CPU Comparison
Apple M5 vs Intel Core Ultra 5 335
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Apple M5 is an ARM-based system-on-chip built on third-generation 3nm technology, featuring up to a 10-core CPU with four performance (super) cores and six efficiency cores, an up-to-10-core GPU with per-core Neural Accelerators, a 16-core Neural Engine, and up to 32GB of LPDDR5X unified memory.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
Gaming
Virtualization
Efficiency
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- 16-core Neural Engine improves inference latency for on-device models
- GPU Neural Accelerators target AI graphics workloads like image generation
- Efficient AI execution suitable to Apple Intelligence and local LLMs within memory constraints
- NPU 5 with up to 50 TOPS INT8 is tailored for on‑device AI features like Windows Studio Effects and local LLM assistants.
- CPU + GPU + NPU together enable modest AI workloads, but not a replacement for high‑end discrete AI accelerators.
Content Creation
Gaming
- Hardware-accelerated ray tracing supported
- Best suited for casual to mid-tier gaming at reasonable settings
- Performance constrained by integrated GPU and thermal limits in fanless chassis
- Xe3 iGPU significantly better than older UHD Graphics but not intended for serious gaming.
- Esports titles (Valorant, CS2, LoL) generally playable at 1080p medium/high.
- AAA titles typically require low settings and often upscaling for playable frame rates.
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- Strong power efficiency thanks to 3nm process
- Hybrid CPU design balances snappy responsiveness and battery life
- GPU with per-core Neural Accelerators improves AI graphics performance
- 16-core Neural Engine speeds up on-device AI and Apple Intelligence
- Unified memory up to 32GB simplifies configuration for most users
- Hardware-accelerated ray tracing adds realism to supported games and apps
- Fanless-capable in MacBook Air and iPad Pro designs
Cons
- Unified memory ceiling at 32GB limits very large pro workloads
- No user-overclocking or socket-upgrade path
- Apple does not disclose clock speeds or cache sizes publicly
- Multi-core gains over M4 are incremental rather than transformative
- External GPU support is limited by Thunderbolt 4 bandwidth
Pros
- Intel 18A brings improved performance per watt for mobile designs.
- 8 cores (4P + 4LP) handle everyday multitasking and light parallel workloads well.
- NPU 5 enables modern on‑device AI features without heavily loading CPU or GPU.
- Xe3 iGPU with ray tracing and modern media engines is a big step over older UHD Graphics.
- 25–55 W configurable TDP fits a wide range of laptop form factors.
Cons
- Only 8 threads; no SMT limits heavy multi‑threaded throughput versus 12–16 thread rivals.
- Gaming capability is still modest; not a replacement for a discrete GPU.
- Soldered BGA package means no CPU upgrades; you’re stuck with what the laptop ships with.
- Maximum 128 GB memory and 12 PCIe lanes may feel restrictive for high‑end workloads.
- New platform; early firmware and driver quirks are possible in first‑generation designs.
Competitors & Alternatives
Apple M5
- Compare head-to-headApple M4Rival
Premium Tablet/Laptop SoC
- Qualcomm Snapdragon X EliteRival
Windows Laptop SoC
- Intel Core Ultra 7 155HRival
Thin-and-Light Laptop CPU
- AMD Ryzen AI 9 365Rival
Thin-and-Light Laptop CPU
- MediaTek Dimensity 9400Rival
Premium Tablet SoC
- Alt
More CPU/GPU cores, higher memory bandwidth and capacity for demanding pro workloads.
Compare head-to-head - Alt
Maximized core counts and memory bandwidth for heavy 3D, video, and AI workloads.
Compare head-to-head
Our Verdict on Each
The base M5 balances meaningful gains in AI graphics and efficiency with modest bumps in CPU throughput, making it a compelling upgrade for M1/M2 users especially on fanless designs like MacBook Air and iPad Pro.
Best for: Upgrading from M1/M2 MacBook Air or earlier iPad Pro, and prioritizing battery life and on-device AI in a portable device.
Read the full reviewA capable mid-range mobile SoC that balances performance, power, and AI features for mainstream laptops, though gamers and heavy creators will still want a dGPU.
Best for: Business and productivity‑focused thin‑and‑light laptops where AI features, modern connectivity, and integrated graphics matter more than heavy gaming or multi‑GPU workloads.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Apple M5 or Intel Core Ultra 5 335?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Apple M5 comes out ahead with a score of 8.7/10. 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 M5 or Intel Core Ultra 5 335?
For gaming, the Intel Core Ultra 5 335 leads with a gaming performance score of 72/100 among Apple M5 and Intel Core Ultra 5 335.
Which uses less power?
The Intel Core Ultra 5 335 has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Intel Core Ultra 5 335 (25 W).
Do Apple M5 and Intel Core Ultra 5 335 use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Apple M5: BGA (SoC), Intel Core Ultra 5 335: FCBGA2540), so each needs a compatible motherboard.
Which has more cores?
The Apple M5 has the most cores. Core counts: Apple M5 (10 cores), Intel Core Ultra 5 335 (8 cores).