CPU Comparison
Intel Core Ultra 5 115U vs Intel Core Ultra 5 226V
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.
Adequate for office work, web browsing, and light productivity. The 16GB memory cap is the main limitation for heavier multitasking or content creation.
Gaming
Only suitable for very old or lightweight 2D games.
The Arc 130V iGPU handles casual and older games at 720p/1080p low, but this is not a gaming chip. The 4.5 GHz boost and 16GB memory limit further constrain gaming potential.
Virtualization
Not recommended due to low core count.
Efficiency
Excellent efficiency for all-day battery life.
Exceptional performance-per-watt. The 17W TDP with on-package memory eliminates a major power consumer, enabling 15+ hours of real-world battery life in well-designed laptops.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- 11 TOPS NPU included
- Good for background blur and noise cancellation
- Not for heavy AI generation
- 40 TOPS NPU 4 meets Microsoft's Copilot+ PC threshold
- Can run small language models locally
- Windows Studio Effects run entirely on NPU
- DLBoost 4.0 adds CPU-based AI acceleration
Content Creation
Gaming
- 48EU graphics is entry-level
- Fine for browser games
- Not suitable for modern 3D titles
- Arc 130V can handle eSports titles at playable frame rates
- 16GB memory limit restricts modern AAA game performance
- 4.5 GHz boost is lower than the 236V/238V's 4.7 GHz
- Not designed or marketed as a gaming processor
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
- Exceptional battery life from 17W TDP
- 40 TOPS NPU 4 for AI features
- On-package memory reduces latency and power
- Arc 130V iGPU is a significant leap over Iris Xe
- Thin-and-light form factor enablement
Cons
- 16GB memory is soldered and not upgradeable
- 4.5 GHz boost is the lowest in the V-series
- Limited PCIe lanes restrict expandability
- Not suitable for heavy workloads
- BGA package means the entire laptop must be replaced to upgrade
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 226V
- Compare head-to-headApple M3Rival
Ultra-Portable Laptop
- AMD Ryzen AI 7 360Rival
Copilot+ PC
- Qualcomm Snapdragon X PlusRival
ARM Laptop
- AMD Ryzen 7 8840URival
Thin & Light
- Compare head-to-headApple M2Rival
Budget Ultra-Portable
Same 16GB memory but with a higher 4.7 GHz boost for better performance in the same laptop category.
Compare head-to-headSame 4.5 GHz boost but with 32GB memory if you need more RAM for multitasking.
Compare head-to-head- Apple M3 MacBook AirAlt
Superior battery life and integrated software ecosystem, though at a higher price point.
More cores (14 vs 8) and upgradeable memory if you can accept a thicker, heavier laptop.
Compare head-to-head
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 reviewAn excellent choice for ultra-thin laptops where battery life is the top priority. The 16GB memory limit and 4.5 GHz boost cap its potential for heavier workloads, but for everyday mobility, it delivers exceptional efficiency.
Best for: Buying an ultra-thin, lightweight laptop where battery life and portability are the primary concerns, and your workload is limited to web, office, and light creative tasks.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Intel Core Ultra 5 115U or Intel Core Ultra 5 226V?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Intel Core Ultra 5 115U comes out ahead with a score of 7.8/10. 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 226V?
For gaming, the Intel Core Ultra 5 115U leads with a gaming performance score of 50/100 among Intel Core Ultra 5 115U and Intel Core Ultra 5 226V.
Which uses less power?
The Intel Core Ultra 5 115U has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Intel Core Ultra 5 115U (15 W), Intel Core Ultra 5 226V (17 W).
Do Intel Core Ultra 5 115U and Intel Core Ultra 5 226V use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Intel Core Ultra 5 115U: Intel BGA 2049, Intel Core Ultra 5 226V: BGA 2833), so each needs a compatible motherboard.
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Intel Core Ultra 5 226V posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Intel Core Ultra 5 226V (3,700). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.