10400F vs 11400F Gaming: Which One Reigns Supreme?
The CPU market is flooded with numerous options, making it challenging for gamers to choose the right processor for their gaming needs. Two popular options from Intel's 11th Gen Core series are the Core i5-10400F and Core i5-11400F. In this article, we'll delve into the details of both processors, comparing their specifications, performance, and gaming capabilities to help you make an informed decision.
Specifications: A Brief Overview
Core i5-10400F
- Cores: 6
- Threads: 12
- Base Clock Speed: 2.9 GHz
- Boost Clock Speed: 4.3 GHz
- Cache Memory: 12MB
- TDP: 65W
- Integrated Graphics: UHD Graphics 630
- Price: Around $150
Core i5-11400F
- Cores: 6
- Threads: 12
- Base Clock Speed: 2.6 GHz
- Boost Clock Speed: 4.4 GHz
- Cache Memory: 12MB
- TDP: 65W
- Integrated Graphics: UHD Graphics 750
- Price: Around $180
Gaming Performance: The Real-World Difference
1080p Gaming
Both processors perform similarly in 1080p gaming, with the Core i5-11400F holding a slight advantage in some games. In Assassin's Creed Odyssey, the 11400F scored an average of 60 FPS, while the 10400F managed 58 FPS. In The Witcher 3, the 11400F scored 62 FPS, and the 10400F scored 60 FPS.
1440p Gaming
At 1440p, the differences become more pronounced. The Core i5-11400F takes the lead, offering around 10-15% better performance. In Shadow of the Tomb Raider, the 11400F scored 45 FPS, while the 10400F managed 39 FPS. In Far Cry 5, the 11400F scored 43 FPS, and the 10400F scored 38 FPS.
Power Consumption and Overclocking
Both processors have a TDP of 65W, making them suitable for most mid-range to high-end gaming builds. However, the Core i5-11400F has a higher boost clock speed, which can result in higher power consumption during intense gaming sessions.
Overclocking is also a vital aspect for gamers. The Core i5-11400F has a higher overclocking headroom, allowing for more aggressive clock speed boosts. This can result in higher frame rates and better gaming performance.
Conclusion: Which One Should You Choose?
The Core i5-10400F is an excellent value option for 1080p gaming, offering competitive performance at a lower price point. However, if you're looking to game at higher resolutions (1440p or 4K) or want a higher overclocking headroom, the Core i5-11400F is the better choice.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to your gaming needs and budget. If you're on a tighter budget, the 10400F is a great option. But if you're willing to spend a bit more for better performance and future-proofing, the 11400F is the way to go.
Recommended Builds:
- For 1080p gaming: Core i5-10400F, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Super, 16GB DDR4 RAM, and a 500GB NVMe SSD.
- For 1440p gaming: Core i5-11400F, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060, 16GB DDR4 RAM, and a 1TB NVMe SSD.
