CPU Comparison
Intel Core Ultra 5 115U vs Intel Core Ultra 5 125U
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core Ultra 5 115U is a highly efficient mobile processor engineered for everyday computing in ultra-thin form factors. Built on the Meteor Lake architecture, it features 8 cores and 10 threads, arranged as 2 Performance cores, 4 Efficient cores, and 2 Low-Power Efficient cores. This specific core layout is tailored for users whose workloads consist primarily of web browsing, office applications, and media consumption. The processor operates at a base clock of 1.5 GHz and can boost up to 4.2 GHz, providing adequate burst performance for demanding tasks. Its integrated Arc Xe-LPG graphics, featuring 48 Execution Units, offer smooth multimedia playback and support for multiple high-resolution displays. The inclusion of a dedicated NPU with 11 TOPS ensures that AI workloads are handled efficiently, preserving battery life for everyday productivity.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
Snappy for office apps and web browsing.
Handles everyday office tasks and multitasking smoothly without overheating.
Gaming
Only suitable for very old or lightweight 2D games.
Only suitable for very light or older games. Not recommended for modern AAA gaming.
Virtualization
Not recommended due to low core count.
Can run basic VMs, but the 2 P-cores limit heavy virtualization performance.
Efficiency
Excellent efficiency for all-day battery life.
Excellent efficiency with a 15W TDP, ensuring long battery life for ultraportables.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- 11 TOPS NPU included
- Good for background blur and noise cancellation
- Not for heavy AI generation
- 11 TOPS NPU is suitable for background blur and noise cancellation
- Does not meet Copilot+ PC requirements
- Handles lightweight inference tasks
Content Creation
Gaming
- 48EU graphics is entry-level
- Fine for browser games
- Not suitable for modern 3D titles
- 64 EU graphics are adequate for 2D and indie games
- Can run older AAA titles at 720p low settings
- Not designed for gaming enthusiasts
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- Excellent power efficiency
- Integrated NPU for AI tasks
- Good burst performance for daily tasks
- Supports fast LPDDR5X memory
- Affordable entry to Core Ultra
Cons
- Low core count limits multitasking
- Only 48EU graphics
- No PCIe Gen 5 support
- Locked multiplier
Pros
- Excellent 15W power efficiency
- Good multitasking for everyday apps
- Quiet and cool operation
- Includes 2 LP E-cores for background tasks
- Hardware media acceleration
Cons
- Limited to 2 P-cores for heavy lifting
- Only 64 EU graphics
- 11 TOPS NPU is relatively weak
- No PCIe 5.0 support
Competitors & Alternatives
Intel Core Ultra 5 115U
- AMD Ryzen 5 8640URival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 5 7640URival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core Ultra 5 125URival
Mobile
- Qualcomm Snapdragon X PlusRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headApple M2Rival
Mobile
More E-Cores and better graphics for a small price bump.
Compare head-to-headOlder Raptor Lake architecture but similar performance.
Compare head-to-head- Intel Core i5-1334UAlt
Cheaper, older generation alternative.
- AMD Ryzen 3 7440UAlt
Competitive budget alternative.
Intel Core Ultra 5 125U
- AMD Ryzen 5 8640URival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 7 8840URival
Mobile
- Intel Core Ultra 7 155URival
Mobile
- Qualcomm Snapdragon X PlusRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headApple M2Rival
Mobile
- Core Ultra 5 125HAlt
A better alternative if you need more CPU and graphics performance.
An even more power-efficient option for ultra-thin laptops.
Compare head-to-head- Snapdragon X PlusAlt
An ARM-based alternative offering exceptional battery life.
Our Verdict on Each
A solid entry-level Meteor Lake chip that delivers great battery life and AI features for basic daily tasks.
Best for: The Core Ultra 5 115U is the ideal processor for students, office workers, and casual users who prioritize battery life and affordability. If your daily routine involves document editing, web conferencing, and streaming video, this CPU will handle these tasks effortlessly while providing excellent battery longevity. The integrated NPU adds value by preparing your device for future Windows AI features. However, this is not the processor for video editing, 3D rendering, or gaming; its reduced core count and 48EU graphics are not designed for heavy workloads. If you occasionally dabble in photo editing or light gaming, consider stepping up to the 135U. For purely administrative and educational tasks, the 115U offers outstanding value and efficiency.
Read the full reviewA solid, efficient processor for everyday ultrabooks, offering good multitasking capabilities and decent battery life, though its NPU is modest.
Best for: Everyday ultrabook for office work and student use
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Intel Core Ultra 5 115U or Intel Core Ultra 5 125U?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Intel Core Ultra 5 125U 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, Intel Core Ultra 5 115U or Intel Core Ultra 5 125U?
For gaming, the Intel Core Ultra 5 125U leads with a gaming performance score of 55/100 among Intel Core Ultra 5 115U and Intel Core Ultra 5 125U.
Do Intel Core Ultra 5 115U and Intel Core Ultra 5 125U use the same socket?
Yes — all of these CPUs use the Intel BGA 2049 socket, so they share compatible motherboards.
Which has more cores?
The Intel Core Ultra 5 125U has the most cores. Core counts: Intel Core Ultra 5 115U (8 cores), Intel Core Ultra 5 125U (12 cores).
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Intel Core Ultra 5 125U posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Intel Core Ultra 5 125U (0). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.