The Intel Core i3-14100F vs Core i5-12400F battle is quite interesting. Since the two CPUs have identical prices, consumers may find it difficult to choose between the two. The i3-14100F, being a more recent release, benefits from architectural improvements and efficiencies. However, the i5-12400F packs more of a punch, on paper at least.
This article offers an Intel Core i3-14100F vs Core i5-12400F comparison and takes a look at the performances of the two chips to determine which one is superior.
Note: Some aspects of this article are subjective and solely reflect the writer’s opinion.
Intel Core i3-14100F vs Core i5-12400F: Hardware configuration
The Core i3-14100F and Core i5-12400F are based on entirely different architectures. The newer 14th-gen i3 chip is based on Raptor Lake Refresh, while its older 12th-gen i5 counterpart uses Alder Lake.
Let’s have a closer look at their core specifications to understand how they perform.
Both CPUs offer impressive specs for their prices. Nevertheless, they are markedly different in their configurations. The Intel i5 processor stands tall with its formidable six-core/12-thread architecture, a clear distinction from its i3 counterpart's more modest four-core/eight-thread setup.
Apart from that, there are also differences in terms of cache memory and clock speeds. Being a newer option, the Intel Core i3-14100F has faster clocks, lower TDP, and more L2 cache.
There are a few similarities as well. Both chips are built using a 10nm fabrication process, support DDR5-4800 and DDR4-3200 memory, and PCIe version 5.0. This means both are great future-proof options.
Intel Core i3-14100F vs Core i5-12400F: Performance
By now, you might have a rough idea about how these CPUs perform. However, for a bigger picture, we should look at their real-world performances.
Synthetic tests
Let’s start by looking at some benchmark test numbers sourced from Nano Review.
While the Intel Core i5-12400F outperforms its competitor in every multi-core thread, it falls short in scenarios where only a single core is used. This means it will offer optimal performance in video editing software, 3D rendering programs, large data processing tasks, and some modern titles.
On the flip side, single-threaded applications or games will run more smoothly on the Intel Core i3-14100F.
Gaming performance
To get more insights into the Intel Core i3-14100F vs Core i5-12400F gaming performance comparison. I have compiled the average FPS of both CPUs in various popular games. This data is sourced from the Testing Games YouTube channel.
It is evident that the 12th-gen i5 chip is more powerful as it delivers high FPS in almost every title. However, this doesn’t mean that the other option from Intel is bad. It also offers respectable FPS.
Intel Core i3-14100F vs Core i5-12400F: Final verdict
Based on the comparison above, it is safe to assume that the Intel Core i5-12400F is slightly more capable (in terms of raw performance) than the Intel Core i3-14100F. If you want superior performance, you should definitely go for it.
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