Intel Core i3-7100 vs Intel Core i5-7300U

The Intel Core i3-7100 (Kaby Lake S) is a desktop processor designed for entry-level PCs. It features 2 cores and 4 threads, manufactured using a 14 nm process, and has 3 MB of Level 3 cache as well as PCIe 3.0 support.

Its integrated Intel HD Graphics 630 and maximum memory bandwidth of 38 GB/s support everyday applications. In comparison, the Intel Core i5-7300U (Kaby Lake U) is a mobile processor for notebooks, also manufactured using a 14 nm process with 2 cores and 4 threads, and 3 MB of Level 3 cache.

It utilizes Intel HD Graphics 620 and offers a maximum memory bandwidth of 34 GB/s. Regarding performance, the Intel Core i3-7100 shows a noticeable superiority in single-core performance. Multi-core performance is comparable for both processors. Both are only marginally suitable for gaming; the Intel Core i3-7100 offers a slight advantage with its HD Graphics 630.

A crucial difference lies in power consumption: The Intel Core i3-7100 has a higher TDP and is designed for desktop systems, while the Intel Core i5-7300U, with its lower TDP, is optimized for energy efficiency and battery life in mobile devices. The Intel Core i3-7100 was originally intended for cost-effective desktop systems, and the Intel Core i5-7300U for mobile devices, where the price-performance ratio was evaluated as part of the laptop's overall package.

On today's used market, prices vary widely. In summary, the Intel Core i3-7100 offers more raw performance for desktop applications. The Intel Core i5-7300U is the better choice for mobile devices where energy efficiency and battery life are priorities.