Intel Core i5-10400 Desktop Processor 6 Cores up vs Intel® Core™ Ultra 5 Desktop Processor 245K 14
Updated August 2026 — Intel Core i5-10400 Desktop Processor 6 Cores up wins on cooling and power, Intel® Core™ Ultra 5 Desktop Processor 245K 14 wins on cores and threads.
The Intel Core Ultra 5 offers superior performance with more cores and higher clock speeds, making it the better choice for demanding tasks.
Why Intel Core i5-10400 Desktop Processor 6 Cores up is better
Price
Intel Core i5-10400 is cheaper at $205.13.
Power
Lower TDP of 65W for better energy efficiency.
Included Cooler
Comes with a cooler included in the box.
Why Intel® Core™ Ultra 5 Desktop Processor 245K 14 is better
Performance
14 cores and higher clock speed of up to 5.2 GHz.
Future-Proofing
Compatible with Intel 800 series chipset for newer technologies.
Multitasking
Better suited for heavy multitasking and demanding applications.
Overall score
Specifications
| Spec | Intel Core i5-10400 Desktop Processor 6 Cores up | Intel® Core™ Ultra 5 Desktop Processor 245K 14 |
|---|---|---|
| Core Count | 6 Cores | 14 Cores |
| Max Clock | 4.3 GHz | 5.2 GHz |
| Socket Type | LGA 1200 | LGA 1700 |
| TDP | 65W | 125W |
| Included Cooler | Yes | No |
| Chipset Compatibility | Intel 400 | Intel 800 |
Dimension comparison
Overview of the Intel Core i5-10400 and Intel Core Ultra 5
The Intel Core i5-10400 is priced at $205.13, while the Intel Core Ultra 5 is slightly more economical at $198.00, making it about 3.5% cheaper. Both processors are designed for desktop use but cater to different performance needs. The i5-10400 is a 10th generation model optimized for gaming and productivity with solid mid-range performance, whereas the Ultra 5 features a hybrid architecture aimed at maximizing efficiency and performance for demanding tasks.
Core Count and Performance
The Intel Core i5-10400 has 6 cores and 12 threads, while the Intel Core Ultra 5 boasts 14 cores, consisting of 6 performance cores and 8 efficient cores, totaling 14 threads. This gives the Ultra 5 a considerable advantage in multitasking and parallel processing capabilities. With the Ultra 5 reaching speeds of up to 5.2 GHz, compared to the i5-10400’s maximum of 4.3 GHz, the Ultra 5 is better suited for applications that require higher clock speeds and more cores, making it ideal for gamers and content creators.
Compatibility
The Intel Core i5-10400 is compatible with LGA 1200 socket motherboards, specifically those based on the Intel 400 series chipset. In contrast, the Intel Core Ultra 5 requires an Intel 800 series chipset-based motherboard, providing support for newer technologies. This difference in compatibility may influence your decision based on the motherboard you currently own or plan to purchase. If you're looking for future-proofing and support for the latest standards like DDR5, the Ultra 5 has the upper hand.
Power Consumption
The Intel Core i5-10400 has a thermal design power (TDP) of 65 watts, which makes it a more power-efficient option compared to the Intel Core Ultra 5's 125 watts. The lower power consumption of the i5-10400 could lead to reduced energy costs and less heat generation, which may be a consideration for those who prioritize energy efficiency or have smaller cases with less cooling capacity. However, the higher power consumption of the Ultra 5 is justified by its superior performance capabilities.
Included Cooling Solutions
The Intel Core i5-10400 comes with a cooler included in the box, which is a significant advantage for budget-conscious builders looking to save on additional cooling solutions. The Intel Core Ultra 5, however, does not include a thermal solution, which means users will need to invest in an aftermarket cooler to ensure optimal performance. This additional cost could make the Ultra 5 less attractive to those who are building a system on a tight budget.
Price Trends
Currently, the Intel Core i5-10400 is priced at $205.13, with an average price over the past 90 days being $162.64. The Intel Core Ultra 5, on the other hand, is available for $198.00, with an average price of $208.49 over the same period. This pricing trend indicates that the Ultra 5 has seen fluctuations that might affect its perceived value. If you’re monitoring prices for the best deal, the i5-10400 appears to have more stable pricing, while the Ultra 5 may present opportunities for savings when on sale.
Target Audience
The Intel Core i5-10400 is primarily targeted towards mainstream users who require reliable performance for gaming, productivity, and everyday tasks. It is well-suited for those who do not need cutting-edge specifications but still want a capable processor. Conversely, the Intel Core Ultra 5 is aimed at gamers and professionals who demand higher performance and efficiency for tasks such as video rendering, 3D modeling, and heavy multitasking. The choice between these two processors ultimately depends on the specific needs and usage scenarios of the consumer.
Which should you buy?
Choosing between the Intel Core i5-10400 and the Intel Core Ultra 5 largely depends on your specific requirements and budget. The i5-10400 is a solid choice for users who prioritize cost-efficiency, lower power consumption, and an included cooler, making it ideal for gaming and general use. Meanwhile, the Ultra 5 offers significantly more cores and threads, higher clock speeds, and enhanced performance capabilities, making it the better option for users seeking high-end performance for demanding applications, despite the additional costs for cooling solutions. Ultimately, if your focus is on performance and future-proofing, the Intel Core Ultra 5 is the superior choice, while the i5-10400 may suit those who need a reliable, mid-range processor at a lower cost.