Intel Core i5-8350U vs Intel Processor N100

The Intel Core i5-8350U, based on the Kaby Lake U Refresh architecture, is a mobile processor designed for 8th generation mainstream laptops, aiming for balanced performance for general productivity.

It is manufactured using a 14 nm process and features 4 cores and 8 threads thanks to Hyper-Threading, complemented by 6 MB of Level 3 Cache. In some benchmarks, especially older ones like Cinebench R23 and Geekbench 6, this processor shows significantly stronger single-core performance and often superior multi-core performance compared to the Intel Processor N100.

Its integrated Intel UHD Graphics 620 is only suitable for basic graphics tasks and very light gaming. With a typical TDP of 15W, it offers adequate energy efficiency for mobile applications and is now primarily found in used or refurbished systems, where it can still serve well for moderate requirements.

The Intel Processor N100, based on the newer Alder Lake N architecture, is a modern, highly energy-efficient processor for entry-level devices such as mini-PCs and budget laptops. Manufactured using the more advanced 10 nm process, it features 4 efficient cores (Gracemont) without Hyper-Threading, resulting in 4 threads, as well as 4 MB of Level 2 and 6 MB of Level 3 Cache.

In more modern multi-core tests, the Intel Processor N100 shows significantly better performance than the Intel Core i5-8350U, while its single-core performance is comparable in newer benchmarks. Its integrated Intel UHD Graphics with 24 EUs (Alder Lake) is sufficient for basic media playback and very light gaming.

With a very low TDP of 6W, it is excellent for fanless systems and maximum energy efficiency. It is available in new, inexpensive devices and offers an attractive overall package for basic computing tasks.