
Core M-5Y10a
Intel
PassMark
1,905
MSRP
$281
AVG Price
$281
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 M-5Y10a is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 5 September 2014 (11 years ago). It is based on the Broadwell-Y (2014) architecture. It features 2 cores and 4 threads. Base frequency is 0.8 GHz, with boost up to 2 GHz. L3 cache: 4 MB (total). L2 cache: 256K (per core). Built on 14 nm process technology. Socket: FCBGA1234. Thermal design power (TDP): 4.5 Watt. Memory support: DDR3. Passmark benchmark score: 1,905 points. Launch price was $69.
Value Upgrade Path
This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Core M-5Y10a is positioned at rank #1166 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 M-5Y10a
FPS Benchmarks
Predicted performance for Core M-5Y10a across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.

Path of Exile 2

Counter-Strike 2

League of Legends

Valorant
Technical Analysis
Detailed breakdown of Core M-5Y10a specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The Core M-5Y10a is a 2-core / 4-thread processor based on the Broadwell-Y (2014) architecture, manufactured on a 14 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 2 GHz from a base frequency of 0.8 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 4 MB (total) of L3 cache, plus 256K (per core) of L2 cache and 64K (per core) of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 1,905, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.
| Specification | Core M-5Y10a |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 2C / 4T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 2 GHz |
| Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency | 0.8 GHz |
| ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design | Broadwell-Y (2014) |
| Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient | 14 nm |
| L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores | 4 MB (total) |
| L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data | 256K (per core) |
| L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache | 64K (per core) |
| Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor | 50 mm2 |
| Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities | 1300 Million |
| Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax) | 95 °C |
| 64-bit Support | Yes |
| Windows 11 Compatible | No |
| PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score | 1,905 |
Memory & Platform
The Core M-5Y10a fits into the FCBGA1234 socket and supports PCIe 3.0 with 12 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR3 memory at speeds up to LPDDR3-1600 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 16 GB across 2 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). Integrated graphics: HD Graphics 5300 — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.
| Specification | Core M-5Y10a |
|---|---|
| TypeDesktop or Laptop processor | Laptop |
| SeriesProduct family | Intel Core M |
| SocketMotherboard socket required | FCBGA1234 |
| PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth | PCIe 3.0 |
| PCIe LanesTotal available lanes for GPUs, NVMe drives, and expansion | 12 |
| RAM TypeSupported memory standard | DDR3 |
| Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency | LPDDR3-1600 |
| Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory | 16 GB |
| RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel | 2 |
| ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruption | No |
| Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processor | HD Graphics 5300 |
| Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers | 1 |
Advanced Features
The Core M-5Y10a is primarily designed for Mobile. Virtualization: VT-x, VT-d — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads).
| Specification | Core M-5Y10a |
|---|---|
| Primary Use CaseIntended workload category | Mobile |
| 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 |
Power & Cooling
The Core M-5Y10a has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 4.5 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed.
| Specification | Core M-5Y10a |
|---|---|
| TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload | 4.5 Watt |
| Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax) | 95 °C |
Value Analysis
At an average price of $281, the Core M-5Y10a delivers 7 PassMark points per dollar. It currently holds Rank #1166 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #2627 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | Core M-5Y10a |
|---|---|
| MSRPManufacturer's Suggested Retail Price | $281 |
| Avg Price (30d)Average market price over the last 30 days | $281 |
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $69 |
| Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking | #1166 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #2627 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 5 September 2014 (11 years ago) |
| Release Year | 2014 |
| DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD) | Intel |
| ManufacturerFabrication foundry (e.g. TSMC) | Intel |
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