Intel Pentium G4400

Intel Pentium G4400: A Budget Processor for Basic Tasks in 2025
April 2025
Key Specifications: Modest Performance Focused on Cost-Efficiency
The Intel Pentium G4400, released back in 2015, remains popular in 2025 due to its affordability and minimal system requirements.
Architecture and Process Technology
- Codename: Skylake (6th generation Intel Core).
- Process Technology: 14nm — outdated by modern standards, but sufficient for simple tasks.
- Cores and Threads: 2 cores, 2 threads. The absence of Hyper-Threading limits multitasking capabilities.
- Cache: L3 — 4MB.
Performance
- Geekbench 6: 693 (single-core), 1181 (multi-core). This performance is adequate for office applications and web browsing.
- Integrated Graphics: Intel HD Graphics 510. Supports 4K via HDMI 1.4, but only for basic tasks (media playback, older games).
Key Features
- DDR4 support — a rare option for budget CPUs from 2015.
- Low power consumption (TDP 54W).
- Compatibility with inexpensive motherboards.
Compatible Motherboards: Budget Solutions
Socket: LGA 1151 (version v1, incompatible with Coffee Lake processors).
Chipsets:
- H110: The most affordable option (new board prices in 2025 — $40–60). Example: ASUS H110M-K.
- B150/H170: Support for a greater number of SATA and USB 3.0 ports (e.g., Gigabyte GA-B150M-D3H).
- Z170: For enthusiasts but excessive for the G4400.
Selection Notes
- Check BIOS version: some boards require updates to work with Skylake.
- Opt for mini-ITX or micro-ATX for compact builds.
Supported Memory: DDR4 in Dual-Channel Mode
- Type: DDR4-1866/2133 MHz (officially).
- Maximum Capacity: Depends on the motherboard (usually up to 64GB, but for G4400, 8–16GB is sensible).
- Recommendations:
- 2 modules of 4GB to activate dual-channel mode.
- Avoid high-frequency memory — the processor does not support XMP.
Important: DDR5 and LPDDR4x are incompatible.
Power Supply: Minimum Requirements
- Power Calculation: Considering TDP of 54W and lack of discrete graphics, a PSU of 300–400W is sufficient.
- Examples:
- EVGA 400W (80+ White, $35) — for office PCs.
- Be Quiet! System Power 10 (450W, $50) — with headroom for upgrades.
- Advice: Don't skimp on the PSU — stability is important even in budget builds.
Pros and Cons: Who is G4400 Relevant For in 2025?
Pros:
- Price: New processors — $50–60 (available stock).
- Energy Efficiency: Suitable for PCs running 24/7 (e.g., media center).
- Integrated Graphics: Does not require a separate graphics card.
Cons:
- 2 Cores without Hyper-Threading: Struggles with simultaneous application launches.
- Outdated Architecture: Falls short compared to budget CPUs from 2025 in IPC.
- Weak GPU: Unable to handle modern games and graphic editing tasks.
Usage Scenarios: Where is G4400 Still Relevant?
1. Office Tasks: Working with documents, email, video calls.
2. Multimedia: Viewing 4K videos (via HDMI), streaming.
3. Light Gaming: Minecraft, Dota 2 at low settings (30–40 FPS).
4. Home Server: NAS or router due to low TDP.
Limitations:
- Not suitable for video editing, 3D modeling, or modern gaming.
Comparison with Competitors: What to Buy Instead of G4400?
1. AMD Athlon 3000G (price $70–80):
- 2 cores/4 threads, Vega 3 (twice as powerful as HD 510).
- Supports DDR4-2666.
2. Intel Celeron G5920 ($60–65):
- 2 cores/2 threads, but with Comet Lake architecture (2020) and better IPC.
Conclusion: If you need multi-threading — go for the Athlon 3000G. If compatibility with Intel is important — consider the Celeron G5920.
Practical Assembly Tips
- Basic Configuration:
- Motherboard: ASUS H110M-K ($50).
- Memory: 8GB DDR4-2133 (2x4GB, $25).
- Storage: 240GB SSD (Kingston A400, $30).
- PSU: EVGA 400W ($35).
- Case: Any micro-ATX with ventilation ($40).
- Total Cost: ~$200 excluding OS.
Tips:
- Add a 1TB HDD ($40) for data storage.
- For quiet operation, use a cooler like the Deepcool GAMMAXX 200T ($15).
Final Conclusion: Who is the Pentium G4400 Suitable For?
This processor is a good choice if:
- Budget is strictly limited ($200–300 for the entire build).
- A PC for basic tasks is needed: office work, internet, YouTube.
- Minimal power consumption is required (e.g., for a media server).
Alternatives in 2025: If the budget allows for $100–150, consider the Intel Core i3-10100 or AMD Ryzen 3 4100 — they will offer a performance advantage for the future.
The Pentium G4400 is not the best option but is the most affordable for those willing to compromise.