Quick Verdict
The Core 5 223PQE successfully bridges the gap between consumer performance and enterprise stability, offering a robust 8-core configuration on the mature LGA1700 platform with support for both DDR4 and DDR5 memory.
Overview
Launch
2026
Status
ActiveGeneration
Core 5 (Bartlett Lake)
Market
Desktop
The Intel Core 5 223PQE is an 8-core, 16-thread desktop processor from the Bartlett Lake family, featuring high clock speeds, dual memory support, and enterprise-grade management features.
The Core 5 223PQE utilizes the refined Redwood Cove P-Core architecture to deliver high single and multi-threaded performance. With 8 cores and 16 threads, a base clock of 4.0 GHz, and a boost up to 5.
5 GHz, it handles demanding workloads with ease. Notably, it supports both DDR4 and DDR5 memory, making it an ideal candidate for upgrading existing systems without replacing the RAM. It includes Intel UHD Graphics 770 and offers 20 PCIe lanes (16 Gen 5, 4 Gen 4) for high-speed expansion.
Specifications
Performance
8 physical cores provide ample power for compiling code, rendering, and heavy multitasking scenarios.
Sufficient thread count and ECC support make it a reliable choice for light to moderate virtualization workloads.
The high boost clock ensures strong gaming performance, particularly in competitive titles where single-core speed is paramount.
While the 10nm process is mature, the 253W PL2 limit indicates high power consumption during turbo bursts.
- •High 5.5 GHz boost clock favors FPS in e-sports
- •PCIe Gen 5 support ready for future GPUs
- •8 cores enough for modern gaming titles
- •No dedicated NPU hardware on this specific model
- •Relies on CPU-based AVX-512 and VNNI for inference
- •Best paired with a dedicated GPU for AI workloads
Architecture
10 nm
Process Node
Bartlett Lake
Codename
8C / 16T
Core Config
24 MB
L3 Cache
125 W
TDP
Architecture Overview
The Core 5 223PQE is built on the Bartlett Lake architecture, which optimizes the established Redwood Cove P-Core design.
CPU Design
It features an all-P-Core configuration with 8 cores and 16 threads, eliminating E-Cores to ensure consistent latency for sensitive workloads.
Memory Subsystem
The memory controller is highly flexible, natively supporting both DDR5 up to 5600 MT/s and DDR4 up to 3200 MT/s via a dual-channel interface.
PCIe & I/O
The processor provides direct PCIe lanes: 16 lanes of Gen 5 for primary graphics or storage, and 4 lanes of Gen 4 for additional chipset connectivity.
Overclocking
The multiplier is locked on the 223PQE model, ensuring stability within defined power and thermal limits typical of business and OEM environments.
- Higher boost clock speeds up to 5.5 GHz
- Unified branding under 'Core 5'
- Improved memory sub-system timings
- Enhanced power management features
Key Highlights
- Hybrid DDR4 and DDR5 memory support
- High maximum boost clock of 5.5 GHz
- Integrated UHD Graphics 770
- Enterprise features (ECC, vPro)
- PCIe Gen 5 readiness
- Multiplier is not unlocked
- High PL2 power draw of 253W
- Limited to 8 cores compared to higher-tier mainstream chips
- LGA1700 platform is reaching end-of-life
History
The Intel Core 5 223PQE launches as part of the Bartlett Lake family, which serves as the definitive valedictory for the LGA1700 platform. Introduced in March 2026, this generation marks Intel's strategic shift to simplify branding (moving from 'i5' to 'Core 5') while maximizing the potential of the mature 10nm process node and the Redwood Cove microarchitecture. Unlike its predecessors which heavily marketed hybrid core designs to consumers, the 223PQE focuses on a streamlined 8-core configuration tailored for stability in commercial environments and high-frequency responsiveness for desktop users.
It extends the relevance of the widely adopted 600 and 700-series motherboards, offering a powerful drop-in upgrade option for enterprises and gamers who wish to delay a platform migration.
Improvements over Previous Generation
- Higher boost clock speeds up to 5.5 GHz
- Unified branding under 'Core 5'
- Improved memory sub-system timings
- Enhanced power management features
Alternatives & Competitors
Should You Buy It?
Recommended for the right buyer
Upgrading a business workstation or a DDR4-based gaming PC without changing the motherboard.
Avoid if…
- You require overclocking capabilities
- You are building a new system from scratch (DDR5 platforms offer better longevity)
- You need maximum core density for heavy 3D rendering
Use Cases
Interesting Facts
The 223PQE designation hints at its positioning within Intel's enterprise and commercial product stacks.
Despite being a 'Core 5', it retains the high core count previously associated with higher-tier i5 processors.
Bartlett Lake represents one of the final optimizations for the LGA1700 socket before platform retirement.
The processor supports 'Thread Director' technology even without E-cores to optimize OS scheduling.
It maintains compatibility with 600-series and 700-series chipsets, offering vast motherboard options.
People Also Ask
Does the Core 5 223PQE support DDR4 RAM?
Yes, it supports both DDR4-3200 and DDR5-5600 memory, offering flexibility for upgrades.
Is the Intel Core 5 223PQE unlocked for overclocking?
No, the multiplier on the 223PQE is locked, making it unsuitable for enthusiast overclocking.
What socket does the Core 5 223PQE use?
It uses the Intel LGA1700 socket, compatible with 600 and 700 series motherboards.
Does the Core 5 223PQE have integrated graphics?
Yes, it comes with Intel UHD Graphics 770.
What is the difference between Core 5 and Core i5?
'Core 5' is the new simplified branding scheme introduced with Bartlett Lake, replacing 'Core i5'.
Can I use ECC memory with the Core 5 223PQE?
Yes, this processor supports ECC memory, making it suitable for workstation use.
What is the max turbo frequency of the 223PQE?
The maximum turbo frequency is 5.5 GHz.
Is Bartlett Lake a new architecture?
Bartlett Lake is a refresh of the Raptor Lake architecture, optimized for the LGA1700 platform.
How many PCIe lanes does the 223PQE have?
It has a total of 20 lanes: 16 PCIe Gen 5 and 4 PCIe Gen 4.
What is the TDP of the Core 5 223PQE?
The base TDP is 125W, though it can boost up to 253W (PL2).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this processor good for gaming?
Yes, with a 5.5 GHz boost clock and 8 performance cores, it handles modern games very well, especially when paired with a discrete GPU.
Do I need a new motherboard for this CPU?
Not necessarily. It fits existing LGA1700 motherboards (600/700 series), though a BIOS update may be required.
Does it include a CPU cooler in the box?
This depends on the specific region and retailer SKU (boxed vs tray), but typically business-class CPUs may not include a premium cooler.
What is the cache size?
It features 24MB of shared L3 cache.
Does it support Windows 11?
Yes, it fully supports Windows 11 and meets all hardware compatibility requirements.
Is this CPU better than the i5-13600K?
The 13600K has more cores (14 total vs 8), so the 223PQE trades raw multi-thread throughput for higher clocks and efficiency in an 8-core configuration.
What is vPro?
vPro is a set of Intel hardware technologies for business computers, providing enhanced security and remote management capabilities.
What manufacturing process is used?
It is manufactured using Intel's 10 nm process (Intel 7).
Can I run two GPUs with this CPU?
You can run multiple GPUs using the PCIe lanes, but bandwidth for the second card will be limited to chipset speeds or the 4 Gen 4 lanes if the primary GPU uses the x16 slots.
When was this CPU released?
It was released on March 9th, 2026.