Intel Core i5-5250U vs Intel Processor N100

The Intel Core i5-5250U, introduced in the first quarter of 2015, was designed for ultrabooks and thin laptops where moderate performance and efficiency were required.

It is based on the 14-nm Broadwell-U architecture, offers 2 cores and 4 threads, and 3 MB of Level-3 cache. The integrated Intel HD Graphics 6000 and 30 GB/s maximum memory bandwidth complete its profile. The Intel Processor N100, released in the first quarter of 2023, is aimed at energy-efficient mini-PCs and entry-level laptops.

It utilizes the 10-nm Alder-Lake-N architecture with 4 cores and 4 threads. This processor features 4 MB of Level-2 and 6 MB of Level-3 cache, an Intel UHD Graphics with 24 EUs, and a maximum memory bandwidth of 38 GB/s. The Intel Processor N100 significantly outperforms the Intel Core i5-5250U in single and multi-core performance, due to its more modern architecture and more cores.

Neither is primarily intended for gaming; however, the N100's Intel UHD Graphics offers improved graphics performance compared to the older Intel HD Graphics 6000. In terms of power consumption, the N100 with a typical TDP of 6W is significantly more efficient than the Intel Core i5-5250U with 15W.

While the Intel Core i5-5250U can be found in existing devices, the Intel Processor N100 offers excellent value for money for modern, power-saving applications. For new systems, the N100 is the clearly superior choice.