Intel Core i3-7020U vs Intel Processor N100

The Intel Core i3-7020U, based on the Kaby Lake U architecture, was introduced in 2017 for energy-efficient laptops with basic requirements.

The Intel Processor N100, introduced in 2023, uses the more modern Alder Lake N architecture and targets energy-efficient devices such as mini-PCs and entry-level laptops.

The Intel Core i3-7020U is manufactured in 14 nm, has 2 cores and 4 threads, and 3 MB of L3 cache. The Intel Processor N100 uses a more advanced 10 nm process, offers 4 energy-efficient cores (Gracemont) without Hyperthreading, 4 MB of L2 and 6 MB of L3 cache. In terms of performance, the Intel Processor N100 significantly outperforms the Intel Core i3-7020U.

In the Cinebench R23 single-core benchmark, the Intel Processor N100 is more than twice as fast. In the Geekbench 6 single-core and multi-core tests, it is also approximately 47% and 87% ahead of the older model, respectively, promising a noticeably smoother user experience. Both processors are only very limitedly suitable for gaming.

The Intel Core i3-7020U features Intel HD Graphics 620. The Intel Processor N100 offers a more modern integrated graphics unit with Intel UHD Graphics 24 EUs (Alder Lake) and a higher maximum memory bandwidth of 38 GB/s compared to 30 GB/s, which gives it an advantage in very light games and multimedia playback.

Energy efficiency is a clear advantage of the Intel Processor N100 with a low TDP of 6 watts, compared to the typical 15 watts of the Intel Core i3-7020U. This enables fanless designs and longer battery life. The performance-per-watt ratio of the Intel Processor N100 is significantly better, making it the superior choice for new, energy-conscious systems.

The Intel Core i3-7020U is now only relevant in extremely inexpensive older devices.