Intel Core i3 5010U Review | 78 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£230
  • Avg. price in US: ~$280
  • PassMark benchmark result: 2154
  • N. of physical cores: 2
  • CPU boost clock speed: N/A GHz

Intel Core i3 5010U review. Compare 78 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among processors and if it is worth buying.

3.0

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the processor's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best processors on the market.

Score components:

90.0%

3.0

Technical Score

10.0%

?

User score

Poor
3.0

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the processor's technical performance, covering key areas such as processing performance, core configuration, efficiency, platform support, integrated features, and thermal behavior.

When it matters: When you want to compare processors based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

60.0%

1.8

Performance

18.0%

4.3

Cache & Architecture

10.0%

2.8

Memory & PCIe

7.0%

7.4

Power & Thermal

4.0%

6.7

Platform

1.0%

7.0

Integrated Graphics

Poor
?

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the processor.

When it matters: When you want to know how a processor performs in real workloads and how reliable it is for gaming, productivity, and efficiency according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

?

User reviews

30.0%

?

Popularity

  • 1.1
    Gaming

    Score components:

    30.0%

    1.1

    PassMark single-core benchmark score

    25.0%

    1.7

    Geekbench 6 single-core benchmark score

    20.0%

    0.0

    CPU boost clock speed

    17.0%

    1.4

    L3 cache

    8.0%

    1.0

    N. of physical cores

  • 1.3
    Video editing

    Score components:

    45.0%

    1.3

    Geekbench 6 multi-core benchmark score

    20.0%

    1.0

    N. of physical cores

    20.0%

    1.6

    CPU threads

    15.0%

    1.4

    L3 cache

  • intel-core-i3-5010u
  • intel-core-i3-5010u
intel-core-i3-5010u
intel-core-i3-5010u

Best prices in UK

    N/A~ £230

Best rankings

?

Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Intel Core i3-5010U is a fifth-generation dual-core processor based on the 14nm Broadwell microarchitecture, featuring 4 threads via Hyper-Threading, a fixed 2.10 GHz base frequency without turbo boost, and a 3MB L3 cache. It integrates Intel HD Graphics 5500 with a dynamic frequency up to 900 MHz and supports up to 16GB of DDR3L/LPDDR3 memory at 1600 MHz. Main pros include high energy efficiency with a 15W TDP (configurable down to 10W) and reliable performance for daily office productivity, web browsing, and 1080p media playback. However, its primary cons are the lack of a turbo boost for demanding bursts of speed, dated dual-core performance that struggles with modern gaming or heavy multitasking, and no native support for HDMI 2.0 or newer DDR4 memory standards.

Technical Specifications of processor Intel Core i3 5010U

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the processor's technical performance, covering key areas such as processing performance, core configuration, efficiency, platform support, integrated features, and thermal behavior.

When it matters: When you want to compare processors based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

60.0%

?

Performance

18.0%

?

Cache & Architecture

10.0%

?

Memory & PCIe

7.0%

?

Power & Thermal

4.0%

?

Platform

1.0%

?

Integrated Graphics

3.0
Intel Core i3 5010U has a technical score of 3.01 points, which is lower than that of 99.3% of products in this category.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the processor.

When it matters: When you want to know how a processor performs in real workloads and how reliable it is for gaming, productivity, and efficiency according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

0.0

User reviews

30.0%

1.0

Popularity

?
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the processor.
When it matters: When you prefer to choose a processor reviewed and selected by many other buyers.
1.0
Intel Core i3 5010U has a popularity of 1 points, which is higher than 0% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the processor's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you are looking for a processor with a good balance between performance, efficiency, and price.

Score components:

60.0%

3.0

Overall score

40.0%

9.3

Price

4.9
Intel Core i3 5010U has a quality-to-price ratio of 4.9 points, which is lower than 97.8% of products in this category.
Brand name
What it is: The manufacturer or brand of the product.
When it matters: When you prefer a specific ecosystem, support network, or design philosophy.

Importance: MEDIUM

Intel
Processor type
What it is: The kind of system the processor is built for, such as desktop PCs, laptops, workstations, or servers.
When it matters: When you want a processor meant for the kind of machine you are actually building or buying, rather than a chip aimed at a different class of system.

Importance: HIGH

mobile
Intel Core i3 5010U belongs to the mobile processor class, which is more advanced than that of 7.3% of processors and equal to that of 48.6% of processors.
CPU socket
What it is: The physical socket the processor fits into on the motherboard.
When it matters: When you need to make sure the CPU can actually be installed on a specific motherboard.

Importance: HIGH

FCBGA1168
Intel Core i3 5010U uses the FCBGA1168 CPU socket, which is older than that of 94.7% of processors and equal to that of 1.7% of processors.
Chipset
What it is: The motherboard chipset families officially meant to work with the processor.
When it matters: When you are checking whether a CPU will work with the motherboard features and platform you plan to use.

Importance: HIGH

N/A
CPU architecture
What it is: The processor family or design generation behind the chip, such as Zen 4 or Raptor Lake.
When it matters: When you are comparing CPUs across generations and want a clearer sense of their design age, feature level, and expected performance class.

Importance: HIGH

x86-64
Intel Core i3 5010U uses the x86-64 architecture, which is more advanced than that of 1.7% of processors and equal to that of 98.3% of processors.
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N. of physical cores
What it is: The number of physical CPU cores on the processor.
When it matters: When you run workloads that benefit from more real cores.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: 8+

2
Intel Core i3 5010U has 2 CPU cores, which is fewer than 79.3% of processors and equal to 20.6% of processors.
CPU threads
What it is: The total number of processing threads the CPU can handle at once.
When it matters: When you run heavily threaded workloads or multitask a lot.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: 16+

4
Intel Core i3 5010U offers 4 CPU threads, which is fewer than 67.3% of processors and equal to 26.6% of processors.
Threads per core
What it is: The number of threads each physical core can handle at once.
When it matters: When you want to understand how much thread-level parallelism each core can provide in multitasking or heavily threaded work.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: 2

2
Intel Core i3 5010U offers 2 threads per core, which is more than 30.4% of processors and equal to 69.6% of processors.
CPU boost clock speed
What it is: The highest clock speed the processor can reach under boost conditions.
When it matters: When you care about peak speed in short bursts.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >4.7 GHz

N/A
CPU base clock speed
What it is: The processor's normal all-core starting frequency before boost behavior raises clocks temporarily.
When it matters: When you care about steadier performance in longer workloads rather than short burst speed alone.

Importance: MEDIUM

2 x 2.1 GHz
Intel Core i3 5010U has a base clock of 2x2.1 GHz which is equal to that of 100% of processors.
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Semiconductor size
What it is: The manufacturing process node used to produce the processor, usually expressed in nanometers.
When it matters: When efficiency, heat, and the relative modernity of the chip-making process matter to your comparison.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <10 nm

14 nm
Intel Core i3 5010U uses a 14 nm process node, which is older than that of 50.8% of processors and equal to that of 33.7% of processors.
Foundry
What it is: The semiconductor manufacturer that physically fabricates the processor chip.
When it matters: When process source, manufacturing generation, or foundry differences matter to your comparison more than day-to-day performance alone.

Importance: MEDIUM

Intel 14 nm
Intel Core i3 5010U is built on the Intel 14 nm foundry process, which is less advanced than that of 55.2% of processors and equal to that of 29.3% of processors.
L3 cache
What it is: The total amount of L3 cache available on the processor.
When it matters: When you want better performance in cache-sensitive workloads and games.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=16 MB

3 MB
Intel Core i3 5010U has an L3 cache of 3 MB which is smaller than that of 84.8% of processors and equal to that of 5.6% of processors.
L2 cache
What it is: The total amount of L2 cache available across the processor.
When it matters: When you want to compare CPU design efficiency and how much fast intermediate cache the cores have available.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=6 MB

0.5 MB
Intel Core i3 5010U has an L2 cache of 0.5 MB which is smaller than that of 84.8% of processors and equal to that of 15.2% of processors.
L1 cache
What it is: The total amount of L1 cache built into the processor, which sits closest to the cores.
When it matters: When you are comparing low-level CPU design details rather than the broader performance picture buyers usually notice first.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=512 KB

128 KB
Intel Core i3 5010U has an L1 cache of 128 KB which is smaller than that of 83.1% of processors and equal to that of 14.9% of processors.
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DDR memory version
What it is: The RAM generation the processor is designed to support, such as DDR4 or DDR5.
When it matters: When you need the CPU to match the kind of memory platform you want to buy or reuse.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: DDR5

DDR3
Intel Core i3 5010U supports DDR DDR3, which is older than that of 86.3% of processors and equal to that of 13.7% of processors.
Maximum memory speed
What it is: The highest official memory speed supported by the processor.
When it matters: When you choose RAM and want to know the supported speed ceiling.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >=4800 MHz

1,600 MHz
Intel Core i3 5010U supports memory speeds up to 1600 MHz, which is lower than that of 87.3% of processors and equal to 11.3% of processors.
Max memory speed (JEDEC)
What it is: The highest official RAM speed the processor supports under standard JEDEC settings, before any memory overclocking profiles are applied.
When it matters: When officially supported stock RAM speed matters more than XMP, EXPO, or manual memory tuning.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5600 MHz

DDR3-1600 MHz
Intel Core i3 5010U supports JEDEC memory speeds up to DDR3-1600 MHz, which is lower than that of 87.6% of processors and equal to 8.1% of processors.
Max memory speed (XMP / EXPO)
What it is: The highest memory speed supported through XMP or EXPO profiles.
When it matters: When you want faster RAM through memory profiles.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5200 MHz

N/A
Maximum memory capacity
What it is: The largest total amount of memory officially supported by the processor.
When it matters: When you plan a system with very large RAM capacity.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >=128 GB

16 GB
Intel Core i3 5010U supports up to 16 GB of memory, which is less than 91.7% of processors and equal to 6.4% of processors.
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Integrated graphics
What it is: Includes built-in graphics, so the system can output video without a separate graphics card.
When it matters: When you want the PC to work without a dedicated GPU, or you are building an office, media, compact, or troubleshooting-friendly system.

Importance: HIGH

yes
Intel Core i3 5010U includes integrated graphics. 87.6% of processors include integrated graphics.
Integrated GPU model
What it is: The model name of the integrated graphics processor, if present.
When it matters: When you plan to use the CPU's built-in graphics.

Importance: MEDIUM

Intel HD Graphics 5500
Intel Core i3 5010U uses the Intel HD Graphics 5500 integrated GPU, which is less advanced than that in 64.7% of processors and equal to that in 0.3% of processors.
Integrated GPU execution units
What it is: The number of execution units available in the integrated graphics part of the processor.
When it matters: When you plan to rely on built-in graphics and want a better sense of its light gaming, display, or media capability.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=24

?
Integrated GPU base frequency
What it is: The base operating frequency of the integrated GPU.
When it matters: When integrated graphics performance matters to you.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=350 MHz

300 MHz
Intel Core i3 5010U has an integrated GPU clock of 300 MHz which is lower than that of 57% of processors and equal to that of 38.7% of processors.
Integrated media encoders/decoders
What it is: The hardware media formats the processor can encode or decode directly.
When it matters: When you stream, edit video, or rely on hardware media acceleration.

Importance: LOW

H.264 (HW decode/encode), H.265 (HW decode), VP8 (HW decode), JPEG (HW decode)
Intel Core i3 5010U supports H.264 (HW decode/encode), H.265 (HW decode), VP8 (HW decode), JPEG (HW decode) media codecs, which is broader support than 69.3% of processors.
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TDP (Thermal design power)
What it is: The rated thermal design power, which gives a general idea of cooling and power needs.
When it matters: When you choose a cooler or build in a tighter case.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <30 W

15 W
Intel Core i3 5010U has a TDP of 15 W which is lower than that of 77.7% of processors and equal to that of 16.1% of processors.
Base power (PL1)
What it is: The sustained power target used for longer CPU loads.
When it matters: When you choose cooling and power delivery for sustained workloads.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <30 W

15 W
Intel Core i3 5010U has a base power of 15 W which is lower than that of 77.2% of processors and equal to that of 16.2% of processors.
Boost power (PL2)
What it is: The short-term boost power limit the processor may draw under heavier turbo loads.
When it matters: When you size cooling and power delivery for peak turbo behavior.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <50 W

?
Tau (power duration limit)
What it is: The time limit the CPU can stay at higher boost power before dropping toward sustained power.
When it matters: When you want to understand turbo behavior under longer loads.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=28 s

N/A
Configurable TDP
What it is: Allows the processor to run in alternate power modes instead of being fixed to one default TDP target.
When it matters: When you want more control over heat, noise, and power draw in compact systems, quieter builds, or thermally limited machines.

Importance: LOW

yes
Intel Core i3 5010U supports configurable TDP. 52.9% of processors support configurable TDP.
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Intel Core i3 5010U vs the average processor

  • 53.9% smaller die size
    Intel Core i3 5010U has a lower die size than the average processor (82 mm² vs 178 mm²). The average processor has a die size of 178 mm².
    What it is: The physical area of the processor die, usually measured in square millimeters.
    When it matters: When you are comparing chip scale, packaging density, or broader design differences rather than direct user-visible performance.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: <150 mm²

    Intel Core i3 5010U has a lower die size than the average processor (82 mm² vs 178 mm²). The average processor has a die size of 178 mm².82 mm² vs 178 mm²
  • 66.7% lower base power
    Intel Core i3 5010U has a lower base power draw than the average processor (15 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.
    What it is: The sustained power target used for longer CPU loads.
    When it matters: When you choose cooling and power delivery for sustained workloads.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: <30 W

    Intel Core i3 5010U has a lower base power draw than the average processor (15 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.15 W vs 45 W
  • 5 °C higher TJ Max
    Intel Core i3 5010U has a higher TJ Max than the average processor (105 °C vs 100 °C). The average processor has a TJ Max of 100 °C.
    What it is: The highest safe operating junction temperature before the CPU starts throttling or protecting itself.
    When it matters: When you tune cooling or monitor thermals under load.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: >=100 °C

    Intel Core i3 5010U has a higher TJ Max than the average processor (105 °C vs 100 °C). The average processor has a TJ Max of 100 °C.105 °C vs 100 °C
  • 66.7% lower TDP
    Intel Core i3 5010U has a lower TDP than the average processor (15 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.
    What it is: The rated thermal design power, which gives a general idea of cooling and power needs.
    When it matters: When you choose a cooler or build in a tighter case.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: <30 W

    Intel Core i3 5010U has a lower TDP than the average processor (15 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.15 W vs 45 W
  • 53.9% smaller die size
    Intel Core i3 5010U has a lower die size than the average processor (82 mm² vs 178 mm²). The average processor has a die size of 178 mm².
  • 66.7% lower base power
    Intel Core i3 5010U has a lower base power draw than the average processor (15 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.
  • 5 °C higher TJ Max
    Intel Core i3 5010U has a higher TJ Max than the average processor (105 °C vs 100 °C). The average processor has a TJ Max of 100 °C.
  • 66.7% lower TDP
    Intel Core i3 5010U has a lower TDP than the average processor (15 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.
  • Older CPU socket
    Intel Core i3 5010U uses an older CPU socket than the average processor (FCBGA1,168 vs FP2).
  • 5 year/s older release date
    Intel Core i3 5010U has an older release date than the average processor (2,015 vs 2,020).
    January 2015
  • Narrower instruction support
    Intel Core i3 5010U supports a narrower instruction set than the average processor (MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, FMA3, AES vs MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4A, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA).
  • No crypto acceleration
    Intel Core i3 5010U does not include crypto acceleration, the average processor does.
  • 51.3% weaker single-core performance
    Intel Core i3 5010U has a lower PassMark single-core score than the average processor (1,208 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.
  • 82.4% weaker multi-core performance
    Intel Core i3 5010U has a lower multi-core performance than the average processor (491 vs 2,783). The average processor scores 2,783 in Cinebench R20 multi-core.
  • 55.2% lower single-core score
    Intel Core i3 5010U has a lower Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (659 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.
  • 4 fewer CPU cores
    Intel Core i3 5010U has fewer CPU cores than the average processor (2 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.
  • 58.7% lower Cinebench R20 single-core score
    Intel Core i3 5010U has a lower Cinebench R20 single-core score than the average processor (200 vs 484). The average processor scores 484 in Cinebench R20 single-core.
  • 79.5% lower PassMark score
    Intel Core i3 5010U has a lower PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (2,154 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.
  • 72.1% lower multi-core score
    Intel Core i3 5010U has a lower Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (1,339 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.
  • 4 fewer CPU threads
    Intel Core i3 5010U has fewer CPU threads than the average processor (4 vs 8). The average processor has 8 CPU threads.
  • 37.5% lower bus transfer rate
    Intel Core i3 5010U has a lower bus transfer rate than the average processor (5 GT/s vs 8 GT/s). The average processor offers bus transfer rate of 8 GT/s.
  • 37.5% lower bus speed
    Intel Core i3 5010U has a lower bus speed than the average processor (5 GT/s vs 8 GT/s). The average processor runs at bus speed of 8 GT/s.
  • No Turbo Boost
    Intel Core i3 5010U does not support Turbo Boost, the average processor does.
  • 7 lower clock multiplier
    Intel Core i3 5010U has a lower clock multiplier than the average processor (21 vs 28). The average processor has a clock multiplier of 28.
  • 80% smaller L2 cache
    Intel Core i3 5010U has a lower L2 cache than the average processor (0.5 MB vs 2.5 MB). The average processor has L2 cache of 2.5 MB.
  • 16.7% larger process node
    Intel Core i3 5010U has a higher process node than the average processor (14 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.
  • 62.5% smaller L3 cache
    Intel Core i3 5010U has a lower L3 cache than the average processor (3 MB vs 8 MB). The average processor has L3 cache of 8 MB.
  • 66.7% smaller L1 cache
    Intel Core i3 5010U has a lower L1 cache than the average processor (128 KB vs 384 KB). The average processor has L1 cache of 384 KB.
  • 50% less L2 per core
    Intel Core i3 5010U has less L2 cache per core than the average processor (0.3 MB/core vs 0.5 MB/core). The average processor provides 0.5 MB/core of L2 cache per core.
  • 12.5% less L3 per core
    Intel Core i3 5010U has less L3 cache per core than the average processor (1.5 MB/core vs 1.714 MB/core). The average processor provides 1.714 MB/core of L3 cache per core.
  • 73.7% fewer transistors
    Intel Core i3 5010U has fewer transistors than the average processor (1.3 billion vs 4.95 billion). The average processor has 4.95 billion transistors.
  • Less advanced microarchitecture
    Intel Core i3 5010U uses a less advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Broadwell vs Kaby Lake).
  • Older DDR support
    Intel Core i3 5010U supports an older DDR generation than the average processor (DDR3 vs DDR4).
  • 44.1% lower memory bandwidth
    Intel Core i3 5010U has a lower memory bandwidth than the average processor (25.6 GB/s vs 45.8 GB/s). The average processor offers memory bandwidth of 45.8 GB/s.
  • 45.4% lower memory speed
    Intel Core i3 5010U has a lower maximum memory speed than the average processor (1,600 MHz vs 2,933 MHz). The average processor supports memory speed of 2,933 MHz.
  • Older PCIe version
    Intel Core i3 5010U supports an older PCIe version than the average processor (2 vs 3.0).
  • 4 fewer PCIe lanes
    Intel Core i3 5010U has fewer PCIe lanes than the average processor (12 vs 16). The average processor offers 16 PCIe lanes.
  • 75% less memory capacity
    Intel Core i3 5010U has fewer maximum memory capacity than the average processor (16 GB vs 64 GB). The average processor supports 64 GB of memory.
  • 75% less memory per DIMM
    Intel Core i3 5010U has fewer memory per DIMM than the average processor (8 GB vs 32 GB). The average processor supports 32 GB of memory per DIMM.
  • Limited PCIe bifurcation
    Intel Core i3 5010U supports less flexible PCIe bifurcation than the average processor (x1/x1/x1/x1 vs x16, x8/x8).
  • Narrower media codec support
    Intel Core i3 5010U supports fewer media codecs than the average processor (H.264 (HW decode/encode), H.265 (HW decode), VP8 (HW decode), JPEG (HW decode) vs H.264 (HW decode/encode), H.265 (HW decode/encode), VP9 (HW decode/encode), AV1 (HW decode)).
  • 5 °C higher CPU temperature
    Intel Core i3 5010U has a higher CPU temperature than the average processor (105 °C vs 100 °C). The average processor runs at a CPU temperature of 100 °C.
  • 51.3% weaker single-core performance
    Intel Core i3 5010U has a lower PassMark single-core score than the average processor (1,208 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.
    What it is: A benchmark score that reflects single-core CPU performance.
    When it matters: When you care about responsiveness in lighter or older software.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >3200

    Intel Core i3 5010U has a lower PassMark single-core score than the average processor (1,208 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.1,208 vs 2,483
  • 82.4% weaker multi-core performance
    Intel Core i3 5010U has a lower multi-core performance than the average processor (491 vs 2,783). The average processor scores 2,783 in Cinebench R20 multi-core.
    What it is: A Cinebench R20 score that reflects how well the processor handles long, heavy rendering workloads across many cores.
    When it matters: When you care about sustained multi-core performance in rendering, compiling, heavy creation work, or productivity workloads that use many threads.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >4700

    Intel Core i3 5010U has a lower multi-core performance than the average processor (491 vs 2,783). The average processor scores 2,783 in Cinebench R20 multi-core.491 vs 2,783
  • 55.2% lower single-core score
    Intel Core i3 5010U has a lower Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (659 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.
    What it is: A Geekbench 6 score that reflects single-core CPU performance in mixed modern workloads.
    When it matters: When you care about snappy everyday performance in lighter apps, browsing, office work, or tasks that do not scale well across many cores.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >2000

    Intel Core i3 5010U has a lower Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (659 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.659 vs 1,471
  • 4 fewer CPU cores
    Intel Core i3 5010U has fewer CPU cores than the average processor (2 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.
    What it is: The number of physical CPU cores on the processor.
    When it matters: When you run workloads that benefit from more real cores.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: 8+

    Intel Core i3 5010U has fewer CPU cores than the average processor (2 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.2 vs 6
  • 58.7% lower Cinebench R20 single-core score
    Intel Core i3 5010U has a lower Cinebench R20 single-core score than the average processor (200 vs 484). The average processor scores 484 in Cinebench R20 single-core.
    What it is: A Cinebench R20 benchmark score that reflects single-core CPU performance.
    When it matters: When you care about lighter workloads, interface responsiveness, or software that still depends heavily on one fast core.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >600

    Intel Core i3 5010U has a lower Cinebench R20 single-core score than the average processor (200 vs 484). The average processor scores 484 in Cinebench R20 single-core.200 vs 484
  • 79.5% lower PassMark score
    Intel Core i3 5010U has a lower PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (2,154 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.
    What it is: A benchmark score that gives a broad idea of overall processor performance.
    When it matters: When you want a quick overall performance comparison.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >19000

    Intel Core i3 5010U has a lower PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (2,154 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.2,154 vs 10,532.5
  • 72.1% lower multi-core score
    Intel Core i3 5010U has a lower Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (1,339 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.
    What it is: A Geekbench 6 score that reflects multi-core CPU performance in mixed modern workloads.
    When it matters: When you want a quick picture of multi-core speed in everyday mixed workloads, multitasking, and broadly optimized software.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >8500

    Intel Core i3 5010U has a lower Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (1,339 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.1,339 vs 4,793
  • 80% smaller L2 cache
    Intel Core i3 5010U has a lower L2 cache than the average processor (0.5 MB vs 2.5 MB). The average processor has L2 cache of 2.5 MB.
    What it is: The total amount of L2 cache available across the processor.
    When it matters: When you want to compare CPU design efficiency and how much fast intermediate cache the cores have available.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=6 MB

    Intel Core i3 5010U has a lower L2 cache than the average processor (0.5 MB vs 2.5 MB). The average processor has L2 cache of 2.5 MB.0.5 MB vs 2.5 MB

Graphic comparison of Intel Core i3 5010U and other processors

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Third-party reviews

What customers like about Intel Core i3 5010U?

  • Efficient power consumption with a low 15W TDP, making it suitable for ultra-compact devices like NUCs and thin laptops.
  • Reliable performance for office productivity, web browsing, and multimedia streaming.
  • Includes Hyper-Threading technology, allowing it to handle multitasking better than some entry-level dual-core chips.
  • Integrated Intel HD Graphics 5500 is capable of running older or less demanding games (e.g., Left 4 Dead 2) at playable frame rates.
  • Operates quietly and stays relatively cool during standard daily tasks.

What customers dislike about Intel Core i3 5010U?

  • Lacks Turbo Boost technology, meaning it cannot automatically increase its 2.1 GHz clock speed for demanding workloads.
  • Dated dual-core architecture struggles with modern, hardware-intensive games and professional video encoding.
  • Significantly slower in both single-threaded and multi-threaded tasks compared to newer budget processors like the Intel N100.
  • Limited upgrade path for laptops using this BGA-socketed (soldered) processor.
  • Integrated graphics lack support for newer standards like HDMI 2.0 and struggle with 1080p gaming on modern titles.

Expert reviews

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openbenchmarking.org
29/03/2026

The Intel Core i3-5010U, a 14nm Broadwell-based, dual-core processor from 2015, provides a 10–15% performance increase over Haswell predecessors, featuring a 2.1GHz fixed clock speed and a low 15W TDP. While efficient for office tasks, it lacks Intel Turbo Boost and lags behind in multi-core workloads, ranking in the bottom quartile in modern benchmarks. Integrated Intel HD Graphics...Read more

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browser.geekbench.com
29/03/2026

The Intel Core i3-5010U is a 14nm "Broadwell" dual-core processor from early 2015, operating at a fixed 2.1 GHz without Turbo Boost for budget laptops and mini-PCs. It offers roughly 10–15% better performance than its predecessor, optimized for daily productivity, light multitasking, and web browsing. Key advantages include high power efficiency with a 15W TDP (configurable to 10W)...Read more

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cpu.userbenchmark.com
20/03/2026

The Intel Core i3-5010U is a 14nm Broadwell-based mobile processor from early 2015, featuring 2 cores, 4 threads, and a 2.1 GHz base clock. Pros include low power consumption (15W TDP) and adequate performance for daily tasks, office work, and light media consumption via Intel HD Graphics 5500. Cons involve a lack of Turbo Boost, which limits high-load performance, and significantly...Read more

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phoronix.com
09/12/2015

This Phoronix review analyzes the Linux performance of an Intel Core i5-5200U Broadwell laptop, comparing Windows 10 against Ubuntu 15.10 with open-source drivers. Key findings highlight excellent power efficiency and mature open-source graphics drivers that allow Linux to remain competitive with Windows 10 in performance, particularly with 4.4 kernel and Mesa 11.2 updates. However,...Read more

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bit-tech.net
11/02/2015

The Intel NUC Kit NUC5i3RYK, featuring a 14nm Broadwell Core i3-5010U processor, delivers a significant 20% performance increase over predecessors while supporting modest 3D tasks. Its 15W TDP allows for exceptional power efficiency (9W idle) and features integrated 802.11ac WiFi, though the "RYK" variant sacrifices 2.5-inch drive support for M.2 storage. While the unit is compact...Read more

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laptopmag.com
11/02/2016

The Asus F555LA is identified as a standout, budget-friendly 15-inch laptop featuring a rare 1080p display at a low price point and a lightweight, attractive design. Performance, driven by an Intel Core i3 processor, is adequate for light multitasking, though the device struggles with heavier loads. Notable drawbacks include a bouncy keyboard, a dim display with narrow viewing...Read more

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techradar.com
26/05/2015

The Acer Revo One RL85 is a compact, stylish mini-PC designed as a home entertainment hub and personal cloud, featuring a design that can accommodate up to three 2.5-inch hard drives for up to 6TB of storage. It offers tool-free hot-swappable drive bays for easy upgrades, though internal RAM access is more complex. Performance is suited for daily tasks and 1080p video consumption,...Read more

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laptopmag.com
03/03/2016

The Dell Inspiron 17 5000 (2016) is a budget-friendly, 6.6-pound desktop replacement featuring a vibrant 17.3-inch screen and a durable, colorful design, ideal for stationary use. While offering a solid port selection and capable performance for basic tasks via its Core i3 processor, the laptop is hindered by a low-resolution display, shallow keyboard, and poor 4-hour-and-22-minute...Read more

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techradar.com
19/05/2015

The TechRadar review describes the Dell Latitude 12 5000 (E5250) as a durable, business-focused machine with an excellent keyboard, robust build quality, and a solid array of input/output ports. However, the laptop is criticized for its low-resolution screen, slow mechanical hard drive performance, and a bulkier design compared to competitors. While it serves as a dependable...Read more

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laptopmag.com
27/08/2015

The HP Pavilion x360 13t is a budget-friendly 13-inch convertible offering solid performance via its Intel Core i3-5010U processor and impressive audio quality from Bang & Olufsen speakers. While featuring a versatile 360-degree hinge and a comfortable keyboard, the device is held back by a stiff, subpar touchpad and a slow 5,400-rpm hard drive. The 13.3-inch, 1366 x 768 display...Read more

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techradar.com
16/06/2015

The Lenovo U41 is identified by TechRadar as an affordable, well-built 1.68kg laptop featuring an attractive, solid silver chassis and a comfortable keyboard, ideal for general-purpose use. Performance in the Intel Core i3 configuration offers a balanced experience for everyday tasks, supported by either a 1TB hybrid drive or a 256GB SSD that delivers quick boot times. However, the...Read more

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cpu-benchmark.org
01/01/2015

The Intel Core i3 series serves as the entry-level tier in Intel's lineup, designed for everyday office tasks and light productivity, with modern versions featuring 4 CPU cores and Hyper-Threading for up to 8 threads. A major advantage is the excellent price-to-performance ratio, offering high single-core performance alongside energy-efficient operation for budget-conscious users....Read more

C
cpu-monkey.com
06/01/2026

The Intel Core i3-5010U is a dual-core, 14nm Broadwell-U mobile processor designed for energy efficiency, utilizing a 15W TDP suited for compact systems. Key pros include improved performance over its Haswell predecessor and 3 MB of L3 cache, suitable for daily tasks, while key cons include a lack of Turbo Boost technology and integrated graphics that struggle with modern, intensive...Read more

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pcgameshardware.de
17/04/2015

PC Games Hardware reviews the Intel NUC5i3RYK and NUC5i5RYH, highlighting the Broadwell 14nm architecture's efficiency for 4K video and the i5-5250U's superior HD Graphics 6000 over the i3's HD 5500. Pros include an incredibly compact, sturdy design, 802.11ac Wi-Fi, and low power consumption, providing sufficient performance for daily productivity while remaining quieter than...Read more

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computerbase.de
19/02/2015

The ComputerBase review of the Intel NUC5i3RYK highlights the transition to the 14nm Broadwell architecture, which delivers a smaller, faster, and more efficient machine compared to its predecessor. Featuring an Intel Core i3-5010U, the ultra-slim 33mm chassis supports M.2 SSDs (including PCIe x4) and up to 16GB of RAM. Key advantages include significantly improved thermal...Read more

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valid.x86.fr
01/03/2016

The CPU-Z benchmark for the Intel Core i3-5010U (Broadwell architecture) records a single-thread score of 200 points, highlighting its limited performance capacity compared to modern hardware, such as the Core i9-14900HX which scores over 800. A key advantage of this low-voltage (U) chip is its efficiency, making it suitable for basic, light-duty computing tasks and...Read more

I
itjustgood.com
10/11/2020

The HP ProBook 430 G2, specifically the i3-5010U, 8GB, 320GB HDD model, is a 13.3-inch business ultrabook featuring a durable, mobile design, a soft-touch cover, and a brushed aluminum keyboard deck. It features an anti-glare, 1366x768 resolution display designed for standard office use. Key advantages of this configuration include 8GB of RAM for enhanced multitasking over standard...Read more

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notebookcheck.nl
03/09/2015

The Intel NUC5i3RYK is a highly compact, "palm-sized" mini PC featuring the 14nm Broadwell Core i3-5010U processor and HD Graphics 5500, offering significant efficiency gains for home office or media center use. A major pro is its ultra-low power consumption, idling between 6.75W and 9W, paired with a fast M.2 SSD slot. However, cons include limited connectivity, requiring mini-HDMI...Read more

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notebookcheck.nl
26/03/2016

The Lenovo E31-70 (80KX00QFGE) is a 13.3-inch budget business notebook featuring a durable plastic chassis with a matte, rubberized lid and a 180-degree hinge. It is equipped with an Intel Core i5-5200U processor and 8GB of RAM, making it suitable for office tasks, complemented by a comfortable AccuType keyboard, a responsive trackpad, and a fingerprint scanner for security. While...Read more

Video reviews

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