Core i5-655K vs Celeron M 560

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

The Core i5-655K uses the LGA1156 socket (PCIe 2.0), while the Celeron M 560 uses PGA478 (PCIe 1.1) — making them incompatible on the same motherboard. Maximum memory speed reaches DDR3-1333 on the Core i5-655K versus 667 on the Celeron M 560 — 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: 16 (Core i5-655K) vs 0 (Celeron M 560) — the Core i5-655K offers 16 more lanes for additional GPUs or NVMe drives. Chipset compatibility: H55,H57,P55 (Core i5-655K) and GL960,GM965 (Celeron M 560).

Only the Core i5-655K has an unlocked multiplier for overclocking — a significant advantage for enthusiasts seeking extra performance. Virtualization support: VT-x (Core i5-655K) vs false (Celeron M 560). 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 Core i5-655K launched at $216 MSRP, while the Celeron M 560 debuted at $86. At current prices ($55 vs $10), the Celeron M 560 is $45 cheaper. In terms of value (PassMark points per dollar), the Core i5-655K delivers 36.7 pts/$ vs 200.8 pts/$ for the Celeron M 560 — making the Celeron M 560 the 138.2% better value option.