Intel Pentium Silver N6000 vs Intel Celeron N4120

The Intel Celeron N4120, based on the Gemini Lake architecture, is an entry-level processor typically used in low-cost notebooks, mini-PCs, and thin clients.

It was designed for basic computing tasks such as web browsing, word processing, and media playback. This processor is manufactured using a 14-nm process and features four cores and four threads. It is equipped with a 4 MB Level 3 Cache. Compared to the Intel Pentium Silver N6000, the Intel Celeron N4120 shows lower single-core and multi-core performance.

Its integrated Intel UHD Graphics 600 and a maximum memory bandwidth of 38 GB/s are designed for very basic graphical requirements. The Intel Celeron N4120 is not suitable for gaming. As an energy-efficient processor, it is optimized for low-power systems and offers a cost-effective solution for users with very basic requirements.

The Intel Pentium Silver N6000, based on the newer Jasper Lake architecture, targets the segment of low-cost and energy-efficient devices. It is intended for everyday computing tasks with slightly higher performance capabilities than the Celeron series and is also found in notebooks and mini-PCs.

Manufactured using the more efficient 10-nm process, this processor has four cores and four threads. It features a 2 MB Level 2 Cache and a 4 MB Level 3 Cache. The Intel Pentium Silver N6000 significantly surpasses the Intel Celeron N4120 in single-core and multi-core performance. Its integrated Intel UHD Graphics 32 EUs (Jasper Lake) offers improved graphics performance with a maximum memory bandwidth of 47 GB/s.

Although it is not a gaming CPU, its more modern integrated graphics unit provides slightly better performance for very simple and older games. Thanks to the more advanced 10-nm manufacturing process, the Intel Pentium Silver N6000 is potentially more energy-efficient and offers a better performance-per-euro ratio for users who desire a noticeably more responsive experience.

The Intel Celeron N4120 is ideal for basic requirements when budget is the priority. It is sufficient for simple tasks such as emails, internet browsing, and word processing. The Intel Pentium Silver N6000, on the other hand, offers noticeably improved performance and a more modern graphics unit, which translates into a more responsive user experience and somewhat better capabilities for very light multitasking scenarios or older/simple multimedia applications.

For a somewhat smoother experience at a small additional cost, the Intel Pentium Silver N6000 is the more recommended choice.