CPU Comparison
Core i7-10700 vs Intel Core Ultra 5 135HL
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i7-10700 is a mainstream desktop processor from the 10th Gen Comet Lake family, launched in April 2020. It features 8 cores and 16 threads, a significant upgrade over previous i7 desktop models, making it highly capable for both gaming and productivity. Built on Intel's 14nm process, it operates at a 2.9 GHz base clock and boosts up to 4.8 GHz. Unlike the 'F' variant, it includes Intel UHD Graphics 630, allowing basic display output without a dedicated GPU. The 65W TDP rating ensures it runs cool and efficient under normal loads, though it can draw significantly more power during turbo boost. It utilizes the LGA 1200 socket and supports dual-channel DDR4 memory up to 2933 MT/s. While superseded by newer architectures, it remains a popular choice for budget-oriented builders upgrading older LGA 1201 systems or building entry-level workstations.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
16 threads handle heavy multitasking and office applications flawlessly.
Higher base clock speeds improve snappiness in everyday applications.
Gaming
Excellent gaming performance when paired with a dedicated GPU.
The 128EU Arc graphics provide a noticeable bump in light gaming frame rates compared to the 125HL.
Virtualization
8 cores provide ample resources for running multiple VMs.
Suitable for light virtualization, though still limited by 8 CPU PCIe lanes.
Efficiency
14nm process is less efficient than modern competitors under heavy load.
Maintains excellent power efficiency despite the higher clock speeds.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- No AI acceleration hardware
- Relies on discrete GPU for AI
- Standard CPU vector processing only
- 11 TOPS NPU for background AI tasks
- Improved graphics rendering for AI-assisted tools
- Supports DLBoost 3.0 and AI Boost NPU 3
Content Creation
Gaming
- Strong single-core speeds
- iGPU available for troubleshooting
- PCIe 3.0 only
- 128EU Arc Xe-LPG handles light gaming better than 112EU
- Still not a replacement for a discrete GPU in AAA titles
- CPU PCIe lanes limit high-end dGPU configurations
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- 8 cores and 16 threads
- Includes UHD 630 integrated graphics
- 65W base TDP
- Excellent value in the used market
- Wide motherboard compatibility
Cons
- Locked multiplier
- 14nm process runs hot under boost
- PCIe 3.0 only
- UHD 630 is very weak for gaming
Pros
- Higher clock speeds than 125HL
- 128EU Arc Xe-LPG integrated graphics
- Integrated NPU for AI workloads
- Excellent power efficiency
- Supports modern DDR5-5600 memory
Cons
- Locked multiplier
- Only 8 CPU PCIe 4.0 lanes
- Not ideal for heavy gaming without a dGPU
- Slightly higher cost than 125HL
Competitors & Alternatives
Core i7-10700
- AMD Ryzen 7 3700XRival
Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 5 5600XRival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-10400Rival
Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 7 2700XRival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-9700Rival
Desktop
- Intel Core i7-10700FAlt
Cheaper if you already own a dedicated GPU.
- Intel Core i5-12400Alt
Newer architecture with better IPC and efficiency.
11th Gen with PCIe 4.0 and AVX-512.
Compare head-to-head
Intel Core Ultra 5 135HL
- AMD Ryzen 5 8600GRival
Desktop APU
- AMD Ryzen 5 8500GRival
Desktop APU
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-13400Rival
Desktop CPU
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-13500Rival
Desktop CPU
- AMD Ryzen 5 7600Rival
Desktop CPU
A slightly cheaper alternative with marginally lower clocks and fewer graphics EUs.
Compare head-to-headBetter raw CPU performance if a discrete GPU is present.
Compare head-to-head- Intel Core Ultra 7 155HLAlt
More cores and higher performance for demanding workloads.
Our Verdict on Each
A highly reliable 8-core desktop CPU with integrated graphics, offering great value for general computing and mid-range gaming.
Best for: Building a budget office PC or upgrading an older LGA 1200 system.
Read the full reviewA solid step up from the 125HL, offering better clock speeds and integrated graphics for users needing a bit more graphical headroom without a discrete GPU.
Best for: Building an efficient desktop with strong integrated graphics for office and media use.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Core i7-10700 or Intel Core Ultra 5 135HL?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Core i7-10700 comes out ahead with a score of 8.2/10. 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, Core i7-10700 or Intel Core Ultra 5 135HL?
For gaming, the Core i7-10700 leads with a gaming performance score of 90/100 among Core i7-10700 and Intel Core Ultra 5 135HL.
Which uses less power?
The Intel Core Ultra 5 135HL has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Core i7-10700 (65 W), Intel Core Ultra 5 135HL (45 W).
Do Core i7-10700 and Intel Core Ultra 5 135HL use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Core i7-10700: LGA 1200, Intel Core Ultra 5 135HL: Intel Socket 1851), so each needs a compatible motherboard.
Which has more cores?
The Intel Core Ultra 5 135HL has the most cores. Core counts: Core i7-10700 (8 cores), Intel Core Ultra 5 135HL (14 cores).
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Core i7-10700 posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Core i7-10700 (14,500), Intel Core Ultra 5 135HL (8,800). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.