CPU Comparison
Apple M3 vs Intel Core Ultra 5 135U
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. Apple M3 is an 8-core, 10-core GPU SoC built on TSMC’s 3 nm process, delivering improved performance and efficiency for MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, and iMac, with hardware-accelerated ray tracing and AV1 decode.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
Snappy everyday performance with fast app launches and responsive multitasking.
Snappy application launching and smooth multitasking for office workloads.
Gaming
Capable of running esports titles and older games at 1080p medium settings.
Virtualization
Can handle light virtualization tasks, though limited by core count.
Efficiency
Strong battery life in MacBook Air and Pro implementations; 3 nm helps reduce active power relative to workload.
Exceptional power efficiency thanks to LP E-Cores and disaggregated tiles.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- 16-core Neural Engine accelerates on-device ML workloads
- Media engine includes AV1 decode for efficient video streaming
- 11 TOPS NPU for background AI tasks
- Supports OpenVINO
- Reduces CPU/GPU load during video calls
Content Creation
Gaming
- Ray tracing support enables better visuals in supported titles
- Dynamic Caching improves GPU utilization for more consistent frame times
- Single external display limit constrains multi-monitor gaming setups
- Arc Xe-LPG 64EU handles older titles well
- Supports hardware ray tracing
- Not suitable for AAA gaming at high settings
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- 3 nm process for improved efficiency
- Hardware-accelerated ray tracing and mesh shading
- Dynamic Caching optimizes GPU memory usage
- Strong single-core performance
- Excellent battery life in supported systems
Cons
- Single external display limit in most configurations
- Memory not user-upgradable
- Does not support Thunderbolt 4 on some models
- No Wi-Fi 7 support on current implementations
Pros
- Excellent power efficiency
- Integrated NPU for AI tasks
- Improved Arc Xe-LPG graphics
- LP E-Cores extend standby time
- Supports fast LPDDR5X memory
Cons
- Limited PCIe lanes (12)
- No PCIe Gen 5 support on this model
- Multiplier is locked
- Soldered to motherboard (BGA)
Competitors & Alternatives
Apple M3
- Intel Core Ultra 7 155HRival
Thin-and-Light
- AMD Ryzen 7 8840URival
Thin-and-Light
- Compare head-to-headApple M2Rival
Previous-gen SoC
- Qualcomm Snapdragon X EliteRival
Windows on ARM SoC
- Alt
More CPU/GPU cores and increased memory bandwidth for heavier workloads.
Compare head-to-head - Alt
Maximum core counts and memory support for professional creator workflows.
Compare head-to-head
Intel Core Ultra 5 135U
- AMD Ryzen 5 8640URival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 7 7840URival
Mobile
- Intel Core Ultra 7 155URival
Mobile
- Qualcomm Snapdragon X EliteRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headApple M3Rival
Mobile
Slightly lower clocks for better battery life.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 5 7640UAlt
Strong competitor with RDNA 3 graphics.
- Intel Core i5-1340PAlt
Older architecture but higher base wattage.
- AMD Ryzen 7 8840UAlt
Better dedicated AI engine performance.
Our Verdict on Each
A balanced step forward that brings 3 nm efficiency, meaningful GPU features, and strong single-threaded performance to thin-and-light Macs.
Best for: Portable Mac for everyday productivity, light content creation, and student use
Read the full reviewA well-balanced thin-and-light processor offering excellent battery life, capable integrated graphics, and forward-looking NPU technology.
Best for: The Core Ultra 5 135U is an excellent choice for users prioritizing portability and battery life without sacrificing everyday responsiveness. If you are in the market for a thin-and-light laptop for productivity, web browsing, and media consumption, this processor offers a compelling balance. The inclusion of an NPU ensures future-proofing for upcoming Windows AI features. However, if your workflow involves heavy sustained multi-threaded rendering or high-end gaming, you should look for laptops equipped with higher-wattage H-series processors or dedicated GPUs. For the everyday professional and student, the 135U provides more than enough performance while ensuring all-day battery life.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Apple M3 or Intel Core Ultra 5 135U?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Intel Core Ultra 5 135U comes out ahead with a score of 8.5/10. That said, the best choice depends on your workload — check the spec and performance breakdown above for gaming, productivity and efficiency differences.
Which is faster for gaming, Apple M3 or Intel Core Ultra 5 135U?
For gaming, the Intel Core Ultra 5 135U leads with a gaming performance score of 75/100 among Apple M3 and Intel Core Ultra 5 135U.
Which uses less power?
The Intel Core Ultra 5 135U has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Intel Core Ultra 5 135U (15 W).
Do Apple M3 and Intel Core Ultra 5 135U use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Apple M3: Apple Silicon, Intel Core Ultra 5 135U: Intel BGA 2049), so each needs a compatible motherboard.
Which has more cores?
The Intel Core Ultra 5 135U has the most cores. Core counts: Apple M3 (8 cores), Intel Core Ultra 5 135U (12 cores).