Detailed Overview
Intel Core i5-14400: Complete Technical Analysis
Executive Summary
The Intel Core i5-14400 is a 14th Gen Raptor Lake Refresh desktop processor featuring 10 cores (6 Performance-cores, 4 Efficiency-cores) and 16 threads, delivering excellent mainstream performance with a focus on value and efficiency. With a base clock of 2.5GHz and boost speeds up to 4.7GHz, this locked processor offers strong single-threaded performance for gaming while providing good multi-threaded capabilities for productivity workloads. Operating at a 65W TDP with a maximum turbo power of 148W, the i5-14400 includes Intel UHD Graphics 730 and represents the entry point to Intel's 14th Gen Core i5 lineup, providing compelling performance for gaming and general productivity at an attractive price point.
Product Identification
- Full Name: Intel Core i5-14400
- Short Name: Core i5-14400
- SKU: BX8071514400
- Status: active (retail)
- Launch Date: 2024-01-08
- Warranty: 3 years
Core Specifications Breakdown
Architecture & Manufacturing
- Process Node: Intel 7 (10nm Enhanced SuperFin)
- Transistors: 25.8 billion
- Die Size: 257 mm²
Core Configuration
- Cores/Threads: 10 cores / 16 threads (6P+4E)
- Clock Speeds: Base 2.5 GHz, Boost 4.7 GHz
- Cache: 9.5 MB L2 + 20 MB L3
Power & Thermal Characteristics
- TDP: 65 W
- Max Package Power: 148 W
- Thermal Limit: 100 °C
Memory & Expansion
- Memory: DDR5 up to 5600 MHz (OC)
- PCIe: 5.0 with 20 total lanes
- Max Memory: 192 GB
Compatibility & Requirements
Platform Compatibility
Socket: LGA1700 Chipsets: Z790, Z690, B760, B660, H770, H670, H610 Motherboard Form Factors: ATX, Micro-ATX, Mini-ITX
Minimum Requirements:
- BIOS: Version 16.0 or later
- OS: Windows 11, Windows 10 (22H2+), Linux Kernel 6.0+
Power Supply Requirements
PSU Calculator Data:
- Minimum PSU: 500 W
- Recommended GPU Pairing: GeForce RTX 4060 / Radeon RX 7600
- Typical Gaming Power: 75 W
- Efficiency Rating: Good
Performance Analysis
Gaming Performance
1080p Gaming: Very Good 1440p Gaming: Very Good Esports: Very Good
Productivity Performance
Single-Thread Score: 1750 Multi-Thread Score: 16500 Content Creation: Good
Benchmark Reference
- Cinebench R23 Single: 1750
- Cinebench R23 Multi: 16500
- Geekbench 6 Single: 2500
Market Context
Direct Comparisons
Previous Generation: Intel Core i5-13400 Main Competitor: AMD Ryzen 5 7600 Value Alternative: Intel Core i5-14400F
Pricing Analysis
Launch MSRP: $221 Current Price: $199 Price Trend: stable Value Rating: 8.7/10
Purchase Recommendations
Ideal Use Cases
- Budget gaming builds without overclocking
- General productivity and office systems
- Users wanting integrated graphics as backup
- Entry-level content creation systems
System Building Guide
GPU: GeForce RTX 4060 / Radeon RX 7600 RAM: 32GB DDR5-5600 CL40 Motherboard: B760 or H610 chipset Cooling: Budget air cooler or stock cooling PSU: 500W 80+ Bronze
Upgrade Considerations
From Previous Gen: Good upgrade for 10th Gen or earlier, modest for 12th/13th Gen Future Proofing: Good Platform Longevity: 3 years
Pros & Cons Analysis
Strengths
Performance:
- Strong single-threaded performance for gaming
- Good multi-threaded capability with 10 cores/16 threads
- Excellent gaming performance for the price
Efficiency:
- Lower 65W TDP with good power efficiency
- Energy efficient design for budget builds
- Cooler operation than higher-end models
Limitations
Platform Issues:
- Limited memory overclocking on non-Z chipsets
- Lower sustained boost performance
Cost Concerns:
- Small performance difference to i5-14500
- Competes with discounted previous-gen i5 models
Final Verdict
The Intel Core i5-14400 delivers excellent mainstream performance with strong gaming capabilities, making it an ideal choice for budget gaming and general productivity systems. With 10 cores and 16 threads, it provides good multi-threaded performance while maintaining excellent single-threaded performance for gaming. The included integrated graphics add flexibility for troubleshooting and basic display needs. For builders seeking reliable performance at an attractive price point, the i5-14400 represents outstanding value in the budget mainstream segment.
Rating: 8.7/10 - Excellent value budget mainstream processor with strong gaming performance