CPU Comparison
Intel Core Ultra 5 236V vs Core Ultra 7 268V
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core Ultra 5 236V represents a significant shift in Intel's mobile processor strategy, introducing the Lunar Lake architecture. Launched in September 2024, this mobile chip integrates 4 performance cores and 4 efficiency cores, operating at a base frequency of 2.1 GHz with a maximum turbo boost of 4.7 GHz. What sets this processor apart is its use of TSMC's 3nm manufacturing process for the compute tile, delivering exceptional power efficiency. It features on-package LPDDR5x memory running at 8533 MT/s, available in a 16GB configuration, which reduces latency and saves physical motherboard space. Additionally, the integrated Arc 130V graphics and a dedicated NPU capable of 40 TOPS make it highly competent for modern AI workloads and casual gaming. With a modest 17W base TDP and a maximum power draw of 37W, it is engineered specifically for thin-and-light laptops where battery life and sustained performance are equally crucial. This marks a pivotal moment for Intel's competitive standing in the premium ultraportable segment.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
Extremely responsive for everyday office tasks, multitasking, and web browsing.
32GB of RAM ensures smooth performance even with dozens of tabs and apps open.
Gaming
Capable of running esports and older titles at 1080p, but not suited for demanding AAA games.
Similar to other Arc 140V chips, great for light gaming.
Virtualization
Can handle light virtualization, but the limited 16GB RAM restricts running multiple heavy VMs.
32GB RAM allows for more comfortable VM hosting than the 266V.
Efficiency
Industry-leading efficiency thanks to the 3nm process and on-package memory design.
Maintains class-leading efficiency despite higher memory capacity.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- 40 TOPS NPU enables local AI processing
- Meets Copilot+ PC standards
- Efficiently handles background AI blur and noise cancellation
- 48 TOPS NPU
- Total 118 TOPS platform performance
- Great for running local LLMs thanks to 32GB RAM
Content Creation
Gaming
- Arc 130V graphics offer solid 1080p performance in older titles
- Supports hardware ray tracing
- Not intended for high-refresh-rate AAA 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
- Industry-leading power efficiency
- On-package memory reduces latency
- 40 TOPS NPU for Copilot+ AI features
- Strong integrated Arc 130V graphics
- Silent operation in fanless designs
Cons
- Memory is capped at 16GB and cannot be upgraded
- No Hyper-Threading limits multi-threaded scaling
- Only 4 PCIe 5.0 lanes available
- Locked multiplier prevents overclocking
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 236V
- 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 228VAlt
Offers 32GB of memory for users needing more RAM capacity.
Better performance and more graphics execution units for slightly higher budgets.
Compare head-to-head- Apple MacBook Air M2Alt
A strong alternative for users within the Apple ecosystem.
- Snapdragon X PlusAlt
A highly efficient ARM-based alternative for Windows on ARM.
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
A highly efficient processor that brings excellent battery life and integrated AI capabilities to premium ultraportables, though the fixed 16GB RAM might be a limitation for some power users.
Best for: Premium thin-and-light laptop for all-day battery life
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 236V 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 236V or Core Ultra 7 268V?
For gaming, the Intel Core Ultra 5 236V leads with a gaming performance score of 75/100 among Intel Core Ultra 5 236V and Core Ultra 7 268V.
Do Intel Core Ultra 5 236V 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.