Intel Core i5-6200U vs Intel Processor N95

The Intel Core i5-6200U, based on the Skylake-U architecture, was introduced in the third quarter of 2015 and was designed for energy-efficient mobile platforms like Ultrabooks.

It was aimed at users who needed basic productivity and media consumption. It is manufactured using a 14 nm process and features 2 cores and 4 threads. It has 3 MB of Level 3 Cache and Intel HD Graphics 520. The maximum memory bandwidth is 34 GB/s. The Intel Processor N95, introduced in the first quarter of 2023, utilizes the more modern Alder Lake-N architecture.

It targets entry-level desktops, mini-PCs, and embedded systems that require modern performance with low power consumption. It is manufactured using a 10 nm process and offers 4 cores and 4 threads, 4 MB of Level 2 Cache, and 6 MB of Level 3 Cache. Its integrated graphics unit is the Intel UHD Graphics 16 EUs (Alder Lake) with a maximum memory bandwidth of 38 GB/s.

In terms of performance, the Intel Processor N95 significantly outperforms the Intel Core i5-6200U. In both single-core and multi-core applications, the N95 shows over 10 percent higher performance, thanks to its more modern architecture and cores. Both processors are unsuitable for gaming; their integrated graphics units only allow for very light or older games.

Both CPUs are optimized for low power consumption, enabling quiet or fanless systems. As a newer model, the Intel Processor N95 offers better value for money for new devices, while the Core i5-6200U is only relevant in very inexpensive used devices. For a modern system with better performance and efficiency, the Intel Processor N95 is the clear recommendation.

Anyone looking for an extremely affordable used device for the simplest tasks can consider the Intel Core i5-6200U.