Intel Celeron N3160 vs Intel Processor N97

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

It targeted the market for low-cost and energy-efficient devices such as netbooks and entry-level PCs. The Intel Processor N97, based on the modern Alder Lake N architecture, was launched in the first quarter of 2023.

It also targets energy-efficient, but more powerful entry-level devices, including mini-PCs and budget laptops. The Intel Celeron N3160 is manufactured by Intel using a 14nm process and features four cores and four threads. It is equipped with a Level 2 cache of 0 MB and a Level 3 cache of 2 MB.

The Intel Processor N97 is manufactured by Intel using a more advanced 10nm process. It also has four cores and four threads but benefits from a larger Level 2 cache of 4 MB and a Level 3 cache of 6 MB, which significantly improves data processing. In synthetic performance tests, the Intel Celeron N3160 shows basic computing power sufficient for simple, undemanding tasks.

The Intel Processor N97, on the other hand, demonstrates significantly higher single-core and multi-core performance. Its more modern architecture and optimized manufacturing process enable a distinctly superior processing speed in all common applications. The performance differences are substantial and well over 10 percent.

The Intel Celeron N3160 with its Intel HD Graphics 400 and a memory bandwidth of 26 GB/s is not designed for gaming and offers only the bare minimum performance for very old or extremely simple titles. The Intel Processor N97 is equipped with an Intel UHD Graphics 24 EUs (Alder Lake) and a memory bandwidth of 38 GB/s.

This enables noticeably better performance for simple games and smooth video playback but is also not suitable for demanding games. The Intel Celeron N3160 typically has a Thermal Design Power (TDP) of 6 watts. This low power consumption makes it an extremely energy-efficient choice, ideal for fanless systems or devices with long battery life.

The Intel Processor N97 has a higher TDP of approximately 12 watts. Nevertheless, it is still very energy-efficient compared to more powerful CPUs and allows for use in compact form factors with passive or minimal active cooling. The Intel Celeron N3160 is an older processor and is mostly found today in used or very inexpensive devices.

Its price-performance ratio is often suitable for extremely simple, older applications. The Intel Processor N97 offers significantly higher performance for a comparatively small additional cost in new devices, thus representing a better price-performance ratio for modern, everyday applications.

The Intel Celeron N3160 is suitable for scenarios requiring extremely low power consumption and minimal computing power, such as simple office tasks or thin clients in older systems. The Intel Processor N97 offers significantly improved performance and a more modern graphics unit while maintaining good energy efficiency.

It is clearly the better option for general computing tasks, media consumption, and light multitasking in new devices.