CPU Comparison
Intel Core 7 240H vs Core i5-13600H
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core 7 240H is a 10-core mobile processor featuring a hybrid architecture of 6 P-Cores and 4 E-Cores, designed for high-performance laptops targeting gamers and creators.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
10 cores and 16 threads handle multi-threaded workloads efficiently, though it trails behind higher core-count HX series chips.
Excellent multi-threaded performance for daily productivity and content creation.
Gaming
When paired with a dedicated GPU, the 5.2 GHz boost clock ensures minimal CPU bottlenecks in most modern titles.
Handles modern titles at 1080p high settings with ease when paired with an RTX 4060.
Virtualization
Adequate for running a few light virtual machines, but limited by 45W base power and 10 cores compared to desktop replacements.
12 threads provide enough overhead for local Docker containers and VMs.
Efficiency
The 10nm process and 115W PL2 limit mean it requires significant cooling, reducing battery life under load.
45W base TDP is manageable, but PL2 spikes require good cooling.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- Lacks dedicated NPU hardware found in Core Ultra chips.
- Relies on CPU instructions for AI workloads.
- Suitable for basic background blur or noise cancellation, not heavy local LLM inference.
- No dedicated NPU.
- CPU-based AI inference is possible but slower than discrete solutions.
Content Creation
Gaming
- High 5.2 GHz boost clock benefits CPU-limited games.
- Hybrid architecture requires Windows 11 Thread Director for optimal scheduling.
- Sufficient for high-refresh-rate 1080p gaming with a mid-range dGPU.
- Strong single-core speed benefits high-FPS gaming.
- Not a bottleneck for mid-range mobile GPUs.
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- High 5.2 GHz maximum boost clock
- Strong single-core performance for gaming
- Versatile memory support (DDR4 to LPDDR5)
- Capable Iris Xe 64EU iGPU
- PCIe 5.0 support for fast storage
Cons
- No integrated NPU for AI tasks
- 10nm process is less efficient than newer competitors
- 115W PL2 power draw requires substantial laptop cooling
- Locked multiplier restricts manual CPU overclocking
Pros
- Excellent single-threaded performance
- 12 cores provide great multitasking
- Supports fast DDR5 and LPDDR5 memory
- Aggressive turbo boost for quick tasks
Cons
- 45W TDP can get loud under load
- Only 8 PCIe 5.0 lanes from CPU
- Locked multiplier
- Integrated graphics are basic
Competitors & Alternatives
Intel Core 7 240H
- AMD Ryzen 7 8845HSRival
Mobile Premium
- AMD Ryzen 9 7940HSRival
Mobile Performance
- Compare head-to-headApple M3 ProRival
Mobile Creator
- AMD Ryzen 7 7840HSRival
Mobile Gaming
- Qualcomm Snapdragon X EliteRival
Mobile Efficiency
- Intel Core Ultra 7 155HAlt
Offers better efficiency and a dedicated NPU for AI tasks.
- Intel Core 7 240HXAlt
If available, offers more cores and higher power limits for heavier workloads.
- Alt
Better overall efficiency for non-gaming, ARM-based workflows.
Compare head-to-head - Intel Core 5 220HAlt
A lower-cost option if extreme single-core speed is not strictly necessary.
Core i5-13600H
- AMD Ryzen 7 7735HSRival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 5 7640HSRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-13700HRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headApple M2 ProRival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 7 7840HSRival
Mobile
Slightly lower clocks, similar performance for less cost.
Compare head-to-head- Ryzen 7 7735HSAlt
Better power efficiency and integrated graphics.
Better battery life for non-gaming workloads.
Compare head-to-headUnlocked multiplier and more PCIe lanes for desktop replacements.
Compare head-to-head- Core i7-1260PAlt
Older gen but lower TDP for thin-and-lights.
Our Verdict on Each
A capable 10-core mobile chip that balances multi-threaded productivity with high single-core speeds for gaming, though it faces fierce competition from AMD's Ryzen 8000 series and Intel's own Core Ultra lineup.
Best for: The Intel Core 7 240H is highly recommended for users purchasing a premium thin-and-light or mid-range gaming laptop in 2025 who prioritize raw CPU frequency and legacy software compatibility. Its 5.2 GHz boost clock makes it particularly well-suited for high-refresh-rate 1080p gaming when paired with a dedicated mid-range GPU like an RTX 4060. It is also an excellent choice for students and content creators who need snappy performance in Adobe Creative Cloud applications. However, you should avoid this chip if your workflow relies heavily on local AI generation, as it lacks a dedicated NPU. Additionally, if maximum battery life is your primary concern, the newer Core Ultra chips built on the Intel 4 process will serve you much better.
Read the full reviewA highly capable mobile CPU that offers excellent price-to-performance for mid-range gaming laptops, though its 45W TDP requires robust cooling.
Best for: Mid-range gaming laptops priced under $1200.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Intel Core 7 240H or Core i5-13600H?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Core i5-13600H 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.
Do Intel Core 7 240H and Core i5-13600H use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Intel Core 7 240H: BGA 1744, Core i5-13600H: Intel BGA 1744), so each needs a compatible motherboard.
Which has more cores?
The Core i5-13600H has the most cores. Core counts: Intel Core 7 240H (10 cores), Core i5-13600H (12 cores).
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Core i5-13600H posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Core i5-13600H (16,500). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.