Intel Core i7-8550U vs Intel Processor N150

The Intel Core i7-8550U is an 8th generation mobile processor with Kaby Lake U Refresh architecture, introduced in late 2017.

It targeted the market for thin and light notebooks designed for general productivity tasks. Manufactured using a 14 nm process, it features 4 cores and 8 threads, enabling solid performance for multitasking. With an 8 MB L3 cache, it supports more demanding applications. The integrated Intel UHD Graphics 620 is sufficient for basic graphical requirements and very simple games.

As a U-series model, the processor is designed for low power consumption, typically with a TDP of 15 watts, which makes it ideal for mobile devices. In a direct comparison, it shows higher multi-core performance and comparable single-core performance. Today, it is mainly found in used or refurbished systems.

The Intel Processor N150 is based on the newer Twin Lake architecture and is designed for energy-efficient and cost-effective devices, such as entry-level notebooks, mini-PCs, and thin clients.

It is manufactured using a more modern 7 nm process and offers 4 cores and 4 threads. With 4 MB L2 cache and 6 MB L3 cache, it is optimized for basic computing tasks. The integrated Intel UHD Graphics with 24 EUs (Alder Lake) also enables basic graphics tasks and media playback. This processor is characterized by extremely low power consumption, which is advantageous for passive cooling and long battery life.

Although its multi-core performance is lower, it offers comparable single-core performance to the older i7 model. It is available in new, budget-friendly devices. In gaming scenarios, both processors offer very limited performance. The integrated graphics solutions are not designed for modern demanding games and are suitable at most for very old or graphically undemanding titles at the lowest settings.

The energy efficiency of the Intel Processor N150 is significantly higher, which makes it ideal for systems with long battery life or passive cooling. The price-performance ratio of the Intel Core i7-8550U largely depends on the condition of the used device, while the Intel Processor N150 offers a good price-performance ratio for basic applications in new systems.

In summary, the Intel Core i7-8550U is the better choice if higher multi-core performance is needed for productivity and light multitasking, and power consumption plays a secondary role. The Intel Processor N150 is recommended for users looking for an energy-efficient system for basic tasks such as web browsing, word processing, and media playback, where battery life or low heat generation are priorities.