Intel Core i5-10400 vs Intel Processor N100

The Intel Core i5-10400 (Comet Lake S, 14 nm) is a mainstream desktop processor with 6 cores, 12 threads, and 12 MB L3 cache, ideal for productivity and multitasking.

Its Intel UHD Graphics 630 and PCIe 3.0 connectivity (43 GB/s max. memory bandwidth) provide a solid foundation for standard desktops. The Intel Processor N100 (Alder Lake N, 10 nm) is an energy-efficient processor for compact systems.

With 4 cores, 4 threads, 6 MB L3 cache, and 4 MB L2 cache, it is suitable for basic tasks and media playback in mini-PCs. The Intel UHD Graphics 24 EUs (Alder Lake) and PCIe 3.0 connectivity (38 GB/s max. memory bandwidth) emphasize its low power consumption. In single-core and multi-core benchmarks, the Intel Core i5-10400 significantly outperforms the Intel Processor N100.

For more demanding software and gaming, the Intel Core i5-10400 is the better choice thanks to its higher core count and clock speeds. The Intel Processor N100 offers only minimal possibilities here. Power consumption is a key difference: The Intel Processor N100 has an extremely low TDP, enabling fanless designs and low operating costs.

The Intel Core i5-10400 has a higher TDP. In terms of price, the Intel Core i5-10400 delivers more absolute computing power, while the Intel Processor N100 represents a very cost-effective and energy-efficient entry-level option.