Intel Core i5-10400 vs Intel Core i3-14100

The Intel Core i5-10400 (Q2 2020) was aimed at the mainstream market. The Intel Core i3-14100 (Q1 2024) is a modern entry-level processor for general applications.

The Intel Core i5-10400 (Comet Lake S architecture, 14 nm) offers 6 cores, 12 threads, 12 MB L3 cache, Intel UHD Graphics 630 (43 GB/s memory bandwidth, PCIe 3.0). The Intel Core i3-14100 (Raptor Lake S Refresh architecture, 10 nm) features 4 cores, 8 threads, 5 MB L2 cache, 12 MB L3 cache, and Intel UHD Graphics 730 (77 GB/s memory bandwidth, PCIe 5.0).

The Intel Core i3-14100 significantly outperforms the Intel Core i5-10400 in single-core and multi-core performance thanks to its newer architecture. For gaming, the Intel Core i3-14100 is the better choice due to superior single-core performance and PCIe 5.0. Both CPUs have comparable TDP, but the Intel Core i3-14100 is more energy-efficient.

Its overall price-performance ratio is better due to modern features and higher performance. The Intel Core i5-10400 is suitable for basic tasks or budget upgrades of older systems. The Intel Core i3-14100 impresses with superior performance, modern manufacturing, and PCIe 5.0.

For new systems and users who prefer current technology, the Intel Core i3-14100 is the clear recommendation.