Detailed Overview
Intel Core i5-14500: Complete Technical Analysis
Executive Summary
The Intel Core i5-14500 is a 14th Gen Raptor Lake Refresh desktop processor featuring 14 cores (6 Performance-cores, 8 Efficiency-cores) and 20 threads, delivering balanced mainstream performance with a focus on value and efficiency. With a base clock of 2.6GHz and boost speeds up to 5.0GHz, this locked processor offers strong single-threaded performance for gaming while providing substantial multi-threaded capabilities for productivity workloads. Operating at a 65W TDP with a maximum turbo power of 148W, the i5-14500 includes Intel UHD Graphics 770 and represents the entry point to Intel's 14-core mainstream lineup, providing compelling performance for gaming and productivity at an attractive price point.
Product Identification
- Full Name: Intel Core i5-14500
- Short Name: Core i5-14500
- SKU: BX8071514500
- 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: 14 cores / 20 threads (6P+8E)
- Clock Speeds: Base 2.6 GHz, Boost 5.0 GHz
- Cache: 11.5 MB L2 + 24 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
- 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: 550 W
- Recommended GPU Pairing: GeForce RTX 4060 Ti / Radeon RX 7700
- Typical Gaming Power: 80 W
- Efficiency Rating: Good
Performance Analysis
Gaming Performance
1080p Gaming: Very Good 1440p Gaming: Very Good Esports: Very Good
Productivity Performance
Single-Thread Score: 1850 Multi-Thread Score: 22500 Content Creation: Very Good
Benchmark Reference
- Cinebench R23 Single: 1850
- Cinebench R23 Multi: 22500
- Geekbench 6 Single: 2600
Market Context
Direct Comparisons
Previous Generation: Intel Core i5-13500 Main Competitor: AMD Ryzen 5 7600 Value Alternative: Intel Core i5-14400
Pricing Analysis
Launch MSRP: $232 Current Price: $209 Price Trend: stable Value Rating: 8.5/10
Purchase Recommendations
Ideal Use Cases
- Mainstream gaming builds without overclocking
- Productivity workstations on a budget
- Office and general use systems with occasional gaming
- Users wanting integrated graphics as backup
System Building Guide
GPU: GeForce RTX 4060 Ti / Radeon RX 7700 RAM: 32GB DDR5-5600 CL40 Motherboard: B760 or H770 chipset Cooling: 120mm AIO or mid-range air cooler PSU: 550W 80+ Bronze
Upgrade Considerations
From Previous Gen: Good upgrade for 11th Gen or earlier, modest for 12th/13th Gen Future Proofing: Good Platform Longevity: 3 years
Pros & Cons Analysis
Strengths
Performance:
- Strong multi-threaded performance with 14 cores/20 threads
- Excellent single-threaded performance for gaming
- Good balance of gaming and productivity capabilities
Efficiency:
- Lower 65W TDP with good power efficiency
- Energy efficient design for mainstream 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 i5-14600
- Competes with discounted previous-gen models
Final Verdict
The Intel Core i5-14500 delivers excellent mainstream performance with strong multi-threaded capabilities, making it an ideal choice for balanced gaming and productivity systems without overclocking requirements. With 14 cores and 20 threads, it provides substantial productivity performance while maintaining excellent gaming capabilities. The included integrated graphics add flexibility for troubleshooting and basic display needs. For builders seeking reliable performance at an attractive price point, the i5-14500 represents excellent value in the mainstream segment.
Rating: 8.5/10 - Excellent value mainstream processor with strong multi-threaded performance