Intel Core i3-6100 vs Intel Processor N95

The Intel Core i3-6100, introduced in the third quarter of 2015 based on the Skylake S architecture, targeted mainstream desktop PCs.

Manufactured using a 14nm process, it features 2 cores and 4 threads, a 3 MB L3 cache, PCIe 3.0, and a maximum memory bandwidth of 34 GB/s. The integrated Intel HD Graphics 530 provides basic graphics performance. Its TDP is 51W. Single-core performance is sufficient for basic applications, but multi-core performance is limited.

As an older model, it is only available used, with moderate price-performance for modern tasks. The Intel Processor N95, introduced in the first quarter of 2023, is based on the modern Alder Lake N architecture and is designed for energy-efficient entry-level desktops and mini-PCs.

Manufactured using a 10nm process, it offers 4 cores with 4 threads, 4 MB L2 cache, 6 MB L3 cache, PCIe 3.0, and a maximum memory bandwidth of 38 GB/s. The Intel UHD Graphics 16 EUs (Alder Lake) is integrated. Its TDP of 15W makes it significantly more energy-efficient. It delivers noticeably higher single-core performance in Cinebench R23 and significantly better multi-core performance in Geekbench 6 than the Intel Core i3-6100.

For gaming, neither processor is suitable for demanding titles; the Intel Processor N95 offers somewhat better performance for simple games due to its newer graphics unit. The Intel Core i3-6100 is recommended for replacement in existing, older systems due to its compatibility and low used cost.

The Intel Processor N95 is ideal for new, energy-conscious systems for office, browsing, and media playback, thanks to its modern architecture, better performance, and high energy efficiency.