Core Ultra 7 265K

Core Ultra 7 265K Specifications

The Core Ultra 7 265K is built on the Arrow Lake architecture and manufactured using the 3 nm process. It is compatible with the LGA 1851 socket and supports DDR5 memory with speeds of up to 6400 MT/s. This processor features 8 performance cores operating at a base clock of 3.90 GHz and a boost clock of 5.40 GHz , along with 12 efficiency cores running at a base clock of 3.30 GHz and boosting up to 4.60 GHz , and includes 20 threads. It also comes equipped with 36 MB of L2 cache and 30 MB of L3 cache.

This CPU has a very high base TDP of 125 W and a maximum TDP of 250 W. A high-performance air cooler is the bare minimum, but a premium liquid cooling solution is strongly recommended. Additionally, a PC case with excellent airflow and a high-quality power supply are essential for stable operation.

For users who require integrated graphics, this CPU includes the Intel® Graphics, which features 4 GPU cores. It operates at a base clock of 0.30 GHz and boosts up to 2.00 GHz. This makes it suitable for systems without a dedicated GPU, capable of handling everyday tasks and running older or less demanding games. Integrated graphics can also accelerate specific workloads even when a discrete GPU is installed.

Core Ultra 7 265K Application Performance and Gaming Benchmark Analysis

Core Ultra 7 265K is an upper mid-range CPU, achieving a relative application performance score of 76.13% of the best possible desktop CPU performance. This CPU is ideal for multitasking and can handle professional applications such as 3D rendering, video editing, and other heavy workloads, though not at the same speed or efficiency as higher-end models.

Core Ultra 7 265K delivers a balanced application performance-per-price ratio of 65.6%. It provides good value for users looking for a practical balance between cost and performance.

Core Ultra 7 265K is a mid-range gaming CPU, achieving a relative gaming performance score at 1080p resolution of 78.41% of the best possible desktop CPU gaming performance. This CPU provides solid mid-level gaming performance and is best paired with corresponding mid-range graphics cards. Note that CPU-related performance limitations decrease as GPU performance lowers—particularly at higher resolutions—since the GPU becomes the bottleneck.

With a gaming performance-per-price score of 37.3%, this CPU does not offer strong value in this category. As this CPU does not deliver top-tier gaming performance and also has a low gaming performance-to-price ratio, it represents poor value. More competitive options are available at a similar price point.