Are you looking to upgrade to Intel Core Ultra? If the answer is yes – then this is the blog post for you!
In our ultimate guide to Intel Core Ultra, we’ve rounded up everything you need to know about these processors and all the hardware you need to upgrade.
The Intel Core Ultra 200 Series
Intel Core Ultra processors have been built upon Intel’s new Arrow Lake architecture, boasting an advanced 20A (2nm) process along with a combination of powerful P (performance) and E (efficiency) cores. Unlike previous Intel CPUs, this blend of P- and E-cores is now built on two separate architectures, with P- utilising Lion Cove and E- harnessing Skymont arranged in a 3D five chiplet design. All of which works in tandem to facilitate outstanding performance, rapid processing, and effortless multitasking in even the most demanding applications. Plus, the integrated Intel Thread Director ensures the best core is assigned to the job.
In addition to this, Intel Core Ultra CPUs come equipped with an on-board NPU (Neural Processing Unit) to deliver maximum efficiency and ultra-fast speeds across a range of AI workflows, helping to boost your productivity. Plus, support for PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 ensure quick transfer speeds, rapid in-game loading times, and near-zero latency.
The CPUs
There are currently five CPUs in the Intel Core Ultra line-up. This includes:
- Core Ultra 5 245KF
- Core Ultra 5 245K
- Core Ultra 7 265KF
- Core Ultra 7 265K
- Core Ultra 9 285K
We’ve broken down their key details in the table below.
| Cores & Threads | Base Clock Speed (GHz) | Boost Clock Speed (GHz) | Cache | TDP | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Core Ultra 5 245KF | 14 cores 14 threads | 4.6GHz | 5.2GHz | 24MB | 125W |
| Core Ultra 5 245K | 14 cores 14 threads | 4.6GHz | 5.2GHz | 24MB | 125W |
| Core Ultra 7 265KF | 20 cores 20 threads | 4.6GHz | 5.5GHz | 30MB | 125W |
| Core Ultra 7 265K | 20 cores 20 threads | 4.6GHz | 5.4GHz | 30MB | 125W |
| Core Ultra 9 285K | 24 cores 24 threads | 4.6GHz | 5.7GHz | 36MB | 125W |
Core Ultra 5 245
The Intel Core Ultra 5 245 CPU harnesses 14 cores and threads to deliver outstanding performance and efficiency, perfect for both work and play.
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF
- Intel Arrow Lake architecture
- KF model
- 14 cores and 14 threads
- 5.2GHz boosted clock speed
- Onboard graphics not included
Intel Core Ultra 5 245
- Intel Arrow Lake architecutre
- K model
- 14 cores and 14 threads
- 5.2GHz boosted clock speed
- Onboard graphics included
Core Ultra 7 265
Armed with 20 cores and threads, the Intel Core Ultra 7 265 CPU has been optimised for gamers and professionals alike, facilitating superior performance and rapid processing at up to 5.4GHz.
Intel Core Ultra 7 265KF
- Intel Arrow Lake architecture
- KF model
- 20 cores and 20 threads
- 5.5GHz boosted clock speed
- No onboard graphics
Intel Core Ultra 7 265K
- Intel Arrow Lake architecture
- K model
- 20 cores and 20 threads
- 5.4GHz boosted clock speed
- Onboard graphics included
Core Ultra 9 285
The Intel Core Ultra 9 285 is the flagship CPU of the series, sporting 24 cores and threads up to 5.7GHz boosted clock speeds to deliver blisteringly fast performance and maximum efficiency. The perfect upgrade for gaming enthusiasts and creative professionals!
Intel Core Ultra 9 285
- Intel Arrow Lake architecture
- LGA 1851 socket
- 24 cores and 24 threads
- 5.7GHz boosted clock speed
- Onboard Intel Xe graphics included
8Pack and Intel Core Ultra
8Pack sat down with Briony to talk all things Intel Core Ultra and the overclocking capabilities of this CPU series. Check out the video below to hear his thoughts.
What Hardware Will You Need to Upgrade to Intel Core Ultra
Motherboard
In order to upgrade to the Intel Core Ultra Series, you’ll first need to ensure you have a compatible motherboard with an LGA 1851 socket.
ASUS ROG Strix Z890-A Gaming DDR5 ATX Motherboard
- ATX form factor
- Z890 chipset
- LGA 1851 socket
- DDR5 RAM
- Wi-Fi 7
CPU Cooler
Similar to your motherboard, you’ll also need a CPU cooler that supports the LGA 1851 socket to facilitate optimum cooling and effective heat dissipation.
TRYX Panorama 280mm AiO White CPU Cooler
- AiO CPU cooler
- 280mm radiator
- 2 x ROTA Pro fans
- 6.5’’ AMOLED screen
- Compatible with Intel Core Ultra processors
RAM
As the Intel Core Ultra Series only supports DDR5 RAM, you’ll need a compatible RAM kit. With DDR5 RAM you can enjoy enhanced efficiency over DDR4, along with rapid loading times and minimal latency.
TeamGroup Delta 32GB (2 x 16GB) DDR5 Dual-Channel RAM Kit
- 32GB capacity
- 2 x 16GB RAM modules
- DDR5 standard
- 6400MHz
- 40-40-40-84 CAS timings
Graphics Card
No gaming PC is complete with a graphics card to render your gaming worlds in glorious detail.
Zotac GeForce RTX 4070 Ti Super 16GB GGDR6 Graphics Card
- RTX 40 Series
- Ada Lovelace architecture
- 8448 CUDA cores
- 2625MHz boosted clock speed
- 16GB GDDR6X video memory
PSU
To supply your PC with all the power it needs, you’ll need a reliable PSU. A high 80 PLUS rating is also a must as you can enjoy maximum efficiency even under heavy loads.
Kolink Regulator 850W 80 PLUS Gold Modular PSU
- Modular form factor
- 850W capacity
- 80 PLUS Gold rating
- ATX 3.0 compatible
Storage
Your expanding gaming library and creative projects need a home! A powerful PCIe 5.0 M.2 means you can take advantage of rapid transfer rates and blisteringly fast in-game loading times.
Crucial t700 2TB NVMe M.2 PCIe 5.0 SSD
- 2TB capacity
- 2280 form factor
- PCIe 5.0
- 12400MB/s read
- 11800MB/s write
Intel Core Ultra FAQ
What Socket Does the Intel Core Ultra Series Use?
The Intel Core Ultra Series harnesses the all-new LGA 1851 socket.
Will I Need to Upgrade My Motherboard for the Intel Core Ultra Series?
If you don’t already have a motherboard with the LGA 1851 socket, you’ll need a motherboard upgrade to fully utilise your shiny new Intel Core Ultra CPU.
Does the Intel Core Ultra Series Support DDR4 RAM?
The Intel Core Series doesn’t support DDR4, meaning if you don’t already have DDR5, it’s time for you to make the jump!
Is the Intel Core Ultra Series Good for Gaming?
The Intel Core Ultra Series is a fantastic choice for gamers. These CPUs harness powerful P- and E-cores to deliver ultra-fast processing, maximum efficiency, and seamless multitasking across all your applications. The integrated Intel Thread Directors means only the best core is assigned to the job for uninterrupted gameplay and near-zero latency every time.
Have You Upgraded to Intel Core Ultra?
Have you upgraded to the Intel Core Ultra Series? What CPU did you pick and how has it improved your gaming or productivity? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
- 6 min read
Ruth Rowley
Author
Ruth has been with Overclockers UK for over a year and has gone on to write about everything ranging from in-depth hardware guides to monthly game releases.
Outside of writing blog posts, she can be found wrapped in a blanket with her black cat, engrossed in a book or playing life-simulation games such as The Sims, Stardew Valley, and Animal Crossing.
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