iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
Intel lists six Pentium Silver processors in its series roster, and all six have four CPU cores: N6000, N6005, J5040, N5030, J5005 and N5000. That makes the listed models quad-core, but it does not mean every processor ever branded Pentium has four cores—or that core count alone tells you how fast a computer will feel.
How many cores does Intel Pentium Silver have?
Each of the six models on Intel’s Pentium Silver roster has four cores. Intel’s product pages also list four threads for the N6000 and N5000, illustrating that cores and threads are separate specifications; for those two processors, the listed counts are four cores and four threads. Intel’s Pentium Silver series roster and the individual N6000 and N5000 specifications document those figures.
Core count and specifications by model
Intel’s series page lists the following six models, launch quarters, base frequencies, cache capacities and TDP values. These are manufacturer specifications, not benchmark scores.
| Model | Launch quarter listed by Intel | Base frequency | Cache | TDP | Cores |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| N6000 | Q1 2021 | 1.10 GHz | 4 MB | 6 W | 4 |
| N6005 | Q1 2021 | 2.00 GHz | 4 MB | 10 W | 4 |
| J5040 | Q4 2019 | 2.00 GHz | 4 MB | 10 W | 4 |
| N5030 | Q4 2019 | 1.10 GHz | 4 MB | 6 W | 4 |
| J5005 | Q4 2017 | 1.50 GHz | 4 MB | 10 W | 4 |
| N5000 | Q4 2017 | 1.10 GHz | 4 MB | 6 W | 4 |
Values are from Intel’s Pentium Silver series roster. The roster’s launch quarters identify when the models launched, not when a computer containing one was manufactured or sold.
#1 Best Overall
- Efficient Intel Pentium Silver N5030 Processor 1.1 GHz (4M Cache, up to 3.1 GHz, 4 cores)
- 15.6” FHD (1920x1080) Display
- 128GB eMMC Flash Storage and 4GB DDR4 RAM
- Windows 11 Home in S mode
- Slim and Portable: 0.71” thin and weighs only 3.46 lbs (battery included)
What the Pentium Silver name covers
Pentium Silver is a series name spanning different processor generations and device segments, rather than one chip specification. Intel identifies the N5000 with products formerly called Gemini Lake and the N6000 with products formerly called Jasper Lake. The series roster also includes both N- and J-numbered models, so the family name alone does not identify a generation or frequency.
For a concrete comparison, the N6000 is a 10 nm mobile processor with a 1.10 GHz base frequency, burst frequency up to 3.30 GHz, 4 MB cache and 6 W TDP. Its package is FCBGA1338. Intel’s product brief further specifies 1.5 MB L2 plus 4 MB L3 cache, two memory channels, DDR4-2933 or LPDDR4x-2933 memory, and Intel UHD Graphics with a frequency up to 850 MHz. See the N6000 specifications and Intel’s N6000 product brief.
Rank #2
- 【Processor】Intel Pentium Silver N6000 (4C / 4T, 1.1 / 3.3GHz, 4MB),Integrated Intel UHD Graphics.
- 【Display】15.6" FHD (1920x1080) IPS 300nits Anti-glare, Touch.
- 【Memory & Storage】8GB LPDDR4x, 128GB eMMC
- 【Tech Specs】2x USB 3.2 Gen 1, 1x USB-C 3.2 Gen 1 (support data transfer, Power Delivery 3.0 and DisplayPort 1.4), 1x HDMI 1.4, 1x Headphone / microphone combo jack (3.5mm), 1x microSD card slot, Wi-Fi 6, 802.11ax 2x2 + BT5.2.
- 【Operating System】ChromeOS. Bundle with EAT Mouse Pad.
The older N5000 is identified by Intel as a Gemini Lake processor. Its specifications list 14 nm lithography, a 1.10 GHz base frequency, burst frequency up to 2.70 GHz, 4 MB cache, 6 W TDP, four cores and four threads. Intel marks it discontinued and lists December 31, 2024 as its end-of-servicing-updates date. These status details are specific to the N5000 product page; they do not establish the availability or support status of every computer using it. See Intel’s N5000 specifications and status.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Does four cores mean a Pentium Silver PC is fast?
No single core-count figure can establish how responsive a whole computer will be. Four cores describe one part of the CPU specification; frequency, cooling, memory, storage, graphics needs, operating system and the workload also affect the experience. Intel’s specifications describe processor capabilities, but they are not real-world performance guarantees.
Rank #3
- Windows 11 Home (S mode): Experience the most secure Windows ever built with fast boot times, increased responsiveness, and added protection against phishing and malware.
- Quad-core Intel Pentium Silver processor: Handle multitasking reliably with the perfect combination of performance, power consumption, and value.
- Intel UHD graphics: Smoothly stream 4K content and play your favorite games.
- Dual front-facing speakers: Pump up the volume to your favorite music, movie or game. When your audio is directed towards you, nothing comes between you and your entertainment.
- HP Privacy Camera: The pop-up camera is only enabled when in use, securing your privacy.
When comparing two computers, check the exact processor model and generation alongside:
- Core and thread counts, plus base and maximum burst frequencies.
- Memory capacity and configuration, including channels where specified.
- Storage type and capacity.
- Cooling and the system’s power limits.
- Graphics capability for the applications you use.
- Serviceability and upgrade options for the complete computer.
Core count is not unique to Pentium Silver or a reliable shortcut based on brand tier. For example, Intel lists the Celeron N4500 at two cores and two threads, the Celeron N5100 at four cores and four threads, and the Pentium Silver N6000 at four cores and four threads. Intel’s N6000 specifications provide the Pentium figures for this comparison.
Rank #4
- ✅ FAST PERFORMANCE: Powered by an Intel Pentium Silver N5030 quad-core processor and 16GB DDR4 RAM, this laptop handles everyday tasks smoothly, from browsing to multitasking, without slowing you down.
- ✅ LONG BATTERY LIFE: Enjoy up to 11 hours and 45 minutes of battery life, plus fast charging that gets you to 50% in just 45 minutes—perfect for work, classes, or streaming on the go.
- ✅ LIGHT AND PORTABLE: Weighing only 3.64 pounds with a slim 0.71-inch profile, this laptop is easy to carry anywhere, while its 15.6-inch micro-edge display maximizes screen space in a compact design.
- ✅ QUICK STORAGE: Boot up in seconds and store files effortlessly with a speedy 512GB PCIe SSD, offering faster performance and reliability compared to traditional hard drives.
- ✅ STABLE CONNECTIVITY: Stay connected with Wi-Fi 5 (2x2) and Bluetooth 5.0, ensuring strong, uninterrupted internet and seamless pairing with wireless accessories.
Can you upgrade to a Pentium Silver N6000?
Do not assume that a processor can be replaced just because its model is known. Intel lists the N6000 as a mobile processor in an FCBGA1338 package, so it is not a typical socketed desktop CPU upgrade. Whether a processor can be serviced or replaced depends on the computer’s design. Check the device’s service documentation before buying parts; often the relevant choice is a complete compatible laptop or compact computer, not the processor by itself.
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallOutdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchQuick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
