Core i5-10310U
Intel
PassMark
5,864
Performance Spectrum - CPU
About PassMark
PassMark CPU Mark evaluates processor speed through complex mathematical computations. It provides a reliable metric to compare multi-core performance, where higher scores indicate faster processing for multitasking, gaming, and heavy workloads.
Overview
The Core i5-10310U is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 13 May 2020 (5 years ago). It is based on the Comet Lake-U (2019−2020) architecture. It features 4 cores and 8 threads. Base frequency is 1.7 GHz, with boost up to 4.4 GHz. L3 cache: 6 MB. L2 cache: 1 MB. Built on 14 nm process technology. Socket: FCBGA1528. Thermal design power (TDP): 15 Watt. Memory support: DDR3, DDR4. Passmark benchmark score: 5,864 points. Launch price was $149.
Value Upgrade Path
This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Core i5-10310U is positioned at rank #566 in our cost-efficiency ranking, representing a Lower cost-benefit for your build. Components placed above yours deliver better value for money.
Avg price is the current average price collected from markets across the web.
Performance Per Dollar Core i5-10310U
Technical Analysis
Detailed breakdown of Core i5-10310U specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The Core i5-10310U is a 4-core / 8-thread processor based on the Comet Lake-U (2019−2020) architecture, manufactured on a 14 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 4.4 GHz from a base frequency of 1.7 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 6 MB of L3 cache, plus 1 MB of L2 cache and 256 kB of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 5,864, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Aging generation product. Geekbench 6 single-core (the most relevant metric for gaming FPS) records 1,284.
| Specification | Core i5-10310U |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 4C / 8T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 4.4 GHz |
| Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency | 1.7 GHz |
| ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design | Comet Lake-U (2019−2020) |
| Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient | 14 nm |
| L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores | 6 MB |
| L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data | 1 MB |
| L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache | 256 kB |
| Bus SpeedData bus frequency | 4 GT/s |
| Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax) | 100 °C |
| 64-bit Support | Yes |
| Windows 11 Compatible | Yes |
| PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score | 5,864 |
| Geekbench 6 SingleSingle-core performance — most relevant for gaming | 1,284 |
Memory & Platform
The Core i5-10310U fits into the FCBGA1528 socket and supports PCIe 3.0 with 16 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR3, DDR4 memory at speeds up to DDR4-2666 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 64 GB across 2 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). Integrated graphics: UHD Graphics for 10th Gen — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.
| Specification | Core i5-10310U |
|---|---|
| TypeDesktop or Laptop processor | Laptop |
| SeriesProduct family | Intel Comet Lake |
| SocketMotherboard socket required | FCBGA1528 |
| PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth | PCIe 3.0 |
| PCIe LanesTotal available lanes for GPUs, NVMe drives, and expansion | 16 |
| RAM TypeSupported memory standard | DDR3, DDR4 |
| Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency | DDR4-2666 |
| Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory | 64 GB |
| RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel | 2 |
| ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruption | No |
| Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processor | UHD Graphics for 10th Gen |
| Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers | 1 |
Advanced Features
The Core i5-10310U is primarily designed for Business Laptop. Virtualization: VT-x, VT-d, EPT — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads). Its primary market competitor is the Ryzen 5 PRO 4650U.
| Specification | Core i5-10310U |
|---|---|
| Primary Use CaseIntended workload category | Business Laptop |
| OverclockingWhether CPU clock can be manually increased | 🔒 Locked |
| AVX-512Advanced vector instructions for AI/ML workloads | ❌ Not Supported |
| VirtualizationHardware-assisted virtualization technology | VT-x, VT-d, EPT |
| Direct CompetitorMarket equivalent from rival manufacturer | Ryzen 5 PRO 4650U |
Power & Cooling
The Core i5-10310U has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 15 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed. No stock cooler is included — you will need to purchase an aftermarket cooler separately. Recommended cooling: None.
| Specification | Core i5-10310U |
|---|---|
| TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload | 15 Watt |
| Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax) | 100 °C |
| Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the box | No |
| Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solution | None |
Value Analysis
It currently holds Rank #566 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #1736 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | Core i5-10310U |
|---|---|
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $149 |
| Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking | #566 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #1736 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 13 May 2020 (5 years ago) |
| Release Year | 2020 |
| DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD) | Intel |
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Our Recommendation for Core i5-10310U
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