Intel Core i5-7300U vs Intel Processor N100

The Intel Core i5-7300U, introduced in the third quarter of 2016, belongs to the Kaby Lake U architecture and was designed for energy-efficient laptops and ultrabooks.

The Intel Processor N100, on the other hand, was launched in the first quarter of 2023 and is based on the more modern Alder Lake N architecture.

It targets affordable and power-efficient systems such as mini-PCs or entry-level laptops. Regarding the manufacturing process, the Intel Core i5-7300U is produced using a 14 nm process and has 2 cores and 4 threads. It features 3 MB of Level 3 Cache and achieves a maximum memory bandwidth of 34 GB/s.

The Intel Processor N100 is manufactured using a more advanced 10 nm process and offers 4 cores and 4 threads. It is equipped with 4 MB of Level 2 Cache and 6 MB of Level 3 Cache, achieving a maximum memory bandwidth of 38 GB/s. In performance comparisons, the Intel Processor N100 significantly outperforms the Intel Core i5-7300U in both single-core and multi-core applications.

This performance improvement is due to the N100's newer architecture and higher core count, enabling more efficient task processing. Neither processor is designed for demanding gaming scenarios. The Intel Core i5-7300U integrates Intel HD Graphics 620, while the Intel Processor N100 uses Intel UHD Graphics 24 EUs (Alder Lake).

The graphics solution of the Intel Processor N100 offers slightly better performance for very simple or older games due to its newer architecture. Both CPUs are not suitable for modern 3D games. A significant difference lies in power consumption. The Intel Processor N100 is characterized by a very low Thermal Design Power (TDP) of only 6 watts, making it ideal for fanless or very compact systems.

The Intel Core i5-7300U has a significantly higher TDP of 15 watts, leading to higher energy requirements and potentially greater heat generation. In terms of price-performance, both CPUs are typically integrated into end devices. Systems with the Intel Processor N100 are often new, very affordable devices that offer good performance for basic tasks.

Devices with the Intel Core i5-7300U are mostly older systems, primarily available on the used market. In summary, the Intel Core i5-7300U is an established solution for basic tasks in older laptops. The Intel Processor N100 is the more modern and energy-efficient choice, offering better overall performance for everyday tasks, media consumption, and light multitasking requirements in new, power-saving systems.

For a new investment in a system for basic use, the Intel Processor N100 is the superior option.