i5 6th vs. i5 8th

Attribute	i5 6th	i5 8th
Generation	6th	8th
Number of cores	4	6
Base clock speed	2.3 GHz	1.6 GHz
Max turbo frequency	3.2 GHz	4.1 GHz
Cache	6 MB	9 MB

Introduction

Intel's i5 processors have been a popular choice for many consumers looking for a balance of performance and affordability. With the release of the 6th and 8th generation i5 processors, users have more options to choose from. In this article, we will compare the attributes of the i5 6th and i5 8th generation processors to help you make an informed decision.

Performance

One of the key differences between the i5 6th and i5 8th generation processors is their performance. The 6th generation i5 processors are based on the Skylake architecture and offer decent performance for everyday tasks such as web browsing, office applications, and light gaming. On the other hand, the 8th generation i5 processors are based on the Coffee Lake architecture and provide a significant performance boost, especially in multi-threaded applications and gaming.

Core Count

The i5 6th generation processors typically come with 4 cores and 4 threads, which is sufficient for most tasks. In comparison, the i5 8th generation processors offer 6 cores and 6 threads, providing better multitasking capabilities and improved performance in demanding applications. The additional cores in the 8th generation processors make them a better choice for users who need to run multiple applications simultaneously or engage in content creation tasks.

Clock Speed

When it comes to clock speed, the i5 6th generation processors have a base clock speed ranging from 2.3 GHz to 3.5 GHz, depending on the specific model. On the other hand, the i5 8th generation processors have a higher base clock speed, typically starting at 2.8 GHz and going up to 4.0 GHz. This higher clock speed results in better overall performance and faster processing of tasks.

Integrated Graphics

Both the i5 6th and i5 8th generation processors come with integrated graphics, but there are differences in their capabilities. The 6th generation processors feature Intel HD Graphics 530, which is suitable for basic graphics tasks and light gaming. In contrast, the 8th generation processors come with Intel UHD Graphics 630, offering improved performance for gaming and multimedia applications. Users who engage in graphics-intensive tasks will benefit from the enhanced graphics performance of the 8th generation processors.

Power Efficiency

Another important factor to consider when comparing the i5 6th and i5 8th generation processors is power efficiency. The 8th generation processors are more power-efficient compared to their predecessors, thanks to the 14nm++ manufacturing process. This results in lower power consumption and reduced heat output, making the 8th generation processors a better choice for laptops and small form factor PCs where thermal management is crucial.

Price

Price is always a significant consideration when choosing a processor. The i5 6th generation processors are generally more affordable compared to the newer 8th generation processors. While the 6th generation processors offer decent performance for everyday tasks, users looking for better multitasking capabilities and improved gaming performance may find the higher price of the 8th generation processors justified. Ultimately, the decision on which processor to choose will depend on your budget and performance requirements.