Intel Core i5-10400 vs Intel Core i5-8400

The Intel Core i5-8400 (Coffee Lake S, 2017) and the Intel Core i5-10400 (Comet Lake S, 2020) are desktop processors for the mainstream market.

Both are manufactured using the 14 nm process and utilize PCIe 3.0 as well as the Intel UHD Graphics 630 with 43 GB/s memory bandwidth. The Intel Core i5-8400 offers 6 cores, 6 threads, and 9 MB of Level 3 cache. The Intel Core i5-10400 also has 6 cores, but 12 threads (Hyper-Threading) and 12 MB of Level 3 cache.

In single-core performance, both are comparable, with the Intel Core i5-10400 showing a marginal advantage. However, in multi-core applications, the Intel Core i5-10400 significantly outperforms the Intel Core i5-8400, making it superior for parallel workloads and gaming.

Its more modern architecture and threads deliver more stable frame rates. Both CPUs have a TDP of 65 watts with similar cooling requirements and comparable typical power consumption. The Intel Core i5-10400 offers better value for money for new systems due to its superior multi-core performance and more modern platform.

The Intel Core i5-8400 is a budget-friendly upgrade option for existing systems and basic tasks. For more demanding applications and gaming, the Intel Core i5-10400 is the more future-proof choice.