CPU Comparison
Core i5-6500TE vs Core i7-660UE
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i5-6500TE is a specialized, low-power variant of the standard 6th generation Skylake desktop processors. Released in late 2015, it is designed for embedded systems, mini PCs, and all-in-one computers where thermal constraints and power efficiency are paramount. It features a significantly reduced TDP of 35W compared to the standard 65W of the i5-6400. To achieve this, its base clock is lowered to 2.3 GHz, though it retains the ability to boost up to 3.3 GHz when thermal headroom allows. The processor still offers 4 cores and 4 threads, along with 6MB of L3 cache, ensuring reliable performance for continuous workloads. It supports both DDR3L and DDR4 memory, providing flexibility for system builders. The integrated HD Graphics 530 handles 4K media playback effortlessly. While not designed for high-performance gaming or heavy compute tasks, the 6500TE excels in fanless designs and digital signage applications where 24/7 operation is required.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
Handles office tasks and kiosk applications perfectly, though slower than standard desktop chips.
Adequate for specific embedded tasks but slow for general OS navigation today.
Gaming
Not intended for gaming. Low base clocks and 4 cores severely limit gaming performance.
Not intended for gaming; lacks modern API support.
Virtualization
Capable of running lightweight home server VMs due to quad-core design, though limited by 4 threads.
VT-x support is present, but limited cores restrict VM density.
Efficiency
Excellent efficiency for its generation, tailored specifically for low-power envelopes.
Excellent efficiency for 2010 embedded standards.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- No AI hardware
- Low power limits restrict compute capacity
- No AI capabilities
- Designed well before AI integration
Content Creation
Gaming
- Low base clock of 2.3 GHz
- Designed for stability, not burst gaming frame rates
- HD 530 graphics are insufficient for modern gaming
- Legacy IGP only
- Insufficient for 3D workloads
- Not targeted at consumers
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- Extremely low 35W TDP
- Supports passive cooling designs
- Reliable 4-core performance for 24/7 use
- Supports Intel vPro for enterprise management
Cons
- Low base clock of 2.3 GHz
- Locked multiplier
- Hard to find as a standalone retail part
- Not suited for high-performance tasks
Pros
- ECC memory support
- Long embedded lifecycle
- Low 18W TDP
- Hardware virtualization (VT-d)
Cons
- Obsolete performance
- Soldered BGA package
- Limited availability
- Expensive for its performance
Competitors & Alternatives
Core i5-6500TE
- AMD Ryzen 5 1600TRival
Embedded
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-7500TRival
Embedded
- Intel Core i3-6100TRival
Low Power
- AMD A8-9600Rival
Low Power
- Intel Pentium G4400TRival
Low Power
More modern architecture with better efficiency and performance.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 5 3400GEAlt
Better integrated graphics and multi-threading in a 35W envelope.
Standard desktop alternative if power consumption is not a strict limit.
Compare head-to-headNewer generation low-power alternative with slightly better clocks.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 3 3200GEAlt
Modern budget low-power alternative for embedded builds.
Core i7-660UE
- AMD Embedded G-T56NRival
Embedded ULV
- Intel Atom D525Rival
Embedded
- Intel Core i7-610ERival
Embedded
- AMD Turion II Neo K625Rival
Embedded ULV
- Intel Core 2 Duo SP9600Rival
Embedded
- Intel Core i7-660UMAlt
Consumer alternative if ECC is not required.
- Intel Core i5-430UEAlt
Lower cost embedded alternative.
- AMD Embedded G-T40NAlt
AMD alternative for low-power embedded systems.
- Intel Core i7-2617UEAlt
Newer generation embedded alternative.
Our Verdict on Each
An excellent specialized processor for its intended niche, offering quad-core performance in a highly constrained 35W thermal envelope for 24/7 operation.
Best for: Building a fanless home server or repurposing an embedded board
Read the full reviewA reliable embedded chip for its era, offering ECC support and low power consumption for mission-critical applications.
Best for: Replacing a failed chip in legacy industrial hardware
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Core i5-6500TE or Core i7-660UE?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Core i5-6500TE comes out ahead with a score of 7.5/10. That said, the best choice depends on your workload — check the spec and performance breakdown above for gaming, productivity and efficiency differences.
Which is faster for gaming, Core i5-6500TE or Core i7-660UE?
For gaming, the Core i7-660UE leads with a gaming performance score of 15/100 among Core i5-6500TE and Core i7-660UE.
Which uses less power?
The Core i7-660UE has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Core i5-6500TE (35 W), Core i7-660UE (18 W).
Do Core i5-6500TE and Core i7-660UE use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Core i5-6500TE: LGA 1151, Core i7-660UE: Intel BGA 1288), so each needs a compatible motherboard.
Which has more cores?
The Core i5-6500TE has the most cores. Core counts: Core i5-6500TE (4 cores), Core i7-660UE (2 cores).