In 2025, AMD Ryzen 5 and Intel Core i5 are top choices in the mid-range CPU market. They both offer great performance for gaming, content creation, and everyday use. What you choose depends on what you need. All the options are pretty amazing: AMD’s Ryzen 9000 series and Intel’s new Core Ultra 200S (Arrow Lake). This blog compares their design, performance, and value to help you decide.
In 2025, Intel offers the 14th Gen Raptor Lake Refresh (like the Core i5-14600K) and the newer Core Ultra 5 245K (Arrow Lake). AMD has released the Ryzen 9000 series with Zen 5 architecture (like the Ryzen 5 9600X). Both Ryzen 5 and Core i5 are priced competitively. You are sure to get strong performance for gaming, multitasking, and professional tasks.
AMD Ryzen 5 vs Intel Core i5
Here, we compare AMD Ryzen 5 vs Intel Core i5, breaking down what differentiates them. This can help you make an informed choice about which to purchase.
AMD Ryzen 5 vs Intel Core i5: Architecture
Let’s look at the architecture of these mid-range CPUs. AMD’s Ryzen 5 processors in 2025 are built on the Zen 5 architecture. They are found in the Ryzen 9000 series (like the Ryzen 5 9600X). Zen 5 uses a 4nm process. This process makes it more power-efficient and faster. It has better multitasking thanks to Simultaneous Multithreading (SMT). The Ryzen 5 9600X has 6 cores and 12 threads. It supports DDR5 memory and PCIe 5.0, which prepares it for the future.
The latest Core i5 processors come from the 14th Gen Raptor Lake Refresh (like the Core i5-14600K) or the new Core Ultra 5 245K (Arrow Lake). Raptor Lake Refresh uses a 7nm process. The Arrow Lake has a new hybrid design with performance cores (P-cores) for heavy tasks. It also has efficiency cores (E-cores) for background tasks. For example, the Core i5-14600K has 14 cores (6 P-cores + 8 E-cores) and 20 threads, supporting DDR5 and PCIe 5.0.
Intel’s hybrid design is good for both gaming and productivity. However, Arrow Lake’s gaming performance hasn’t been as strong as expected. Raptor Lake Refresh is still a strong choice for gamers.
Also read: AMD Vs Intel: Who’s The Showstopper?
AMD Ryzen 5 vs Intel Core i5: Performance
| Specification | AMD Ryzen 5 9600X | Intel Core i5-14600K |
|---|---|---|
| CPU Socket | AM5 | LGA 1700 |
| Cores | 6 | 14 (6P + 8E) |
| Threads | 12 | 20 |
| Lithography | TSMC 4nm | Intel 7 (7nm) |
| Base Frequency | 3.9GHz | 3.5GHz (P-core) |
| Boost Frequency | 5.4GHz | 5.3GHz (P-core) |
| Unlocked for Overclocking? | Yes | Yes |
| L3 Cache | 32MB | 24MB |
| Default TDP | 65W | 125W |
| Max. Operating Temperature (Tjmax) | 95°C | 100°C |
| Memory Support | DDR5-5600MT/s Up to 192GB | DDR4-3200MT/s |
| Integrated Graphics | Radeon Graphics (2 CUs) | UHD Graphics 770 |
In terms of performance, Intel is ahead of the curve and outperforms the AMD chips by a huge margin. It performs really well in single-threaded and multithreaded benchmarks. The chip delivers snappy performance. It offers a good blend of single- and multithreaded performance.
Intel performs well when handling behind-the-scenes tasks in Windows 11. The chip can schedule tasks. It can bring out the best performance. Having some extra cores to perform low-priority tasks pays huge dividends.
Due to inefficiencies in Windows 10, the Core i5 had difficulty prioritising tasks. However, we can expect them to be soon ironed out with the Windows 11 update. On the other hand, AMD Ryzen users can turn to Overclocking if they want to bridge the performance gap.
It is also worth pointing out that the Intel Core i5 series also has an unlocked CPU. It supports overclocking.
| CPU | Intel Core i5-14600K | AMD Ryzen 5 9600X |
|---|---|---|
| Cinebench R23 (Single-Core) | 2037 | 1985 |
| Cinebench R23 (Multi-Core) | 24250 | 16600 |
| Passmark CPU (Single-Core) | 4160 | 4080 |
| Passmark CPU (Multi-Core) | 34680 | 28500 |
| Geekbench 5 (Single-Core) | 2050 | 2000 |
| Geekbench 5 (Multi-Core) | 14500 | 11500 |
The Intel Alder Lake CPUs have made significant progress in power consumption. The new Intel Core i5-12600K processor series draws much less power for the same amount of work. The AMD Ryzen 5 series is the undisputed champion for offering power efficiency.
The AMD Ryzen CPU completely dominates Intel CPUs in this department. Even with the latest Intel i5 CPU, they required more power compared to the Ryzen 5 series. This also means that the Intel CPUs will generate more heat. So if you purchase a custom gaming rig, you must invest in a better cooling solution.
For reference, the Ryzen 5 5600x has a TDP of 65W, while the Intel Core i5-12600K has a TDP of 125W. This is approximately double the power consumption of Ryzen 5.
Also read: 5 Best AMD Graphic Cards In India
AMD Ryzen 5 vs Intel Core i5: Platforms and Compatibility
In terms of future-proofing, Intel is the best bet. Intel Core i5 supports DDR5 memory modules and PCIe 5.0. They are not supported by any of the AMD Ryzen chips in the market right now. But with all these features, the new Alder Lake Intel CPUs also come with a more premium price tag.
The new Alder Lake CPUs are not supported by the existing motherboards in the market. You must have an LGA 1700 CPU socket, which is available only on the new Z690 motherboards. These motherboards are slightly expensive and increase the overall cost of your PC.
So, if you want to experience the latest 12th-gen Intel Core i5 CPUs, you’ll need to buy the new Z690 motherboard. Along with the new Z690 motherboard, you will also need to invest some more in those DDR5 modules. It will put a significant hole in your budget. Also, the best and most high-performing DDR5 RAM modules are expensive and rare.
On the other hand, if you decide to upgrade to an AMD Ryzen 5 series processor, it is not that expensive. The current Ryzen series 5 supports the existing motherboards with an AM4 socket. AMD clearly does not support the DDR5 memory modules. You don’t have to worry about them too much as DDR4 modules are sufficiently powerful enough. There is still time for them to mature.
The PCIe 5.0 standard is less likely to become mainstream until more CPUs are ready to support it. To conclude, Intel is clearly ahead in terms of some features. It is still recommended that you consider AMD if you are looking for a value-for-money package.
AMD Ryzen 5 vs Intel Core i5: Power and Thermals
Power efficiency is important in 2025. AMD’s Ryzen 5 9600X is more power-efficient. It comes with a TDP of 65W. This means that it uses less energy and produces less heat compared to Intel’s processors. It makes it great for small builds or systems that need better cooling.
Intel’s Core i5-14600K (Raptor Lake Refresh) has a higher TDP of 125W. It can go up to 150W under heavy use, so it needs better cooling. The Core Ultra 5 245K (Arrow Lake) is more efficient but still uses more power than AMD.
Intel’s higher power usage means they’ll need better cooling and a strong power supply.
AMD Ryzen 5 vs Intel Core i5: Gaming
Gaming performance is the true test for any mid-range or high-performance processor. Currently, Intel is ruling the gaming market, whether you want 1080p or 4K resolutions. But the AMD Ryzen 5 5600X processor is only one step behind Intel. This is in terms of the price-to-performance curve.
Although gaming performance mainly depends on the GPU that you have paired with your CPU. If you want the ultimate gaming performance, you need to focus on the GPU. You need to get one that provides you with all the juice you will ever need. So, if you are having difficulty picking between these two CPUs, the CPU cost could be a deciding factor.
AMD is a really good value proposition in the budget range. Intel is also close to providing outright frame rate. This is using the dedicated graphic card combination. If given an option, limit your CPU spending and use those extra funds to get a better GPU.
The latest 12th-generation CPU from Intel may not support every single game on your PC. This is irrespective of the operating system you are using. In many of our different games, certain games won’t boot in the Intel 12th generation.
The main reason for this is the new hybrid architecture. It includes two different cores, one high-performing and one power-efficient. All popular titles are running without any issues. The ones that still have some issues should be fixed in the coming weeks.
In games like Cyberpunk, Horizon Zero Dawn, and Watch Dogs, Intel takes the lead in performance. This is in some games like Wolfenstein: Youngblood and CS: GO (DirectX 9), AMD is a clear winner. But the case with Intel is high power consumption so your battery will deplete faster than ever.
On the other hand, AMD offers better power efficiency. If battery life is your priority, definitely go with AMD. But, if you are looking for a higher frame rate, then Intel is the definite choice.
Here are some gaming FPS benchmarks comparing the latest benchmarks of AMD Ryzen 5 vs Intel Core i5.
Cyberpunk 2077 (1080p, Ultra, RT Ultra, DLSS Quality, DirectX 12)
| Processor | Max FPS | Min FPS |
| Intel Core i5-12600K (10C / 16T) | 94 | 69 |
| Intel Core i5-11600K (6T / 12T) | 81 | 56 |
| AMD Ryzen 5 5600X (6C / 12T) | 79 | 56 |
| AMD Ryzen 7 3700X (8C/ 16T) | 63 | 46 |
Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (1080p, Medium, DirectX 9)
| Processor | Max FPS | Min FPS |
| Intel Core i5-12600K (10C / 16T) | 640 | 171 |
| Intel Core i5-11600K (6T / 12T) | 540 | 163 |
| AMD Ryzen 5 5600X (6C / 12T) | 682 | 184 |
| AMD Ryzen 7 3700X (8C/ 16T) | 528 | 154 |
Wolfenstein: Youngblood (1080p, Uber, RT, DLSS Quality, Vulkan)
| Processor | Max FPS | Min FPS |
| Intel Core i5-12600K (10C / 16T) | 248 | 180 |
| Intel Core i5-11600K (6T / 12T) | 240 | 181 |
| AMD Ryzen 5 5600X (6C / 12T) | 267 | 194 |
| AMD Ryzen 7 3700X (8C/ 16T) | 198 | 162 |
Also read: Intel Processor: A Complete Buying Guide
AMD Ryzen 5 vs Intel Core i5: Pricing and Availability
Price is the main deciding factor when choosing between the Ryzen 5 vs Intel Core i5. The AMD Ryzen 5 5600X is cheaper, starting at Rs.15,494, compared to the Intel Core i5-12600, which costs Rs.17,250. So it’s safe to say, based on this pricing, that Ryzen 5 is better value for the money. Despite Intel Core i5 offering faster performance, the Ryzen 5 is a better choice.
| Aspect | AMD Ryzen 5 9600X | Intel Core i5-14600K |
|---|---|---|
| CPU Price | $279 (Rs. 23,500 approx.) | $300 (Rs. 25,200 approx.) |
| Motherboard Price | Cheaper AM5 motherboards (e.g., B650) | Expensive Z690/Z790 motherboards |
| Platform Requirement | AM5 (DDR5 RAM) | LGA 1700 (DDR5 RAM) |
| Stock Cooler | Not included | Not included |
| Long-Term Platform Support | Supported through 2027 | Supported for the next few years |
| Overall Build Cost | Lower build cost | Higher build cost due to motherboard and DDR5 RAM |
| Availability | Widely available | Widely available |
| Best For | Budget-conscious builders | High-performance use cases |
Final thoughts
In 2025, Intel Core i5-14600K is great for gaming. It has high single-threaded performance but is more expensive and power-hungry. The AMD Ryzen 5 9600X is better for multi-threaded tasks. You can do video editing, get good gaming performance. It is more affordable with lower power usage. For gaming, Intel is slightly better; for content creation and for budget, AMD is the better choice. Both support DDR5 and PCIe 5.0.
Also Read: Guide To Buy the Right Graphics Card For PC
FAQs
Is Ryzen 5 better than i5?
Ryzen 5 processors usually have larger L3 cache sizes, which can lead to better performance in tasks like web browsing and multitasking compared to Intel i5 processors. However, the specific benefits depend on the model you choose.
Which is better, Ryzen or Intel?
Deciding between AMD Ryzen and Intel processors depends on what you need. AMD Ryzen is great for multitasking. It offers good value, while Intel Core is better for gaming and demanding tasks. Consider your budget, usage, and desired speed when making a decision.
Which is better, Ryzen 5 or Intel i3?
Ryzen 5 processors are generally a better choice for laptops than Intel i3. Ryzen 5 offers better graphics processing, more cores, and improved thermal performance, making it suitable for various tasks.
Why is Ryzen cheaper than Intel?
AMD Ryzen processors often have lower prices due to competitive pricing and cheaper motherboards. The AMD AM4 platform also offers broader compatibility, allowing budget-friendly motherboards to support the latest Ryzen chips after a BIOS update.
Which is better, Intel i5 or Ryzen 7?
An Intel i5 may be preferable for high single-threaded performance. However, due to its higher core count and threading capabilities, an AMD Ryzen 7 is better for strong multi-threaded performance.
Which Ryzen processor is best?
The AMD Ryzen 9 7950X is currently the top processor, offering exceptional performance, energy efficiency, and support for the latest technologies like DDR5 and PCIe 5.0.
Which is better for 1080p gaming, Intel Core i5 or Ryzen 5?
For gaming in 1080p, when the CPU is more utilized, the Intel Core i5 will perform better thanks to its better single-core performance, offering you more frames.
Which is cheaper, the Intel Core i5 or the Ryzen 5?
The AMD Ryzen 5 is currently cheaper than the Intel Core i5. The build is also more affordable than the Intel counterpart due to the AM4 motherboard and DDR4 RAM.
Does AMD Ryzen 5 have better integrated graphics than Intel Core i5?
AMD Ryzen 5 processors with integrated Radeon Vega graphics. They generally provide better integrated graphics performance compared to Intel Core i5 processors. Ryzen 5 chips with Vega graphics offer decent performance for gaming and multimedia. This is without a dedicated GPU. Intel’s Iris Xe graphics are also solid for light gaming. It falls behind in performance compared to AMD’s Vega integrated graphics.
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