CPU Comparison
Intel Core i5-10400 vs Core i7-10700F
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i5-10400 is a 6-core, 12-thread desktop processor built on the 14nm Comet Lake architecture, offering solid mainstream performance with integrated UHD 630 graphics.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
Handles everyday productivity and multitasking without issues.
16 threads handle multitasking and compiling code effortlessly.
Gaming
Capable of smooth 1080p gaming when paired with a mid-range GPU.
Pairs well with GPUs up to RTX 3070/4070 for high-refresh-rate gaming.
Virtualization
Suitable for basic virtualization needs with 12 threads.
8 cores make it highly capable for running multiple VMs.
Efficiency
Power consumption is reasonable, though the 14nm process is less efficient than newer nodes.
14nm process is less efficient than modern nodes, drawing significant power under boost.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- No dedicated AI hardware
- Relies on CPU-based AVX2 instructions for inference
- No DLBoost or NPU
- Relies on discrete GPU for AI
- CPU AI inference is slow
Content Creation
Gaming
- Excellent 1080p performance
- Slightly limited by 2666 MT/s memory speed
- Best paired with GTX 1660 or RTX 3060 class GPUs
- Requires dedicated GPU
- Strong single-core speeds
- PCIe 3.0 may bottleneck top-tier GPUs slightly
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- Excellent value for money
- 6 cores and 12 threads
- Includes integrated graphics
- Low 65W base TDP
- Wide motherboard compatibility
Cons
- Locked multiplier
- 14nm process runs warmer under load
- Limited to PCIe 3.0
- Memory speed capped at 2666 MT/s natively
Pros
- 8 cores and 16 threads
- Excellent gaming performance
- 65W base TDP
- Wide motherboard compatibility
- Affordable in the used market
Cons
- No integrated graphics
- Locked multiplier
- PCIe 3.0 only
- 14nm process is power-hungry under load
Competitors & Alternatives
Intel Core i5-10400
- AMD Ryzen 5 3600Rival
Mainstream Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 5 2600Rival
Budget Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-10400FRival
Mainstream Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-9400Rival
Budget Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 3 3300XRival
Budget Desktop
- Intel Core i5-11400Alt
Offers better IPC and faster memory support.
A cheaper alternative for purely budget gaming.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 5 5600Alt
Significantly faster single-core and gaming performance.
- Intel Core i5-12400Alt
Newer platform with DDR5 and PCIe 5.0 support.
Core i7-10700F
- AMD Ryzen 7 3700XRival
Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 5 5600XRival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-10400FRival
Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 7 2700XRival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-9700FRival
Desktop
- Intel Core i7-10700Alt
Includes integrated graphics for similar performance.
- Intel Core i5-12400FAlt
Newer architecture with better IPC.
11th Gen with PCIe 4.0 and AVX-512.
Compare head-to-head
Our Verdict on Each
A highly cost-effective 6-core CPU that delivers excellent value for 1080p gaming and general computing, despite its locked multiplier and older 14nm process.
Best for: The Intel Core i5-10400 is highly recommended for users building a budget to mid-range 1080p gaming PC or a general-purpose home/office computer. Its 6-core, 12-thread configuration provides excellent longevity for everyday tasks, light content creation, and modern gaming when paired with a mid-range GPU like an RTX 3060 or RX 6600. The inclusion of UHD 630 graphics means the system is functional even if a discrete GPU fails or is delayed in purchase. Because it is a locked processor, there is no need to invest in expensive Z-series motherboards or high-end cooling; a simple B460 board and the stock cooler are sufficient. This makes it an ideal choice for budget-conscious buyers who prioritize stability, reliability, and maximum value over enthusiast-level tweaking or extreme frame rates.
Read the full reviewA solid 8-core desktop CPU that delivers excellent 1080p and 1440p gaming performance when paired with a dedicated GPU.
Best for: Upgrading an existing LGA 1200 system or building a budget gaming PC.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is faster for gaming, Intel Core i5-10400 or Core i7-10700F?
For gaming, the Core i7-10700F leads with a gaming performance score of 90/100 among Intel Core i5-10400 and Core i7-10700F.
Do Intel Core i5-10400 and Core i7-10700F use the same socket?
Yes — all of these CPUs use the LGA 1200 socket, so they share compatible motherboards.
Which has more cores?
The Core i7-10700F has the most cores. Core counts: Intel Core i5-10400 (6 cores), Core i7-10700F (8 cores).
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Intel Core i5-10400 posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Intel Core i5-10400 (14,500), Core i7-10700F (14,000). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.