Intel Core i5-8500 vs Intel Processor N200

The Intel Core i5-8500 (Coffee Lake S, 2018) is a mainstream desktop processor. Manufactured in 14 nm, 6 cores, 6 threads, 9 MB Level 3 Cache, and Intel UHD Graphics 630.

It supports PCIe 3.0 and achieves 43 GB/s memory bandwidth. The Intel Processor N200 (Alder Lake N, 2023) is an energy-efficient processor for basic tasks.

Manufactured in 10 nm, 4 efficiency cores, 4 threads, 6 MB Level 3 Cache, 4 MB Level 2 Cache, and Intel UHD Graphics 32 EUs (Alder Lake). It supports PCIe 3.0, with 38 GB/s memory bandwidth. In terms of performance, the Intel Core i5-8500 delivers significantly higher single-core and multi-core performance.

The lead in multi-core tasks is substantial, while the Intel Processor N200 shows comparable performance in some single-core scenarios. For gaming, the Intel Core i5-8500 is the better choice, although both require a dedicated graphics card for serious gaming. The Intel Processor N200 is characterized by extremely low power consumption, ideal for silent, fanless systems.

The Intel Core i5-8500 has higher thermal design power and requires more cooling. In terms of price, the Intel Core i5-8500 can be interesting in the used market; the Intel Processor N200 offers good value for money for energy-efficient new systems. For computing power in demanding software or light gaming, the Intel Core i5-8500 is the choice.

Those looking for an energy-efficient, quiet system for basic office work or media playback will find a suitable solution in the Intel Processor N200.