Intel Core i3-7100 vs Intel Core i5-6500
The Intel Core i5-6500 is the faster processor, scoring 12/100 on our gaming benchmark versus 10/100 for the Intel Core i3-7100 — roughly 20% faster. If your budget allows, the Intel Core i5-6500 is the better long-term choice.
Intel Core i3-7100
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Intel Core i5-6500
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Specs compared
| Spec | Intel Core i3-7100 | Intel Core i5-6500 |
|---|---|---|
| Gaming score | 10/100 | 12/100 |
| Cores / Threads | 2 / 4 | 4 / 4 |
| Boost clock | 3.90 GHz | 3.60 GHz |
| TDP | 51 W | 65 W |
| Socket | LGA1151 | LGA1151 |
| MSRP | $29.00 | $39.00 |
Intel Core i3-7100 vs Intel Core i5-6500: which should you buy?
The Intel Core i5-6500 is the faster processor, scoring 12/100 on our gaming benchmark versus 10/100 for the Intel Core i3-7100 — roughly 20% faster. If your budget allows, the Intel Core i5-6500 is the better long-term choice. For your specific games and resolution, run both through our comparison tool, check pairing with the bottleneck calculator, or see where each lands on the tier list.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Intel Core i3-7100 better than the Intel Core i5-6500?
The Intel Core i5-6500 is faster for gaming, scoring 12/100 versus 10/100 for the Intel Core i3-7100 (about 20% faster).
Should I buy the Intel Core i3-7100 or the Intel Core i5-6500?
For raw gaming performance, choose the Intel Core i5-6500. If it costs notably more for only a small gain, the Intel Core i3-7100 can be the better value. Check current prices before deciding.
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