Intel Core i5-9400 vs Intel Core i5-6500

The Intel Core i5-6500 (Skylake-S), introduced in the third quarter of 2015, targeted mainstream desktop users.

The Intel Core i5-9400 (Coffee Lake-S Refresh), released in the first quarter of 2019, aimed at a similar segment, but with optimized performance for modern applications.

Both CPUs were manufactured by Intel. Both processors are manufactured using the 14 nm fabrication process and support PCIe Version 3.0. The Intel Core i5-6500 features 4 cores and 4 threads, as well as 6 MB of Level 3 cache with 0 MB of Level 2 cache. The Intel Core i5-9400 offers a higher number of computing units with 6 cores and 6 threads and 9 MB of Level 3 cache, also with 0 MB of Level 2 cache, which improves its multitasking capabilities.

In single-core performance, the Intel Core i5-9400 shows significantly higher computing power compared to the Intel Core i5-6500, due to architectural improvements. In multi-core performance, the Intel Core i5-9400 demonstrates noticeably superior performance thanks to its additional cores and more efficient architecture.

The Intel Core i5-6500 delivers solid, but comparatively lower performance here. For gaming scenarios, the Intel Core i5-9400 offers better performance. Its higher single-core performance and additional cores enable smoother framerates and a more stable gaming experience in modern titles.

The Intel Core i5-6500 is suitable for older or less demanding games, but quickly reaches its limits with newer games. The integrated Intel UHD Graphics 630 of the Intel Core i5-9400 is more powerful than the Intel HD Graphics 530 of the Intel Core i5-6500. Both processors have a Thermal Design Power (TDP) of 65 watts, indicating a comparable energy requirement under load.

The Intel Core i5-9400 achieves higher power efficiency at this TDP. The maximum memory bandwidth of the Intel Core i5-9400 is 43 GB/s, while the Intel Core i5-6500 reaches 34 GB/s. Currently, both processors are mainly available on the used market. The Intel Core i5-9400 offers a significantly better price-performance ratio, as it delivers noticeably higher computing power per Euro invested.

Although the Intel Core i5-6500 is cheaper, its performance compromises are considerable in comparison. The Intel Core i5-6500 is a cost-effective choice for basic tasks such as office applications and web browsing. Its strength lies in its economy for very simple systems. The Intel Core i5-9400 is the superior choice for most applications, including gaming and multitasking.

For a system with better performance and future-proofing, the Intel Core i5-9400 is the clear recommendation.