Intel Core i5 14500T vs Intel Core i9 11980HK: Which CPU Reigns Supreme in 2024?

Choosing the right CPU for your needs can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two processors that often come up in discussions are the Intel Core i5 14500T and the Intel Core i9 11980HK. While both are powerful processors, they cater to different needs and target distinct user profiles. This blog post aims to provide a comprehensive comparison of the Intel Core i5 14500T vs Intel Core i9 11980HK, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific requirements.

Core Architecture and Generation

The Intel Core i5 14500T belongs to the 14th generation Raptor Lake series, while the Intel Core i9 11980HK is part of the 11th generation Tiger Lake H series. This generation gap significantly impacts performance, with the 14500T benefiting from newer architecture and advancements.
The 14500T utilizes Intel’s latest Raptor Lake architecture, featuring a hybrid core design with both performance and efficiency cores. This design allows for optimized performance across various workloads, balancing power consumption with processing capabilities. On the other hand, the 11980HK employs the older Tiger Lake architecture, focusing on high-performance cores without the efficiency core additions.

Core Count and Thread Count

The Intel Core i5 14500T boasts 6 performance cores and 4 efficiency cores, totaling 10 cores and 16 threads. This multi-threading capability enables the processor to handle demanding tasks more efficiently, particularly in multi-threaded applications.
The Intel Core i9 11980HK, on the other hand, features 8 high-performance cores with 16 threads. While offering a slightly lower core count compared to the 14500T, the 11980HK focuses on raw performance with its dedicated high-performance cores.

Clock Speeds and Turbo Boost

The Intel Core i5 14500T operates at a base clock speed of 2.5 GHz, which can boost up to 4.8 GHz with its Turbo Boost technology. This provides a significant performance boost when required.
The Intel Core i9 11980HK has a base clock speed of 2.9 GHz and can turbo boost up to 5.3 GHz, offering slightly higher clock speeds than the 14500T. This higher boost frequency can translate to faster performance in demanding tasks like gaming or video editing.

Cache and Memory Support

The Intel Core i5 14500T comes with 18 MB of L3 cache, providing ample space for storing frequently accessed data. It supports DDR4-3200 memory and DDR5-5600 memory, offering flexibility in memory configuration.
The Intel Core i9 11980HK features a slightly larger 24 MB of L3 cache, potentially enhancing performance in demanding workloads. It supports DDR4-3200 memory, providing a good balance between performance and affordability.

Integrated Graphics

The Intel Core i5 14500T integrates the Intel UHD Graphics 730, offering decent performance for everyday tasks like web browsing and video playback. However, it is not designed for demanding gaming or graphics-intensive workloads.
The Intel Core i9 11980HK comes with the Intel Iris Xe Graphics, providing a more capable integrated graphics solution. While still not suitable for high-end gaming, it offers improved performance compared to the UHD Graphics 730, making it suitable for light gaming or casual graphics work.

Power Consumption and Thermal Design Power (TDP)

The Intel Core i5 14500T has a TDP of 65W, making it relatively power-efficient compared to the 11980HK. This lower power consumption can translate to lower heat generation and potentially longer battery life in laptops.
The Intel Core i9 11980HK boasts a higher TDP of 45W, reflecting its higher performance capabilities. This higher power consumption can result in increased heat generation and potentially shorter battery life in laptops.

Performance Comparison: Benchmarks and Real-World Applications

Benchmarks and real-world applications show that the Intel Core i5 14500T delivers impressive performance for its price point. In single-threaded applications, the 14500T exhibits strong performance, exceeding the 11980HK in some cases. In multi-threaded applications, the 14500T’s additional efficiency cores provide a significant advantage, leading to faster completion times in tasks like video editing or rendering.
While the 11980HK falls behind the 14500T in multi-threaded applications, it maintains a strong lead in single-threaded performance. This makes the 11980HK a better choice for applications that primarily rely on single-core performance, such as gaming.

Price and Availability

The Intel Core i5 14500T is a more budget-friendly option compared to the Intel Core i9 11980HK. This price difference is justified by the 14500T’s lower power consumption, integrated graphics, and overall performance capabilities.
The Intel Core i9 11980HK is typically more expensive due to its higher performance capabilities and integrated graphics solution. However, it is important to note that prices can fluctuate depending on availability and market conditions.

Final Verdict: Which CPU is Right for You?

Choosing between the Intel Core i5 14500T and the Intel Core i9 11980HK depends on your specific needs and budget.
The Intel Core i5 14500T is an excellent choice for:

• Budget-conscious users: The 14500T offers a great balance of performance and value.
• Multi-tasking users: The 14500T’s multi-core design excels in handling multiple applications simultaneously.
• Content creators: The 14500T’s multi-threading capabilities can significantly speed up video editing and rendering tasks.

The Intel Core i9 11980HK is a better option for:

• High-performance enthusiasts: The 11980HK delivers top-tier performance, especially in single-threaded applications.
• Gamers: The 11980HK’s high clock speeds and dedicated high-performance cores make it a strong contender for gaming.
• Professionals requiring raw power: The 11980HK’s powerful performance caters to demanding professional workloads.

What People Want to Know

Q: Which CPU is better for gaming?
A: The Intel Core i9 11980HK offers slightly better gaming performance due to its higher clock speeds and dedicated high-performance cores. However, the Intel Core i5 14500T can still provide a smooth gaming experience, especially at lower resolutions.
Q: Which CPU is better for video editing?
A: The Intel Core i5 14500T is generally a better choice for video editing due to its multi-threading capabilities. The additional efficiency cores significantly speed up rendering times, making it more efficient for video editing workloads.
Q: Which CPU is more power-efficient?
A: The Intel Core i5 14500T is more power-efficient with its lower TDP and integrated graphics solution. This can translate to longer battery life in laptops and lower heat generation.
Q: Which CPU is better for everyday tasks like web browsing and productivity?
A: Both CPUs are capable of handling everyday tasks effectively. The Intel Core i5 14500T offers a good balance of performance and value, while the Intel Core i9 11980HK provides a more powerful option for demanding workloads.
Q: Which CPU is better overall?
A: The “better” CPU depends on your specific needs and budget. If you prioritize performance and are willing to pay more, the Intel Core i9 11980HK is a solid choice. However, if you are looking for a more budget-friendly option with excellent multi-threading capabilities, the Intel Core i5 14500T is an excellent alternative.