Intel Core i5-4690 vs Intel Core i5-3470

The Intel Core i5-4690 (Haswell S) and the Intel Core i5-3470 (Ivy Bridge S) are desktop processors for the mainstream market.

Both CPUs were manufactured using the 22nm process, feature four cores and four threads, and utilize PCIe 3.0. They offer a maximum memory bandwidth of 26 GB/s as well as 6 MB of Level 3 Cache. Thanks to its Haswell architecture, the Intel Core i5-4690 demonstrates significantly higher performance in single-core and multi-core applications than the Intel Core i5-3470, which means better efficiency per clock cycle.

For gaming, the Intel Core i5-4690 is superior due to higher IPC and clock speeds. The integrated graphics units, Intel HD Graphics 4600 in the Intel Core i5-4690 and Intel HD Graphics 2500 in the Intel Core i5-3470, are only suitable for basic requirements and very old games. The Intel Core i5-4690 has a TDP of 84W, and the Intel Core i5-3470 has a TDP of 77W.

Despite a slightly higher TDP, the Intel Core i5-4690 offers improved performance per watt. On the used market, the Intel Core i5-4690 tends to be slightly more expensive but delivers better value for money for more demanding users. The Intel Core i5-3470 is a more cost-effective alternative.

In summary, the Intel Core i5-4690 offers higher computing power, especially in single-core applications and gaming. The Intel Core i5-3470 is a solid, cheaper option for basic office and media tasks. For a noticeably better user experience, the Intel Core i5-4690 is the more recommendable choice.