Best Intel Core i5 CPU Processors of 2025

Mike Davis Avatar
Mike Davis
Last Updated: Jan 10, 2025

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Intel Core i5 CPU processors are a popular choice for those seeking a balance between price and performance. These processors offer quad-core processing and up to 4.2 GHz clock speed, making them ideal for multitasking and running demanding applications. They also come equipped with Intel Turbo Boost Technology, which automatically increases the processor's clock speed when needed. Additionally, Intel Core i5 processors support Intel Optane memory, which can significantly improve system performance by reducing load times and increasing responsiveness. Overall, the Intel Core i5 CPU processors are a reliable and powerful option for both home and business use.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Intel Core i5-12600KF Cover #TOP 1
Intel Core i5-12600KF
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Intel Core i5-12400F: A Powerful Desktop Processor Cover #TOP 2
Intel Core i5-12400F: A Powerful Desktop Processor
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Intel Core i5-12400 Desktop Processor 18M Cache Cover #TOP 3
Intel Core i5-12400 Desktop Processor 18M Cache
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Intel Core i5 CPU Processors

#TOP 1

Intel Core i5-12600KF

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Intel Core i5-12600KF Cover
Intel Core i5-12600KF Desktop Processor 10 (6P+4E) Cores up to 4.9 GHz Unlocked LGA1700 600 Series Chipset 125W

The Intel i5-12600KF CPU processor is a high-performance 10-core processor with 6P+4E cores that can reach up to 4.9 GHz. The processor is unlocked and has a Socket LGA-1700 socket for easy installation on the PCB. With 16 MB of L3 cache, the processor quickly retrieves commonly used data to improve your system's overall performance. Additionally, the processor features Intel 7 Architecture, which helps to improve performance per watt and makes it power-efficient. The hyper-threading architecture of the processor delivers exceptional performance for demanding applications, while the improved onboard graphics and turbo boost offer convenience and benefits to the users.

What We Like
Great value for price
Excellent performance for gaming and large processing workloads
Unlocked for overclocking
Works well with RTX30XX cards
#TOP 2

Intel Core i5-12400F: A Powerful Desktop Processor

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Intel Core i5-12400F: A Powerful Desktop Processor Cover
Intel Core i5 Core 12400F Desktop Processor 18M Cache, up to 4.40 GHz

The Intel Core i5-12400F Desktop Processor is a powerful and efficient CPU that offers up to 4.4 GHz Turbo Frequency and 6 cores. With a 65W Processor Base Power and LGA1700 600 Series Chipset, this processor is perfect for demanding applications and multitasking.

What We Like
Powerful 6-core processor
Efficient with 65W Processor Base Power
Up to 4.4 GHz Turbo Frequency for demanding applications
#TOP 3

Intel Core i5-12400 Desktop Processor 18M Cache

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1.8"x1.8"
Intel Core i5-12400 Desktop Processor 18M Cache Cover
Intel Core i5-12400 Desktop Processor 18M Cache, up to 4.40 GHz

The Intel Core i5-12400 Desktop Processor is an excellent mid-range CPU for gamers and those looking for a good performance processor. It features a Socket LGA-1700 socket for installation on the PCB, 18 MB of L3 cache, and Intel UHD Graphics 730 controller for improved graphics and visual quality. It comes with a stock cooler and is affordable, although motherboards with LGA 1700 sockets are currently more expensive than LGA 1200 or AMD counterparts. Overall, this is a great processor for those looking for a good performance processor.

What We Like
Hyper-threading architecture delivers high performance
18 MB of L3 cache for fast and smooth performance
Intel UHD Graphics 730 controller for improved graphics and visual quality
Affordable
Stock cooler included
#TOP 4

Intel Core i5-12400F CPU

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Intel Core i5-12400F Alder Lake CPU LGA 1700 2.5 GHz 6-Core 65W 18MB Cache Desktop Processor

The Intel i5-12400F is a powerful 12th generation processor designed for desktop systems. With a base speed of 2.5 GHz, this CPU offers reliable performance for everyday tasks and gaming. It features the LGA1700 socket, ensuring compatibility with modern motherboards. Additionally, it supports both PCIe 5.0 and 4.0, allowing you to take advantage of the latest graphics cards and storage devices. With a power consumption of only 65W, this processor is energy-efficient, making it a great choice for users looking to balance performance and power usage.

What We Like
High performance
Energy-efficient
Supports latest technologies
Compatible with modern motherboards

Intel Core i5-7500 LGA 1151 7th Gen Processor

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Intel Core i5-7500 LGA 1151 7th Gen Core Desktop Processor (Renewed)

The Intel Core i5-7500 Processor is a quad-core processor that supports up to 64GB of DDR4-2400 RAM. With a turbo frequency of up to 3.8GHz, it offers fast and efficient performance. Its 6MB cache ensures quick access to frequently used data. This processor is perfect for multitasking, running multiple applications at once without slowing down your system. It also supports fast memory, making it great for gaming and other high-performance applications. With its powerful features and reliable performance, the Intel Core i5-7500 Processor is a great choice for anyone looking to upgrade their desktop computer.

What We Like
Fast and efficient performance
Supports up to 64GB of RAM
Quad-core processor
#TOP 6

Intel Core i5-14400F Processor

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Intel Core i5-14400F Processor Cover
Intel Core i5-14400F Desktop Processor 10 cores (6 P-cores + 4 E-cores) up to 4.7 GHz

The Intel i5-14400F is a powerful desktop processor featuring 10 cores, including 6 performance cores and 4 efficiency cores, designed to handle demanding tasks with ease. With a maximum speed of 4.7 GHz, it ensures fast processing for gaming, content creation, and multitasking. Its hybrid architecture intelligently manages workloads, optimizing performance based on your needs. Additionally, this processor supports the latest PCIe 5.0 and 4.0, allowing for enhanced data transfer speeds. Compatibility with both DDR4 and DDR5 memory gives you flexibility in choosing the right components for your build.

What We Like
High core count
Fast processing speed
Hybrid architecture
Latest PCIe support
Memory flexibility
#TOP 7

Intel Core i5-12600K Desktop Processor

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Intel Core i5-12600K Desktop Processor Cover
Intel Core i5-12600K Desktop Processor with Integrated Graphics and 10 (6P+4E) Cores up to 4.9 GHz Unlocked LGA1700 600 Series Chipset 125W

The Intel Core i5-12600K Desktop Processor is a powerful CPU with 10 cores and a hyper-threading architecture that delivers high performance for demanding applications. It has a Socket LGA-1700 socket that allows for easy placement on the PCB without soldering. With 16 MB of L3 cache, this processor rapidly retrieves the most used data available to improve system performance. The Intel 7 Architecture enables improved performance per watt and micro architecture makes it power-efficient. Additionally, it has a built-in Intel UHD Graphics controller for great graphics and visual quality.

What We Like
10 cores with hyper-threading architecture for high performance
Socket LGA-1700 allows for easy placement on PCB without soldering
16 MB of L3 cache for improved system performance
Intel 7 Architecture for improved performance per watt and power-efficiency
Built-in Intel UHD Graphics controller for great graphics and visual quality
#TOP 8

Intel Core i5-13600K Processor

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Intel Core i5-13600K Processor Cover
Intel Core i5-13600K Desktop Processor 14 (6 P-cores + 8 E-cores) with Integrated Graphics - Unlocked

The Intel Core i5-13600K is designed to deliver outstanding performance for everyday computing tasks. With 14 cores, including 6 performance cores and 8 efficiency cores, you can enjoy seamless multitasking and fast processing for streaming and creating content. The processor can reach speeds of up to 5.1 GHz, making it ideal for demanding applications. It also features integrated Intel UHD Graphics 770, which means you can enjoy decent visuals without needing a separate graphics card. This processor is compatible with Intel 600 and 700 series motherboards, allowing for easy upgrades.

What We Like
Exceptional multitasking capabilities
High-speed performance
Integrated graphics included
Compatible with modern motherboards
#TOP 9

Intel i5-13400F Desktop Processor

Core i5-13400F
Intel i5-13400F Desktop Processor Cover
Intel i5-13400F Desktop Processor 10 cores (6 P-cores + 4 E-cores) 20MB Cache, up to 4.6 GHz

The Intel i5-13400F CPU features a powerful hybrid architecture with 10 cores, combining 6 performance cores and 4 efficient cores. This design helps you manage tasks more effectively, ensuring smooth multitasking and enhanced performance for demanding applications. With a maximum speed of 4.6 GHz and a generous 20MB cache, you can expect quick data access and responsiveness during intense workloads. It is compatible with both Intel 600 and 700 series motherboards, making it versatile for upgrades. Plus, it supports Turbo Boost Max Technology 3.0, which automatically increases the processor's speed for demanding tasks, giving you the performance boost you need.

What We Like
Hybrid architecture for efficiency
High speed up to 4.6 GHz
20MB cache for quick access
Compatible with multiple motherboards
#TOP 10

Intel Core i5-7500

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Intel Core i5-7500 Cover
Intel Core i5-7500 LGA 1151 7th Gen Core Desktop Processor

The Intel Core i5-7500 LGA 1151 7th Gen Core Desktop Processor, or Intel Core i5 CPU for short, is a CPU processor designed for desktop use. It is compatible with Intel 200/1001 Series Chipsets (excluding Intel Octane Technology support) and features Intel HD Graphics 630. Additionally, the processor incorporates Intel Turbo Boost 2.0 Technology and Intel Hyper-Threading Technology1 to enhance performance. Intel Turbo Boost 2.0 Technology automatically increases the processor's clock speed when it's needed, while Intel Hyper-Threading Technology1 enables the processor to handle multiple threads simultaneously. These features ensure faster and smoother performance for your computer, making the Intel Core i5 CPU an excellent choice for gaming, video editing, and other demanding tasks.

What We Like
Fast performance
Intel Turbo Boost 2.0 Technology
Intel Hyper-Threading Technology1
Buying Guide Image

The Best Intel Core i5 CPU Processors You Should Consider

How to Choose the Best Intel Core i5 CPU Processor for Your Needs

If you're in the market for a new Intel Core i5 CPU processor, it can be overwhelming to navigate the myriad of options available. With so many different models and specifications to consider, it can be difficult to determine which processor will best suit your needs. In this article, we'll break down some key factors to consider when choosing an Intel Core i5 CPU processor.

Processor Generation

The first thing to consider when choosing an Intel Core i5 CPU processor is the generation. Intel typically releases a new generation of processors every year or two, each with incremental improvements in performance and efficiency. The most recent generation as of this writing is the 10th generation, which offers faster speeds and better performance than previous generations.

Clock Speed

Clock speed is another important factor to consider when choosing an Intel Core i5 CPU processor. Clock speed is measured in gigahertz (GHz) and refers to the speed at which the processor can execute instructions. Higher clock speeds generally result in faster performance, but they also tend to consume more power and generate more heat. It's important to balance performance with power consumption and heat generation when choosing a processor.

Cores and Threads

The number of cores and threads is another important consideration when choosing an Intel Core i5 CPU processor. Cores refer to the number of processing units within the processor, while threads refer to the number of tasks that can be executed simultaneously. More cores and threads generally result in better performance for multi-tasking and resource-intensive applications.

Integrated Graphics

Many Intel Core i5 CPU processors come with integrated graphics, which can be a cost-effective option for those who don't need a separate graphics card. Integrated graphics can handle basic tasks like web browsing and video playback, but they may not be sufficient for more demanding applications like gaming or video editing.

Thermal Design Power (TDP)

TDP is a measure of the amount of power that a processor consumes and the amount of heat it generates. Higher TDPs generally indicate more powerful processors, but they also tend to consume more power and generate more heat. It's important to choose a processor with a TDP that is appropriate for your needs and your system's cooling capabilities.

Conclusion

When choosing an Intel Core i5 CPU processor, there are several key factors to consider, including processor generation, clock speed, cores and threads, integrated graphics, and TDP. By carefully evaluating your needs and considering these factors, you can choose a processor that will provide the performance and efficiency that you require. Keep in mind that brand names are not as important as the specifications themselves, so be sure to carefully compare different models and brands to find the best fit for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How many processors are there in i5?

Core i3 processors have two cores, Core i5 CPUs have four and Core i7 models also have four. Some Core i7 Extreme processors have six or eight cores.

2. What type of processor is Intel Core i5?

Developed and manufactured by Intel, the Core i5 is a computer processor, available as dual-core or quad-core. It can be used in both desktop and laptop computers, and is one of four types of processors in the "i" (Intel Core family) series.

3. Is Core i5 good processor?

Conclusion. In the end, Intel Core i5 is a great processor that is made for mainstream users who care about performance, speed and graphics. The Core i5 is suitable for most tasks, even heavy gaming. The Intel Core i7 is an even better processor that is made for enthusiasts and high-end users.

4. What is the fastest i5 processor?

11th Generation Intel Core i5 ProcessorsIntel Core i5-9600KIntel Core i5-8400Intel Core i5-9400FIntel Core i5-8600KIntel Core i5-9400Intel Core i5-9600KFIntel Core i5-4690KIntel Core i5-4670KIntel Core i5-6600KIntel Core i5-6500Intel Core i5-8500Intel Core i5-11600KIntel Core i5-7600KIntel Core 2 Duo E8400Intel Core i5-2500KIntel Core i5-4460Intel Core i5-12400Intel Core i5-7400Intel Core i5-7500

Editor's Notes

During our intel core i5 cpu processor research, we found 24 intel core i5 cpu processor products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 56,300 customer reviews through our big data system to write the intel core i5 cpu processors list. We found that most customers choose intel core i5 cpu processors with an average price of $173.77.

The intel core i5 cpu processors are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of intel core i5 cpu processors, including Intel and more. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Mike Davis Avatar

Mike Davis is a professionally trained electrician with six years of working experience in the electronics industry. He has written an array of web and mobile-based articles for e-magazines and blogs. He loves trying out some novel and popular gadgets and his expertise is in the areas of electronics and computers which is built over many years of working and personal experiences.