Intel Processor N100 vs Intel Core i5-8400T

The Intel Core i5-8400T (Coffee Lake S, 2018) is a 14 nm processor with six cores and six threads for compact desktops.

It offers 9 MB Level 3 Cache, 43 GB/s memory bandwidth, and Intel UHD Graphics 630. Its Thermal Design Power (TDP) is 35 Watts and the PCIe version is 3.0. The Intel Processor N100 (Alder Lake N, 2023) is a 10 nm processor with four efficient cores and four threads, designed for energy-efficient, fanless systems.

It features 4 MB Level 2, 6 MB Level 3 Cache, 38 GB/s memory bandwidth, and Intel UHD Graphics with 24 Execution Units. Its TDP is 6 Watts and the PCIe version is 3.0. In a performance comparison, the Intel Core i5-8400T offers significantly higher multi-core performance. In single-core tests, the Intel Processor N100 shows noticeably better performance per clock cycle in newer benchmarks thanks to its modern architecture, while the Intel Core i5-8400T leads in other single-core scenarios.

The integrated graphics units of both are only suitable for basic multimedia applications and not for demanding gaming. Regarding power consumption, the Intel Processor N100 (6 Watt TDP) is significantly superior to the Intel Core i5-8400T (35 Watt), ideal for very compact systems.

The older Intel Core i5-8400T is primarily available used. The newer Intel Processor N100 offers good value for money in affordable mini-PCs for efficiency tasks. The Intel Core i5-8400T is recommended for higher overall performance and multitasking. The Intel Processor N100 is ideal for energy-efficient, silent systems for simple office and media tasks.