Intel Core i3-6100 vs Intel Processor N150

The Intel Core i3-6100, introduced in 2015 under the Skylake S architecture, targeted the mainstream desktop market for office and multimedia.

Manufactured using a 14nm process, it features two cores and four threads and utilizes PCIe 3.0. The Level 3 cache is 3 MB, and the maximum memory bandwidth is 34 GB/s. The integrated Intel HD Graphics 530 was designed for basic graphics tasks. Its Thermal Design Power (TDP) is 51 Watts. The Intel Processor N150, released in the first quarter of 2023 with the Twin Lake architecture, is aimed at energy-efficient entry-level systems, often fanless.

It is manufactured using a more advanced 7nm process and offers four cores and four threads. It also supports PCIe 3.0. With 4 MB of Level 2 and 6 MB of Level 3 cache, as well as a maximum memory bandwidth of 38 GB/s, it is more modernly equipped. The integrated Intel UHD Graphics 24 EUs (Alder Lake) is more efficient.

Its TDP is an extremely low 6.5 Watts. In single-core performance, both processors are very close. In multi-core applications, however, the Intel Processor N150 significantly outperforms the Intel Core i3-6100 with over 25 percent higher performance, due to its core count and newer architecture.

Neither is primarily intended for gaming; the more modern graphics unit of the Intel Processor N150 offers a slight advantage in very light titles. The Intel Core i3-6100 is now only available used, while the Intel Processor N150 is integrated into new, power-saving complete systems, where it offers good value for money for its efficiency.