OVERALL
SPECS
VS AVERAGE
REVIEWS
ALTERNATIVES

Intel Core i5 10600 Review | 78 Data compared

double-arrow
  • Avg. price in UK: ~£170
  • Avg. price in US: ~$200
  • PassMark benchmark result: 13543
  • N. of physical cores: 6
  • CPU boost clock speed: 4.8 GHz

Intel Core i5 10600 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%

4.8

Technical Score

10.0%

9.6

User score

Good
4.8

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%

4.1

Performance

18.0%

5.0

Cache & Architecture

10.0%

5.9

Memory & PCIe

7.0%

5.6

Power & Thermal

4.0%

8.4

Platform

1.0%

7.1

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
(288)
amazon
4.7
(63)

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

Exceptional
  • 4.8
    Gaming

    Score components:

    30.0%

    5.1

    PassMark single-core benchmark score

    25.0%

    4.6

    Geekbench 6 single-core benchmark score

    20.0%

    7.0

    CPU boost clock speed

    17.0%

    2.7

    L3 cache

    8.0%

    2.6

    N. of physical cores

  • 3.2
    Video editing

    Score components:

    45.0%

    3.3

    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

  • intel-core-i5-10600
intel-core-i5-10600

Best prices in UK

Best rankings

?

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

Verdict

The Intel Core i5-10600 is a 10th-generation Comet Lake desktop processor featuring 6 cores and 12 threads with Hyper-Threading technology. It operates at a base clock speed of 3.3 GHz and can reach a maximum turbo frequency of 4.8 GHz, supported by 12 MB of Intel Smart Cache and a 65W TDP. Main characteristics include support for dual-channel DDR4-2666 memory, integrated Intel UHD Graphics 630, and compatibility with the LGA 1200 socket. Its primary pros are strong single-core performance suitable for gaming, efficient multitasking due to increased thread count over previous generations, and relatively low power consumption for a mid-range chip. However, cons include being limited to PCIe 3.0 support, lack of overclocking capabilities compared to the 'K' variant, and reliance on an older 14nm lithography.

Technical Specifications of processor Intel Core i5 10600

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%

4.1

Performance

18.0%

5.0

Cache & Architecture

10.0%

5.9

Memory & PCIe

7.0%

5.6

Power & Thermal

4.0%

8.4

Platform

1.0%

7.1

Integrated Graphics

4.8
Intel Core i5 10600 has a technical score of 4.76 points, which is lower than that of 59.3% 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
(288)
amazon
4.7
(63)

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

9.6
Intel Core i5 10600 has a user score of 9.58 points, which is higher than that of 96.7% 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 10600 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%

9.6

Price

6.6
Intel Core i5 10600 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 10600 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 10600 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

?
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 10600 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.
Show more
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 10600 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 10600 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 10600 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

4.8 GHz
Intel Core i5 10600 reaches a boost clock of 4.8 GHz which is higher than that of 71.2% of processors and equal to that of 4.3% 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 3.3 GHz
Intel Core i5 10600 has a base clock of 6x3.3 GHz which is equal to that of 100% of processors.
Show more
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 10600 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 10600 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 10600 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

?
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

384 KB
Intel Core i5 10600 has an L1 cache of 384 KB which is larger than that of 45% of processors and equal to that of 15.8% of processors.
Show more
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 10600 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 10600 supports memory speeds up to 2666 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 10600 supports JEDEC memory speeds up to DDR4-2666 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

?
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 10600 supports up to 128 GB of memory, which is more than 61.9% of processors and equal to 21.4% of processors.
Show more
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 10600 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 10600 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 10600 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 10600 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

?
Show more
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 10600 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 10600 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 10600 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 10600 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 10600 does not support configurable TDP. 52.9% of processors support configurable TDP.
Show more

Intel Core i5 10600 vs the average processor

  • Includes stock cooler
    Intel Core i5 10600 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 10600 includes a stock cooler, the average processor does not.
  • 11.6% higher boost clock
    Intel Core i5 10600 has a higher boost clock speed than the average processor (4.8 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.
    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

    Intel Core i5 10600 has a higher boost clock speed than the average processor (4.8 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.4.8 GHz vs 4.3 GHz
  • Supports memory overclocking
    Intel Core i5 10600 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 10600 supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
  • 2x more memory capacity
    Intel Core i5 10600 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 10600 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
  • 17.2% better single-core performance
    Intel Core i5 10600 has a higher PassMark single-core score than the average processor (2,910 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.
    What it is: A benchmark score that reflects single-core CPU performance.
    When it matters: When you care about responsiveness in lighter or older software.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >3200

    Intel Core i5 10600 has a higher PassMark single-core score than the average processor (2,910 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.2,910 vs 2,483
  • 4 more CPU threads
    Intel Core i5 10600 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 10600 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 10600 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 10600 is more popular than the average processor (10.00 vs 1.000).10 vs 1
  • 19.8% higher user score
    Intel Core i5 10600 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 10600 has a higher user score than the average processor (9.58 vs 8.000).9.58 vs 8
  • Modern CPU socket
    Intel Core i5 10600 uses a more modern CPU socket than the average processor (LGA1,200 vs FP2).
  • 11.6% higher boost clock
    Intel Core i5 10600 has a higher boost clock speed than the average processor (4.8 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.
  • 17.2% better single-core performance
    Intel Core i5 10600 has a higher PassMark single-core score than the average processor (2,910 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.
  • 4 more CPU threads
    Intel Core i5 10600 has more CPU threads than the average processor (12 vs 8). The average processor has 8 CPU threads.
  • 27.8% better multi-core performance
    Intel Core i5 10600 has a higher multi-core performance than the average processor (3,556 vs 2,783). The average processor scores 2,783 in Cinebench R20 multi-core.
  • 28.4% higher multi-core score
    Intel Core i5 10600 has a higher Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (6,152 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.
  • 10.3% higher single-core score
    Intel Core i5 10600 has a higher Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (1,623 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.
  • 28.6% higher PassMark score
    Intel Core i5 10600 has a higher PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (13,543 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.
  • 50% larger L3 cache
    Intel Core i5 10600 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 10600 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 10600 supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
  • 2x more memory capacity
    Intel Core i5 10600 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 10600 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 10600 supports a narrower instruction set than the average processor (MMX, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, BMI1, BMI2 vs MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4A, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA).
  • 30.3% slower Blender rendering
    Intel Core i5 10600 has a higher Blender BMW27 render time than the average processor (231.4 vs 331.88). The average processor needs 331.88 for the Blender BMW27 test.
  • Less advanced microarchitecture
    Intel Core i5 10600 uses a less advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Comet Lake vs Kaby Lake).
  • 16.7% larger process node
    Intel Core i5 10600 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 10600 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.
  • 9.2% lower memory bandwidth
    Intel Core i5 10600 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 10600 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 10600 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 10600 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 10600 does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does.
  • 44.4% higher TDP
    Intel Core i5 10600 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 10600 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 10600 uses a less advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Comet Lake vs Kaby Lake).Comet Lake vs Kaby Lake
  • 2.09x higher boost power
    Intel Core i5 10600 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 10600 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
  • 30.3% slower Blender rendering
    Intel Core i5 10600 has a higher Blender BMW27 render time than the average processor (231.4 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 10600 has a higher Blender BMW27 render time than the average processor (231.4 vs 331.88). The average processor needs 331.88 for the Blender BMW27 test.231.4 vs 331.88
  • 16.7% larger process node
    Intel Core i5 10600 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 10600 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 10600 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 10600 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 10600 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 10600 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 10600 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 10600 does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does.
  • Narrower instruction support
    Intel Core i5 10600 supports a narrower instruction set than the average processor (MMX, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, BMI1, BMI2 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 10600 supports a narrower instruction set than the average processor (MMX, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, BMI1, BMI2 vs MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4A, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA).MMX, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, BMI1, BMI2 vs MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4A, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA
Total
Platform
Performance
Cache & Architecture
Memory & PCIe
Power & Thermal

Graphic comparison of Intel Core i5 10600 and other processors

Attribute category
Attribute
No results found

Third-party reviews

United Kingdom
amazon
4.7
288 Reviews
amazon
4.7
63 Reviews

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

What customers like about Intel Core i5 10600?

  • Leading gaming performance for its price class, often rivaling high-end i7 and i9 models
  • Introduction of Hyper-Threading (6 cores/12 threads) significantly boosts multitasking and productivity over previous generations
  • Excellent thermal performance; the chip generally runs cool and is relatively easy to manage with standard cooling solutions
  • Strong single-core speeds that benefit daily Windows applications and high-refresh-rate eSports titles
  • Integrated UHD 630 graphics included, providing a fail-safe or basic display output without a dedicated GPU

What customers dislike about Intel Core i5 10600?

  • Lacks support for PCIe 4.0, limiting the speed of the latest NVMe SSDs compared to AMD competitors
  • Requires a new LGA 1200 motherboard, which may increase total build costs for those on older platforms
  • Higher power consumption than rival AMD Ryzen chips, particularly under heavy multi-threaded loads
  • Multi-threaded performance still slightly trails behind comparable AMD Ryzen 5 models in content creation tasks
  • Standard retail versions of this specific generation often did not include a boxed stock cooler

Expert reviews

C
cpubenchmark.net
29/03/2026
Intel i5-10600 vs i5-10600T Comparison

The PassMark comparison between the Intel Core i5-10600 and i5-10600T highlights a trade-off between performance and power efficiency, with the 65W i5-10600 offering roughly 15-16% better multi-threaded and single-thread performance than the 35W "T" variant. Pros for the standard i5-10600 include higher base clock speeds (3.30GHz) and better overall value for desktop tasks, though...Read more

B
browser.geekbench.com
29/03/2026
Intel Core i5-10600 Benchmarks - Geekbench Browser

The Intel Core i5-10600 is a 6-core, 12-thread "Comet Lake" processor operating at 3.3 GHz (up to 4.8 GHz boost), offering a significant performance boost over predecessors due to reintroduced Hyper-Threading. As a locked 65W TDP chip, it provides strong single-threaded performance for daily tasks and gaming without requiring expensive cooling solutions. The CPU excels in gaming,...Read more

C
cpubenchmark.net
29/03/2026
Intel Core i5-10600 @ 3.30GHz - CPU Benchmarks

The Intel Core i5-10600 is a 10th Gen "Comet Lake" desktop processor featuring 6 cores and 12 threads with a 3.3 GHz base and 4.8 GHz turbo clock. According to PassMark, it achieves a score of approximately 13,546, offering strong single-threaded performance suitable for gaming and general computing. The CPU operates within a 65W TDP for efficient power management. Key advantages...Read more

H
hardwaredealz.com
20/05/2020
Intel Core i5-10600 Review - Benchmarks & Gaming Performance

The Intel Core i5-10600 (Boxed) is a strong mid-range 10th-gen processor featuring 6 cores, 12 threads with Hyper-Threading, and a 4.8 GHz boost clock, offering excellent gaming performance, according to HardwareDealz. Key advantages include stable thermals, the inclusion of a stock cooler, and integrated Intel UHD Graphics 630. However, the processor relies on the older LGA 1200...Read more

(Translated)Show original
C
chip.de
01/02/2021
Intel Core i5-10600K Review: The Secret Tip for Gamers", "Intel Core i5-10600K Review: The Secret Highlight of Comet Lake-S?", "Intel Core i5-10600K &...

The Intel Core i5-10600K is a 10th-generation "Comet Lake" processor described by CHIP.de as a 6-core/12-thread powerhouse, marking the return of Hyper-Threading to the i5 lineup with a 50% improvement in multi-threaded tasks over its predecessor. Operating at a 4.1 GHz base and 4.8 GHz boost clock, it delivers top-tier gaming performance often matching higher-end, more expensive...Read more

(Translated)Show original
H
hardwareluxx.de
20/05/2020
Intel Core i5-10600K and Core i9-10900K Review

The Hardwareluxx review of the 10th Gen Intel Core i5-10600K and Core i9-10900K ("Comet Lake-S") highlights the i9-10900K as a gaming leader, offering superior performance through 10 cores and 5.3 GHz boost clocks. While strong in gaming, the i9 is constrained by high power consumption exceeding 250W and extreme heat generation, making high-end cooling necessary. The Core i5-10600K...Read more

(Translated)Show original
H
hardwarecooking.fr
20/05/2020
Intel Core i5-10600K Review: Including an in-depth comparison with the i5-10600

The HardwareCooking review highlights the Intel Core i5-10600K as a strong mainstream gaming CPU, featuring 6 cores, 12 threads, and high clock speeds (4.1 GHz base, 4.8 GHz boost) enabled by improved Hyper-Threading. It offers significant performance gains over previous generations, particularly in single-threaded tasks and gaming, positioning it as a top choice for gamers. Pros...Read more

(Translated)Show original
C
cpu.userbenchmark.com
20/05/2020
Intel Core i5-10600 BX8070110600 - CPU UserBenchmarks

The Intel Core i5-10600 is a 10th-generation "Comet Lake" desktop processor featuring 6 cores and 12 threads with a 3.3 GHz base and 4.8 GHz turbo clock, offering a significant multi-core performance boost over previous generations. Pros include strong gaming performance (100+ FPS in many titles), high efficiency with a 65W TDP, and competent integrated Intel UHD Graphics 630. Key...Read more

(Translated)Show original

Video reviews

Best alternatives

amd-ryzen-5-9600
AMD Ryzen 5 9600

Processors

7.4
intel-core-ultra-5-245kf
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF

Processors

7.6
amd-ryzen-5-9600x
AMD Ryzen 5 9600X

Processors

7.5
intel-core-i5-12600k
Intel Core i5 12600K

Processors

7.1
amd-ryzen-7-8700f
AMD Ryzen 7 8700F

Processors

7.2
amd-ryzen-7-5800xt
AMD Ryzen 7 5800XT

Processors

6.6
intel-core-i5-13600k
Intel Core i5 13600K

Processors

7.6
intel-core-i5-12400
Intel Core i5 12400

Processors

6.4
intel-core-ultra-7-265kf
Intel Core Ultra 7 265KF

Processors

8.3
amd-ryzen-7-7700
AMD Ryzen 7 7700

Processors

7.9
No image
AMD Ryzen 5 Pro 7645

Processors

6.7
intel-core-ultra-5-225
Intel Core Ultra 5 225

Processors

7.8

Compare Intel Core i5 10600 with other processors

VS
VS

Compare