Performance comparison: which is faster?
Core i3-4130 (Intel, 2014) and Pentium Gold G6400 (Intel, 2020) are compared here. Compare not only scores, but also whether the motherboard can be reused and which GPU class is balanced with each CPU.
Overall performance: nearly equal
The sockets differ (LGA1150 / LGA1200), so switching requires a motherboard replacement. For games, performance balance with the GPU (guideline CPU:GPU = 0.9:1) matters more than CPU speed alone.
Relative performance score (higher is faster). Actual speed varies by workload, cooling, and memory configuration.
| Item | i3-4130 | Pentium Gold G6400 |
|---|---|---|
| Performance Score | 4,000 | 4,000 |
| Generation | 4th Gen | Pentium |
| Socket | LGA1150 | LGA1200 |
| Release Year | 2014 | 2020 |
| Type | Desktop | Desktop |
| Compatible GPU Example | GeForce GTX 1050 | GeForce GTX 1050 |
| If You Want To... | Recommended |
|---|---|
| Prioritize maximum speed for heavy work or a high-end GPU | i3-4130 |
| Upgrade while reusing the current motherboard | Choose the CPU matching your motherboard socket |
| Prioritize value and adequate performance | i3-4130 (the lower model is often sufficient) |
Their scores are nearly identical (i3-4130: 4000 points / Pentium Gold G6400: 4000 points). Choose the less expensive option or the one that fits your current motherboard.
i3-4130 is 4th Gen, while Pentium Gold G6400 is Pentium.The sockets differ (LGA1150 / LGA1200), so switching requires a motherboard replacement.
Using our CPU:GPU = 0.9:1 guideline, GeForce GTX 1050 pairs well with i3-4130 and GeForce GTX 1050 pairs well with Pentium Gold G6400. If either GPU is too strong or too weak, one part holds the other back.
