Intel Celeron N3160 vs Intel Processor N150

The Intel Celeron N3160 was introduced in the first quarter of 2016 and is based on the Braswell architecture.

It targets the market for basic notebooks, mini-PCs, and embedded systems that need to handle fundamental computing tasks. Manufactured using a 14nm process, this processor features four cores and four threads. It offers 2 MB of L3 cache and the integrated Intel HD Graphics 400. For connectivity, it supports PCIe 2.0 and achieves a maximum memory bandwidth of 26 GB/s.

Its performance is sufficient for very simple applications. The Intel Processor N150 appeared in the first quarter of 2023 and uses the Twin Lake architecture.

It is designed for energy-efficient entry-level computers and mini-PCs, offering improved performance for everyday tasks. Manufacturing is done using a more advanced 7nm process, and the processor is also equipped with four cores and four threads. It features 4 MB of L2 cache and 6 MB of L3 cache. The integrated graphics solution is the Intel UHD Graphics 24 EUs (Alder Lake).

This processor offers support for PCIe 3.0 and achieves a maximum memory bandwidth of 38 GB/s, contributing to significantly higher overall performance. In a direct comparison, the Intel Processor N150 shows significantly better single-core and multi-core performance, supported by its more modern architecture and more efficient manufacturing process.

This performance increase is clearly noticeable in more demanding applications. In gaming, too, the Intel Processor N150 is superior to the Intel Celeron N3160, thanks to its more powerful Intel UHD Graphics and higher memory bandwidth of 38 GB/s, compared to the Intel Celeron N3160's Intel HD Graphics and 26 GB/s.

Both processors are characterized by low power consumption, typically with similar low TDP values of approximately 6W. However, the Intel Processor N150 achieves its higher performance with comparable energy requirements, highlighting its efficiency. Price-wise, the older Intel Celeron N3160, if still available, is extremely inexpensive.

As a more current processor in new systems, the Intel Processor N150 offers significantly better value for money. For any modern basic applications that go beyond the most fundamental tasks, the Intel Processor N150 is the clear recommendation due to its superior computing and graphics performance.

The Intel Celeron N3160 is only justifiable for operating existing legacy systems or projects with extremely low budgets.