Intel Core i3-8100 vs Intel Core i5-6600K

The Intel Core i5-6600K is based on the Skylake S architecture and was introduced as a powerful desktop processor with overclocking capability for enthusiasts and gamers.

The Intel Core i3-8100, on the other hand, comes from the newer Coffee Lake S architecture and was aimed at the mainstream market, seeking balanced performance for everyday tasks and light gaming.

Both processors are manufactured using the 14 nm process. They each have 4 physical cores and 4 threads. The Intel Core i5-6600K offers a Level 3 cache of 6 MB, as does the Intel Core i3-8100. In terms of single-core performance, the Intel Core i5-6600K shows a clear advantage of over 10 percent in Cinebench R23 compared to the Intel Core i3-8100.

This advantage continues with multi-core performance in Cinebench R23, where the Intel Core i5-6600K also achieves values more than 10 percent higher. In Geekbench 6 tests, the performance differences in both single-core and multi-core areas are smaller and below the 10 percent threshold, indicating comparable performance in these specific applications.

For gaming scenarios, the Intel Core i5-6600K, through its K-series and associated overclocking option, can offer superior performance in titles that heavily benefit from single-core performance. The Intel Core i3-8100 benefits from the newer Coffee Lake S architecture, which brings IPC improvements and thus enables solid gaming performance even without overclocking.

PCIe version 3.0 is supported by both CPUs, as is an integrated graphics unit (Intel HD Graphics 530 for the i5-6600K and Intel UHD Graphics 630 for the i3-8100). The Intel Core i5-6600K has a maximum memory bandwidth of 34 GB/s, while the Intel Core i3-8100 achieves 38 GB/s. Information on power consumption and thermal design power (TDP) is not included in the provided data.

Regarding price-performance ratio, the Intel Core i5-6600K originally offered higher peak performance, especially for overclockers, and was positioned in the premium segment. The Intel Core i3-8100 represented a more cost-effective option with good performance for everyday applications.

Current market prices are not available, but both processors can be found on the used market. The Intel Core i5-6600K is characterized by its higher raw performance and overclocking capability, making it a good choice for performance-oriented users and gamers. The Intel Core i3-8100, on the other hand, offers a more efficient, modern architecture and is a solid option for budget-conscious users who want reliable performance without overclocking ambitions.

For gaming enthusiasts willing to utilize the overclocking option, the Intel Core i5-6600K is recommended. For general productivity and gaming without overclocking, with the advantage of a newer architecture, the Intel Core i3-8100 is the preferred choice.