The Intel Core Ultra 5 250K Plus is the objective winner of this comparison, securing a lead in nine out of fourteen measured specifications. Its most significant technical advantage is its L2 cache, which is 216% larger than that of the Intel Core i5-14400. While the latter component maintains a lead in power efficiency with a 48% better TDP, the former demonstrates superior hardware capacity across the majority of the evaluated categories.

Users prioritizing raw cache capacity and high-end hardware specifications should select the Intel Core Ultra 5 250K Plus for their build. Conversely, the Intel Core i5-14400 is the appropriate choice for those who prioritize power efficiency and a lower thermal design profile. Your decision should depend on whether your primary requirement is the increased cache performance of the newer architecture or the power-saving benefits offered by the more efficient model.