CPU Comparison
Intel Core i5-5287U vs Intel Core i5-5350U
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i5-5287U is the highest-clocked dual-core Broadwell-U i5 processor with Iris 6100 graphics, running at 2.9 GHz base and 3.3 GHz turbo in a 28W envelope for premium ultrabooks requiring maximum dual-core performance.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
The 2.9 GHz base clock provides the best sustained single-threaded performance in the Broadwell-U i5 range, though dual-core limits multi-tasking capability.
Handles basic document editing and web apps smoothly, but struggles with heavy multitasking.
Gaming
The highest-clocked Iris 6100 in the Broadwell-U lineup provides marginally better gaming than the i5-5257U, but remains limited by dual-core and shared memory architecture.
Only capable of running very old or extremely lightweight 2D games.
Virtualization
Still limited by dual-core design despite the higher clocks.
Not recommended due to low core count and limited memory bandwidth.
Efficiency
The 28W TDP is a significant power draw for a dual-core processor, resulting in reduced battery life compared to 15W alternatives.
Still highly efficient for basic tasks, offering excellent battery life in older laptops.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- No AI acceleration hardware
- Not designed for AI workloads
- Completely unsuitable for modern AI tasks
- No dedicated AI hardware
- Far too slow for local inference
Content Creation
Gaming
- Iris 6100 at 1100 MHz is the fastest Broadwell-U i5 GPU configuration
- Older esports titles playable at 1080p medium settings
- eDRAM provides a noticeable boost over non-eDRAM variants
- Modern AAA games remain unplayable
- Integrated HD 6000 lacks power for modern 3D titles
- Suitable for retro emulation and 2D indie games
- Shares system RAM, limiting frame rates
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- Highest CPU clocks in the Broadwell-U i5 lineup
- Iris 6100 with eDRAM for best-in-class integrated GPU
- 3.3 GHz turbo for strong single-threaded performance
- Good build-to-order upgrade for 2015 MacBook Pro
- 128MB eDRAM benefits CPU and GPU alike
Cons
- Only 2 physical cores fundamentally limit performance
- 28W TDP requires active cooling and reduces battery life
- DDR3 memory is obsolete
- Same $315 price as lower-clocked i5-5257U offered questionable value
- Not compatible with Windows 11
- End-of-life with no support
Pros
- Excellent power efficiency for its era
- Good for basic daily computing
- Integrated HD 6000 handles 4K video well
- Low heat output
Cons
- Only 2 cores and 4 threads
- Soldered to motherboard (BGA)
- Uses obsolete DDR3 memory
- Weak integrated graphics for 3D work
Competitors & Alternatives
Intel Core i5-5287U
- Intel Core i7-5557URival
Mobile Premium Ultrabook
- AMD A10-8700PRival
Mobile Mainstream
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-5257URival
Mobile Premium Ultrabook
- AMD FX-7500Rival
Mobile Mainstream
- Intel Core i7-5650URival
Mobile Premium Ultrabook
- Intel Core i5-6287UAlt
Skylake successor with Iris 550, DDR4, and improved architecture.
- Alt
The M1 MacBook Air dramatically outperforms this chip in every metric while being fanless.
Compare head-to-head Four cores with Turbo Boost up to 3.9 GHz in a 15W envelope.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 5 5600UAlt
Six cores, twelve threads with Vega 7 graphics in a modern, efficient design.
12th-gen hybrid architecture with 12 cores in a 28W envelope offering dramatically more performance.
Compare head-to-head
Intel Core i5-5350U
- Intel Core i7-5650URival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-5200URival
Mobile
- AMD A10-8700PRival
Mobile
- Intel Core i7-5500URival
Mobile
- AMD A8-7410Rival
Mobile
- Intel Core i5-8250UAlt
Offers 4 cores and much better modern performance.
- AMD Ryzen 5 2500UAlt
Superior Vega graphics and quad-core design.
- Intel Core i3-7100UAlt
Newer architecture with similar basic performance.
- Intel Core i5-6200UAlt
The direct Skylake successor with DDR4 support.
- AMD Ryzen 3 3200UAlt
Better budget mobile performance.
Our Verdict on Each
The top Broadwell-U i5 offers the best single-threaded and GPU performance in its class, but dual-core limits and 28W power draw mean even budget modern chips outperform it comprehensively.
Best for: Purchasing a used MacBook Pro 2015 with this upgrade for under $200 for basic creative work
Read the full reviewA historically significant processor for battery life, but its dual-core architecture is too weak for modern demanding workloads.
Best for: Today, the Core i5-5350U is strictly an end-of-life component and should not be considered for new builds. If you are purchasing a used laptop featuring this processor, it should only be for basic tasks such as web browsing, word processing, and media consumption. It can be found at very low prices on the secondary market, making it a viable option for students or budget-conscious users needing a simple machine. However, its dual-core architecture struggles significantly with modern multitasking and heavy workloads. Ensure the device is priced appropriately for its age, as it lacks support for modern standards like DDR4 memory and PCIe 3.0. Avoid this chip if you intend to do any gaming, video editing, or intensive productivity work.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Intel Core i5-5287U or Intel Core i5-5350U?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Intel Core i5-5287U comes out ahead with a score of 6.7/10. 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 i5-5287U or Intel Core i5-5350U?
For gaming, the Intel Core i5-5287U leads with a gaming performance score of 24/100 among Intel Core i5-5287U and Intel Core i5-5350U.
Which uses less power?
The Intel Core i5-5350U has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Intel Core i5-5287U (28 W), Intel Core i5-5350U (15 W).
Do Intel Core i5-5287U and Intel Core i5-5350U use the same socket?
Yes — all of these CPUs use the Intel BGA 1168 socket, so they share compatible motherboards.
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Intel Core i5-5287U posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Intel Core i5-5287U (3,120), Intel Core i5-5350U (2,950). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.