Intel Core i5-8400 vs Intel Processor N95

The Intel Core i5-8400 (Coffee Lake S), introduced in Q4 2017, was a 14 nm mainstream desktop processor with 6 cores/6 threads.

The Intel Processor N95 (Alder Lake N), released in Q1 2023, targets energy-saving entry-level devices and uses 10 nm for 4 cores/4 threads.

The Intel Core i5-8400 delivers significantly higher multi-core and superior single-core performance (Geekbench 6, Cinebench 2024). Only in the Cinebench 2024 single-core area are they comparable; otherwise, the Intel Core i5-8400 outperforms. For gaming, the Intel Core i5-8400 is better suited thanks to its higher performance and Intel UHD Graphics 630.

It supports PCIe 3.0 for dedicated graphics cards. The Intel Processor N95 with Intel UHD Graphics 16 EUs (Alder Lake) is unsuitable for demanding games. The Intel Core i5-8400 has higher power consumption. The Intel Processor N95 is designed for extremely low power consumption, ideal for fanless systems with low Thermal Design Power.

As a used item, the Intel Core i5-8400 often offers good value for money for all-round performance. The Intel Processor N95, a more cost-effective chip for new, energy-efficient mini-PCs, offers good value for money there for basic tasks. The Intel Core i5-8400 offers more power for demanding applications.

The Intel Processor N95 impresses with extreme energy efficiency for simple office work. The Intel Core i5-8400 is suitable for general productivity, the Intel Processor N95 for quiet, power-saving systems.