Intel Processor N100 vs Intel Atom x5-Z8300

The Intel Atom x5-Z8300, codenamed Cherry Trail, was manufactured using the 14nm process and introduced in 2015.

It targeted the market for energy-efficient, low-cost devices like tablets and mini-PCs. The processor features 4 cores and 4 threads. Its integrated graphics is the Intel HD Graphics 400 with a maximum memory bandwidth of 13 GB/s, which is only sufficient for very simple graphical tasks. In benchmarks, the Intel Atom x5-Z8300 offers basic multi-core performance and low single-core performance.

Its extremely low power consumption enables fanless designs, which is advantageous for compact devices. The price-performance ratio is irrelevant for new purchases nowadays, as it is primarily found in older used devices. It is suitable for the most basic tasks such as web browsing or simple office work.

The Intel Processor N100, based on the Alder Lake N architecture, was manufactured using the 10nm process.

It targets modern entry-level systems such as thin clients, mini-PCs, and educational laptops. This processor also offers 4 cores and 4 threads, but with a significantly more modern and efficient architecture. The integrated graphics, Intel UHD Graphics 24 EUs (Alder Lake), delivers noticeably better performance than that of the Intel Atom x5-Z8300, supported by a significantly higher maximum memory bandwidth of 38 GB/s.

In benchmarks, the Intel Processor N100 shows substantially higher single-core and multi-core performance. Despite the higher performance, energy efficiency remains excellent, making it ideal for fanless systems. The price-performance ratio is very good for current entry-level systems.