improving efficiency, and integrating graphics.

AMD uses “Ryzen series” to name its processor generations. For example, Ryzen 1000 series, Ryzen 2000 series and so on. The latest AMD generation is the Ryzen 8000 series, also known as the Ryzen AI, introduced in 2024. It has AI acceleration features.

Newer generations mean:

• Higher Speed: Faster computers that handle multitasking better

   

• Battery Life: Battery efficiency improves with successive generations

   

• Features: Faster RAM, quality graphics

   

How Do Laptop Generations Affect Performance?

We now know what are generations in laptops. Let us see how they really affect device performance:

• Speed and Efficiency: Newer generations have higher processing speeds, multitask more efficiently, and use less power. 

   

• Longer Battery Life: Lower power consumption means battery life improves, and your laptop lasts longer, even while running many apps at once.

   

• Better Graphics: Newer generation devices handle video streaming, gaming and creative work more smoothly.

   

• New Features: Faster RAM, Wi-Fi upgrade, and AI acceleration are possible.

   

• Longevity: Your laptop remains valid longer, and you do not need to upgrade it as often.

   

Which Laptop Generation Should You Choose?

Use the table below as your Laptop CPU generation guide. 

Identify the best laptop generation for performance based on your needs:

Browse the Vijay Sales website to find laptops with the generation that you need:

Where Can You Find the Laptop Generation Details?

1. Product Specifications: On the Vijay Sales online store, check the product page and look for processor details like “13th Gen Intel Core i7-13650HX” or “Intel Core i5-1240P”. The first number after the dash is the generation.

1. System Settings:

    

• Press Windows + Pause/Break

   

• Under Processor, you will see the generation label like Intel (R) Core (TM) i5-1135G7. (11th Generation)

1. Task Manager: Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc →Performance →CPU. It will display the processor model like Ryzen 7 5800H (Ryzen 5th Generation)

    

Conclusion:

While the latest generation of computers is the best, you do not always need to buy them. Older generations might be economical and value-for-money, especially if you are doing only basic tasks like browsing or editing. So, choose your laptop based on your needs.