CPU Comparison
Intel Core 7 250H vs Core i5-13500HX
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core 7 250H is a high-performance mobile processor built on the Raptor Lake-H architecture, featuring a hybrid 14-core design (6P+8E) with 20 threads. It offers high boost clocks up to 5.4 GHz and integrated Iris Xe Graphics (96EU), targeting gaming and creator laptops requiring strong multi-threaded performance within a 45W base power envelope .
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
The 14-core/20-thread design excels in multi-threaded creator workloads like video rendering and compiling, offering performance comparable to desktop-class processors from a few generations ago.
14 cores and 24MB cache make it a workstation powerhouse.
Gaming
Provides a very good gaming experience, especially when paired with a dedicated GPU. Its high P-Core boost clock ensures strong frame rates in CPU-bound scenarios, though it may be slightly outpaced by newer architectures in the most demanding titles.
Can handle high-end GPUs like the RTX 4070 mobile without bottlenecking.
Virtualization
20 threads and 20 PCIe lanes allow for complex local setups.
Efficiency
While the configurable base TDP allows for some power savings, the 10nm process and high core count mean it is not the most efficient option available when under full load.
Very high power draw; designed for plugged-in use.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- Lacks dedicated AI acceleration hardware (like NPU) found in newer Core Ultra or AMD Ryzen AI processors.
- Suitable for running small, CPU-based machine learning inference models.
- For serious AI development or training, a dedicated GPU or a newer processor with an NPU is recommended.
- No NPU; relies on discrete GPU for AI acceleration.
Content Creation
Gaming
- High 5.4 GHz boost clock is beneficial for CPU-limited gaming scenarios.
- 14 cores provide ample headroom for background tasks while gaming.
- Performance is very similar to the previous generation Core i7-13800H.
- May become a bottleneck in very CPU-heavy simulations at 1080p High settings.
- Unlocked for tuning.
- High boost clocks and large cache benefit high-FPS gaming.
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- Excellent multi-core performance for mobile, thanks to its 14-core hybrid design.
- High single-core boost clock (5.4 GHz) benefits gaming and snappy responsiveness.
- Support for a wide range of memory types offers flexibility to laptop manufacturers.
- Configurable base power (35-45W) allows for a spectrum of laptop designs.
- Proven, stable architecture with mature platform and driver support.
Cons
- Based on the older Raptor Lake architecture, not a new design.
- No integrated NPU for AI workloads, a feature becoming standard in competitors.
- Multi-core performance is comparable to the previous generation, offering no significant generational leap.
- Can be confusing to consumers due to Intel's complex and overlapping 'Core' and 'Core Ultra' branding.
Pros
- Massive 14-core, 20-thread count
- Unlocked multiplier for overclocking
- 20 PCIe 5.0 lanes
- Large 24MB L3 cache
Cons
- Very high power consumption (157W PL2)
- Weak integrated graphics (UHD 710)
- Requires thick, heavy laptop chassis for cooling
- Lower boost clock than 13600HX
Competitors & Alternatives
Intel Core 7 250H
- AMD Ryzen 7 7745HXRival
High-Performance Mobile Gaming
- AMD Ryzen 9 7945HXRival
Enthusiast Mobile Workstation
- Intel Core Ultra 7 155HRival
Thin & Light Creator
- AMD Ryzen 7 8840HSRival
Premium Thin & Light with AI
A higher-power (55W+) option from the same generation with more E-Cores, for maximum laptop performance.
Compare head-to-head- Intel Core 5 220HAlt
A more budget-friendly option from the same 'Series 2' family with 12 cores, if extreme performance is not needed.
- AMD Ryzen 5 8640UAlt
A highly efficient alternative for everyday tasks and light content creation in a thin-and-light form factor.
Core i5-13500HX
- AMD Ryzen 7 7840HXRival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 9 7940HSRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-13700HXRival
Mobile
- Intel Core i5-13600HXRival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 7 7735HSRival
Mobile
Slightly higher clocks and better iGPU for a small premium.
Compare head-to-headFewer cores but cheaper if you don't need 14 cores.
Compare head-to-head- Ryzen 7 7840HXAlt
AMD equivalent with strong multi-core performance.
Lower TDP if you don't need overclocking or 14 cores.
Compare head-to-head- Ryzen 9 7940HSAlt
Better efficiency for thin-and-lights with similar performance.
Our Verdict on Each
The Core 7 250H is a capable, familiar refresh of the Raptor Lake architecture, offering excellent multi-core performance and high clock speeds for mobile workstations and gaming laptops. However, it represents a rebranding of the previous generation's successful formula rather than a new architectural leap, making it a solid but incremental choice in a market increasingly moving towards newer designs.
Best for: Purchasing a mid-range to high-end gaming or creator laptop in early-to-mid 2025 at a significant discount, as it offers proven performance.
Read the full reviewA highly capable 14-core mobile CPU offering excellent value and overclocking potential, though the basic iGPU is a drawback.
Best for: Mid-to-high-end gaming laptops with RTX 4060 or 4070.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Intel Core 7 250H or Core i5-13500HX?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Core i5-13500HX 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, Intel Core 7 250H or Core i5-13500HX?
For gaming, the Core i5-13500HX leads with a gaming performance score of 90/100 among Intel Core 7 250H and Core i5-13500HX.
Which uses less power?
The Intel Core 7 250H has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Intel Core 7 250H (45 W), Core i5-13500HX (55 W).
Do Intel Core 7 250H and Core i5-13500HX use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Intel Core 7 250H: BGA-1744, Core i5-13500HX: Intel BGA 1964), so each needs a compatible motherboard.
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Core i5-13500HX posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Intel Core 7 250H (13,928), Core i5-13500HX (18,200). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.