Intel Core i5-11400T

Intel Core i5-11400T: Review and Recommendations for PC Builds in 2025

April 2025

Key Specifications

Architecture and Process Technology

The Intel Core i5-11400T belongs to the Rocket Lake generation (11th series), released in 2021. Despite utilizing a 14nm manufacturing process, which by 2025 is considered outdated, the processor remains relevant due to its optimized architecture. It features 6 cores and 12 threads, providing stable performance in multitasking scenarios. The base frequency is 1.5 GHz, with Turbo Boost up to 3.7 GHz.

Key Features

- Low Power Consumption: With a TDP of 35W, it is ideal for compact systems and workstations with limited cooling.

- Integrated Graphics: The UHD Graphics 730 supports 4K output and basic tasks like video playback or working with office applications.

- Cache Memory: 12MB of L3 cache accelerates the processing of frequently used data.

Performance

According to Geekbench 6 (2025):

- Single-Core: 1634 points — sufficient for everyday tasks.

- Multi-Core: 5747 points — suitable for rendering or streaming.

Practical Example: In an office PC with 16GB DDR4, the processor easily handles 20+ tabs in Chrome, Excel spreadsheets, and Zoom conferences without stutters.

Compatible Motherboards

Socket and Chipsets

The processor uses the LGA 1200 socket. Suitable chipsets include:

- H510: A budget option ($70-$90), without memory overclocking (maximum DDR4-2933). Example: ASUS Prime H510M-K.

- B560/H570: Supports DDR4-3200 and PCIe 4.0 (only for SSDs). Price: $100-$130 (MSI B560M Pro-VDH).

- Z590: For enthusiasts, with memory overclocking capabilities. Price: $150+ (Gigabyte Z590 UD AC).

Important: Z590 motherboards are overkill for the i5-11400T, but are relevant if upgrading to an i9-11900K is planned.

Supported Memory

The processor only supports DDR4 (up to 128GB, 3200 MHz). DDR5 and LPDDR4x are not supported.

Recommendations:

- For office tasks: 16GB (2x8GB) DDR4-2666.

- For video editing: 32GB DDR4-3200 (e.g., Crucial Ballistix).

Tip: Enable the XMP profile in BIOS to automatically overclock the memory to the specified frequency.

Power Supplies

With a TDP of 35W and no discrete graphics card, a PSU rated for 300-400W will suffice. However, for gaming builds with a GPU like the NVIDIA RTX 3050, choose models rated for 500-550W.

Examples:

- Budget: EVGA 500 BR ($45) — a reliable option for basic systems.

- Premium: Corsair CX550M ($70) — features modular cables and an 80+ Bronze certification.

Common Mistake: Using cheap noname power supplies may lead to voltage drops and component failures.

Pros and Cons

Strengths:

1. Energy efficiency — suitable for mini-PCs and NAS.

2. Integrated graphics — eliminates the need for a separate graphics card.

3. Availability — priced at $150-$180 (new, 2025).

Weaknesses:

1. Outdated 14nm process — higher heat generation under load.

2. No support for DDR5 and PCIe 5.0 — limits upgrade potential.

3. Turbo Boost operates inconsistently on budget motherboards.

Use Cases

1. Office and Education: Managing documents, browsing, video calls.

2. Media Center: Streaming 4K over HDMI 2.0, HEVC decoding.

3. Light Gaming: CS:GO — 60 FPS on medium settings (1080p), Dota 2 — 45-50 FPS.

4. Home Server: Energy-efficient hosting for websites or file storage.

Real-world example: A user assembled an HTPC with the i5-11400T, connected it to the TV, and uses it for Netflix and game streaming via Moonlight.

Comparison with Competitors

1. AMD Ryzen 5 5600G (6/12, 7nm, Vega 7):

- Pros: More powerful graphics, PCIe 4.0 support.

- Cons: Higher price ($160-$200).

- Geekbench 6: Single-Core 1702, Multi-Core 6105.

2. Intel Core i5-12400T (Alder Lake, 10nm):

- Pros: Energy efficiency, higher IPC.

- Cons: More expensive ($180-$220).

- Geekbench 6: Single-Core 1890, Multi-Core 7200.

Conclusion: The i5-11400T is more affordable but falls short in performance.

Practical Build Tips

1. Cooling: Even with a TDP of 35W, use a better cooler than the stock one (for example, DeepCool GAMMAXX 400 V2).

2. Storage: An NVMe SSD (e.g., Kingston NV2 500GB) will speed up system boot times.

3. Case: For passive cooling, a compact Mini-ITX (Fractal Design Node 304) is suitable.

Example Build for $500:

- Motherboard: ASUS Prime H510M-K ($80).

- Memory: 16GB DDR4-3200 ($50).

- SSD: 500GB NVMe ($45).

- PSU: EVGA 500 BR ($45).

- Case: Thermaltake Versa H15 ($40).

Final Conclusion: Who is the i5-11400T For?

This processor is a good choice for:

- Budget PCs: When cost-saving is essential without compromising basic performance.

- Office Workstations: Quiet and cool operation even over 8-10 hours.

- Home Media Centers: 4K content and streaming without lag.

Why you shouldn't buy it: If you plan to play AAA graphics games or work with 3D modeling, it’s better to invest in a Ryzen 5 7600 or Core i5-13400.

In 2025, the i5-11400T remains a niche solution, but it justifies the investment for its intended tasks.