Performance comparison: which is faster?
Core i5-14400 (Intel, 2024) and Core i9-10900 (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 (LGA1700 / 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 | i5-14400 | i9-10900 |
|---|---|---|
| Performance Score | 25,000 | 25,000 |
| Generation | 14th Gen | 10th Gen |
| Socket | LGA1700 | LGA1200 |
| Release Year | 2024 | 2020 |
| Type | Desktop | Desktop |
| Compatible GPU Example | GeForce RTX 5060 Ti | Radeon RX 7800 XT |
| If You Want To... | Recommended |
|---|---|
| Prioritize maximum speed for heavy work or a high-end GPU | i5-14400 |
| Upgrade while reusing the current motherboard | Choose the CPU matching your motherboard socket |
| Prioritize value and adequate performance | i5-14400 (the lower model is often sufficient) |
Their scores are nearly identical (i5-14400: 25000 points / i9-10900: 25000 points). Choose the less expensive option or the one that fits your current motherboard.
i5-14400 is 14th Gen, while i9-10900 is 10th Gen.The sockets differ (LGA1700 / LGA1200), so switching requires a motherboard replacement.
Using our CPU:GPU = 0.9:1 guideline, GeForce RTX 5060 Ti pairs well with i5-14400 and Radeon RX 7800 XT pairs well with i9-10900. If either GPU is too strong or too weak, one part holds the other back.
