Intel Core i5-8250U vs Intel Processor N97

The Intel Core i5-8250U is a mobile processor based on the Kaby Lake U Refresh architecture, designed for efficiency in laptops and ultrabooks.

It targets users who need balanced performance for everyday tasks and multitasking. This processor is manufactured using a 14 nm process and features 4 cores and 8 threads, providing a solid foundation for processing multiple tasks simultaneously. The Level 3 cache is 6 MB, while the Level 2 cache is 0 MB.

The integrated graphics solution is the Intel UHD Graphics 620. The Intel Processor N97, on the other hand, is based on the newer Alder Lake N architecture and targets energy-efficient entry-level devices such as mini-PCs, affordable laptops, or educational solutions.

It is manufactured using a more advanced 10 nm process. This processor is equipped with 4 cores and 4 threads, designed for high efficiency. It has a Level 2 cache of 4 MB and a Level 3 cache of 6 MB. The integrated graphics unit is the Intel UHD Graphics 24 EUs (Alder Lake). When comparing single-core performance, the Intel Processor N97 shows a slightly better value in Geekbench 6, although the difference is less than ten percent.

For the Intel Core i5-8250U, a Cinebench R23 single-core score is available, which is not available for the Intel Processor N97. In multi-core performance, both processors are very close to each other. The Intel Core i5-8250U has a slightly higher value in Geekbench 6, while the Intel Processor N97 shows a marginally better value in Cinebench R23.

None of the differences here exceed the ten percent limit. The newer architecture of the Intel Processor N97 benefits from more modern manufacturing technology, while the Intel Core i5-8250U benefits from its higher thread count. For gaming scenarios, both processors are only conditionally suitable, as their integrated graphics units (Intel UHD Graphics 620 in the Intel Core i5-8250U and Intel UHD Graphics 24 EUs in the Intel Processor N97) are primarily designed for basic graphics output and video playback.

Demanding or modern games can only be played smoothly on both with very low settings or at low resolutions. The newer architecture of the Intel Processor N97's graphics unit could offer slight advantages here, but no significant improvement for gaming. Regarding power consumption and thermal design power (TDP), no specific values are available.

However, the more modern 10 nm manufacturing process of the Intel Processor N97, compared to the 14 nm process of the Intel Core i5-8250U, suggests generally higher energy efficiency, which is advantageous for devices with limited cooling or long battery life. An assessment of the price-performance ratio and current market prices is not possible due to a lack of pricing information.

Generally, the Intel Core i5-8250U can be found in older or used laptops, while the Intel Processor N97 is integrated into newer, more affordable, or specialized devices. In summary, the Intel Core i5-8250U represents a proven solution for general productivity tasks in existing mobile systems that benefit from its multitasking capability.

The Intel Processor N97, on the other hand, is the better choice for new, energy-efficient, and cost-effective systems that aim to combine basic computing power with modern technology and improved energy efficiency.