Intel Core i5-4590S vs Intel Core i5-4590

The Intel Core i5-4590 and the Intel Core i5-4590S are Intel Haswell desktop processors for the mainstream market.

Both are based on the 22-nm Haswell S architecture with four cores, four threads, 6 MB L3 cache, Intel HD Graphics 4600, and PCIe 3.0 (26 GB/s memory bandwidth). The 4590S is optimized for energy efficiency. The Intel Core i5-4590 shows slightly higher single- and multi-core performance in benchmarks than its "S" counterpart; the differences are less than ten percent.

For gaming, it offers comparable performance, without 3D cache. Its higher Thermal Design Power (TDP) potentially enables more stable clock rates for everyday tasks and light gaming, but entails higher power consumption. The Intel Core i5-4590S delivers very similar single- and multi-core performance; benchmark differences are minimal.

Performance is also comparable in gaming scenarios. Its crucial feature is the lower TDP, which leads to lower power consumption and reduced heat generation. This makes it ideal for compact systems or HTPCs where energy efficiency is a priority. Both are primarily available on the used market as older processors.

The Intel Core i5-4590 offers slightly higher peak performance for standard applications. The Intel Core i5-4590S is recommended for energy-efficient, compact, and quiet systems.