Intel Core i5-9400F Desktop Processor 6 Cores up to 4.1 GHz Turbo without Processor Graphicslga1151 300 Series 65W Processors 999CVM
Bottom line: The Intel Core i5-9400F Desktop Processor 6 Cores up to 4.1 GHz Turbo ($194.03 on Amazon as of 2026-10-20 22:13 UTC): 6 cores at 2.90 GHz base, boosting to 4.10 GHz Max Turbo; main trade-off: no integrated graphics - a discrete GPU is mandatory to post.
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*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated 2026-10-20. Price and availability subject to change.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ 6 cores at 2.90 GHz base, boosting to 4.10 GHz Max Turbo
- ✓ 65W TDP keeps heat and power draw low in mid-tower builds
- ✓ 9 MB cache supports smooth 1080p gaming with a discrete GPU
- ✓ Intel Optane Memory support for accelerating a hard drive
Cons
- ✗ No integrated graphics - a discrete GPU is mandatory to post
- ✗ 6 threads only, so no Hyper-Threading for heavy multitasking
- ✗ Locked to Intel 300 Series chipset motherboards
- ✗ Older LGA1151 platform with no upgrade path to newer Intel sockets
Manufacturer description
6 Cores/ 6 Threads 2.90 GHz up to 4.10 GHz Max Turbo Frequency/ 9 MB Cache Compatible only with Motherboards based on Intel 300 Series Chipsets
SpecPicks Verdict
SpecPicks scored Intel Core i5-9400F Desktop Processor 6 Cores up to 4.1 GHz Turbo… using a rating × review-volume × price-fit model applied to published specs and reviews across the processors category. Intel's processors lineup sits within the broader category mid-tier; price and specs are the deciding factors over brand loyalty here. Judge it on the specification table and the price rather than on sentiment: check the figures that decide your use case, then put it side-by-side with two or three close alternatives in the Compare tool before clicking through.
Common buyer scenarios for processors of this kind: matching it to an existing build, replacing a failing part, or upgrading from a previous-generation equivalent. Check the spec table below against your current setup — particularly socket / form-factor / power-rating fields — and confirm compatibility on the retailer's listing before purchase. Prices and stock are set by the retailer and may have moved since this page was last updated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Intel Core i5-9400F have integrated graphics?
No. The F suffix means Intel disabled the integrated GPU, so you need a discrete graphics card installed for the system to output video at all.
What motherboard do I need for the i5-9400F?
It fits LGA1151 sockets and is compatible only with motherboards based on Intel 300 Series chipsets. Boards using older or newer Intel chipsets will not work.
How fast does the i5-9400F actually run?
It has a 2.90 GHz base clock and reaches 4.10 GHz Max Turbo Frequency, with 9 MB of cache and 6 cores paired to 6 threads.
Does the i5-9400F come with a cooler, and what is the warranty?
Cooler inclusion depends on whether you buy the boxed or tray version, and warranty terms vary by seller - check the current product listing before ordering.
Key Features
- 6 Cores/ 6 Threads
- 2.90 GHz up to 4.10 GHz Max Turbo Frequency/ 9 MB Cache
- Compatible only with Motherboards based on Intel 300 Series Chipsets
- Discrete GPU required - No integrated graphics
- Intel Optane Memory supported
Full Specifications
| Size | 2.9 GHz |
|---|---|
| Brand | Intel |
| Color | coffee |
| Model | BX80684I59400F |
| Warranty | 3-year Limited Warranty |
| UnitCount | 1 |
| ReleaseDate | 2019-01-07T00:00:01Z |
| Manufacturer | Intel |
| IsAdultProduct | false |
| ItemPartNumber | BX80684I59400F |
Ready to buy?
Intel Core i5-9400F Desktop Processor 6 Cores up to 4.1 GHz Turbo without Processor Graphicslga1151 300 Series 65W Processors 999CVM is listed on Amazon. Price, availability, shipping and returns are set by Amazon and its sellers — check the listing for current terms. SpecPicks earns a small commission on qualifying purchases — thank you for supporting independent review work.
*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated 2026-10-20. Price and availability subject to change.
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