Intel Core i5-5200U vs Intel Processor N97

The Intel Core i5-5200U, introduced in the first quarter of 2015 based on the Broadwell U architecture (14 nm), targeted energy-efficient Ultrabooks.

It has 2 cores, 4 threads, 3 MB Level 3 Cache, and integrates an Intel HD Graphics 5500 with a maximum memory bandwidth of 26 GB/s. The Intel Processor N97, released in the first quarter of 2023 with the more modern Alder Lake N architecture (10 nm), is aimed at cost-effective mini-PCs.

It offers 4 cores, 4 threads, 4 MB Level 2 and 6 MB Level 3 Cache, an Intel UHD Graphics 24 EUs (Alder Lake), and a maximum memory bandwidth of 38 GB/s. In terms of performance, the Intel Processor N97 significantly surpasses the Intel Core i5-5200U. Its single-core performance is over 45 percent higher, and multi-core performance is even over 70 percent better.

This results from the newer architecture and the higher core count. Both processors are only partially suitable for gaming, but the Intel Processor N97 offers better basic graphics performance thanks to the more modern Intel UHD Graphics 24 EUs (Alder Lake) and higher memory bandwidth.

Furthermore, it operates more energy-efficiently with a typical TDP of 12W compared to the 15W of the Intel Core i5-5200U. Today, the Intel Core i5-5200U is primarily relevant in used systems for very simple applications. As a more modern processor, the Intel Processor N97 offers a significantly better performance-per-watt ratio and is the clearly superior choice for all new entry-level systems or tasks requiring fundamentally higher computing and graphics performance.