Intel Core i5-6500T vs Intel Core i3-8100

The Intel Core i5-6500T (Skylake S architecture), introduced in the third quarter of 2015, is a 14nm processor with 4 cores, 4 threads, and 6 MB of Level 3 cache.

Its maximum memory bandwidth is 34 GB/s. Equipped with Intel HD Graphics 530, it targeted energy-efficient desktop systems. Its computing power is sufficient for everyday office tasks and basic multimedia. A key feature is its low Thermal Design Power (TDP) of 35 W, which makes it ideal for compact and quiet systems.

The Intel Core i3-8100 (Coffee Lake S architecture), launched in the fourth quarter of 2017, is also a 14nm processor with 4 cores, 4 threads, and 6 MB of Level 3 cache.

It achieves a maximum memory bandwidth of 38 GB/s. With Intel UHD Graphics 630, it offers noticeably higher overall performance than the Intel Core i5-6500T, in both single-core and multi-core operations. This makes it better suited for general desktop applications and lighter productivity.

Its standard TDP is 65 W. Both processors use PCIe Version 3.0. In direct comparison, the Intel Core i3-8100 delivers superior computing performance, which translates into better responsiveness and an advantage in gaming scenarios, although both are limited for demanding modern games.

The Intel Core i5-6500T, on the other hand, stands out with its significantly higher energy efficiency and lower TDP. The choice depends on the intended use: efficiency and compactness for the Intel Core i5-6500T, or higher computing power for the Intel Core i3-8100.