Celeron M 560 vs Core i5-655K

The Celeron M 560 packs 1 cores / 1 threads, while the Core i5-655K offers 2 cores / 4 threads — the Core i5-655K has 1 more core. Boost clocks reach 2.13 GHz on the Celeron M 560 versus 3.46 GHz on the Core i5-655K — a 47.6% clock advantage for the Core i5-655K. The Celeron M 560 uses the Merom (2006−2008) architecture (65 nm), while the Core i5-655K uses Clarkdale (2010−2011) (32 nm). In PassMark, the Celeron M 560 scores 2,008 against the Core i5-655K's 2,017 — a 0.4% lead for the Core i5-655K.

The Celeron M 560 uses the PGA478 socket (PCIe 1.1), while the Core i5-655K uses LGA1156 (PCIe 2.0) — making them incompatible on the same motherboard. Maximum memory speed reaches 667 on the Celeron M 560 versus DDR3-1333 on the Core i5-655K — the Celeron M 560 supports 198.2% faster memory, which can translate to measurable gains in memory-sensitive workloads. The Core i5-655K supports up to 16 GB of RAM compared to 4 — 120% more capacity for professional workloads. Both feature 2-channel memory with ECC support. PCIe lanes: 0 (Celeron M 560) vs 16 (Core i5-655K) — the Core i5-655K offers 16 more lanes for additional GPUs or NVMe drives. Chipset compatibility: GL960,GM965 (Celeron M 560) and H55,H57,P55 (Core i5-655K).

Only the Core i5-655K has an unlocked multiplier for overclocking — a significant advantage for enthusiasts seeking extra performance. Virtualization support: false (Celeron M 560) vs VT-x (Core i5-655K). The Core i5-655K includes integrated graphics (Intel HD Graphics (Westmere)), while the Celeron M 560 requires a dedicated GPU. Primary use case: Core i5-655K targets Desktop. Direct competitor: Celeron M 560 rivals Mobile Sempron 3600+.

The Celeron M 560 launched at $86 MSRP, while the Core i5-655K debuted at $216. At current prices ($10 vs $55), the Celeron M 560 is $45 cheaper. In terms of value (PassMark points per dollar), the Celeron M 560 delivers 200.8 pts/$ vs 36.7 pts/$ for the Core i5-655K — making the Celeron M 560 the 138.2% better value option.