Back to the Future: Intel Resurrects 14nm Technology with “New” Core i5-110 Processor
In a surprising move that contradicts its own branding modernization efforts, Intel has quietly launched the Core i5-110—essentially a rebadged version of its 5-year-old Core i5-10400 processor built on the aging 14nm Comet Lake architecture. Priced at $200 and launched in Q3 2025, this processor represents Intel’s continued reliance on its long-serving 14nm process even as the company promotes its advanced Core Ultra series on newer nodes.
The Core i5-110 features the same specifications as its 2019 predecessor: 6 cores, 12 threads, a 65W TDP, and compatibility with the LGA1200 socket. What makes this launch particularly confusing is the naming convention—Intel had previously announced the end of the “Core i” branding with the 14th generation, transitioning to a cleaner “Core” and “Core Ultra” naming scheme for its newer architectures. The appearance of a new “Core i5” model with a shortened SKU number (110 instead of the traditional four digits) creates unnecessary confusion in an already complex product stack.
Why Recycle a 5-Year-Old Design?
Industry analysts suggest several possible reasons for this unexpected revival:
- Supply Chain Flexibility: Maintaining older production lines provides flexibility during transitions to newer nodes
- Market Segment Coverage: A $200 price point targets budget systems where modern architectures might be overkill
- Inventory Management: Utilizing existing 14nm wafer production capacity
However, the decision undermines Intel’s efforts to simplify its processor branding and clearly distinguish between its older and newer architectures. Consumers shopping for a new Intel processor in 2025 might unexpectedly find themselves considering technology that originally launched when Windows 10 was Microsoft’s flagship operating system.
The Bigger Picture: Intel’s Naming Scheme Chaos
This launch highlights the ongoing confusion in Intel’s processor naming:
- Core Ultra: Brand for newest architectures (Meteor Lake, Arrow Lake, Lunar Lake)
- Core: Brand for recent but not latest architectures (Raptor Lake refresh)
- Core i-series: Now apparently being used for much older architectures
This three-tier naming approach, with the addition of a resurrected “Core i” designation, creates a confusing hierarchy that makes it difficult for consumers to understand what they’re actually buying.
Also, Read
- Intel Arc B770 GPU Launch Imminent as Packaging Materials Spotted in Shipping Data
- Intel Launches Arc Pro B50 GPU – 16GB VRAM, No Power Connector, $349 Price Tag
- Intel’s Monster 52-Core Nova Lake-S CPU Appears in Shipping Data
The Bottom Line
While there’s certainly a market for budget processors, Intel’s decision to revive a 5-year-old design under a new name that conflicts with its current branding strategy seems counterproductive. For consumers, the Core i5-110 represents decent performance for the price, but buyers should be aware they’re purchasing technology that’s half a decade old—something the confusing naming might obscure rather than clarify.
Source: momomo_us