Intel Core i5-7400 vs Intel Processor N95

The Intel Core i5-7400 (Kaby Lake S) was introduced around early 2017 and was aimed at the mainstream desktop market for everyday computing tasks.

It is manufactured using a 14nm process and features 4 cores and 4 threads. Its single-core performance is comparable to that of the Intel Processor N95, while it offers noticeably higher performance in certain multi-core scenarios.

The processor uses Intel HD Graphics 630 for video output and supports PCIe 3.0. The Intel Core i5-7400 has a 6MB Level 3 cache but no dedicated Level 2 cache in its specifications. It has higher power consumption and is designed for systems where energy efficiency is not the top priority.

The Intel Processor N95 (Alder Lake N) was launched around early 2023 and targets energy-efficient, compact systems such as mini-PCs or embedded solutions. Manufactured using the more modern 10nm process, it has 4 cores and 4 threads based on the Gracemont architecture. Its single-core performance is largely comparable to that of the Intel Core i5-7400, but its multi-core performance is slightly lower in some older benchmarks.

It is equipped with Intel UHD Graphics 16 EUs (Alder Lake), which benefits from its more efficient architecture and better supports modern codecs. The processor features 4MB of Level 2 cache and 6MB of Level 3 cache. It stands out for its significantly lower power consumption and low thermal design power (TDP).

The single-core performance of both CPUs is very similar. In some older multi-core benchmarks, the Intel Core i5-7400 offers noticeably better performance. The Intel Processor N95 can show results in newer benchmark suites where the Intel Core i5-7400 does not achieve comparable values.

Neither processor is designed for demanding gaming. For very light or casual gaming, the Intel Processor N95 may offer a slight advantage due to its newer integrated graphics unit (Intel UHD Graphics 16 EUs (Alder Lake)) through improved codec support and a more efficient architecture, but overall gaming performance is limited for both.

A dedicated graphics card would be essential for serious gaming. In terms of power consumption and TDP, the Intel Processor N95 is clearly ahead. With its significantly lower power consumption and TDP, it is ideal for fanless or very quiet systems and saves operating costs. The Intel Core i5-7400 has a higher TDP, which means more cooling effort.

As an older model, the Intel Core i5-7400 is mainly found on the used market and can be purchased very affordably there, making it attractive for basic tasks. The Intel Processor N95 is typically part of newer, energy-efficient complete systems or mini-PCs and offers good value for its specific niche market of low-power devices.

In summary, the Intel Core i5-7400 is a solid choice for basic desktop applications if purchased very cheaply used and energy efficiency is not a priority. Its raw CPU performance is slightly higher in certain multi-core scenarios. The Intel Processor N95, on the other hand, is the better choice for modern, energy-efficient, and compact systems.

It impresses with low power consumption, quiet operation, and a more up-to-date integrated graphics solution that is well-suited for media playback and very light tasks. For new acquisitions in this area, especially for mini-PCs or thin clients, the Intel Processor N95 is the more future-proof and efficient option.