Summary

AMD Ryzen 5 vs Intel i5: Detailed comparison of mid-range processors

When choosing the processor for your PC based on your needs, such as budget, available space and efficiency, there are many aspects to consider.

But it's good to know that a high-quality CPU forms the foundation of any quality computer system, and today's processors can help you avoid bottlenecks, allowing you to do even more with your PC or Mac.

We have prepared this post to compare CPUs AMD Ryzen 5 and Intel Core i5, so that you can be more informed before making a final decision.  

Let's dive right into this article!

1. Compatibility and platforms

If you want a future-proof PC, an Intel-based system is the best choice. While DDR5 memory modules and PCIe 5.0 support are not yet available for AMD Ryzen CPUs, they are for Intel. Currently, AMD supports DDR5 for the AMD Ryzen 6000 series and AM5 for PCIe 5.0 and DDR5, while Intel only supports PCIe 5.0 and DDR5.

Additionally, Intel Alder Lake processors cannot be paired with any current motherboards. To use 12th generation Intel CPUs, you need to have one of the latest Z690 motherboards. There are reasonably priced Z690 motherboards, but you need to buy a completely new board.

Coupled with the price of the new DDR5 memory modules, this leaves a sizable dent in your wallet. Furthermore, top DDR5 RAM kits are quite expensive and not easy to find.

AMD's Ryzen 5000 series CPUs work with any motherboard with socket AM4, so you won't have to pay for an upgrade for your hardware.

DDR5 memory modules are less powerful than their predecessors but have the potential to improve. However, PCIe 5.0, which is still in development, likely won't become mainstream until more CPUs and peripherals are developed that support the new standard.

Intel is, by all means, the winner in terms of future-proofing, but we still recommend the Ryzen 5 6200X or 6200H for those looking to save on configuration.

2. Architecture and technical specifications

Let's start by discussing some terminology. Intel is finally switching to 16nm architecture from 14nm, last updated for the 11th generation Core series with Rocket Lake. This is part of the great 12th generation Core revolution.

The design combines six P cores with four E cores and dynamically distributes the PC's needs between them depending on the task at hand. For example, Ryzen 5 is AMD's only processor with a traditional six-core/12-thread architecture.

The illustrious chipset architecture that contributed to Ryzen's popularity makes a triumphant return, enhanced by a single CCX design that eliminates the inter-core latency found in previous IGP-equipped Zen processors, such as the Ryzen 3 3200G and Ryzen 5 3400G.

If you're wondering why we're comparing the AMD Ryzen 5 with the Intel Core i5 rather than AMD's IGP-free Ryzen 5, the integrated graphics make it more advantageous.

Given today's rising GPU prices, we need to take into account the needs of different users when recommending new PCs, even those who may be more successful by replacing CPUs and motherboards than by finding a cheap graphics card.

AMD's new Ryzen 5 comes with a powerful Radeon RX Vega architecture, last seen in the form of a Vega 7 integrated graphics processor with seven integrated graphics cores.

For example, the Intel Core i5 will include the Intel UHD Graphics 770, the latest model of Intel's increasingly ambitious IGPs, the Iris Xe.

AMD appears to have an advantage in cooling: Ryzen 5 owners receive a Wraith Stealth air cooler with their purchase, while Intel Core i5 owners will have to purchase a compatible cooling fan separately.

AMD earns the point for adoption, total cooling requirements, and overall heat when considering power requirements.

3. Prices and availability

Assuming you don't pay too much for the CPU, the price will probably be the same for the CPU as well. Intel recommends a maximum retail price of $299 for the Core i5, the same as the current retail price for the Ryzen 5.

The Intel Core i5 is much more expensive in the short term due to its price, but in the long term it could outperform AMD's Ryzen 5. Maximizing the performance of the Intel Core i5 requires a new motherboard, new DDR5 memory, and a new CPU cooler.

In terms of availability, both the Intel Core i5 and Ryzen 5 are currently widely available in the market, with a good amount of stock available at many online retailers.

4. Productivity

The Intel Core i5 is a much more powerful CPU for production tasks than the AMD Ryzen 5, although there were a few moments where the processor seemed unable to compute at its maximum on Windows 10.

Apart from a few inconveniences, the Intel Core i5 is the clear winner in this case. We covered this topic when evaluating this chip, but this is the first desktop CPU in a long time that has made a serious effort to increase mid-range video production performance.

However, while most people see the i5 primarily used for multimedia content, it can also serve as a CPU for amateur gaming, as long as it runs on a PC compatible with Windows 11.

It is evident that the adoption of new manufacturing technology has increased Intel's competitiveness on Core i5 processors when it comes to content development.

AMD Ryzen 5 5500u vs Intel i5-1135g7

CPU Intel i5-1135g7 AMD Ryzen 5 5500u
Core 4 6
Threads 8 12
Base frequency 0.9-2.4GHz 2.1GHz
Turbo Boost Frequency 4.2GHz 4 GHz
Bus frequency 100MHz 100MHz
Multiplier 9-24x 21x
Memory size 64 32
L1 cache 96K(per core) 64K(per core)
L2 cache 1280K (per core) 512K(per core)
L3 cache 8MB (shared) 8MB (shared)
TDP 12-28W 10-25W
Integrated graphics Iris Xe G7 80EU graphics Radeon RX Vega 7

1. Memory

The Intel Core i5 has a maximum memory of 64 GB. It's a great solution for those who need a lot of storage space, such as for video editing or gaming. This is an advantage for those who want to be future-proof.

The Ryzen 5 has a maximum memory of 32 GB. That should be enough for most people, but the Core i5 would be better if you need more memory. You can always upgrade the memory later, but it will be more expensive than buying the Ryzen 5 right from the start.

In terms of storage, the Intel Core i5 is the clear winner and is a great choice for those who need a lot of space. You can save some money with the AMD Ryzen 5, but you will be limited in terms of storage space.

2. Energy consumption

When it comes to power consumption, the AMD Ryzen 5 is very efficient. It has a TDP of 10-25W, which means it will consume less power than the Intel Core i5. The Intel Core i5 has a TDP of 12-28W. If you are looking for a more power-efficient processor, the AMD Ryzen 5 is the best choice. This is because it will generate less heat and consume less energy, thus being friendlier on your electricity bill.

For anyone interested in saving on their energy bills, AMD Ryzen 5 is the best choice.

3. Price

The AMD Ryzen 5 is significantly cheaper than the Intel Core i5, making it a great choice for budget-conscious buyers. The AMD Ryzen 5 costs around 200 euros, while the Intel Core i5 is close to 300 euros. The Intel Core i5 is a little more expensive because it is a sixth generation processor, while the Ryzen 5 is seventh generation.

So, AMD's Ryzen 5 is the way to go if you're looking for a cheaper option. So long as the Ryzen 7 it is the latest arrival on the market, it has a slightly higher price.

4. Core performance

When it comes to core performance, the AMD Ryzen 5 and Intel Core i5 are powerful processors. However, the Ryzen 5 has an advantage in this section. It has a larger number of cores and threads than the i5, meaning it can handle more tasks at the same time. Additionally, it has a higher base clock speed, which means it can complete certain tasks quickly. So, if you are looking for the best possible performance, Ryzen 5 is the right choice. Intel's Core i5 is still a very powerful processor, but it can't compete with the Ryzen 5 in terms of speed and power.

5. Integrated graphics

AMD's Ryzen 5 has superior integrated graphics than Intel's Core i5. This is an important aspect for those who want to play games or do video editing without having to use a dedicated graphics card. The Ryzen 5 has Radeon RX Vega 7 graphics, while the Core i5 has Iris Xe G7 80EU graphics. The Radeon RX Vega 7 Graphics is approximately twice as powerful as the Iris Xe Graphics G7 80EU. So, if you are looking for a processor with great integrated graphics, the Ryzen 5 is the best choice.

Conclusion

Overall, AMD Ryzen 5 is a better alternative if you are on a budget.

If you're willing to pay a premium for the CPU, we think so the Intel Core i5 is a better option. In its category, it far surpasses the Ryzen 5. Thanks to its consistent performance, the Intel i5 will serve you for many years to come. This Intel i5 CPU processor will improve the performance of your computer, especially on a Mini PC. Because it offers the excellent performance, high efficiency and low energy consumption that everyone appreciates.

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Jonathan

Jonathan

Jonathan is a Technical Support Engineer at GEEKOM. With years of experience under his belt, he is an expert at troubleshooting hardware and software issues, assisting customers with their inquiries, and providing clear and concise instructions to even the most technically challenged users.

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