i5-8400 vs Ryzen 7 9700X
Full specification comparison between the Intel Core i5-8400 (2017) and the AMD Ryzen 7 9700X (2024).
i5-8400
Intel Entry-level
- ✓ Cheaper at launch ($182 vs $359)
- ✓ Better performance per dollar
Ryzen 7 9700X
AMD Enthusiast
- ✓ ~85% faster on average
- ✓ More cores (8 vs 6)
- ✓ Larger L3 cache (32 MB vs 9 MB)
- ✓ Higher boost clock (5.5 vs 4.0 GHz)
- ✓ Newer (2024 vs 2017)
Verdict: The Ryzen 7 9700X is roughly 85% faster than the i5-8400 on average — a clear, noticeable performance advantage.
Note they use different platforms (AM5 vs LGA1151), so this is a motherboard decision too, not just a CPU swap.
At launch pricing, the i5-8400 offers more performance per dollar, and the Ryzen 7 9700X is the more power-efficient chip.
Estimated performance
Estimated average 1080p gaming performance compiled from publicly available benchmark data. Individual games vary.
Specs side by side
| Specification | i5-8400 | Ryzen 7 9700X |
|---|---|---|
| Family | Coffee Lake | Zen 5 |
| Socket | LGA1151 | AM5 |
| Release year | 2017 | 2024 |
| Est. gaming perf. | ||
| Est. multi-core perf. | ||
| Est. single-core perf. | ||
| Cores | ||
| Threads | ||
| Max boost clock | ||
| L3 cache | ||
| TDP (base) | ||
| Integrated graphics | UHD 630 | Radeon Graphics |
| Launch MSRP |
Green bars mark the better value in each row (for power and price, lower wins).
Frequently asked questions
Is the Ryzen 7 9700X better than the i5-8400?
Yes — based on aggregated benchmark data, the Ryzen 7 9700X is about 85% faster than the i5-8400 on average.
How much faster is the Ryzen 7 9700X than the i5-8400?
Roughly 85% on average in gaming workloads. The gap varies by title, resolution and settings.
Which processor is better value?
Comparing launch prices, the i5-8400 delivers more performance per dollar. Check current street prices, as market pricing often shifts the value equation.