There are several types of processors (CPUs) based on architecture, purpose, and manufacturer. Here’s a breakdown:
1. Based on Architecture (Instruction Set)
- x86 (32-bit) – Older Intel/AMD processors (e.g., Pentium, early Core series)
- x86-64 (64-bit) – Modern Intel/AMD CPUs (Core i-series, Ryzen, Xeon, etc.)
- ARM – Used in smartphones, tablets, and some laptops (Snapdragon, Apple M-series, Exynos)
- RISC-V – Open-source, emerging competitor to ARM and x86
- PowerPC – Used in older Macs, gaming consoles (like PS3)
2. Based on Purpose
- Desktop Processors – Intel Core (i3, i5, i7, i9), AMD Ryzen
- Server/Workstation CPUs – Intel Xeon, AMD EPYC, Apple M-series (Mac Studio/Pro)
- Mobile Processors – Qualcomm Snapdragon, Apple A-series, MediaTek Dimensity
- Embedded Processors – Raspberry Pi (ARM), IoT chips
- Gaming Consoles – Custom AMD chips (PS5, Xbox Series X), Nvidia Tegra (Nintendo Switch)
3. Based on Manufacturer
- Intel – Core, Xeon, Atom, Pentium, Celeron
- AMD – Ryzen, Threadripper, EPYC, Athlon
- Apple – M1, M2, M3 (ARM-based)
- Qualcomm – Snapdragon (for mobile devices)
- MediaTek – Dimensity, Helio (mobile)
- Samsung – Exynos (found in some Galaxy devices)
- Nvidia – Tegra (used in AI, automotive, and Nintendo Switch)
