Intel Core i3-8100 vs Intel Core i3-4170

The Intel Core i3-8100, based on the Coffee Lake S architecture (14 nm), is for mainstream desktops. It offers four physical cores and four threads, supports PCIe 3.0, 6 MB of Level 3 Cache, and Intel UHD Graphics 630 with 38 GB/s memory bandwidth.

The Intel Core i3-4170 (Haswell S, 22 nm) targeted entry-level desktops. It features two physical cores and four threads (Hyper-Threading), supports PCIe 3.0, 3 MB of Level 3 Cache, and Intel HD Graphics 4400 with 26 GB/s memory bandwidth.

Performance Comparison and Gaming Scenarios The Intel Core i3-8100 significantly outperforms the Intel Core i3-4170 in single-core and multi-core performance (over 10 percent higher performance). Its newer architecture and more physical cores are responsible for this.

For gaming, the Intel Core i3-8100 is the better choice, as higher performance and core count enable smoother frame rates. The integrated graphics are also superior. Power Consumption and Price-Performance Ratio Thanks to the 14 nm manufacturing process, the Intel Core i3-8100 operates more efficiently per unit of performance than the 22 nm Intel Core i3-4170.

The Intel Core i3-8100's price-performance ratio is better, as its higher computing power justifies a potentially higher used market price. Summary and Recommendation The Intel Core i3-8100 is the superior processor for most use cases, from productivity to light gaming. The Intel Core i3-4170 is primarily suitable for very basic tasks or as a cost-effective upgrade for existing Haswell systems.