The Intel 5th gen vs 6th gen is an ongoing debate among computer enthusiasts because it is difficult to tell the most significant differences and similarities. This article makes things easier for you and other enthusiasts because it contains all the details, including tables and a head-to-head comparison of the two Intel Core CPUs.
Both gen core processors share incredible similarities and differences, but we must consider the core architecture and the design when comparing both series. So, by the time you are done reading this article, you will understand everything necessary to become an expert at telling the differences.
Contents
Comparison Table
| Â | Intel Core Gen 5 | Intel Core Gen 6 |
| Chips used | Celeron, Pentium, Xeon, Core M | Xeon |
| Cores | Dual-core / 2 computing threads per core | Dual-core / 2 computing threads per core |
| Speed | 2.2 – 2.7 GHz | 2.2 – 4.0 GHz |
| Cache size | 3 MB | 2-8 MB |
| Best used for | Laptops / Tablets | Laptops / Tablets |
| Also known as | Broadwell | Skylake |
| Important features | Intel Advanced Vector Extension (Intel AVX) 2.0, Collaborative Processor Performance Control (CPPC), Serial ATA (SATA) 6 Gb/s, and Intel Integrated 10/100/100 MAC | Intel Turbo Boost Technology 2.0, Intel Hyper-Threading Technology, Intel Advanced Vector Extensions 2.02 (Intel AVX2), and Intel Advanced Encryption Standard New Instructions (Intel AES-NI) |
What Are the Differences Between Intel 5TH Gen and Intel 6TH Gen?
The main difference between the Intel 5th gen and the Intel 6th gen is the increased speed and cache size of the 6th generation. Moreover, this generation has many improved features, such as the Intel Turbo Boost Technology 2.0 and the Intel Advanced Vector Extensions 2.02 (Intel AVX2).
What Is the Intel 5TH Generation Best For?
The 5th generation Intel is best for users who want to keep their system and data secure because this processor is protected by the Supervisor Mode Access Memory Prevention (SMAP). The improving process is typical for all computer components, but the processor is one of the few parts that manufacturers need a lot of work on.
– Features and Improvements Breakdown
As discussed previously, customers also refer to this generation as the Broadwell due to its 14-nanometer die shrink.
So, this Intel processor has improved in many aspects, but does that make it better than the 6th generation? Our experts provided the answer, but you must keep reading this article to learn more. Also, this processor features several chip names, including Xeon, Pentium, and Celeron. You can find it in several Core M processors.
Besides improving the SMAP feature’s security, this processor improved its performance using RDSEED. As a result, the arbitrary-precision integer operation and its performance function are much better than the previous generations. So, these improvements prevented hackers from taking advantage of software bugs, although skilled hackers can still find their way around. Nevertheless, the performance and security are no longer the most significant issues with the Intel Core 5th gen.
However, our thorough comparison of the i5 5th gen vs i5 6th gen will not be complete without explaining the new features in detail. Be aware that this article does not compare the 6th gen vs 7th gen Intel or the i5 6th gen vs i7 6th gen. Additionally, in our other articles, you can learn more about the Intel 6th gen vs 10th gen.
– Stunning Video Decoder With VP8 Hardware
One of the latest and major additions of the 5th gen is Broadwell’s Intel Quick Sync Video hardware video decoder. This video decoder adds the essential VP8 hardware technology and outstanding encoding support. As a result, your laptop or tablet will have quicker video commands and improved response time when working with visual and auditory speed. However, nothing comes without any problems, but fortunately, the Intel 5th generation does not have many.
For example, the most significant problem with the 5th generation is that not many customers have the chance to purchase it. The culprit for this issue is that Intel quickly moved to the 6th gen, which resulted in insufficient support for the 5th gen. Therefore, although you can purchase the 5th gen anywhere at a discount, you should consider that there will not be much information about the unit if something goes wrong. So, it would be best to consider everything before you purchase this generation because you might not find the information afterward.
Additionally, it is nearly impossible for users to purchase lower-priced processors with the 5th generation because it is used for expensive gaming and professional builds. The 5th generation is the primary chip used in tablets and laptops, including ultrabooks and powerful units. As you can see, this amazing processor offers various features, but you must consider the lack of support and information. Every product has its pros and cons, and now you know a lot more about the 5th generation of processors.
What Is the Intel 6TH Generation Best For?
The Intel 6th generation is best for customers who want to enjoy more support for bugs and fixes and the possibility to overclock all aspects. Intel significantly improved the CPU and GPU performance by reducing power consumption, although both generations used the same microarchitecture.Â
– Features and Improvements Breakdown
So, customers refer to this generation as Skylake, the last Intel Core platform to support earlier Windows versions than Windows 10. However, some modifications exist that allow people to use later versions.Â
Although this processor was first released in August 2015, Intel did not waste much time after releasing the 5th gen, as explained previously. What about the most significant improvement the 6th generation offered, besides the improved CPU and GPU performance? Well, Intel devoted months of hard work to improve the battery life of tablets and laptops. Also, this is something Intel tried doing with the 5th generation but failed.Â
One of the most significant criteria that affect battery life is heat. As a result, Intel developed a processor that does not generate as much heat under regular use as other processors, so it is the most popular choice among gamers and streamers. Even if you overclock the 6th generation and push it to the limit, it will perform great without generating unnecessary and harmful heat. However, these are not the only incredible specifications and abilities this processor has.
– Compact Size and Improved Performance
So, besides improving the CPU and GPU performance and upgrading the battery’s life by reducing heat, this fantastic processor has other new features. For example, Intel’s latest addition to the 6th gen was the unit’s dimensions and size. Namely, the 6th gen is so tiny that manufacturers halved it in size from previous generations. So, not only do customers get fantastic performance and speed, but they also get a small package suitable for all laptops.
As a result, who would benefit the most from a processor this size? The 6th gen processor was designed for customers who prefer portable and powerful laptops or for customers who take their jobs anywhere but want to enjoy a fast performance. Additionally, this generation’s price is affordable, especially if you plan on upgrading your old laptop or tablet. However, what about the problems?
Fortunately, this processor’s only problem is that it is unpredictable with hyperthreading, but not all the time. Additionally, customers can easily fix this problem because Intel offers occasional patches that will make things easier for you. So, as you can see, this laptop is a great deal for customers who enjoy the performance, want a small unit, and do not want to bother with constant bugs, errors, and problems. You are guaranteed to get a fantastic deal if you purchase this unit for your laptop.
FAQs
1. Which Is Better I3 6TH Gen or I5 5TH Gen and Why?
It is not easy to answer this question because you must know the purpose of your product. For example, 6th generation processors consume less power and produce less heat. As a result, they are used in modern mobile phones, laptops, and computers. So, if you need a product that does not consume a lot of power and does not generate a lot of heat, a laptop with a 6th generation processor sounds like a great deal.
On the flip side, more modern 5th generation processors are better, but they must fit your daily needs. For example, these processors are powerful enough to run most games, including some modern releases, but they might cost you more. So, before you opt for your ideal processor and splash the money, consider the purpose of your product. It would be best not to spend tons of money on a product you do not need.
2. Which Is Better I5 6TH Gen or I7 5TH Gen for Gaming?
With each generation change, your performance does not improve, but you get less heat and power consumption. As a result, having the latest generation processor does not guarantee a better gaming experience. So, a typical i5 6th generation processor produces less heat and consumes less power, but it may or may not be more powerful than an i7 5th generation processor. The best way to see if an i5 6th generation processor is more powerful than an i7 5th generation is to look at the numbers.
For example, a 3+ GHz i5 6th generation processor is guaranteed to perform better than a 2 GHz i7 5th generation processor. So, as you can see, it would be best to see the speed and performance differences. Fortunately, many online tools can help you choose a more optimal processor, especially if you have several in mind. So, always check the specifications before you purchase something you might regret later.
Conclusion
Our complete guide managed to show you that the Intel 5th gen vs 6th gen comparison offers various similarities and differences. However, the main difference between the Intel 5th gen and the Intel 6th gen is the increased speed and cache size of the 6th generation. Moreover, this generation has many improved features, such as the Intel Turbo Boost Technology 2.0 and the Intel Advanced Vector Extensions 2.02 (Intel AVX2).
So, customers who prefer a more secure processor should opt for the 5th generation because it has additional security measures and features. On the flip side, it would be best for customers to opt for the 6th generation if they prefer improved CPU and GPU performance in a small package. Nevertheless, you will not make a mistake no matter which processor you choose because we recommend both.Â