Intel Celeron N3050 vs Intel Processor N100

The Intel Celeron N3050, introduced in early 2015, targeted the entry-level segment for simple notebooks and mini-PCs.

The Intel Processor N100, available since early 2023, is aimed at energy-efficient desktop and mini-PC systems, as well as embedded applications, with a significantly more modern architecture.

The Intel Celeron N3050 is based on the Braswell architecture, manufactured in 14 nm, with 2 cores and 2 threads. It has 2 MB of Level-3 cache and a maximum memory bandwidth of 26 GB/s. The Intel Processor N100 is manufactured in 10 nm and uses the Alder Lake N architecture with 4 cores and 4 threads.

This newer processor offers 4 MB of Level-2 cache, 6 MB of Level-3 cache, and a maximum memory bandwidth of 38 GB/s. In terms of performance, the Intel Processor N100 significantly outperforms the Intel Celeron N3050 in both single-core and multi-core performance. The N100's more modern architecture, higher core count, and improved efficiency ensure a noticeably smoother user experience for everyday tasks.

Neither processor is primarily designed for gaming scenarios. The Intel Celeron N3050 uses Intel HD Graphics 400. The Intel Processor N100 features Intel UHD Graphics with 24 EUs (Alder Lake), which can offer significantly improved graphics performance for basic tasks or very light games due to its higher memory bandwidth.

Both CPUs are designed for very energy-efficient operation and have a Thermal Design Power (TDP) of 6 watts. This allows for use in fanless systems and contributes to low operating costs. The Intel Processor N100 offers significantly higher performance per watt in this regard. Regarding value for money, the Intel Processor N100 offers superior performance for its typically low price in new systems.

The Intel Celeron N3050 is an end-of-life model found only in older devices. For current applications, the N100 is the clearly better choice, as it delivers more computing power for comparable energy consumption. In summary, the Intel Celeron N3050 is an option for very simple tasks in older devices with minimal energy requirements.

The Intel Processor N100 is the clear recommendation for modern, energy-efficient systems that require significantly better computing power for everyday tasks and media playback.