Intel Core i5-8400 vs Intel Core i5-7500

The Intel Core i5-7500 (Kaby Lake S) and the Intel Core i5-8400 (Coffee Lake S) are 14 nm desktop processors for the mainstream market.

The Intel Core i5-7500 offers 4 cores, 4 threads, 6 MB Level 3 Cache, 38 GB/s memory bandwidth, and Intel HD Graphics 630. The Intel Core i5-8400, on the other hand, features 6 cores, 6 threads, 9 MB Level 3 Cache, 43 GB/s memory bandwidth, and Intel UHD Graphics 630.

Both support PCIe Version 3.0. In terms of performance, the Intel Core i5-8400 is significantly superior. Its higher core count leads to substantially better multi-core performance, ideal for multitasking and demanding software. Single-core performance is also noticeably higher. This makes the Intel Core i5-8400 the better choice for gaming and modern applications, while the Intel Core i5-7500 is sufficient for more basic titles.

Both processors share a Thermal Design Power (TDP) of 65 Watts. Historically, the Intel Core i5-8400 offered a better price-performance ratio for more demanding users, while the Intel Core i5-7500 represented a more cost-effective option. In summary, the Intel Core i5-7500 is a solid foundation for office work and media consumption.

The Intel Core i5-8400 is the clear recommendation for gaming, multitasking, and more productive tasks that benefit from more cores and better single-core performance.