I3 2400 vs. I5-3700

Attribute	I3 2400	I5-3700
Processor Type	Core i3	Core i5
Number of Cores	2	4
Number of Threads	4	8
Base Clock Speed	3.1 GHz	3.4 GHz
Max Turbo Boost Speed	N/A	3.9 GHz
Cache	3MB	6MB
Socket Type	LGA 1155	LGA 1155

Introduction

When it comes to choosing a processor for your computer, there are a plethora of options available in the market. Two popular choices are the Intel Core i3-2400 and the Intel Core i5-3700. Both processors belong to Intel's lineup of CPUs, but they have distinct differences in terms of performance, features, and price. In this article, we will compare the attributes of these two processors to help you make an informed decision.

Performance

The Intel Core i3-2400 is a dual-core processor with a base clock speed of 3.1 GHz. It does not support hyper-threading, which means it can only handle two threads per core. On the other hand, the Intel Core i5-3700 is a quad-core processor with a base clock speed of 3.4 GHz. It supports hyper-threading, allowing it to handle up to four threads per core. This gives the i5-3700 a significant advantage in multitasking and handling demanding applications.

Cache Size

Cache size plays a crucial role in a processor's performance as it stores frequently accessed data for quick retrieval. The Intel Core i3-2400 comes with a 3MB L3 cache, which is sufficient for everyday computing tasks. In comparison, the Intel Core i5-3700 boasts a larger 6MB L3 cache, providing faster access to data and improving overall performance. This larger cache size gives the i5-3700 an edge in handling resource-intensive applications.

Integrated Graphics

Both the Intel Core i3-2400 and the Intel Core i5-3700 come with integrated graphics. The i3-2400 features Intel HD Graphics 2000, while the i5-3700 comes with Intel HD Graphics 4000. The HD Graphics 4000 in the i5-3700 offers better performance and supports more advanced features compared to the HD Graphics 2000 in the i3-2400. This makes the i5-3700 a better choice for users who engage in gaming or graphic-intensive tasks.

Power Consumption

Power consumption is an essential factor to consider when choosing a processor, especially for users looking to build energy-efficient systems. The Intel Core i3-2400 has a TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 65W, while the Intel Core i5-3700 has a slightly higher TDP of 77W. While both processors are relatively power-efficient, the i3-2400 consumes less power compared to the i5-3700. This makes the i3-2400 a better choice for users looking to build a system with lower power consumption.

Price

Price is often a deciding factor when choosing a processor, as it directly impacts the overall cost of building a computer. The Intel Core i3-2400 is generally more affordable than the Intel Core i5-3700. The i3-2400 offers decent performance for everyday computing tasks at a budget-friendly price point. On the other hand, the i5-3700 comes at a higher price but offers superior performance and features, making it a better choice for users who require more processing power.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Intel Core i3-2400 and the Intel Core i5-3700 are both capable processors with their own set of strengths and weaknesses. The i3-2400 is a budget-friendly option suitable for everyday computing tasks, while the i5-3700 offers superior performance and features for users who require more processing power. When choosing between the two, consider your specific needs and budget to make the right decision for your computing requirements.