Millions of PC users worldwide use Intel core processors as their CPU. They belong to Intel’s flagship CPU family and are highly demanding. As you know, the core i5 has up to 9th generation. 3rd gen and 8th gen are notable among them.
The fact is the higher the generation, the better it is. So, the 8th gen i5 surely surpasses the 3rd gen i5. Don’t worry! We’ll come up with all the relevant information about the 3rd-gen i5 and 8th-gen i5 for easier understanding.
So, without wasting time, let’s get into them, shall we?

Differences Between 3rd Gen i5 and 8th Gen i5 Intel Processor
To determine the best one, you must comprehend the differences. So, we’re going to share a quick comparison between the 3rd gen and the 8th gen and then find out the differences. We’re comparing the i5-3470 and i5-8600 to make it more convenient. Now, check the table below –
Specifications | Core i5-3470 | Core i5-8600 |
Socket type | LGA1155 | FCLGA1151 |
CPU speed | 3.2 GHz | 3.1 GHz |
GPU speed | 650 MHz | 350 MHz |
RAM speed | 2666 MHz | 1600 MHz |
Turbo speed | Up to 3.6 GHz | Up to 4.3 GHz |
Semiconductor size | 22 nm | 14 nm |
L2 cache | 1 MB | 1.5 MB |
CPU threads | 4 | 6 |
Max TDP | 77 W | 65 W |
Performance per watt | 31.3 | 77.8 |
Single thread rating | 1915 | 2508 |
First seen on chart | Q2 2012 | Q2 2018 |
CPU mark | 6715 | 12642 |
From the table, you can notice that the 8th gen has –
- A 45.31% faster CPU speed (4 x 3.2 GHz vs 6 x 3.1 GHz)
- 1066 MHz extra RAM speed
- 0.7 extra turbo speed
- 8 nm smaller semiconductor
- Bigger L2 cache with an extra 0.5 MB
- 2 extra CPU threads
- 12 W lesser TDP (Thermal Design Power)
- 593 more single thread rating
- 5927 higher CPU mark
Moreover, it’s quite modern than 3470.

On the other hand, the 3rd gen has –
- 300 MHz extra GPU speed
- 46.5 more energy efficiency

These are the major differences between the 8th gen and the 3rd gen.
Which to Choose Between Intel 3rd Gen vs 8th Gen Processor?
As you’ve got the basic idea about this two different gens, you can easily realize that the 8th gen i5 is one step ahead in almost every field than the 3rd gen. It’ll support better turbo speed, RAM speed, CPU speed, and less power consumption; has more threads and ratings.
Therefore, it can be said that undoubtedly the 8th gen i5 is the best Intel core processor.
Our Verdict
If you’re thinking of buying an i5 processor for your new PC and are confused about which gen you should choose between these two genes; then we’ll highly recommend getting one from the 8th gen. Logically, modern-gen processors are more advanced than older-gen processors because of the upgrades through time.
That’s why 8th gen processors are more expensive than 3rd gen processors. So, if you can afford then you must go for the i5 8th gen. Otherwise, if you want to save some bucks and don’t hesitate about the lower specs, you can go for the i5 3rd gen.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the i5 3rd gen still worth using?
In some cases, yes! It has enough physical cores and cache for multitasking and multithreaded applications. So, if you’re a moderate or regular user, the i5 3rd gen is still a good option for you.
Is i5 8th gen good for gaming?
Yes, it is. The integrated graphics and improved performance made the 8th gen processor one of the finest gaming CPUs available.
Which gen of i5 is best?
The fact is that i5 8th gen processors are still enough powerful to play modern games and execute intensive tasks. Yet if you’re searching for the best i5 gen to ensure the best performance, then the i5 13th gen is suggested.
Conclusion
To conclude, the 8th gen i5 is superior to the 3rd gen i5. If you can manage to get an 8th gen processor, you’ll have advanced specs and enjoy the faster and smoother performance. Let us know if the post helps to make the topic clear for you.
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