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Intel Core i5 10400 Review | 78 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£130
  • Avg. price in US: ~$110
  • PassMark benchmark result: 11984
  • N. of physical cores: 6
  • CPU boost clock speed: 4.3 GHz

Intel Core i5 10400 review. Compare 78 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among processors and if it is worth buying.

5.2

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the processor's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best processors on the market.

Score components:

90.0%

4.7

Technical Score

10.0%

9.6

User score

Good
4.7

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the processor's technical performance, covering key areas such as processing performance, core configuration, efficiency, platform support, integrated features, and thermal behavior.

When it matters: When you want to compare processors based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

60.0%

4.2

Performance

18.0%

4.3

Cache & Architecture

10.0%

5.8

Memory & PCIe

7.0%

5.6

Power & Thermal

4.0%

7.7

Platform

1.0%

7.2

Integrated Graphics

Poor
9.6

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the processor.

When it matters: When you want to know how a processor performs in real workloads and how reliable it is for gaming, productivity, and efficiency according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

9.4

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.7
(3686)
amazon
4.5
(44)
amazon
5.0
(1)

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

Exceptional
  • 4.1
    Gaming

    Score components:

    30.0%

    4.3

    PassMark single-core benchmark score

    25.0%

    4.1

    Geekbench 6 single-core benchmark score

    20.0%

    5.5

    CPU boost clock speed

    17.0%

    2.7

    L3 cache

    8.0%

    2.6

    N. of physical cores

  • 3.1
    Video editing

    Score components:

    45.0%

    3.0

    Geekbench 6 multi-core benchmark score

    20.0%

    2.6

    N. of physical cores

    20.0%

    4.0

    CPU threads

    15.0%

    2.7

    L3 cache

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Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Intel Core i5-10400 is a 10th-generation 'Comet Lake' desktop processor featuring 6 cores, 12 threads, and a 12 MB Smart Cache. Built on a 14nm process for the LGA 1200 socket, it operates at a 2.9 GHz base frequency with a maximum turbo boost of 4.3 GHz and a 65W TDP. Main pros include its solid mid-range gaming performance, inclusion of integrated Intel UHD Graphics 630, and the addition of Hyper-Threading compared to its predecessor. Primary cons are its locked multiplier which prevents overclocking, a 14nm architecture that is less energy-efficient than newer competitors, and a memory speed limitation of 2666 MHz when used on non-Z series motherboards.

Technical Specifications of processor Intel Core i5 10400

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the processor's technical performance, covering key areas such as processing performance, core configuration, efficiency, platform support, integrated features, and thermal behavior.

When it matters: When you want to compare processors based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

60.0%

4.2

Performance

18.0%

4.3

Cache & Architecture

10.0%

5.8

Memory & PCIe

7.0%

5.6

Power & Thermal

4.0%

7.7

Platform

1.0%

7.2

Integrated Graphics

4.7
Intel Core i5 10400 has a technical score of 4.68 points, which is lower than that of 61.5% of products in this category.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the processor.

When it matters: When you want to know how a processor performs in real workloads and how reliable it is for gaming, productivity, and efficiency according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

9.4

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.7
(3686)
amazon
4.5
(44)
amazon
5.0
(1)

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

9.6
Intel Core i5 10400 has a user score of 9.58 points, which is higher than that of 95.9% of products in this category.
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the processor.
When it matters: When you prefer to choose a processor reviewed and selected by many other buyers.
10
Intel Core i5 10400 has a popularity of 10 points, which is higher than 88.3% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the processor's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you are looking for a processor with a good balance between performance, efficiency, and price.

Score components:

60.0%

5.2

Overall score

40.0%

9.8

Price

6.6
Intel Core i5 10400 has a quality-to-price ratio of 6.6 points, which is higher than 57.6% of products in this category.
Brand name
What it is: The manufacturer or brand of the product.
When it matters: When you prefer a specific ecosystem, support network, or design philosophy.

Importance: MEDIUM

Intel
Processor type
What it is: The kind of system the processor is built for, such as desktop PCs, laptops, workstations, or servers.
When it matters: When you want a processor meant for the kind of machine you are actually building or buying, rather than a chip aimed at a different class of system.

Importance: HIGH

desktop
Intel Core i5 10400 belongs to the desktop processor class, which is more advanced than that of 56% of processors and equal to that of 37.9% of processors.
CPU socket
What it is: The physical socket the processor fits into on the motherboard.
When it matters: When you need to make sure the CPU can actually be installed on a specific motherboard.

Importance: HIGH

LGA1200
Intel Core i5 10400 uses the LGA1200 CPU socket, which is newer than that of 69.9% of processors and equal to that of 4.5% of processors.
Chipset
What it is: The motherboard chipset families officially meant to work with the processor.
When it matters: When you are checking whether a CPU will work with the motherboard features and platform you plan to use.

Importance: HIGH

Z590, B560, H510, Z490, H470, B460, H410
Intel Core i5 10400 supports Z590, B560, H510, Z490, H470, B460, H410 chipsets, which is broader compatibility than 62.9% of processors.
CPU architecture
What it is: The processor family or design generation behind the chip, such as Zen 4 or Raptor Lake.
When it matters: When you are comparing CPUs across generations and want a clearer sense of their design age, feature level, and expected performance class.

Importance: HIGH

x86-64
Intel Core i5 10400 uses the x86-64 architecture, which is more advanced than that of 1.7% of processors and equal to that of 98.3% of processors.
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N. of physical cores
What it is: The number of physical CPU cores on the processor.
When it matters: When you run workloads that benefit from more real cores.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: 8+

6
Intel Core i5 10400 has 6 CPU cores, which is more than 49.9% of processors and equal to 13.4% of processors.
CPU threads
What it is: The total number of processing threads the CPU can handle at once.
When it matters: When you run heavily threaded workloads or multitask a lot.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: 16+

12
Intel Core i5 10400 offers 12 CPU threads, which is more than 55.1% of processors and equal to 14.1% of processors.
Threads per core
What it is: The number of threads each physical core can handle at once.
When it matters: When you want to understand how much thread-level parallelism each core can provide in multitasking or heavily threaded work.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: 2

2
Intel Core i5 10400 offers 2 threads per core, which is more than 30.4% of processors and equal to 69.6% of processors.
CPU boost clock speed
What it is: The highest clock speed the processor can reach under boost conditions.
When it matters: When you care about peak speed in short bursts.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >4.7 GHz

4.3 GHz
Intel Core i5 10400 reaches a boost clock of 4.3 GHz which is higher than that of 48.2% of processors and equal to that of 2.9% of processors.
CPU base clock speed
What it is: The processor's normal all-core starting frequency before boost behavior raises clocks temporarily.
When it matters: When you care about steadier performance in longer workloads rather than short burst speed alone.

Importance: MEDIUM

6 x 2.9 GHz
Intel Core i5 10400 has a base clock of 6x2.9 GHz which is equal to that of 100% of processors.
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Semiconductor size
What it is: The manufacturing process node used to produce the processor, usually expressed in nanometers.
When it matters: When efficiency, heat, and the relative modernity of the chip-making process matter to your comparison.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <10 nm

14 nm
Intel Core i5 10400 uses a 14 nm process node, which is older than that of 50.8% of processors and equal to that of 33.7% of processors.
Foundry
What it is: The semiconductor manufacturer that physically fabricates the processor chip.
When it matters: When process source, manufacturing generation, or foundry differences matter to your comparison more than day-to-day performance alone.

Importance: MEDIUM

Intel 14 nm
Intel Core i5 10400 is built on the Intel 14 nm foundry process, which is less advanced than that of 55.2% of processors and equal to that of 29.3% of processors.
L3 cache
What it is: The total amount of L3 cache available on the processor.
When it matters: When you want better performance in cache-sensitive workloads and games.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=16 MB

12 MB
Intel Core i5 10400 has an L3 cache of 12 MB which is larger than that of 54.4% of processors and equal to that of 9% of processors.
L2 cache
What it is: The total amount of L2 cache available across the processor.
When it matters: When you want to compare CPU design efficiency and how much fast intermediate cache the cores have available.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=6 MB

1.5 MB
Intel Core i5 10400 has an L2 cache of 1.5 MB which is smaller than that of 62.5% of processors and equal to that of 4.6% of processors.
L1 cache
What it is: The total amount of L1 cache built into the processor, which sits closest to the cores.
When it matters: When you are comparing low-level CPU design details rather than the broader performance picture buyers usually notice first.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=512 KB

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DDR memory version
What it is: The RAM generation the processor is designed to support, such as DDR4 or DDR5.
When it matters: When you need the CPU to match the kind of memory platform you want to buy or reuse.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: DDR5

DDR4
Intel Core i5 10400 supports DDR DDR4, which is newer than that of 26.3% of processors and equal to that of 31.7% of processors.
Maximum memory speed
What it is: The highest official memory speed supported by the processor.
When it matters: When you choose RAM and want to know the supported speed ceiling.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >=4800 MHz

2,666 MHz
Intel Core i5 10400 supports memory speeds up to 2,666 MHz, which is lower than that of 55% of processors and equal to 8.1% of processors.
Max memory speed (JEDEC)
What it is: The highest official RAM speed the processor supports under standard JEDEC settings, before any memory overclocking profiles are applied.
When it matters: When officially supported stock RAM speed matters more than XMP, EXPO, or manual memory tuning.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5600 MHz

DDR4-2666 MHz
Intel Core i5 10400 supports JEDEC memory speeds up to DDR4-2,666 MHz, which is lower than that of 55.3% of processors and equal to 7.4% of processors.
Max memory speed (XMP / EXPO)
What it is: The highest memory speed supported through XMP or EXPO profiles.
When it matters: When you want faster RAM through memory profiles.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5200 MHz

5,000 MHz
Intel Core i5 10400 supports XMP/EXPO memory speeds up to 5,000 MHz, which is higher than that of 94.4% of processors.
Maximum memory capacity
What it is: The largest total amount of memory officially supported by the processor.
When it matters: When you plan a system with very large RAM capacity.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >=128 GB

128 GB
Intel Core i5 10400 supports up to 128 GB of memory, which is more than 61.9% of processors and equal to 21.4% of processors.
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Integrated graphics
What it is: Includes built-in graphics, so the system can output video without a separate graphics card.
When it matters: When you want the PC to work without a dedicated GPU, or you are building an office, media, compact, or troubleshooting-friendly system.

Importance: HIGH

yes
Intel Core i5 10400 includes integrated graphics. 87.6% of processors include integrated graphics.
Integrated GPU model
What it is: The model name of the integrated graphics processor, if present.
When it matters: When you plan to use the CPU's built-in graphics.

Importance: MEDIUM

Intel UHD Graphics 630
Intel Core i5 10400 uses the Intel UHD Graphics 630 integrated GPU, which is more advanced than that in 44.3% of processors and equal to that in 8.3% of processors.
Integrated GPU execution units
What it is: The number of execution units available in the integrated graphics part of the processor.
When it matters: When you plan to rely on built-in graphics and want a better sense of its light gaming, display, or media capability.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=24

24
Intel Core i5 10400 has 24 GPU execution units, which is more than 49.2% of processors and equal to 21.6% of processors.
Integrated GPU base frequency
What it is: The base operating frequency of the integrated GPU.
When it matters: When integrated graphics performance matters to you.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=350 MHz

350 MHz
Intel Core i5 10400 has an integrated GPU clock of 350 MHz which is higher than that of 43.5% of processors and equal to that of 29.6% of processors.
Integrated media encoders/decoders
What it is: The hardware media formats the processor can encode or decode directly.
When it matters: When you stream, edit video, or rely on hardware media acceleration.

Importance: LOW

H.264 (HW decode/encode), H.265 (HW decode/encode), VP9 (HW decode), VP8 (HW decode), MPEG-2 (HW decode), VC-1 (HW decode), J
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TDP (Thermal design power)
What it is: The rated thermal design power, which gives a general idea of cooling and power needs.
When it matters: When you choose a cooler or build in a tighter case.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <30 W

65 W
Intel Core i5 10400 has a TDP of 65 W which is higher than that of 70% of processors and equal to that of 16.1% of processors.
Base power (PL1)
What it is: The sustained power target used for longer CPU loads.
When it matters: When you choose cooling and power delivery for sustained workloads.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <30 W

65 W
Intel Core i5 10400 has a base power of 65 W which is higher than that of 70.3% of processors and equal to that of 16.4% of processors.
Boost power (PL2)
What it is: The short-term boost power limit the processor may draw under heavier turbo loads.
When it matters: When you size cooling and power delivery for peak turbo behavior.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <50 W

134 W
Intel Core i5 10400 has a boost power of 134 W which is higher than that of 81.8% of processors and equal to that of 0.3% of processors.
Tau (power duration limit)
What it is: The time limit the CPU can stay at higher boost power before dropping toward sustained power.
When it matters: When you want to understand turbo behavior under longer loads.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=28 s

28 seconds
Intel Core i5 10400 has a turbo duration of 28 seconds which is longer than that of 3.8% of processors and equal to that of 85% of processors.
Configurable TDP
What it is: Allows the processor to run in alternate power modes instead of being fixed to one default TDP target.
When it matters: When you want more control over heat, noise, and power draw in compact systems, quieter builds, or thermally limited machines.

Importance: LOW

no
Intel Core i5 10400 does not support configurable TDP. 52.9% of processors support configurable TDP.
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Intel Core i5 10400 vs the average processor

  • Includes stock cooler
    Intel Core i5 10400 includes a stock cooler, the average processor does not.
    What it is: A stock CPU cooler is included in the box with the processor.
    When it matters: When total build cost matters and you need to know whether separate cooling must be bought right away.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Intel Core i5 10400 includes a stock cooler, the average processor does not.
  • Supports memory overclocking
    Intel Core i5 10400 supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
    What it is: Allows memory speeds beyond official stock settings through manual tuning or profile-based overclocking.
    When it matters: When you want to push RAM performance higher than stock support allows, especially in enthusiast or gaming builds.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Intel Core i5 10400 supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
  • 2x more memory capacity
    Intel Core i5 10400 has more maximum memory capacity than the average processor (128 GB vs 64 GB). The average processor supports 64 GB of memory.
    What it is: The largest total amount of memory officially supported by the processor.
    When it matters: When you plan a system with very large RAM capacity.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >=128 GB

    Intel Core i5 10400 has more maximum memory capacity than the average processor (128 GB vs 64 GB). The average processor supports 64 GB of memory.128 GB vs 64 GB
  • 4 more CPU threads
    Intel Core i5 10400 has more CPU threads than the average processor (12 vs 8). The average processor has 8 CPU threads.
    What it is: The total number of processing threads the CPU can handle at once.
    When it matters: When you run heavily threaded workloads or multitask a lot.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: 16+

    Intel Core i5 10400 has more CPU threads than the average processor (12 vs 8). The average processor has 8 CPU threads.12 vs 8
  • 10x more popular
    Intel Core i5 10400 is more popular than the average processor (10.00 vs 1,000).
    What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the processor.
    When it matters: When you prefer to choose a processor reviewed and selected by many other buyers.
    Intel Core i5 10400 is more popular than the average processor (10.00 vs 1,000).10 vs 1
  • Includes crypto acceleration
    Intel Core i5 10400 includes crypto acceleration, the average processor does not.
    What it is: Built-in hardware support for accelerating encryption and cryptographic tasks.
    When it matters: When encryption speed or secure workloads matter to you.

    Importance: LOW

    Intel Core i5 10400 includes crypto acceleration, the average processor does not.AES, SHA, RSA/PKA vs AES, SHA
  • 19.7% higher user score
    Intel Core i5 10400 has a higher user score than the average processor (9.58 vs 8,000).
    What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the processor.
    When it matters: When you want to know how a processor performs in real workloads and how reliable it is for gaming, productivity, and efficiency according to user feedback.
    Intel Core i5 10400 has a higher user score than the average processor (9.58 vs 8,000).9.58 vs 8
  • Modern CPU socket
    Intel Core i5 10400 uses a more modern CPU socket than the average processor (LGA1200 vs FP2).
    What it is: The physical socket the processor fits into on the motherboard.
    When it matters: When you need to make sure the CPU can actually be installed on a specific motherboard.

    Importance: HIGH

    Intel Core i5 10400 uses a more modern CPU socket than the average processor (LGA1200 vs FP2).LGA1200 vs FP2
  • Modern CPU socket
    Intel Core i5 10400 uses a more modern CPU socket than the average processor (LGA1200 vs FP2).
  • Includes crypto acceleration
    Intel Core i5 10400 includes crypto acceleration, the average processor does not.
  • 4 more CPU threads
    Intel Core i5 10400 has more CPU threads than the average processor (12 vs 8). The average processor has 8 CPU threads.
  • 50% larger L3 cache
    Intel Core i5 10400 has a higher L3 cache than the average processor (12 MB vs 8 MB). The average processor has L3 cache of 8 MB.
  • 16.7% more L3 per core
    Intel Core i5 10400 has more L3 cache per core than the average processor (2 MB/core vs 1,714 MB/core). The average processor provides 1,714 MB/core of L3 cache per core.
  • Supports memory overclocking
    Intel Core i5 10400 supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
  • 2x more memory capacity
    Intel Core i5 10400 has more maximum memory capacity than the average processor (128 GB vs 64 GB). The average processor supports 64 GB of memory.
  • Includes stock cooler
    Intel Core i5 10400 includes a stock cooler, the average processor does not.

Total
Overall
Platform
Performance
Cache & Architecture
Memory & PCIe
Power & Thermal
  • Narrower instruction support
    Intel Core i5 10400 supports a narrower instruction set than the average processor (SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX2 vs MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4A, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA).
  • 22.6% slower Blender rendering
    Intel Core i5 10400 has a higher Blender BMW27 render time than the average processor (256.8 vs 331.88). The average processor needs 331.88 for the Blender BMW27 test.
  • 7% lower Cinebench R20 single-core score
    Intel Core i5 10400 has a lower Cinebench R20 single-core score than the average processor (450 vs 484). The average processor scores 484 in Cinebench R20 single-core.
  • Less advanced microarchitecture
    Intel Core i5 10400 uses a less advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Comet Lake vs Kaby Lake).
  • 16.7% larger process node
    Intel Core i5 10400 has a higher process node than the average processor (14 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.
  • 50% less L2 per core
    Intel Core i5 10400 has less L2 cache per core than the average processor (0.3 MB/core vs 0.5 MB/core). The average processor provides 0.5 MB/core of L2 cache per core.
  • 40% smaller L2 cache
    Intel Core i5 10400 has a lower L2 cache than the average processor (1.5 MB vs 2.5 MB). The average processor has L2 cache of 2.5 MB.
  • 9.2% lower memory bandwidth
    Intel Core i5 10400 has a lower memory bandwidth than the average processor (41.6 GB/s vs 45.8 GB/s). The average processor offers memory bandwidth of 45.8 GB/s.
  • 9.1% lower memory speed
    Intel Core i5 10400 has a lower maximum memory speed than the average processor (2,666 MHz vs 2,933 MHz). The average processor supports memory speed of 2,933 MHz.
  • 2.09x higher boost power
    Intel Core i5 10400 has a higher boost power draw than the average processor (134 W vs 64 W). The average processor has a boost power draw of 64 W.
  • 44.4% higher base power
    Intel Core i5 10400 has a higher base power draw than the average processor (65 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.
  • No configurable TDP
    Intel Core i5 10400 does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does.
  • 44.4% higher TDP
    Intel Core i5 10400 has a higher TDP than the average processor (65 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.
  • Less advanced microarchitecture
    Intel Core i5 10400 uses a less advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Comet Lake vs Kaby Lake).
    What it is: The internal core-design codename used for this processor generation.
    When it matters: When you are comparing CPUs at a deeper design level and want to identify the exact architecture behind marketing names.

    Importance: LOW

    Intel Core i5 10400 uses a less advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Comet Lake vs Kaby Lake).Comet Lake vs Kaby Lake
  • Narrower instruction support
    Intel Core i5 10400 supports a narrower instruction set than the average processor (SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX2 vs MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4A, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA).
    What it is: The supported CPU instruction sets and extensions.
    When it matters: When you run software that depends on specific CPU instructions.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Intel Core i5 10400 supports a narrower instruction set than the average processor (SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX2 vs MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4A, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA).SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX2 vs MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4A, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA
  • 2.09x higher boost power
    Intel Core i5 10400 has a higher boost power draw than the average processor (134 W vs 64 W). The average processor has a boost power draw of 64 W.
    What it is: The short-term boost power limit the processor may draw under heavier turbo loads.
    When it matters: When you size cooling and power delivery for peak turbo behavior.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: <50 W

    Intel Core i5 10400 has a higher boost power draw than the average processor (134 W vs 64 W). The average processor has a boost power draw of 64 W.134 W vs 64 W
  • 16.7% larger process node
    Intel Core i5 10400 has a higher process node than the average processor (14 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.
    What it is: The manufacturing process node used to produce the processor, usually expressed in nanometers.
    When it matters: When efficiency, heat, and the relative modernity of the chip-making process matter to your comparison.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: <10 nm

    Intel Core i5 10400 has a higher process node than the average processor (14 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.14 nm vs 12 nm
  • 44.4% higher base power
    Intel Core i5 10400 has a higher base power draw than the average processor (65 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.
    What it is: The sustained power target used for longer CPU loads.
    When it matters: When you choose cooling and power delivery for sustained workloads.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: <30 W

    Intel Core i5 10400 has a higher base power draw than the average processor (65 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.65 W vs 45 W
  • 50% less L2 per core
    Intel Core i5 10400 has less L2 cache per core than the average processor (0.3 MB/core vs 0.5 MB/core). The average processor provides 0.5 MB/core of L2 cache per core.
    What it is: The amount of L2 cache available to each CPU core.
    When it matters: When you are comparing per-core cache resources in deeper architectural analysis.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: >=1 MB/core

    Intel Core i5 10400 has less L2 cache per core than the average processor (0.3 MB/core vs 0.5 MB/core). The average processor provides 0.5 MB/core of L2 cache per core.0.25 MB/core vs 0.5 MB/core
  • No configurable TDP
    Intel Core i5 10400 does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does.
    What it is: Allows the processor to run in alternate power modes instead of being fixed to one default TDP target.
    When it matters: When you want more control over heat, noise, and power draw in compact systems, quieter builds, or thermally limited machines.

    Importance: LOW

    Intel Core i5 10400 does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does.
  • 22.6% slower Blender rendering
    Intel Core i5 10400 has a higher Blender BMW27 render time than the average processor (256.8 vs 331.88). The average processor needs 331.88 for the Blender BMW27 test.
    What it is: A Blender render result based on the BMW27 scene, used to show how quickly the processor can finish a heavy 3D rendering task.
    When it matters: When rendering speed matters for 3D work, content creation, or other workloads that behave like long multi-core renders.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >290

    Intel Core i5 10400 has a higher Blender BMW27 render time than the average processor (256.8 vs 331.88). The average processor needs 331.88 for the Blender BMW27 test.256.8 vs 331.88
Total
Platform
Performance
Cache & Architecture
Memory & PCIe
Power & Thermal

Graphic comparison of Intel Core i5 10400 and other processors

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom
amazon
4.7
3686 Reviews
amazon
4.5
44 Reviews
amazon
5.0
1 Reviews

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

What customers like about Intel Core i5 10400?

  • Excellent value-for-money, often cited as a top choice for budget gaming builds
  • Solid gaming performance at 1080p, comparable to the Ryzen 5 3600
  • Includes integrated graphics (Intel UHD 630), providing a fallback or budget workstation solution
  • Low power consumption and relatively low operating temperatures
  • Comes with a workable bundled stock cooler that is sufficient for most non-overclocked use

What customers dislike about Intel Core i5 10400?

  • Locked multiplier prevents traditional overclocking
  • Memory speed is limited to 2666MHz on lower-end (H410/B460) motherboards
  • Underlying microarchitecture (Skylake-based) is considered aged compared to newer Zen or subsequent Intel generations
  • Stock cooler can be noisy under heavy loads according to some users
  • Requires LGA 1200 socket, mandating a motherboard upgrade for those on older platforms

Expert reviews

B
back2gaming.com
30/01/2021
Intel Core i5-10400 Gaming Performance Review

The Back2Gaming review highlights the Intel Core i5-10400 (6 cores/12 threads, 4.3GHz boost) as a solid, high-availability mainstream gaming CPU that offers a significant multi-threaded performance leap over the previous i5-9400, making it capable of supporting modern gaming even with high-end GPUs like the RTX 3070. While providing decent frame rates and maintaining a low, easily...Read more

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pcmag.com
24/02/2021
Intel Core i5-10400 Review

The PCMag review highlights the Intel Core i5-10400 as a valuable, entry-to-midrange CPU, featuring 6 cores, 12 threads, and a 65W TDP that offers a "tenacious" alternative to AMD competitors. While offering solid 1080p gaming performance and hyper-threading improvements, the processor is limited by locked speeds, required LGA 1200 motherboards, and a 2666MHz RAM cap on non-Z...Read more

M
me.pcmag.com
24/02/2021
Intel Core i5-10400 - Review 2021 - PCMag Middle East

The Intel Core i5-10400 is a 6-core, 12-thread 10th Generation desktop processor designed for mainstream users and budget-conscious gamers, featuring hyper-threading and a 65W TDP. The review highlights its solid 1080p gaming performance when paired with a discrete card, low operating temperatures, and the inclusion of a functional stock cooler. However, it is restricted by a locked...Read more

U
uk.pcmag.com
24/02/2021
Intel Core i5-10400 - Review 2021 - PCMag UK

The PCMag review characterizes the Intel Core i5-10400 as a tenacious, value-focused 6-core/12-thread processor that excels in 1080p gaming when paired with a discrete GPU. It offers decent performance for its price point and is easy to cool, making it a viable option for those already on the LGA 1200 platform. However, the CPU is frequently outclassed in productivity tasks by...Read more

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techspot.com
28/05/2020
Intel Core i5-10400 vs. AMD Ryzen 5 3600

The TechSpot review of the Intel Core i5-10400 highlights a significant upgrade to a 6-core/12-thread architecture, offering up to 45% better multi-threaded performance than the i5-9400. While providing competitive performance with a 65W TDP, the CPU relies on motherboards ignoring power limits for peak performance, and it faces stiff competition from the AMD Ryzen 5 3600. A major...Read more

H
hardwareluxx.de
19/06/2026
A Great All-Rounder Without the K: Intel Core i5-10400F Review

The Hardwareluxx review identifies the Intel Core i5-10400F as a capable 6-core/12-thread, 65W TDP mid-range processor that lacks integrated graphics and an unlocked multiplier. It delivers competitive performance against the Ryzen 5 3600 and approaches the previous-gen i7-9700K in multi-threaded tasks. Key advantages include strong gaming performance and high efficiency, while...Read more

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lesnumeriques.com
03/07/2020
Intel Core i5-10400 Review: A Balanced 6-Core Mid-Range Processor

The Intel Core i5-10400, a 6-core/12-thread processor, offers respectable mid-range performance, featuring a 35–45% multi-threaded gain over its predecessor. Key pros include excellent power efficiency and thermal management, allowing for quiet operation under load, making it a "correct" choice for users committed to the LGA 1200 platform. However, its performance often falls behind...Read more

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C
conseil-config.com
27/07/2020
Intel Core i5-10400F Review: A Great Gaming Mid-Range?

The Intel Core i5-10400F is a 6-core, 12-thread processor that brings hyper-threading to the i5 line, functioning as a 65W TDP alternative to the 10600K. Lacking integrated graphics and Turbo Boost 3.0, it offers strong gaming value that frequently matches or exceeds the Ryzen 7 3700X, though it lags behind AMD in heavy production workloads. Key pros include high gaming performance...Read more

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H
hardwarecooking.fr
14/07/2020
Intel Core i5-10400F Review: A great CPU for under $200?

The Intel Core i5-10400F is a 6-core/12-thread Comet Lake processor offering a strong mid-range value proposition, featuring Hyper-Threading and a 65W TDP while lacking integrated graphics. Performance testing shows it offers excellent gaming capabilities, rivaling higher-tier CPUs, with 35-45% better multi-threaded performance than previous generations. However, the chip is limited...Read more

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R
robadainformatici.it
07/03/2026
Intel Core i5-10400F - Full review

The Intel Core i5-10400F is highlighted as a high-value, mid-range "best buy" featuring 6 cores, 12 threads, and a 4.3 GHz boost clock, delivering strong 1080p gaming and multitasking performance. It excels with a 65 W TDP for efficiency and low operating temperatures, often making the stock cooler sufficient, though the i5-10400F lacks integrated graphics and requires a dedicated...Read more

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tweakers.net
09/04/2021
Processor Best Buy Guide - The best CPUs in April 2021

The April 2021 Tweakers Processor Best Buy Guide highlights the impact of Intel’s 11th Gen "Rocket Lake" and AMD’s Ryzen 5000 series, dividing recommendations into budget, gaming, and productivity tiers. The Intel Core i5-11400 is recommended for budget, offering exceptional value and high IPC, though it suffers from high power consumption and heat. For gaming and heavy...Read more

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tweakers.net
27/09/2020
Processors under 200 euros Roundup - Comparing affordable current CPUs

a little longer The Tweakers.net review compares mid-range processors under €200, highlighting the intense competition between the Intel Core i5-10400 and AMD Ryzen 5 3600. While both are six-core, twelve-thread CPUs suited for gaming and productivity, the optimal choice depends heavily on memory speed support and motherboard selection. The Intel Core i5-10400 is identified as a...Read more

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tweakers.net
30/06/2020
Intel Core i5-10400 Boxed Review

The Intel Core i5-10400 is a 6-core, 12-thread processor that offers strong, value-oriented performance for gaming and general computing, featuring Hyper-Threading and a 4.3 GHz boost clock. Key pros include exceptional thermal efficiency (65W TDP) and the inclusion of an integrated UHD 630 GPU, making it a robust, cool-running option for budget-conscious users. However, the CPU...Read more

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T
tweakers.net
07/09/2021
Processor Best Buy Guide: The best CPUs in September 2021

In September 2021, the Tweakers Processor Best Buy Guide highlighted a market dominated by AMD's Ryzen 5000 series, with the Ryzen 5 5600X recommended as the top all-round gaming CPU for its high IPC and excellent efficiency, despite a relatively high price point. Budget-conscious builders were directed toward the Intel Core i5-11400F, which offered high-value performance, although...Read more

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tweakers.net
20/03/2023
Which GPU relies less on your Intel CPU?

This Tweakers review evaluates the impact of pairing modern GPUs with older 10th to 12th generation Intel Core i5 processors, highlighting that while upgrades provide significant performance gains, older CPUs like the i5-10400 limit high-end card potential. Benchmarks indicate that AMD Radeon cards generally offer lower driver overhead, making them a better choice for reducing...Read more

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hardware.info
09/07/2020
Intel Core i5 10400 & Core i7 10700K review: Mainstream firepower

The Hardware Info review analyzes the 10th-gen Intel Core i5-10400 and i7-10700K, focusing on value versus performance. The i5-10400 (6C/12T) is a power-efficient (65W) and cost-effective option for standard gaming, though it lacks overclocking support and is limited to lower memory speeds on non-Z boards. Conversely, the i7-10700K (8C/16T) delivers high-end, 5.1 GHz performance...Read more

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