Intel N150 vs AMD Ryzen 5 3500U — Which Budget CPU Wins?

If you're hoping to snag a budget-friendly PC that still delivers decent performance, you've probably come across processors like the Intel N150 Celeron and the older-but-still-reliable AMD Ryzen 5 3500U. Let’s demystify these little chips and find out which one gives you more bang for your buck—without getting too technical.

Intel N150 vs AMD Ryzen 5 3500U. What Are These CPUs Anyway?

• Intel N150: A recent very popular entry-level chip based on Intel’s Twin Lake (Alder Lake‑N) architecture. It’s built for devices like super-basic laptops and tiny mini-PCs. Four Gracemont “efficiency” cores, no hyperthreading—so four threads max. It stays cool and energy-efficient.

• AMD Ryzen 5 3500U: Launched in early 2019, this is a Picasso‑U (Zen+) notebook processor. It packs four cores and eight threads, so it multitasks better and includes the more capable Radeon Vega 8 graphics.

Real-World Performance—In Plain Speak

Benchmarks Say…

• On multi-core tasks—like handling multiple browser tabs, Zoom plus a music stream—the 3500U performs roughly 25% better than the N150.

• In Cinebench R23, a popular benchmark:

  • Single-core: They’re nearly on par—Ryzen scores ~876 points vs N150’s ~872.

  • Multi-core: Ryzen pulls ahead significantly—3,544 vs 2,518, so Ryzen is around 40% better here!

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Graphics Powerhouse or Viewer?

• The Radeon Vega 8 iGPU on the Ryzen blows Intel’s UHD integrated graphics out of the water. Think smoother video playback and some light gaming—not GTA 5 at high settings, but medium to low will run.

Efficiency & Heat—Balancing Act

• Intel N150 rides quiet and cool—its TDP is around 6W to 10W, making it ideal for fanless mini PCs. Load Shedding PC King!

• Ryzen 5 3500U runs in the 15W–25W range depending on load. Still energy-efficient, but expect a bit more warmth. Load Shedding PC Queen!

What Do Real Users Say about Intel N150 vs AMD Ryzen 5 3500U?

Here’s a relatable comparison from Reddit: one user was choosing between a mini-PC priced at €97 with an N150 vs €165 with a Ryzen 5 3500U. Geekbench 6 scores were ~1249 (single-core) and ~2980 (multi-core) for the N150, but ~1101 and ~3324 for the Ryzen. The N150 was quieter and cooler, but doubling your threads for just a bit more cash? Many agreed Ryzen was the smarter buy.Reddit+2TopCPU+2

Summary: Which One Should You Choose?

Scenario	Best Pick	Why
Ultra-light tasks—emails, static websites, quiet fanless device	Intel N150	Super efficient, stays cool, just enough power
Everyday multitasking, smooth video, some light creative tools	Ryzen 5 3500U	Twice the threads, much sharper graphics, better overall value

Do Lower-End Ryzen CPUs Generally Outperform Intel’s N-Series?

Yes, and here's why—without sounding like a tech manual:

1. More Threads (Yeah, that matters): Even budget Ryzen chips often come with simultaneous multithreading (SMT)—so you get two threads per core. Intel’s N150… doesn’t do that.

2. Graphics That Actually Work: Vega graphics on Ryzen handle basic video editing and light games. Intel’s entry graphics are, well… basic.

3. Better Value—Even Years Later: AMD’s older tech tends to price well now, offering more for just a few extra rand.

4. Platform Longevity: At least in desktop/laptop form, AMD’s platforms tend to be more upgrade-friendly. Intel’s N-series? More of a one-and-done.

   
   

Let’s pretend your buddy dropped by asking which mini-PC to buy. You’d say:

“If all you're doing is watching clips, checking emails and don’t want fans spinning—Intel N150 chips do that fine and stay cool. But if you want smoother stuff—like Netflix with lots of Chrome tabs open or maybe a little Photoshop—Ryzen 5 3500U lasts longer and multitasks like a champ. Plus, it’s only a little pricier.”