Core i5-8265U
Intel
PassMark
5,812
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 i5-8265U is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 1 October 2018 (7 years ago). It is based on the Whiskey Lake-U (2018−2019) architecture. It features 4 cores and 8 threads. Base frequency is 1.6 GHz, with boost up to 3.9 GHz. L3 cache: 6 MB (total). L2 cache: 256 kB (per core). Built on 14 nm process technology. Socket: FCBGA1528. Thermal design power (TDP): 15 Watt. Memory support: DDR4. Passmark benchmark score: 5,812 points. Launch price was $297.
Value Upgrade Path
This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Core i5-8265U is positioned at rank #353 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 i5-8265U
Technical Analysis
Detailed breakdown of Core i5-8265U specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The Core i5-8265U is a 4-core / 8-thread processor based on the Whiskey Lake-U (2018−2019) architecture, manufactured on a 14 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 3.9 GHz from a base frequency of 1.6 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 6 MB (total) of L3 cache, plus 256 kB (per core) of L2 cache and 64 kB (per core) of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 5,812, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product. Geekbench 6 single-core (the most relevant metric for gaming FPS) records 1,200, while multi-core reaches 3,500. Cinebench R23 multi-core (measuring sustained rendering workload performance) scores 3,000.
| Specification | Core i5-8265U |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 4C / 8T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 3.9 GHz |
| Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency | 1.6 GHz |
| ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design | Whiskey Lake-U (2018−2019) |
| Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient | 14 nm |
| L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores | 6 MB (total) |
| L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data | 256 kB (per core) |
| L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache | 64 kB (per core) |
| Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor | 123 mm2 |
| 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 | 5,812 |
| Cinebench R23 MultiSustained multi-core rendering performance | 3,000 |
| Geekbench 6 SingleSingle-core performance — most relevant for gaming | 1,200 |
| Geekbench 6 MultiMulti-core parallel workload performance | 3,500 |
Memory & Platform
The Core i5-8265U fits into the FCBGA1528 socket and supports PCIe 3.0 with 16 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR4 memory at speeds up to DDR4-2400 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 64 GB across 2 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). Integrated graphics: Intel UHD Graphics 620 — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.
| Specification | Core i5-8265U |
|---|---|
| TypeDesktop or Laptop processor | Laptop |
| SeriesProduct family | Intel Core i5 |
| 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 | DDR4 |
| Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency | DDR4-2400 |
| 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 | Intel UHD Graphics 620 |
| Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPU | SoC |
| Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers | 1 (Uniprocessor) |
Advanced Features
The Core i5-8265U is primarily designed for Mainstream Laptop. Virtualization: VT-x, VT-d, EPT — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads).
| Specification | Core i5-8265U |
|---|---|
| Primary Use CaseIntended workload category | Mainstream 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 |
Power & Cooling
The Core i5-8265U 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: Laptop Cooling.
| Specification | Core i5-8265U |
|---|---|
| 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 | None |
| Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solution | Laptop Cooling |
Value Analysis
It currently holds Rank #353 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #1744 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | Core i5-8265U |
|---|---|
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $297 |
| Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking | #353 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #1744 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 1 October 2018 (7 years ago) |
| Release Year | 2018 |
| DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD) | Intel |
| ManufacturerFabrication foundry (e.g. TSMC) | Intel |
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Our Recommendation for Core i5-8265U
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