Intel Processor N100 vs Intel Core i5-3470

The Intel Core i5-3470 is a desktop processor based on the Ivy Bridge S architecture, introduced in 2012 for mainstream applications such as office work and basic multitasking.

The Intel Processor N100, a representative of the Alder Lake N architecture, was introduced in 2023 and is designed for energy-efficient, compact systems such as mini-PCs.

The Intel Core i5-3470 is manufactured using a 22 nm process and features 4 cores and 4 threads with 6 MB of Level 3 cache. Its integrated graphics unit is the Intel HD Graphics 2500 with a maximum memory bandwidth of 26 GB/s. The Intel Processor N100, on the other hand, is produced using a modern 10 nm process, also offers 4 cores and 4 threads, and has 4 MB of Level 2 and 6 MB of Level 3 cache.

It is equipped with Intel UHD Graphics 24 EUs (Alder Lake), which has a higher maximum memory bandwidth of 38 GB/s. Both CPUs utilize PCIe 3.0. In terms of performance, the Intel Processor N100 significantly outperforms the Intel Core i5-3470 in single-core and multi-core performance tests, with an increase of well over 10 percent in all relevant benchmarks.

This higher efficiency results from the more modern architecture. Both processors are only very limitedly suitable for gaming; however, the newer Intel UHD Graphics of the Intel Processor N100 offers noticeably better performance for very simple or older titles. A crucial difference lies in power consumption: The Intel Core i5-3470 has a TDP of 77W, while the Intel Processor N100 is extremely economical with only 6W TDP.

The Intel Core i5-3470 is primarily available cheaply on the used market, while the Intel Processor N100 offers an excellent price-performance ratio in new, energy-efficient entry-level systems. In summary, the Intel Core i5-3470 is an option for very price-conscious upgrades of older systems.

The Intel Processor N100 is the superior choice for new systems that require modern performance, energy efficiency, and better integrated graphics for everyday tasks in a compact format.