CPU Comparison
Intel Core Ultra 5 125UL vs Intel Core Ultra 5 135HL
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core Ultra 5 125UL is a unique desktop processor derived from the Meteor Lake-PS architecture, designed primarily for small form factor (SFF) and embedded systems. Unlike typical desktop chips, it operates at a low 15W base TDP, with a configurable range from 12W to 57W, making it incredibly power-efficient. It features 12 cores and 14 threads, utilizing a hybrid layout of 2 Performance cores, 8 Efficient cores, and 2 Low-Power Efficient cores. This configuration is well-suited for 24/7 operation in digital signage, kiosks, and compact office PCs. The processor includes Arc Xe-LPG integrated graphics with 64 Execution Units, supporting multi-display outputs and hardware-accelerated media decode. Additionally, the integrated NPU delivering 11 TOPS allows for efficient edge AI processing, a rare feature in the desktop segment.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
Good for standard office applications and web tasks.
Higher base clock speeds improve snappiness in everyday applications.
Gaming
Not intended for modern gaming.
The 128EU Arc graphics provide a noticeable bump in light gaming frame rates compared to the 125HL.
Virtualization
Can run light VMs, but limited by core clock speeds.
Suitable for light virtualization, though still limited by 8 CPU PCIe lanes.
Efficiency
Outstanding efficiency for 24/7 low-power operation.
Maintains excellent power efficiency despite the higher clock speeds.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- NPU is highly beneficial for edge AI
- 11 TOPS is sufficient for vision models
- Low power AI inference
- 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
- Not built for gaming
- Graphics clocked lower than mobile H-series
- Fine for 2D indie titles
- 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
- Extremely low power consumption
- Socketed design allows for upgrades
- Integrated NPU for edge AI
- 64EU Arc graphics for multi-display
- Excellent for silent PC builds
Cons
- Low base clock speeds
- Not suitable for gaming
- Locked multiplier
- Overkill for basic office tasks if budget is tight
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
Intel Core Ultra 5 125UL
- AMD Ryzen 5 8600GERival
Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 5 8640URival
Mobile/Embedded
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core Ultra 5 135ULRival
Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 5 PRO 7640URival
Mobile/Embedded
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-14400TRival
Desktop
- Intel N100Alt
Much cheaper for basic tasks, though no NPU.
- AMD Ryzen 5 5600GEAlt
Older but proven budget mini-PC option.
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 efficient socketed desktop CPU perfect for SFF builds and edge devices, though not for gaming or heavy workloads.
Best for: The Core Ultra 5 125UL is not intended for standard consumer desktop builds, and its value proposition is highly specific. If you are building a home server, a plex media server, a fanless mini-PC, or an edge computing node, the 125UL is an outstanding choice. Its 12W minimum TDP allows for completely silent operation, while the 64EU iGPU excels at hardware transcoding. The NPU is a significant bonus for localized AI inference in IoT applications. However, for a standard gaming or productivity desktop, this processor is a poor choice due to its low base clock and constrained power limits compared to standard desktop CPUs. Ensure your use case demands low power and edge AI before investing in the 125UL on the LGA 1851 platform.
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 faster for gaming, Intel Core Ultra 5 125UL or Intel Core Ultra 5 135HL?
For gaming, the Intel Core Ultra 5 135HL leads with a gaming performance score of 65/100 among Intel Core Ultra 5 125UL and Intel Core Ultra 5 135HL.
Which uses less power?
The Intel Core Ultra 5 125UL has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Intel Core Ultra 5 125UL (15 W), Intel Core Ultra 5 135HL (45 W).
Do Intel Core Ultra 5 125UL and Intel Core Ultra 5 135HL use the same socket?
Yes — all of these CPUs use the Intel Socket 1851 socket, so they share compatible motherboards.
Which has more cores?
The Intel Core Ultra 5 135HL has the most cores. Core counts: Intel Core Ultra 5 125UL (12 cores), Intel Core Ultra 5 135HL (14 cores).
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Intel Core Ultra 5 135HL posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Intel Core Ultra 5 135HL (8,800). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.