Core Ultra 5 235U
CPU·Entry

Core Ultra 5 235U

Intel

PassMark

17,397

1 January 2025 (less than a year ago)
14 MB + 12 MB
Arrow Lake-U (2025)

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 Ultra 5 235U is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 1 January 2025 (less than a year ago). It is based on the Arrow Lake-U (2025) architecture. It features 12 cores and 14 threads. Base frequency is 2.4 GHz, with boost up to 4.9 GHz. L3 cache: 12 MB. Built on 5 nm process technology. Socket: FCBGA2049. Thermal design power (TDP): 14 MB + 12 MB. Memory support: DDR5. Passmark benchmark score: 17,397 points. Launch price was $299.

Value Upgrade Path

This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. Components placed above yours deliver better value for money.

MSRP is the manufacturer's suggested retail price.
Avg price is the current average price collected from markets across the web.

Performance Per Dollar Core Ultra 5 235U

#153
Core i7-1370P
MSRP: $438|Avg: $280
105%
#158
Core i9-13900H
MSRP: $617|Avg: N/A
102%
#161
Core Ultra 7 268V
MSRP: $450|Avg: $400
101%
#162
Core Ultra 7 256V
MSRP: $450|Avg: $350
100%
#163
Core Ultra 5 235U
MSRP: N/A|Avg: N/A
100%
#167
Core Ultra 7 258V
MSRP: $450|Avg: $400
97%
#169
Core i7-1280P
MSRP: $482|Avg: $482
96%
#173
Core Ultra 5 238V
MSRP: $454|Avg: $454
92%
#176
Core i9-13900HK
MSRP: $697|Avg: N/A
90%
#178
Core i7-1360P
MSRP: $480|Avg: $280
89%
Based on actual market prices and performance synthetic scores.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of Core Ultra 5 235U specifications and capabilities.

Processing Power

The Core Ultra 5 235U is a 12-core / 14-thread processor based on the Arrow Lake-U (2025) architecture, manufactured on a 5 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 4.9 GHz from a base frequency of 2.4 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 12 MB of L3 cache. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 17,397, placing it in the Mid-Range performance tier as a Current Gen generation product.

SpecificationCore Ultra 5 235U
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units12C / 14T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost4.9 GHz
Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency2.4 GHz
ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture designArrow Lake-U (2025)
Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient5 nm
L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores12 MB
Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax)110 °C
64-bit SupportYes
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score17,397
🧠

Memory & Platform

The Core Ultra 5 235U fits into the FCBGA2049 socket and supports PCIe 5.0. It supports DDR5 memory.

SpecificationCore Ultra 5 235U
TypeDesktop or Laptop processorLaptop
SocketMotherboard socket requiredFCBGA2049
PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidthPCIe 5.0
RAM TypeSupported memory standardDDR5
🌡️

Power & Cooling

The Core Ultra 5 235U has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 14 MB + 12 MB — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed.

SpecificationCore Ultra 5 235U
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload14 MB + 12 MB
Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax)110 °C
💰

Value Analysis

Performance ranking position: #913 out of all indexed processors.

SpecificationCore Ultra 5 235U
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch$299
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking#913
Release DateLaunch date1 January 2025 (less than a year ago)
Release Year2025
DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD)Intel

Similar Performance

Processors with benchmark scores closest to the current hardware, grouped by manufacturer.

Our Recommendation for Core Ultra 5 235U

Suggested pairings based on performance balance

Compare Core Ultra 5 235U

See how this CPU stacks up against similar alternatives

Compare with other CPUs