Intel Core i5-9400 vs Intel Core i7-6700

The Intel Core i7-6700 (Skylake S) is an older desktop processor designed for multitasking and demanding applications.

The Intel Core i5-9400 (Coffee Lake S Refresh) is a newer CPU generation that aims for improved performance for modern applications and games.

Both models come from Intel and are intended for desktop systems. Both processors are manufactured using Intel's 14 nm fabrication process and utilize PCIe 3.0. The Intel Core i7-6700 features 4 cores and 8 threads with 8 MB Level 3 Cache and Intel HD Graphics 530. The Intel Core i5-9400 offers 6 cores and 6 threads with 9 MB Level 3 Cache and Intel UHD Graphics 630.

In single-core performance, the Intel Core i5-9400 shows significantly higher performance in benchmarks like Cinebench R23. For multi-core tasks, the Intel Core i5-9400 substantially outperforms the Intel Core i7-6700 in Geekbench 6; in Cinebench R23 Multi-Core, performance is comparable. The newer architecture of the Intel Core i5-9400 offers advantages here.

For gaming scenarios, the Intel Core i5-9400 is generally the better choice due to its newer architecture and higher physical core count. Modern games often benefit from this configuration. The integrated Intel UHD Graphics 630 is also more powerful than the Intel HD Graphics 530 of the Intel Core i7-6700.

Both processors have a Thermal Design Power (TDP) of 65 watts, indicating comparable energy efficiency under typical load and enabling standard cooling. The Intel Core i7-6700 achieves a maximum memory bandwidth of 34 GB/s, while the Intel Core i5-9400 offers up to 43 GB/s. As older CPU generations, both processors are hardly available new anymore.

However, they can be found at low prices on the used market. The Intel Core i5-9400 offers a more favorable price-performance ratio due to its newer architecture and improved performance in many modern applications. The Intel Core i7-6700 is an option for older LGA1151 systems on a tight budget.

The Intel Core i7-6700 is suitable for older multi-thread applications and as an upgrade for existing Skylake systems. The Intel Core i5-9400 offers higher single-core performance and is better for gaming and modern applications, ideal for cost-efficient systems.