The Intel Core Ultra 5 250KF Plus is the objective winner of this comparison, securing victories in eleven out of fourteen measured specifications. Its most significant technical advantage is its L2 Cache, which is 1900% larger than that of the competing processor. While the Intel Core i5-8400 maintains a 59% lead in Max Turbo Power, the superior cache capacity of the newer model provides a substantial architectural edge across the majority of the evaluated categories.

Users prioritizing modern architectural efficiency and the massive L2 Cache advantage should select the Intel Core Ultra 5 250KF Plus for their build. Conversely, the Intel Core i5-8400 remains the appropriate choice for those specifically seeking the higher Max Turbo Power offered by that unit. Choosing between these two components depends entirely on whether your requirements favor the expanded cache capacity of the newer model or the specific power profile of the older processor.