Intel Core i5-10400 vs Intel Core i7-8700

The Intel Core i7-8700, based on the Coffee Lake S architecture and manufactured in 14 nm, was introduced in late 2017 as a powerful processor for demanding users and gaming.

It features 6 cores, 12 threads, 12 MB of Level 3 cache, and a maximum memory bandwidth of 43 GB/s. Its Thermal Design Power (TDP) is 65 watts, and the integrated graphics unit is the Intel UHD Graphics 630. It supports PCIe 3.0. The Intel Core i5-10400, part of the newer Comet Lake S family and also manufactured in 14 nm, was launched in mid-2020.

It aimed for balanced performance and a good price-performance ratio in the mainstream segment. Like the Intel Core i7-8700, it has 6 cores, 12 threads, 12 MB of Level 3 cache, and the Intel UHD Graphics 630 with 43 GB/s memory bandwidth. This processor also has a TDP of 65 watts and uses PCIe 3.0.

In single-core performance, both processors are very similar, with the Intel Core i7-8700 showing a minimal, non-significant advantage. However, in multi-core performance, the Intel Core i5-10400 significantly surpasses the Intel Core i7-8700 in modern benchmarks, with an improvement of over twenty percent.

For gaming, both offer a similar experience due to comparable single-core performance; the integrated graphics unit is not intended for demanding gaming. Both CPUs have a Thermal Design Power (TDP) of 65 watts, indicating similar energy efficiency and comparable cooling requirements. The Intel Core i5-10400 offers a better price-performance ratio in modern applications due to its improved multi-core performance.

For multi-threaded tasks, it is the superior choice, while for gaming or general use, both processors represent solid options.