Intel Core i5-6500 vs Intel Core i5-6400

The Intel Core i5-6500 and Intel Core i5-6400 are Skylake-generation desktop processors, manufactured by Intel using a 14nm process.

Both are based on the Skylake S architecture and feature four cores and four threads. They were designed for the mainstream desktop market, ideal for general productivity, web browsing, and light multimedia applications. Both models offer a maximum memory bandwidth of 34 GB/s and support PCIe 3.0. The Level 3 cache is identical at 6 MB.

In performance tests, the Intel Core i5-6500 and Intel Core i5-6400 show very similar results. Measurable differences in single-core and multi-core performance are marginal, as the Intel Core i5-6500 only has a slightly higher clock frequency. For gaming scenarios, both are equipped with Intel HD Graphics 530 as an integrated graphics unit, sufficient for basic graphics requirements and older games.

With a dedicated graphics card, performance differences in gaming are negligible. Power consumption and Thermal Design Power (TDP) are almost identical for both models. In the used market, both processors offer a comparable price-performance ratio. Given the hardly existing performance differences, the Intel Core i5-6400 is often the more cost-effective option.

The Intel Core i5-6500 only justifies a higher price if the difference is very small. For everyday tasks such as office work, web browsing, or media playback, both CPUs are equally well suited and provide a solid foundation.