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Intel Core i5 8265U Review | 78 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£260
  • Avg. price in US: ~$300
  • PassMark benchmark result: 5800
  • N. of physical cores: 4
  • CPU boost clock speed: 3.9 GHz

Intel Core i5 8265U review. Compare 78 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among processors and if it is worth buying.

4.0

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%

4.0

Technical Score

10.0%

?

User score

Poor
4.0

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%

3.0

Performance

18.0%

4.7

Cache & Architecture

10.0%

4.5

Memory & PCIe

7.0%

7.6

Power & Thermal

4.0%

7.3

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

  • 2.8
    Gaming

    Score components:

    30.0%

    3.0

    PassMark single-core benchmark score

    25.0%

    2.3

    Geekbench 6 single-core benchmark score

    20.0%

    4.3

    CPU boost clock speed

    17.0%

    1.8

    L3 cache

    8.0%

    1.8

    N. of physical cores

  • 2.2
    Video editing

    Score components:

    45.0%

    2.2

    Geekbench 6 multi-core benchmark score

    20.0%

    1.8

    N. of physical cores

    20.0%

    2.8

    CPU threads

    15.0%

    1.8

    L3 cache

  • No image
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Best prices in UK

    N/A~ £260

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 i5-8265U is a power-efficient 8th Generation Whiskey Lake quad-core processor designed for thin and light notebooks. It features 4 physical cores and 8 threads with a base clock speed of 1.6 GHz and a maximum turbo boost frequency of 3.9 GHz, supported by 6 MB of Intel Smart Cache and integrated UHD Graphics 620. Its main advantages include a balanced performance-to-power ratio with a low 15W TDP, support for 4K video playback at 60Hz, and reliable multitasking capabilities for productivity tasks. However, it is prone to thermal throttling under sustained heavy workloads due to its ultra-low voltage design and lacks the high-end graphical power required for demanding modern AAA gaming or professional 3D rendering.

Technical Specifications of processor Intel Core i5 8265U

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

4.0
Intel Core i5 8265U has a technical score of 4.02 points, which is lower than that of 80.3% 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 i5 8265U 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%

4.0

Overall score

40.0%

9.2

Price

5.6
Intel Core i5 8265U has a quality-to-price ratio of 5.6 points, which is lower than 82.6% 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 8265U 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

FCBGA1528
Intel Core i5 8265U uses the FCBGA1528 CPU socket, which is older than that of 76.7% 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 i5 8265U 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+

4
Intel Core i5 8265U has 4 CPU cores, which is fewer than 50.7% of processors and equal to 28.5% 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+

8
Intel Core i5 8265U offers 8 CPU threads, which is more than 35.3% of processors and equal to 19% 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 i5 8265U 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

3.9 GHz
Intel Core i5 8265U reaches a boost clock of 3.9 GHz which is lower than that of 65% of processors and equal to that of 3.5% 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

4 x 1.6 GHz
Intel Core i5 8265U has a base clock of 4x1.6 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 i5 8265U 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 i5 8265U 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

6 MB
Intel Core i5 8265U has an L3 cache of 6 MB which is smaller than that of 60.4% of processors and equal to that of 9.7% 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

1 MB
Intel Core i5 8265U has an L2 cache of 1 MB which is smaller than that of 67.1% of processors and equal to that of 17.6% 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

256 KB
Intel Core i5 8265U has an L1 cache of 256 KB which is smaller than that of 59.4% of processors and equal to that of 18.5% 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/LPDDR3
Intel Core i5 8265U supports DDR DDR4/LPDDR3, which is newer than that of 58.1% of processors and equal to that of 2.1% 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

2,400 MHz
Intel Core i5 8265U supports memory speeds up to 2400 MHz, which is lower than that of 63.2% of processors and equal to 12.4% 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

2,400 MHz
Intel Core i5 8265U supports JEDEC memory speeds up to 2400 MHz, which is lower than that of 74.1% 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 8265U 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 8265U includes integrated graphics. 87.6% of processors include integrated graphics.
Intel UHD Graphics 620
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 UHD Graphics 620
Intel Core i5 8265U uses the Intel UHD Graphics 620 integrated GPU, which is less advanced than that in 55.8% of processors and equal to that in 1.2% 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

24
Intel Core i5 8265U has 24 GPU execution units, which is more than 49.2% of processors and equal to 21.6% 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 8265U 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/encode), VP9 (HW decode/encode), VP8 (HW decode/encode), MPEG-2 (HW decode), VC-1
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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 i5 8265U 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 i5 8265U 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

25 W
Intel Core i5 8265U has a boost power of 25 W which is lower than that of 83.1% of processors and equal to that of 9.2% 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

28 seconds
Intel Core i5 8265U has a turbo duration of 28 seconds which is longer than that of 3.8% of processors and equal to that of 85% 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 8265U supports configurable TDP. 52.9% of processors support configurable TDP.
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Intel Core i5 8265U vs the average processor

  • 2.14x faster classroom rendering
    Intel Core i5 8265U has a lower Blender Classroom render time than the average processor (1,694.6 vs 791.745). The average processor needs 791.745 for the Blender Classroom test.
    What it is: A Blender render result based on the Classroom scene, used to show how quickly the processor can complete a demanding rendering workload.
    When it matters: When rendering speed matters for 3D work, content creation, or other workloads that behave like long multi-core renders.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >1500

    Intel Core i5 8265U has a lower Blender Classroom render time than the average processor (1,694.6 vs 791.745). The average processor needs 791.745 for the Blender Classroom test.1,694.63 vs 791.745
  • 2.21x faster Blender rendering
    Intel Core i5 8265U has a lower Blender BMW27 render time than the average processor (731.9 vs 331.88). The average processor needs 331.88 for the Blender BMW27 test.
    What it is: A Blender render result based on the BMW27 scene, used to show how quickly the processor can finish a heavy 3D rendering task.
    When it matters: When rendering speed matters for 3D work, content creation, or other workloads that behave like long multi-core renders.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >290

    Intel Core i5 8265U has a lower Blender BMW27 render time than the average processor (731.9 vs 331.88). The average processor needs 331.88 for the Blender BMW27 test.731.93 vs 331.88
  • 66.7% lower base power
    Intel Core i5 8265U 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 i5 8265U 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
  • 60.9% lower boost power
    Intel Core i5 8265U has a lower boost power draw than the average processor (25 W vs 64 W). The average processor has a boost power draw of 64 W.
    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

    Intel Core i5 8265U has a lower boost power draw than the average processor (25 W vs 64 W). The average processor has a boost power draw of 64 W.25 W vs 64 W
  • 66.7% lower TDP
    Intel Core i5 8265U 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 i5 8265U 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
  • Newer DDR support
    Intel Core i5 8265U supports a newer DDR generation than the average processor (DDR4/LPDDR3 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 8265U supports a newer DDR generation than the average processor (DDR4/LPDDR3 vs DDR4).DDR4/LPDDR3 vs DDR4
  • 2.14x faster classroom rendering
    Intel Core i5 8265U has a lower Blender Classroom render time than the average processor (1,694.6 vs 791.745). The average processor needs 791.745 for the Blender Classroom test.
  • 2.21x faster Blender rendering
    Intel Core i5 8265U has a lower Blender BMW27 render time than the average processor (731.9 vs 331.88). The average processor needs 331.88 for the Blender BMW27 test.
  • Newer DDR support
    Intel Core i5 8265U supports a newer DDR generation than the average processor (DDR4/LPDDR3 vs DDR4).
  • 66.7% lower base power
    Intel Core i5 8265U 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.
  • 60.9% lower boost power
    Intel Core i5 8265U has a lower boost power draw than the average processor (25 W vs 64 W). The average processor has a boost power draw of 64 W.
  • 66.7% lower TDP
    Intel Core i5 8265U has a lower TDP than the average processor (15 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.

Total
Performance
Memory & PCIe
Power & Thermal
  • No crypto acceleration
    Intel Core i5 8265U does not include crypto acceleration, the average processor does.
  • Narrower instruction support
    Intel Core i5 8265U supports a narrower instruction set than the average processor (MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES vs MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4A, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA).
  • Older CPU socket
    Intel Core i5 8265U uses an older CPU socket than the average processor (FCBGA1,528 vs FP2).
  • 2 year/s older release date
    Intel Core i5 8265U has an older release date than the average processor (2,018 vs 2,020).
    August 2018
  • 42.8% lower single-core score
    Intel Core i5 8265U has a lower Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (842 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.
  • 54.3% weaker multi-core performance
    Intel Core i5 8265U has a lower multi-core performance than the average processor (1,271 vs 2,783). The average processor scores 2,783 in Cinebench R20 multi-core.
  • 18.8% weaker single-core performance
    Intel Core i5 8265U has a lower PassMark single-core score than the average processor (2,015 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.
  • 2 fewer CPU cores
    Intel Core i5 8265U has fewer CPU cores than the average processor (4 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.
  • 9.3% lower boost clock
    Intel Core i5 8265U has a lower boost clock speed than the average processor (3.9 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.
  • 44.9% lower PassMark score
    Intel Core i5 8265U has a lower PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (5,800 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.
  • 28.4% lower multi-core score
    Intel Core i5 8265U has a lower Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (3,434 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.
  • 50% lower bus transfer rate
    Intel Core i5 8265U has a lower bus transfer rate than the average processor (4 GT/s vs 8 GT/s). The average processor offers bus transfer rate of 8 GT/s.
  • 50% lower bus speed
    Intel Core i5 8265U has a lower bus speed than the average processor (4 GT/s vs 8 GT/s). The average processor runs at bus speed of 8 GT/s.
  • 12 lower clock multiplier
    Intel Core i5 8265U has a lower clock multiplier than the average processor (16 vs 28). The average processor has a clock multiplier of 28.
  • 16.7% larger process node
    Intel Core i5 8265U has a higher process node than the average processor (14 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.
  • 60% smaller L2 cache
    Intel Core i5 8265U has a lower L2 cache than the average processor (1 MB vs 2.5 MB). The average processor has L2 cache of 2.5 MB.
  • 50% less L2 per core
    Intel Core i5 8265U 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 i5 8265U 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.
  • 33.3% smaller L1 cache
    Intel Core i5 8265U has a lower L1 cache than the average processor (256 KB vs 384 KB). The average processor has L1 cache of 384 KB.
  • 25% smaller L3 cache
    Intel Core i5 8265U has a lower L3 cache than the average processor (6 MB vs 8 MB). The average processor has L3 cache of 8 MB.
  • 18.1% lower memory bandwidth
    Intel Core i5 8265U has a lower memory bandwidth than the average processor (37.5 GB/s vs 45.8 GB/s). The average processor offers memory bandwidth of 45.8 GB/s.
  • 18.2% lower memory speed
    Intel Core i5 8265U has a lower maximum memory speed than the average processor (2,400 MHz vs 2,933 MHz). The average processor supports memory speed of 2,933 MHz.
  • Limited PCIe bifurcation
    Intel Core i5 8265U supports less flexible PCIe bifurcation than the average processor (x4, x2/x2, x2/x1/x1 vs x16, x8/x8).
  • 42.8% lower single-core score
    Intel Core i5 8265U has a lower Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (842 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 i5 8265U has a lower Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (842 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.842 vs 1,471
  • 54.3% weaker multi-core performance
    Intel Core i5 8265U has a lower multi-core performance than the average processor (1,271 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 8265U has a lower multi-core performance than the average processor (1,271 vs 2,783). The average processor scores 2,783 in Cinebench R20 multi-core.1,271 vs 2,783
  • 18.8% weaker single-core performance
    Intel Core i5 8265U has a lower PassMark single-core score than the average processor (2,015 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 8265U has a lower PassMark single-core score than the average processor (2,015 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.2,015 vs 2,483
  • 2 fewer CPU cores
    Intel Core i5 8265U has fewer CPU cores than the average processor (4 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 8265U has fewer CPU cores than the average processor (4 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.4 vs 6
  • 9.3% lower boost clock
    Intel Core i5 8265U has a lower boost clock speed than the average processor (3.9 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.
    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

    Intel Core i5 8265U has a lower boost clock speed than the average processor (3.9 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.3.9 GHz vs 4.3 GHz
  • 16.7% larger process node
    Intel Core i5 8265U has a higher process node than the average processor (14 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.
    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

    Intel Core i5 8265U has a higher process node than the average processor (14 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.14 nm vs 12 nm
  • 50% less L2 per core
    Intel Core i5 8265U 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.
    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 8265U 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.0.25 MB/core vs 0.5 MB/core
  • 44.9% lower PassMark score
    Intel Core i5 8265U has a lower PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (5,800 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 i5 8265U has a lower PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (5,800 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.5,800 vs 10,532.5
Total
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Memory & PCIe

Graphic comparison of Intel Core i5 8265U and other processors

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Third-party reviews

What customers like about Intel Core i5 8265U?

  • Excellent for everyday multitasking, web browsing, and office work
  • High energy efficiency contributing to long battery life in many laptops
  • Strong burst performance due to a 3.9 GHz Turbo Boost frequency
  • Capable of light gaming (e.g., League of Legends, GTA V) with appropriate RAM/SSD
  • Quad-core/eight-thread architecture provides a significant jump over older dual-core U-series chips
  • Supports modern features like Windows 11 and virtualization for basic developer tasks

What customers dislike about Intel Core i5 8265U?

  • Performance is heavily dependent on the laptop's cooling solution; prone to thermal throttling
  • Integrated UHD Graphics 620 is weak for modern AAA gaming or heavy video rendering
  • Low 15W TDP limits sustained performance during long, heavy workloads
  • Outdated 14nm process compared to newer 10nm or 7nm architectures
  • Lacks support for newer standards like PCIe 4.0 and Wi-Fi 6E
  • Locked multiplier prevents any manual overclocking

Expert reviews

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laptopmedia.com
19/11/2019
Intel Core i3-1005G1 vs Core i5-8265U - a matter of choice

LaptopMedia's review highlights a significant trade-off between the Intel Core i5-8265U’s superior raw processing power and the Core i3-1005G1’s modern graphics efficiency, concluding that the choice depends entirely on user priorities. The Core i5-8265U (pro: ~77% faster multi-threading, 4 cores/8 threads; con: older 14nm tech) is the clear winner for heavy productivity and...Read more

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laptopmedia.com
30/04/2019
Intel Core i5-8265U vs Intel Core i5-8300H - LaptopMedia

The Intel Core i5-8300H (45W) and i5-8265U (15W) represent a choice between raw performance and power efficiency, with the former boasting a 2.30 GHz base frequency and 8MB cache versus the latter’s 1.60 GHz base and 6MB cache. While the i5-8300H is faster for sustained, heavy tasks (roughly 21% faster in multi-threaded tests), the i5-8265U keeps pace in short-burst productivity...Read more

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laptopmedia.com
05/02/2020
HP Elite Dragonfly G1 review – ultra-premium 2-in-1 weighing less than 1kg Are you looking for these reviews to compare its performance against a spec...

The HP Elite Dragonfly G1 is a premium 2-in-1 business laptop featuring a remarkably lightweight magnesium chassis (0.99 kg) and a durable, stylish "dragonfly blue" finish. Key pros include exceptional battery life exceeding 20 hours in web browsing tests, a comfortable keyboard, and a high-quality Bang & Olufsen quad-speaker system. The 13.3-inch display, while achieving high...Read more

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laptopmedia.com
19/11/2019
Intel Core i3-1005G1 vs Core i5-8265U – a matter of choice

This LaptopMedia comparison highlights the trade-offs between the 4-core Intel Core i5-8265U (Whiskey Lake) and the 2-core i3-1005G1 (Ice Lake), which are priced similarly. The i5-8265U excels in raw CPU performance, offering roughly 77% higher multi-core performance and a larger 6MB cache, making it superior for heavy multitasking, though it relies on older architecture....Read more

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laptopmedia.com
12/12/2019
Intel Core i5-1035G1 vs i5-8265U – almost the same CPU performance but the Ice Lake CPU has better iGPU

LaptopMedia finds that while the Intel Core i5-1035G1 and i5-8265U offer similar CPU performance due to identical 4C/8T configurations, the 10nm i5-1035G1 is the superior choice owing to better efficiency and faster memory support (DDR4-3200/LPDDR4-3733 vs DDR4-2400). A key advantage of the 10th-gen chip is its Intel UHD Graphics G1, which outperforms the older UHD 620 by roughly...Read more

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ultrabookreview.com
24/06/2025
Intel Core i5-1035G1 benchmarks and tests, vs i5-10210U, i5-8265U, R5 3500U

The Intel Core i5-1035G1 is a 10nm Ice Lake processor featuring 4 cores/8 threads and a 1.0 GHz base clock, providing a balanced, efficient option for thin-and-light laptops with support for Wi-Fi 6 and Thunderbolt 3. Benchmarks in an Acer Swift 3 indicate solid performance for daily tasks, though its lower base frequency can cause, in some cases, lower performance under sustained,...Read more

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laptopmedia.com
19/04/2019
Intel Core i5-8265U vs Intel Core i5-8250U – benchmarks and performance comparison

The Intel Core i5-8265U (Whiskey Lake) is an incremental update to the i5-8250U (Kaby Lake Refresh), featuring nearly identical specifications including 4 cores, 8 threads, and a 15W TDP, with the main difference being the i5-8265U's higher 3.90 GHz maximum boost clock. Despite this, benchmark results reveal negligible real-world differences, as short-term thermal limitations often...Read more

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techradar.com
30/04/2019
Acer Swift 5 review - Page 2 - TechRadar

The Acer Swift 5 is highlighted as a remarkably capable, ultra-light (2.2 lbs) productivity machine with a high-quality 15.6-inch Full HD touchscreen and responsive, though limited, performance via its Intel Core i5-8265U processor. Commendable battery life and good display brightness make it suitable for on-the-go professional work, though the 8GB of RAM can struggle under heavy,...Read more

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laptopmedia.com
11/12/2018
Acer Aspire 5 (A515-52G) review - they turned a multimedia beast into a flop

The Acer Aspire 5 A515-52G is characterized as a significant regression from its predecessor, despite adopting a lighter, more compact 1.9kg design with slim bezels. While the unit provides good internal expandability with two RAM slots and an M.2 slot, it suffers from poor thermal management, featuring a single, shared heatpipe that triggers CPU throttling and limits GPU...Read more

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notebookcheck.com
28/04/2019
Asus VivoBook 14 (i5-8265U, MX230, FHD) Laptop Review - Notebookcheck

The Notebookcheck review of the Asus VivoBook 14 (S431FA/FN) highlights a stylish, compact laptop with an Intel Core i5-8265U, dedicated NVIDIA GeForce MX230 graphics, and a 14-inch screen with thin bezels. Pros include comfortable ErgoLift hinge typing, fast IR camera, and efficient fast-charging. Cons, however, feature a dull, dim display, average battery life, and weak,...Read more

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notebooks-und-mobiles.de
30. Januar 2019
Intel Core i5-8265U (Whiskey Lake) Review - Laptops and Mobile Devices

The Intel Core i5-8265U "Whiskey Lake" processor offers a refined 14nm++ process over the Kaby Lake Refresh, boasting higher Turbo Boost speeds of up to 3.9 GHz. Key advantages include superior single-thread performance with a roughly 10% gain in application responsiveness, alongside a power-efficient 15W TDP suitable for thin-and-light laptops. The processor maintains high...Read more

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C
computerbase.de
29/11/2018
Intel Core i5-8265U & i3-8145U Review", "Intel Core i5-8265U & i3-8145U Benchmark Test

The ComputerBase review of Intel's Whiskey Lake highlights these 8th-gen processors, such as the Core i7-8565U and i5-8265U, as a refined stop-gap solution rather than a major architectural leap. Utilizing an optimized 14nm++ process, the lineup achieves higher turbo clock speeds up to 4.6 GHz, while integrating Gigabit Wi-Fi (802.11ac) and USB 3.1 Gen 2 directly into the chipset....Read more

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V
valid.x86.fr
12/11/2019
CPU-Z Benchmark for Intel Core i5-8265U (8T) - CPU-Z VALIDATOR

The CPU-Z benchmark result for the Intel Core i5-8265U (Whiskey Lake) at valid.x86.fr displays single-thread performance of roughly 440 points and multi-thread performance of 1900 points. This 15W TDP, quad-core processor is designed for efficient, thin-and-light laptops, emphasizing mobile productivity over high-performance workloads. CPU-Z VALIDATORPros of this processor include...Read more

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V
valid.x86.fr
04/09/2019
CPU-Z Benchmark for Intel Core i5-8265U (1T) - CPU-Z VALIDATOR

The Intel Core i9-14900KS, validated in this CPU-Z result, is a flagship 24-core (8 E), 32-thread Raptor Lake processor featuring a record-breaking 6.2 GHz boost clock on the LGA 1700 platform. It represents the absolute limit of current silicon binning, offering superior single-threaded performance and 36 MB of L3 cache, making it a top-tier choice for enthusiasts. HotHardwarePros...Read more

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laptopmedia.com
05/12/2019
All our articles with the Intel Core i5-8265U tag - LaptopMedia

The Intel Core i5-8265U is a 14nm++ Whiskey Lake-U processor featuring four cores, eight threads, and a 15W TDP tailored for thin-and-light laptops, offering a base clock of 1.60 GHz and a 3.90 GHz turbo boost. It excels in short, bursty workloads, delivering strong single-core performance suitable for daily tasks and moderate photo editing, though it often relies heavily on...Read more

(Translated)Show original
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laptopmedia.com
30/03/2026
Intel Core i5-8265U - Benchmark Tests

The Intel Core i5-8265U is a quad-core Whiskey Lake processor designed for ultrabooks, serving as a slight iterative upgrade over the i5-8250U with a 15W TDP and higher 3.90 GHz Turbo Boost frequency. While it offers strong short-burst performance, its sustained performance is highly dependent on the laptop's specific cooling solution. Key pros include excellent responsiveness in...Read more

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laptopmedia.com
01/05/2019
Intel Core i7-8565U vs Intel Core i5-8265U – Benchmarks and Performance Comparison

According to LaptopMedia, the Intel Core i7-8565U and i5-8265U are similar 15W Whiskey Lake processors, though the i7 offers higher turbo frequencies (4.60 GHz vs. 3.90 GHz) and a larger 8MB cache. While the i7 provides a performance boost in short, bursty tasks like Photoshop, the performance difference is often marginal in sustained, heavy workloads, making the i5 a better value...Read more

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tweakers.net
25/03/2019
Asus Zenbook 13: The Borderless Travel Companion

The Asus ZenBook 13 (UX333) is highlighted as an exceptionally compact 13-inch laptop with ultra-thin bezels and a 50Wh battery, resulting in a small footprint and solid battery life. The device, often praised for its premium feel, features the ErgoLift hinge for improved typing and cooling, although it lacks Thunderbolt 3 and uses a microSD slot. Performance is a standout, with the...Read more

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tweakers.net
12/02/2019
Acer Swift 5 Review - Feather-light with a 15-inch screen

The Acer Swift 5 (SF515-51T) review by Tweakers highlights a remarkably portable 15.6-inch laptop weighing only 990 grams, achieved through a magnesium-lithium alloy chassis. While offering a vibrant Full HD IPS display with thin bezels and excellent battery life (up to 11 hours), the ultra-light construction feels less premium and somewhat like plastic. Performance is solid for...Read more

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tweakers.net
13/10/2018
HP Pavilion 13: The first Whiskey Lake benchmarks

The HP Pavilion 13, the first laptop reviewed by Tweakers featuring an Intel Whiskey Lake processor, offers underwhelming performance due to a conservative configuration. While processing power underwhelms, the device boasts a high-contrast screen and versatile connectivity with a full-size HDMI port and SD card reader. The battery life, although respectable for video, is considered...Read more

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tweakers.net
30/08/2018
Asus ZenBook 13, 14, and 15: Banking on Touchpad and Keyboard (Preview)

The Asus Zenbook 13, 14, and 15 (UX333/433/533) series features a compact, premium aluminum design with incredibly thin bezels, achieving up to a 95% screen-to-body ratio on the 13-inch model. A key innovation is the "NumberPad" on the touchpad, while the ErgoLift hinge improves typing ergonomics and cooling. Performance is driven by 8th Gen "Whiskey Lake" processors, with the...Read more

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T
tweakers.net
01/10/2019
Laptop Best Buy Guide: October 2019

The Tweakers Laptop Best Buy Guide for October 2019 highlights the Lenovo IdeaPad S145 as the budget winner, praised for its Ryzen 3000-series processor and 256GB SSD, despite a plasticky build and mediocre screen. The Basic segment features the Lenovo IdeaPad S540-13API, lauded for a high-resolution 2560x1600 screen and strong performance, though the display is reflective and it...Read more

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T
tweakers.net
12/05/2019
Lenovo Yoga 730-13IWL (81JR006AMH) - Product Review

The Lenovo Yoga 730-13IWL (81JR006AMH) is a compact 13.3-inch 2-in-1 featuring a lightweight aluminum chassis, Core i7 processor, and fast NVMe storage, making it suitable for portable, everyday productivity. It boasts a vibrant Full HD IPS touchscreen supporting the Active Pen 2, alongside versatile connectivity options including Thunderbolt 3 and USB-A, plus a fingerprint scanner....Read more

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