CPU Comparison
Intel Core Ultra 5 228V vs Core Ultra 7 268V
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core Ultra 5 228V is a prominent entry in the Lunar Lake lineup, designed to bring exceptional energy efficiency to mobile computing. Released in September 2024, it shares the same foundational architecture as the 236V but aims at users requiring more memory capacity. It integrates 4 performance and 4 efficiency cores, operating at a base clock of 2.1 GHz and boosting up to 4.5 GHz. Manufactured on TSMC’s 3nm process, the chip achieves a remarkable balance between power draw and computational throughput. Unlike its sibling, the 228V comes equipped with 32GB of on-package LPDDR5x memory running at 8533 MT/s, eliminating the need for separate RAM modules on the motherboard. The integrated Arc 130V graphics and a 40 TOPS NPU ensure robust performance for AI-accelerated tasks and moderate gaming. With a 17W base TDP, it is a prime candidate for premium ultraportables targeting professionals who need all-day battery life alongside substantial memory headroom.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
The 32GB of RAM ensures extremely smooth multitasking and productivity application performance.
32GB of RAM ensures smooth performance even with dozens of tabs and apps open.
Gaming
Handles casual and older games well at 1080p, but lacks the power for modern AAA titles at high settings.
Similar to other Arc 140V chips, great for light gaming.
Virtualization
The large memory pool allows for comfortable running of multiple virtual machines or containers.
32GB RAM allows for more comfortable VM hosting than the 266V.
Efficiency
Industry-leading power efficiency ensures long battery life even under moderate workloads.
Maintains class-leading efficiency despite higher memory capacity.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- 40 TOPS NPU enables efficient local AI processing
- Fully supports Microsoft Copilot+ features
- Handles AI-enhanced creative tools smoothly
- 48 TOPS NPU
- Total 118 TOPS platform performance
- Great for running local LLMs thanks to 32GB RAM
Content Creation
Gaming
- Arc 130V graphics provide smooth 1080p performance in esports titles
- Supports hardware ray tracing
- Not recommended for heavy 3D gaming
- Same Arc 140V graphics as the rest of the Ultra 7 V-series
- Suitable for 1080p low setting gaming
- Excellent for older or indie titles
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- Massive 32GB of fast on-package memory
- Exceptional power efficiency
- 40 TOPS NPU for AI workloads
- Strong integrated graphics
- Silent operation capability
Cons
- Memory is non-upgradable
- Lower boost clock than the 236V variant
- No Hyper-Threading limits peak multi-threading
- Limited PCIe lane expansion
Pros
- Integrated 32GB memory for heavy multitasking
- Class-leading power efficiency
- 48 TOPS NPU for Copilot+
- Arc 140V graphics offer great mobile performance
- 5.0 GHz boost clock
Cons
- Non-upgradeable memory
- Expensive laptops required
- Not meant for heavy 3D rendering
Competitors & Alternatives
Intel Core Ultra 5 228V
- AMD Ryzen AI 9 365Rival
Mobile
- Qualcomm Snapdragon X EliteRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headApple M3Rival
Mobile
- Intel Core Ultra 7 258VRival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 7 8840URival
Mobile
- Core Ultra 5 236VAlt
A cheaper alternative if 16GB of RAM is sufficient and slightly higher clocks are desired.
Offers higher core counts and faster clocks for premium performance.
Compare head-to-head- Apple MacBook Air M3Alt
An alternative for users invested in the macOS ecosystem.
- Snapdragon X PlusAlt
A power-efficient ARM alternative for Windows laptops.
Core Ultra 7 268V
- AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370Rival
Mobile
- Qualcomm Snapdragon X EliteRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headApple M3 ProRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core Ultra 9 288VRival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen AI 9 365Rival
Mobile
- Intel Core Ultra 7 266VAlt
If you only need 16GB of RAM and want to save money.
- Intel Core Ultra 7 258VAlt
A slightly slower but cheaper 32GB Lunar Lake option.
- Apple MacBook Pro M3Alt
For a premium alternative ecosystem.
- Snapdragon X EliteAlt
For a different ARM-based Windows experience.
Our Verdict on Each
An excellent choice for professionals needing a power-efficient laptop with a large pool of fast integrated memory, though its slightly lower clock speeds compared to the 236V are a fair trade-off.
Best for: Premium ultraportable for professionals needing large memory capacity
Read the full reviewThe 268V is the ultimate Lunar Lake chip for power users needing 32GB of RAM in a highly efficient, portable form factor.
Best for: Since the Core Ultra 7 268V is a mobile processor, it is only available inside pre-built laptops. If you are a professional, developer, or power user who needs a highly portable laptop that can handle heavy multitasking, virtualization, or large datasets, a 268V laptop is an outstanding investment. The 32 GB of integrated memory ensures you have plenty of RAM for the lifespan of the device. It is the ideal choice if you want the longest possible battery life without sacrificing performance. However, remember that the RAM and CPU are non-upgradable, so you should buy a laptop with this chip only if you are certain 32 GB is sufficient for your long-term needs.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Intel Core Ultra 5 228V or Core Ultra 7 268V?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Core Ultra 7 268V comes out ahead with a score of 9.2/10. 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 228V or Core Ultra 7 268V?
For gaming, the Intel Core Ultra 5 228V leads with a gaming performance score of 73/100 among Intel Core Ultra 5 228V and Core Ultra 7 268V.
Do Intel Core Ultra 5 228V and Core Ultra 7 268V use the same socket?
Yes — all of these CPUs use the Intel BGA 2833 socket, so they share compatible motherboards.