Intel Core i5-5675C vs Intel Core i5-4590

The Intel Core i5-4590, a Haswell-generation desktop processor, was introduced to the mainstream market in the second quarter of 2014.

It offered solid performance for everyday computing tasks. The Intel Core i5-5675C, part of the Broadwell-S generation, appeared in the second quarter of 2015.

It targeted users needing higher efficiency and an improved integrated graphics solution. The Intel Core i5-4590 (Haswell S) is manufactured using a 22 nm fabrication process and features four cores and four threads with 6 MB of Level 3 cache. The Intel Core i5-5675C (Broadwell S) utilizes the more advanced 14 nm process and also offers four cores and four threads, but with 4 MB of Level 3 cache.

Both CPUs support PCIe 3.0 and a maximum memory bandwidth of 26 GB/s. In benchmarks, the Intel Core i5-5675C shows significantly better single-core performance than the Intel Core i5-4590. The Intel Core i5-5675C also offers a noticeable increase in multi-core performance, making it more advantageous for multi-threaded applications.

For gaming with a dedicated graphics card, the differences are minor. The main advantage of the Intel Core i5-5675C lies in its integrated graphics unit, the Intel Iris Pro Graphics 6200, which is significantly more powerful thanks to eDRAM than the Intel HD Graphics 4600 of the Intel Core i5-4590.

This enables a better gaming experience without a dedicated graphics card. The Intel Core i5-4590 has a TDP of 84 Watts. The Intel Core i5-5675C, manufactured with a 14 nm process, has a lower TDP of 65 Watts, indicating higher energy efficiency and lower heat generation. Both processors are older models and primarily available on the used market.

The Intel Core i5-5675C generally offers better performance and superior integrated graphics, potentially making it more expensive. The Intel Core i5-4590 is typically the more cost-effective option. The Intel Core i5-4590 is a solid and cost-efficient choice for basic tasks.

In contrast, the Intel Core i5-5675C delivers better computing performance and a significantly stronger integrated graphics unit. For users seeking higher system responsiveness and the ability for more demanding visual tasks or light gaming without a dedicated graphics card, the Intel Core i5-5675C is the better choice.

Those who need the most affordable system for everyday tasks and use or plan to use a dedicated graphics card might be well served by the Intel Core i5-4590.