Intel Core i5-8500 Desktop Processor Review

Overview

The Intel Core i5-8500 is a mid-range desktop processor from the 8th generation of Intel Core processors. It features 6 cores and 6 threads, making it suitable for a variety of tasks including business applications, web work, and light gaming. The processor operates at a base clock speed of 3.0 GHz and can turbo up to 4.1 GHz, providing a good balance between performance and power efficiency.

Performance

The Intel Core i5-8500 is designed to handle demanding tasks efficiently. It supports up to 64 GB of DDR4 memory and is compatible with the LGA1151 socket, which is commonly used in 300 series motherboards. The processor's integrated Intel UHD Graphics 630 provides decent graphics performance for casual gaming and video editing, though it may struggle with more demanding games at high settings.

Power Consumption

The processor has a thermal design power (TDP) of 65 watts, which is relatively low compared to other high-performance processors. This makes it suitable for smaller form factor systems and those with limited cooling capabilities.

Features

• Clock Speed: 3.0 GHz base clock, up to 4.1 GHz turbo boost
• Cores/Threads: 6 cores, 6 threads
• Cache: 9 MB Smart Cache
• Integrated Graphics: Intel UHD Graphics 630
• Memory Support: Up to 64 GB DDR4 memory
• Socket: LGA1151
• TDP: 65 watts
• Manufacturing Process: 14 nm
• Turbo Boost: Up to 4.1 GHz
• Integrated Features: Enhanced SpeedStep technology, Execute Disable Bit capability, Intel Virtualization Technology, Intel 64 Technology, Intel Trusted Execution Technology, streaming SIMD extensions 4.1, streaming SIMD extensions 4.2, Intel Turbo Boost Technology 2.0, Intel AES New Instructions (AES-NI), Thermal Monitoring Technologies, Intel Virtualization Technology for Directed I/O (VT-d), Intel vPro Technology, Idle States, Intel VT-x with Extended Page Tables (EPT), Intel Identity Protection Technology, Intel Secure Key, Intel Advanced Vector Extensions 2 (AVX2.0), Intel TSX-NI, Intel Stable Image Platform Program (SIPP), Intel OS Guard, Intel Software Guard Extensions (SGX), Intel Memory Protection Extensions (MPX), Intel Optane Memory Supported, Intel Boot Guard

Pros

• Balanced Performance: Offers a good balance between performance and power efficiency.
• Versatile: Suitable for a variety of tasks including business applications, web work, and light gaming.
• Low Power Consumption: 65 watts TDP makes it suitable for smaller form factor systems.
• Integrated Graphics: Intel UHD Graphics 630 provides decent graphics performance for casual gaming and video editing.

Cons

• Limited Multi-Threading: Does not support Hyper-Threading, which may limit its performance in multi-threaded applications.
• Integrated Graphics Limitations: While sufficient for casual gaming, the integrated graphics may struggle with more demanding games at high settings.
• Aging Technology: The 14 nm manufacturing process is older compared to newer 10 nm or 7 nm processes, which may affect its performance in comparison to newer CPUs.

Verdict

The Intel Core i5-8500 is a reliable and efficient processor for general use and light computing tasks. Its balanced performance, low power consumption, and integrated features make it a good choice for business desktops and home users. However, it may not be the best option for those requiring high multi-threading performance or demanding graphics capabilities.

Features Table