The 8th generation Intel Core i5 processor has been a popular choice among PC enthusiasts and gamers since its release in 2017. With its impressive performance, power efficiency, and affordability, it’s no wonder why many consider it a great option for their computing needs. But is the 8th gen i5 still good in today’s market? In this article, we’ll delve into the details of this processor, exploring its features, performance, and value to help you decide if it’s the right choice for you.
What is the 8th Gen i5 Processor?
The 8th generation Intel Core i5 processor is a mid-range CPU that belongs to the Coffee Lake family. It’s a 64-bit, quad-core processor with a maximum turbo frequency of up to 4.0 GHz. The i5-8400, i5-8500, and i5-8600K are some of the most popular models in this series.
Key Features of the 8th Gen i5 Processor
Some of the key features of the 8th gen i5 processor include:
- Quad-core design with Hyper-Threading technology
- Up to 4.0 GHz maximum turbo frequency
- 9MB cache memory
- Supports up to 64GB of DDR4 RAM
- Integrated Intel UHD Graphics 630
- Supports PCIe 3.0 and USB 3.1 Gen 2
Performance of the 8th Gen i5 Processor
The 8th gen i5 processor offers impressive performance for its price. It’s well-suited for gaming, video editing, and other demanding tasks. Here are some benchmarks to give you an idea of its performance:
- Cinebench R20: 434 points (single-core), 1,844 points (multi-core)
- Geekbench 5: 1,144 points (single-core), 4,444 points (multi-core)
- 3DMark Time Spy: 4,444 points
Gaming Performance
The 8th gen i5 processor is a great choice for gamers who want smooth performance without breaking the bank. It can handle popular games like Fortnite, League of Legends, and Overwatch at high frame rates. However, it may struggle with more demanding games like Assassin’s Creed Odyssey and The Witcher 3.
Frame Rates in Popular Games
| Game | Frame Rate (1080p) | Frame Rate (1440p) |
| — | — | — |
| Fortnite | 120 FPS | 80 FPS |
| League of Legends | 140 FPS | 100 FPS |
| Overwatch | 100 FPS | 80 FPS |
| Assassin’s Creed Odyssey | 60 FPS | 40 FPS |
| The Witcher 3 | 50 FPS | 30 FPS |
Power Efficiency of the 8th Gen i5 Processor
The 8th gen i5 processor is designed to be power-efficient, with a TDP of just 65W. This makes it a great choice for those who want to build a compact PC or laptop without sacrificing performance.
Power Consumption
- Idle power consumption: 2.5W
- Load power consumption: 65W
- Maximum power consumption: 95W
Value of the 8th Gen i5 Processor
The 8th gen i5 processor offers great value for its price. It’s significantly cheaper than the i7 and i9 processors, making it an attractive option for those on a budget.
Price Comparison
| Processor | Price |
| — | — |
| Intel Core i5-8400 | $179 |
| Intel Core i7-8700K | $349 |
| Intel Core i9-9900K | $549 |
Alternatives to the 8th Gen i5 Processor
If you’re looking for alternatives to the 8th gen i5 processor, here are some options to consider:
- AMD Ryzen 5 3600: A 6-core, 12-thread processor with a maximum turbo frequency of up to 4.2 GHz.
- Intel Core i5-11400: A 6-core, 12-thread processor with a maximum turbo frequency of up to 4.4 GHz.
- AMD Ryzen 7 5800X: An 8-core, 16-thread processor with a maximum turbo frequency of up to 4.3 GHz.
Comparison with AMD Ryzen 5 3600
| Processor | Cores/Threads | Maximum Turbo Frequency | Cache Memory | Price |
| — | — | — | — | — |
| Intel Core i5-8400 | 4/8 | 4.0 GHz | 9MB | $179 |
| AMD Ryzen 5 3600 | 6/12 | 4.2 GHz | 32MB | $199 |
Conclusion
The 8th gen i5 processor is still a great option for those who want a powerful and affordable CPU. Its impressive performance, power efficiency, and value make it an attractive choice for gamers, content creators, and PC enthusiasts. However, it’s essential to consider the alternatives and weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.
If you’re looking for a CPU that offers great performance and value, the 8th gen i5 processor is definitely worth considering. But if you’re willing to spend a bit more, the AMD Ryzen 5 3600 or Intel Core i5-11400 may offer better performance and features. Ultimately, the choice depends on your specific needs and budget.
Is the 8th Gen i5 processor still good for gaming in 2023?
The 8th Gen i5 processor is still a viable option for gaming in 2023, but its performance may vary depending on the specific games and graphics settings. For less demanding games or those that are optimized for lower-end hardware, the 8th Gen i5 should provide smooth performance. However, for more demanding games or those that require high-end graphics processing, the 8th Gen i5 may struggle to keep up.
That being said, the 8th Gen i5 can still handle modern games at lower to medium graphics settings, making it a good option for those on a budget or with less demanding gaming needs. Additionally, the 8th Gen i5 can be paired with a dedicated graphics card to improve gaming performance, making it a good option for those who want to upgrade their gaming setup in the future.
How does the 8th Gen i5 compare to newer Intel Core processors?
The 8th Gen i5 is an older processor compared to newer Intel Core processors, and as such, it may not offer the same level of performance or features. Newer processors like the 11th Gen or 12th Gen Core i5 offer improved performance, power efficiency, and features like PCIe 4.0 and Wi-Fi 6. However, the 8th Gen i5 is still a reliable and capable processor that can handle everyday tasks and less demanding applications.
That being said, if you’re looking for the latest and greatest technology, a newer processor may be a better option. However, if you’re on a budget or looking for a more affordable option, the 8th Gen i5 can still provide good value. It’s also worth noting that the 8th Gen i5 is still widely supported by software and hardware vendors, making it a good option for those who want a reliable and compatible processor.
Can the 8th Gen i5 handle video editing and content creation tasks?
The 8th Gen i5 is capable of handling video editing and content creation tasks, but its performance may vary depending on the specific software and workload. For less demanding tasks like editing 1080p video or working with 2D graphics, the 8th Gen i5 should provide smooth performance. However, for more demanding tasks like 4K video editing or 3D modeling, the 8th Gen i5 may struggle to keep up.
That being said, the 8th Gen i5 can still handle many video editing and content creation tasks, especially when paired with a dedicated graphics card. Additionally, many video editing software applications are optimized for Intel Core processors, making the 8th Gen i5 a good option for those who want to edit video or create content. However, if you’re working with very demanding workloads or require the latest and greatest technology, a newer processor may be a better option.
Is the 8th Gen i5 power-efficient?
The 8th Gen i5 is a relatively power-efficient processor, especially compared to older Intel Core processors. It has a TDP of 65W, which is relatively low compared to other processors in its class. This makes it a good option for those who want to build a compact or portable system, or for those who want to reduce their energy consumption.
However, it’s worth noting that the 8th Gen i5 is not as power-efficient as some newer processors, which can offer even lower TDPs and improved power management features. Additionally, the 8th Gen i5’s power efficiency may vary depending on the specific workload and system configuration. Nevertheless, the 8th Gen i5 is still a relatively power-efficient processor that can provide good performance while minimizing energy consumption.
Can the 8th Gen i5 be overclocked?
The 8th Gen i5 can be overclocked, but its overclocking potential may vary depending on the specific processor model and system configuration. The 8th Gen i5 has a relatively high clock speed and a decent number of cores and threads, making it a good candidate for overclocking. However, the 8th Gen i5’s overclocking potential may be limited by its power management features and thermal design power (TDP).
That being said, many enthusiasts and overclockers have reported successful overclocking results with the 8th Gen i5, with some achieving clock speeds of over 5GHz. However, overclocking the 8th Gen i5 requires careful tuning of the system’s power management features, cooling system, and motherboard settings. Additionally, overclocking can void the processor’s warranty and may reduce its lifespan, so it’s essential to proceed with caution and carefully monitor the system’s temperatures and stability.
Is the 8th Gen i5 compatible with the latest motherboards and hardware?
The 8th Gen i5 is compatible with many motherboards and hardware components, but its compatibility may vary depending on the specific model and configuration. The 8th Gen i5 uses the LGA 1151 socket, which is widely supported by many motherboard manufacturers. However, some newer motherboards may not support the 8th Gen i5, especially those with newer chipsets or features like PCIe 4.0.
That being said, the 8th Gen i5 is still widely supported by many hardware vendors, and it’s easy to find compatible motherboards, RAM, and storage devices. Additionally, the 8th Gen i5 is compatible with many operating systems, including Windows 10 and Linux distributions. However, it’s essential to check the compatibility of the 8th Gen i5 with specific hardware components and software applications before making a purchase.
Is the 8th Gen i5 a good option for budget-conscious buyers?
The 8th Gen i5 is a good option for budget-conscious buyers who want a reliable and capable processor without breaking the bank. The 8th Gen i5 is generally priced lower than newer Intel Core processors, making it a more affordable option for those on a budget. Additionally, the 8th Gen i5 can still provide good performance for everyday tasks, office work, and less demanding applications.
That being said, the 8th Gen i5’s price may vary depending on the specific model, retailer, and region. Additionally, the 8th Gen i5 may not offer the same level of performance or features as newer processors, so it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons before making a purchase. Nevertheless, the 8th Gen i5 is still a good option for those who want a reliable and affordable processor that can handle everyday tasks and less demanding applications.