AMD Ryzen 9 AI vs Intel Core Ultra 9 HX: Which Chip Powers Creators Best?
If you’re a content creator shopping for a high-performance laptop in 2025, chances are you’ve come across machines powered by AMD’s Ryzen 9 AI HX 370 and Intel’s Core Ultra 9 285HX. These top-tier CPUs are at the heart of premium creator laptops like the ASUS ProArt P16 and the Dell XPS 16, promising blazing performance, AI enhancements, and serious multitasking muscle. But which one actually delivers the better experience?
Let’s dive into a real-world, benchmark-backed comparison.
Specifications Overview
| Feature | AMD Ryzen 9 AI HX 370 | Intel Core Ultra 9 285HX |
|---|---|---|
| Cores/Threads | 12C/24T (8P+4E) | 16C/22T (6P+8E+2LPE) |
| Process | 4nm | Intel 7 (10nm Enhanced) |
| Base/Boost Clock | 3.4 GHz / Up to 5.1 GHz | 2.9 GHz / Up to 5.1 GHz |
| GPU | Radeon 890M | Intel Arc |
| AI NPU | XDNA2 (50+ TOPS AI engine) | Intel NPU (Up to 10 TOPS) |
| TDP Range | 45-75W | 45-65W |
Performance Benchmarks (Real-World Data)
Multicore & Content Creation
- Geekbench 6 Multi-Core: Intel 285HX leads by ~22%, thanks to its higher core count.
- Cinebench R24 Multi: Intel again holds a slight edge in raw rendering power.
- PCMark Digital Content Creation:
- AMD Ryzen HX 370 (ASUS ProArt P16): ~15,187
- Intel Core Ultra 9 (Dell XPS 16): ~14,500
Efficiency & Sustained Loads
- In 15W power-limited scenarios, AMD’s HX 370 scored 69% higher in sustained rendering benchmarks—great for mobile workflows.
- Ryzen also shows a slight edge in thermal scaling during prolonged 4K video exports.
GPU Pairing & AI Capabilities
- Ryzen systems are more often paired with NVIDIA RTX 5070/4060, enhancing ray-traced rendering and CUDA-based workloads.
- Intel’s NPU lags AMD’s XDNA2 in AI acceleration—AMD offers 5x higher TOPS for AI workflows.
Thermals and Noise
- Intel Core Ultra 9: Tends to run cooler and quieter under similar workloads, especially in devices like the Dell XPS 16.
- AMD Ryzen HX 370: Gets warmer and louder during intensive tasks but maintains higher sustained throughput.
Ideal Use Cases
| Creator Type | Better Pick | Why |
| Video Editors | AMD Ryzen 9 AI HX 370 | Better in sustained high-load tasks |
| 3D Animators | Intel Core Ultra 9 285HX | Faster burst performance |
| AI/ML Developers | AMD Ryzen 9 AI HX 370 | Higher TOPS, better NPU support |
| Audio Producers | Intel Core Ultra 9 285HX | Lower noise levels |
| On-the-Go Creators | AMD Ryzen 9 AI HX 370 | Higher efficiency at lower power |
Verdict: Choose Based on Your Workflow
Both CPUs are excellent, but their strengths differ. Intel’s Core Ultra 9 285HX excels in burst-heavy workloads and keeps systems quieter—great for fast-paced editing or music production. On the other hand, AMD’s Ryzen 9 AI HX 370 wins in long-form rendering, AI workflows, and battery-sensitive use cases.
If your workflow is GPU-accelerated and AI-integrated, the AMD route—especially in something like the ASUS ProArt P16—is the better choice. For users needing cooler, quieter laptops with high burst output, Intel’s Core Ultra 9 285HX still leads.
Whichever chip you choose, 2025’s creator laptops are seriously powerful. Just make sure the one you pick matches your creative grind.
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