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Intel Core i5 1240U Review | 78 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£270
  • Avg. price in US: ~$310
  • PassMark benchmark result: 13953
  • N. of physical cores: 10
  • CPU boost clock speed: 4.4 GHz

Intel Core i5 1240U review. Compare 78 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among processors and if it is worth buying.

6.2

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%

6.2

Technical Score

10.0%

?

User score

Good
6.2

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%

5.3

Performance

18.0%

7.1

Cache & Architecture

10.0%

7.4

Memory & PCIe

7.0%

7.5

Power & Thermal

4.0%

8.3

Platform

1.0%

8.1

Integrated Graphics

Good
?

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

  • 5.1
    Gaming

    Score components:

    30.0%

    5.8

    PassMark single-core benchmark score

    25.0%

    5.7

    Geekbench 6 single-core benchmark score

    20.0%

    5.8

    CPU boost clock speed

    17.0%

    2.7

    L3 cache

    8.0%

    4.3

    N. of physical cores

  • 6.1
    Video editing

    Score components:

    45.0%

    9.0

    Geekbench 6 multi-core benchmark score

    20.0%

    4.3

    N. of physical cores

    20.0%

    4.0

    CPU threads

    15.0%

    2.7

    L3 cache

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Best prices in UK

    N/A~ £270

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 i5-1240U is a 12th-generation Alder Lake-U mobile processor designed for ultra-thin laptops and tablets, featuring a hybrid architecture with 10 cores (2 Performance, 8 Efficient) and 12 threads. It operates with a base power of just 9W, reaching a max turbo frequency of 4.40 GHz and utilizing 12 MB of Intel Smart Cache alongside integrated Iris Xe graphics (80 EUs). Its primary advantages include exceptional energy efficiency for long battery life, support for modern standards like LPDDR5-5200 RAM and PCIe 4.0, and solid burst performance for everyday multitasking. However, its low sustained power limit significantly restricts heavy multi-core workloads compared to 15W or 28W U-series counterparts, and its gaming capabilities remain limited to entry-level titles.

Technical Specifications of processor Intel Core i5 1240U

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

6.2
Intel Core i5 1240U has a technical score of 6.15 points, which is higher than that of 66.7% 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 i5 1240U 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%

6.2

Overall score

40.0%

9.1

Price

7.0
Intel Core i5 1240U has a quality-to-price ratio of 7 points, which is higher than 72.2% 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 i5 1240U 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

FCBGA1781
Intel Core i5 1240U uses the FCBGA1781 CPU socket, which is older than that of 70.5% of processors and equal to that of 0.4% 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

Intel 600 Series, Intel 700 Series
Intel Core i5 1240U supports Intel 600 Series, Intel 700 Series chipsets, which is broader compatibility than 81.4% of processors and equal to that of 1.6% of processors.
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 i5 1240U 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+

10
Intel Core i5 1240U has 10 CPU cores, which is more than 77.1% of processors and equal to 4.3% 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+

12
Intel Core i5 1240U offers 12 CPU threads, which is more than 55.1% of processors and equal to 14.1% 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

?
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

4.4 GHz
Intel Core i5 1240U reaches a boost clock of 4.4 GHz which is higher than that of 51.2% of processors and equal to that of 5.1% of processors.
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 1.1 GHz & 8 x 0.8 GHz
Intel Core i5 1240U has a base clock of 2x1.1 GHz & 8x0.8 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

10 nm
Intel Core i5 1240U uses a 10 nm process node, which is more advanced than that of 52.3% of processors and equal to that of 19.1% 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 7
Intel Core i5 1240U is built on the Intel 7 foundry process, which is more advanced than that of 66.2% of processors and equal to that of 14.9% 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

12 MB
Intel Core i5 1240U has an L3 cache of 12 MB which is larger than that of 54.4% of processors and equal to that of 9% 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

6.5 MB
Intel Core i5 1240U has an L2 cache of 6.5 MB which is larger than that of 71.1% of processors and equal to that of 1.2% 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

928 KB
Intel Core i5 1240U has an L1 cache of 928 KB which is larger than that of 83.5% of processors and equal to that of 1.7% 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

DDR4/DDR5/LPDDR4X/LPDDR5
Intel Core i5 1240U supports DDR DDR4/DDR5/LPDDR4X/LPDDR5, which is newer than that of 95.7% of processors and equal to that of 1.5% 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

5,200 MHz
Intel Core i5 1240U supports memory speeds up to 5200 MHz, which is higher than that of 72.1% of processors and equal to 7% 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

LPDDR5-5200 MHz
Intel Core i5 1240U supports JEDEC memory speeds up to LPDDR5-5200 MHz, which is higher than that of 72.2% of processors and equal to 1.8% 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

64 GB
Intel Core i5 1240U supports up to 64 GB of memory, which is more than 28.4% of processors and equal to 27.6% 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 i5 1240U 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 Iris Xe Graphics 80EU
Intel Core i5 1240U uses the Intel Iris Xe Graphics 80EU integrated GPU, which is more advanced than that in 78.5% of processors and equal to that in 2.5% 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

80
Intel Core i5 1240U has 80 GPU execution units, which is more than 91.7% of processors and equal to 3.3% of processors.
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 i5 1240U 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

AV1 (HW decode)
Intel Core i5 1240U supports AV1 (HW decode) media codecs, which is narrower support than 63.1% of processors and equal to 10.8% 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

9 W
Intel Core i5 1240U has a TDP of 9 W which is lower than that of 95.2% of processors and equal to that of 1.1% 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

9 W
Intel Core i5 1240U has a base power of 9 W which is lower than that of 95% of processors and equal to that of 1.2% 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

29 W
Intel Core i5 1240U has a boost power of 29 W which is lower than that of 81% of processors and equal to that of 1.1% of processors.
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

56 seconds
Intel Core i5 1240U has a turbo duration of 56 seconds which is shorter than that of 96.7% of processors and equal to that of 3.3% of processors.
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 i5 1240U supports configurable TDP. 52.9% of processors support configurable TDP.
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Intel Core i5 1240U vs the average processor

  • Newer DDR support
    Intel Core i5 1240U supports a newer DDR generation than the average processor (DDR4/DDR5/LPDDR4X/LPDDR5 vs DDR4).
    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

    Intel Core i5 1240U supports a newer DDR generation than the average processor (DDR4/DDR5/LPDDR4X/LPDDR5 vs DDR4).DDR4/DDR5/LPDDR4X/LPDDR5 vs DDR4
  • 2.5x more L2 per core
    Intel Core i5 1240U has more L2 cache per core than the average processor (1.3 MB/core vs 0.5 MB/core). The average processor provides 0.5 MB/core of L2 cache per core.
    What it is: The amount of L2 cache available to each CPU core.
    When it matters: When you are comparing per-core cache resources in deeper architectural analysis.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: >=1 MB/core

    Intel Core i5 1240U has more L2 cache per core than the average processor (1.3 MB/core vs 0.5 MB/core). The average processor provides 0.5 MB/core of L2 cache per core.1.25 MB/core vs 0.5 MB/core
  • 80% lower base power
    Intel Core i5 1240U has a lower base power draw than the average processor (9 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 i5 1240U has a lower base power draw than the average processor (9 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.9 W vs 45 W
  • 4 more CPU cores
    Intel Core i5 1240U has more CPU cores than the average processor (10 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 i5 1240U has more CPU cores than the average processor (10 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.10 vs 6
  • Uses big.LITTLE design
    Intel Core i5 1240U uses a big.LITTLE design, the average processor does not.
    P-cores + E-cores
    What it is: Combines high-performance cores with lower-power efficiency cores instead of relying on just one core type.
    When it matters: When you want strong burst performance in demanding tasks without wasting as much power during lighter background work.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Intel Core i5 1240U uses a big.LITTLE design, the average processor does not.
  • Newer PCIe version
    Intel Core i5 1240U supports a newer PCIe version than the average processor (4 vs 3.0).
    What it is: The newest PCIe generation the processor can use directly for graphics cards, SSDs, and other high-speed expansion devices.
    When it matters: When you want support for newer GPUs or SSDs, or more bandwidth for high-speed expansion hardware.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: 4.0

    Intel Core i5 1240U supports a newer PCIe version than the average processor (4 vs 3.0).4.0 vs 3.0
  • 28.5% better single-core performance
    Intel Core i5 1240U has a higher PassMark single-core score than the average processor (3,190 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 i5 1240U has a higher PassMark single-core score than the average processor (3,190 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.3,190 vs 2,483
  • More advanced microarchitecture
    Intel Core i5 1240U uses a more advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Alder Lake vs Kaby Lake).
    What it is: The internal core-design codename used for this processor generation.
    When it matters: When you are comparing CPUs at a deeper design level and want to identify the exact architecture behind marketing names.

    Importance: LOW

    Intel Core i5 1240U uses a more advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Alder Lake vs Kaby Lake).Alder Lake vs Kaby Lake
  • Supports HMP
    Intel Core i5 1240U supports HMP, the average processor does not.
  • 4 more CPU cores
    Intel Core i5 1240U has more CPU cores than the average processor (10 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.
  • 28.5% better single-core performance
    Intel Core i5 1240U has a higher PassMark single-core score than the average processor (3,190 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.
  • 33.5% higher single-core score
    Intel Core i5 1240U has a higher Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (1,964 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.
  • 19.4% higher Cinebench R20 single-core score
    Intel Core i5 1240U has a higher Cinebench R20 single-core score than the average processor (578 vs 484). The average processor scores 484 in Cinebench R20 single-core.
  • 4 more CPU threads
    Intel Core i5 1240U has more CPU threads than the average processor (12 vs 8). The average processor has 8 CPU threads.
  • 2 wider front-end design
    Intel Core i5 1240U has a higher front-end width than the average processor (6 vs 4). The average processor uses front-end width of 4.
  • 32.5% higher PassMark score
    Intel Core i5 1240U has a higher PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (13,953 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.
  • 2.5x more L2 per core
    Intel Core i5 1240U has more L2 cache per core than the average processor (1.3 MB/core vs 0.5 MB/core). The average processor provides 0.5 MB/core of L2 cache per core.
  • Uses big.LITTLE design
    Intel Core i5 1240U uses a big.LITTLE design, the average processor does not.
  • More advanced microarchitecture
    Intel Core i5 1240U uses a more advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Alder Lake vs Kaby Lake).
  • 2.42x larger L1 cache
    Intel Core i5 1240U has a higher L1 cache than the average processor (928 KB vs 384 KB). The average processor has L1 cache of 384 KB.
  • 2.6x larger L2 cache
    Intel Core i5 1240U has a higher L2 cache than the average processor (6.5 MB vs 2.5 MB). The average processor has L2 cache of 2.5 MB.
  • More advanced foundry
    Intel Core i5 1240U uses a more advanced foundry process than the average processor (Intel 7 vs Intel 14 nm).
  • 50% larger L3 cache
    Intel Core i5 1240U has a higher L3 cache than the average processor (12 MB vs 8 MB). The average processor has L3 cache of 8 MB.
  • 16.7% smaller process node
    Intel Core i5 1240U has a lower process node than the average processor (10 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.
  • Newer DDR support
    Intel Core i5 1240U supports a newer DDR generation than the average processor (DDR4/DDR5/LPDDR4X/LPDDR5 vs DDR4).
  • Newer PCIe version
    Intel Core i5 1240U supports a newer PCIe version than the average processor (4 vs 3.0).
  • 4 more PCIe lanes
    Intel Core i5 1240U has more PCIe lanes than the average processor (20 vs 16). The average processor offers 16 PCIe lanes.
  • 77.3% higher memory speed
    Intel Core i5 1240U has a higher maximum memory speed than the average processor (5,200 MHz vs 2,933 MHz). The average processor supports memory speed of 2,933 MHz.
  • 3.33x more GPU execution units
    Intel Core i5 1240U has more GPU execution units than the average processor (80 vs 24). The average processor has 24 GPU execution units.
  • Better integrated GPU
    Intel Core i5 1240U uses a better integrated GPU than the average processor (Intel Iris Xe Graphics 80EU vs Intel UHD Graphics 630).
  • 1 more supported displays
    Intel Core i5 1240U has more supported displays than the average processor (4 vs 3). The average processor supports 3 displays.
  • 80% lower base power
    Intel Core i5 1240U has a lower base power draw than the average processor (9 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.
  • 80% lower TDP
    Intel Core i5 1240U has a lower TDP than the average processor (9 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.
  • 54.7% lower boost power
    Intel Core i5 1240U has a lower boost power draw than the average processor (29 W vs 64 W). The average processor has a boost power draw of 64 W.

Total
Platform
Performance
Cache & Architecture
Memory & PCIe
Integrated Graphics
Power & Thermal
  • Narrower instruction support
    Intel Core i5 1240U supports a narrower instruction set than the average processor (MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, FMA3, AES, SHA vs MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4A, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA).
  • Older CPU socket
    Intel Core i5 1240U uses an older CPU socket than the average processor (FCBGA1,781 vs FP2).
  • 55.9% weaker multi-core performance
    Intel Core i5 1240U has a lower multi-core performance than the average processor (1,227 vs 2,783). The average processor scores 2,783 in Cinebench R20 multi-core.
  • 30% less L3 per core
    Intel Core i5 1240U has less L3 cache per core than the average processor (1.2 MB/core vs 1.714 MB/core). The average processor provides 1.714 MB/core of L3 cache per core.
  • 20.8% larger die size
    Intel Core i5 1240U has a higher die size than the average processor (215 mm² vs 178 mm²). The average processor has a die size of 178 mm².
  • Limited PCIe bifurcation
    Intel Core i5 1240U supports less flexible PCIe bifurcation than the average processor (x8/x4/x4 vs x16, x8/x8).
  • Narrower media codec support
    Intel Core i5 1240U supports fewer media codecs than the average processor (AV1 (HW decode) vs H.264 (HW decode/encode), H.265 (HW decode/encode), VP9 (HW decode/encode), AV1 (HW decode)).
  • 28 seconds shorter turbo duration
    Intel Core i5 1240U has a lower turbo duration limit than the average processor (56 seconds vs 28 seconds). The average processor maintains turbo for 28 seconds.
  • 55.9% weaker multi-core performance
    Intel Core i5 1240U has a lower multi-core performance than the average processor (1,227 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 i5 1240U has a lower multi-core performance than the average processor (1,227 vs 2,783). The average processor scores 2,783 in Cinebench R20 multi-core.1,227 vs 2,783
  • 30% less L3 per core
    Intel Core i5 1240U has less L3 cache per core than the average processor (1.2 MB/core vs 1.714 MB/core). The average processor provides 1.714 MB/core of L3 cache per core.
    What it is: The amount of L3 cache effectively available per CPU core.
    When it matters: When you are comparing how much shared cache each core can draw on in deeper technical analysis.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=2 MB/core

    Intel Core i5 1240U has less L3 cache per core than the average processor (1.2 MB/core vs 1.714 MB/core). The average processor provides 1.714 MB/core of L3 cache per core.1.2 MB/core vs 1.714 MB/core
  • 20.8% larger die size
    Intel Core i5 1240U has a higher die size than the average processor (215 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 i5 1240U has a higher die size than the average processor (215 mm² vs 178 mm²). The average processor has a die size of 178 mm².215 mm² vs 178 mm²
  • Narrower media codec support
    Intel Core i5 1240U supports fewer media codecs than the average processor (AV1 (HW decode) vs H.264 (HW decode/encode), H.265 (HW decode/encode), VP9 (HW decode/encode), AV1 (HW decode)).
    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

    Intel Core i5 1240U supports fewer media codecs than the average processor (AV1 (HW decode) vs H.264 (HW decode/encode), H.265 (HW decode/encode), VP9 (HW decode/encode), AV1 (HW decode)).AV1 (HW decode) vs H.264 (HW decode/encode), H.265 (HW decode/encode), VP9 (HW decode/encode), AV1 (HW decode)
  • Narrower instruction support
    Intel Core i5 1240U supports a narrower instruction set than the average processor (MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, FMA3, AES, SHA vs MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4A, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA).
    What it is: The supported CPU instruction sets and extensions.
    When it matters: When you run software that depends on specific CPU instructions.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Intel Core i5 1240U supports a narrower instruction set than the average processor (MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, FMA3, AES, SHA vs MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4A, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA).MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, FMA3, AES, SHA vs MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4A, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA
  • Older CPU socket
    Intel Core i5 1240U uses an older CPU socket than the average processor (FCBGA1,781 vs FP2).
    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

    Intel Core i5 1240U uses an older CPU socket than the average processor (FCBGA1,781 vs FP2).FCBGA1781 vs FP2
  • 28 seconds shorter turbo duration
    Intel Core i5 1240U has a lower turbo duration limit than the average processor (56 seconds vs 28 seconds). The average processor maintains turbo for 28 seconds.
    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

    Intel Core i5 1240U has a lower turbo duration limit than the average processor (56 seconds vs 28 seconds). The average processor maintains turbo for 28 seconds.56 seconds vs 28 seconds
  • Limited PCIe bifurcation
    Intel Core i5 1240U supports less flexible PCIe bifurcation than the average processor (x8/x4/x4 vs x16, x8/x8).
    What it is: The supported ways PCIe lanes can be split across multiple slots or devices.
    When it matters: When you plan multiple expansion cards or NVMe adapters.

    Importance: LOW

    Intel Core i5 1240U supports less flexible PCIe bifurcation than the average processor (x8/x4/x4 vs x16, x8/x8).x8/x4/x4 vs x16, x8/x8
Total
Platform
Performance
Cache & Architecture
Memory & PCIe
Integrated Graphics
Power & Thermal

Graphic comparison of Intel Core i5 1240U and other processors

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Third-party reviews

What customers like about Intel Core i5 1240U?

  • Efficient multitasking due to 10-core architecture (2 P-cores and 8 E-cores)
  • Extremely low base power consumption (9W TDP), making it ideal for ultra-thin laptops and tablets
  • Solid single-core performance with a turbo boost of up to 4.4GHz
  • Support for modern memory standards including DDR5-4800 and LPDDR5-5200
  • Capably handles everyday productivity tasks and light casual gaming with integrated Iris Xe graphics

What customers dislike about Intel Core i5 1240U?

  • Sustained performance is heavily limited by the low 9W power envelope compared to the 15W or 28W variants
  • Prone to thermal throttling in fanless or poorly cooled thin-and-light designs
  • Not suitable for demanding professional workloads like 4K video editing or heavy 3D rendering
  • Slower GPU clock speeds (0.9 GHz) compared to the standard Core i5-1235U
  • Requires Windows 11 to fully utilize the Thread Director for optimal core management

Expert reviews

C
cpubenchmark.net
29/03/2026
Intel Core i5-1240U - CPU Benchmarks

The Intel Core i5-1240U is a 10-core (2 E) Alder Lake mobile processor designed for ultra-thin, low-power devices, boasting a 13,953 PassMark score and supporting DDR5/LPDDR5 memory. Pros include efficient 9W-29W TDP, strong single-thread performance, and vPro management for business, while cons involve limited sustained performance and lower 80 EU Iris Xe graphics compared to...Read more

B
browser.geekbench.com
29/03/2026
Intel Core i5-1240U Benchmarks - Geekbench

The Intel Core i5-1240U is an Alder Lake-U series mobile processor designed for ultra-thin laptops, utilizing a 10-core/12-thread hybrid architecture (2 P-cores, 8 E-cores). It operates at a low 9W base TDP while reaching 4.4 GHz, offering strong multitasking capabilities, modern LPDDR5-5200 memory support, and integrated Iris Xe graphics. Key pros include high energy efficiency...Read more

L
laptopmedia.com
29/03/2026
Intel Core i5-1240U - Benchmark Tests

The Intel Core i5-1240U is a highly efficient 10-core (2P + 8E) mobile processor based on the Alder Lake architecture, specifically designed for ultra-thin laptops and tablets with a 9W TDP that boosts to 29W. It delivers significant gains over older 7W models, supporting DDR5/LPDDR5 memory and reaching up to 4.4 GHz for responsive daily performance. Key technical features include...Read more

N
notebookcheck.com
29/04/2023
Dell Latitude 7230 Rugged Extreme Review

The Dell Latitude 7230 Rugged Extreme is a 12-inch tablet designed for harsh environments, featuring MIL-STD 810H and IP65 ratings for protection against dust, water, and drops. Its standout 1200-nit, 16:10 display is optimized for outdoor visibility and remains usable with gloves. Powered by 12th Gen Intel Core processors, the device delivers robust performance for field...Read more

(Translated)Show original
B
backinuse.fr
07/06/2026
Refurbished Review and Test: Dell Latitude 9330 | i5-1240U | 13.3" | 2-in-1

The Dell Latitude 9330 is a 13.3-inch, 1.18kg premium 2-in-1 convertible designed for executives, featuring an Intel Core i5-1240U, 16GB RAM, and a bright 500-nit QHD+ display. Pros include a high-quality chassis, excellent 1080p webcam, robust security with proximity sensors, and a specialized "Collaboration Touchpad" for Zoom meetings. Cons involve limited port selection (USB-C...Read more

(Translated)Show original
N
notebookcheck.biz
01/03/2023
Review of the Intel NUC 12 Pro Kit (Core i5-1240U mentioned in comparisons)

The Notebookcheck review highlights the Intel NUC 12 Pro Kit (Wall Street Canyon) as a high-performance mini PC featuring the 12-core Core i5-1240P, ideal for intensive productivity in a compact design. Key strengths include fast storage support, dual Thunderbolt 4 ports, and comprehensive connectivity, including Wi-Fi 6E. While performance is high, the review identifies a premium...Read more

(Translated)Show original
L
laptopmedia.com
Q1 2022
Intel Core i5-1240U | LaptopMedia

The Intel Core i5-1240U is a 12th Gen Alder Lake-U processor designed for ultra-thin laptops, featuring a 10-core/12-thread hybrid architecture (2P + 8E) with a 9W base power for extreme efficiency. Key pros include excellent battery life potential, support for fast LPDDR5-5200 RAM, and vPro management features suitable for business, though sustained performance is limited by the...Read more

(Translated)Show original
L
laptopmedia.com
01/03/2026
Intel Core i5-1240U | LaptopMedia Spain

The Intel Core i5-1240U is a 12th Gen Alder Lake-U series processor designed for ultra-low-voltage (9W TDP) operation in thin-and-light laptops and 2-in-1 devices. It utilizes a 10-core (2 P-cores, 8 E-cores) hybrid architecture designed for portability and efficiency rather than sustained high performance. The chip supports modern LPDDR5 memory, PCIe 4.0, and includes Intel Iris Xe...Read more

(Translated)Show original
L
laptopmedia.com
01/01/2022
Intel Core i5-1240U: Specs, Benchmarks, and Performance Tests

The Intel Core i5-1240U is a 10-core (2 E) Alder Lake-U processor designed for ultra-thin laptops, offering a 9W base power that enables silent, portable devices. A major pro is its hybrid architecture efficiency, while a significant con is its performance limitation under sustained, heavy workloads compared to higher TDP chips. While it provides snappy single-core performance for...Read more

(Translated)Show original
N
notebookcheck.nl
29/04/2023
Dell Latitude 7230 Rugged Extreme Tablet Review: One of the Best Displays in Its Category

The Dell Latitude 7230 Rugged Extreme is a specialized 12-inch tablet designed for harsh environments, featuring an IP65-rated, drop-tested chassis and a highly visible 1,200-nit screen suitable for direct sunlight and gloved use. Powered by 12th Gen Intel Core U-series processors, it offers strong performance and efficient cooling, complemented by a hot-swappable, dual-battery...Read more

(Translated)Show original

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