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Intel Core i7 5500U Review | 78 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£310
  • Avg. price in US: ~$390
  • PassMark benchmark result: 2803
  • N. of physical cores: 2
  • CPU boost clock speed: 3.0 GHz

Intel Core i7 5500U review. Compare 78 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among processors and if it is worth buying.

3.9

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%

3.9

Technical Score

10.0%

?

User score

Poor
3.9

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%

3.1

Performance

18.0%

4.5

Cache & Architecture

10.0%

3.1

Memory & PCIe

7.0%

7.6

Power & Thermal

4.0%

6.9

Platform

1.0%

6.8

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

  • 1.9
    Gaming

    Score components:

    30.0%

    2.2

    PassMark single-core benchmark score

    25.0%

    2.4

    Geekbench 6 single-core benchmark score

    20.0%

    1.6

    CPU boost clock speed

    17.0%

    1.6

    L3 cache

    8.0%

    1.0

    N. of physical cores

  • 1.3
    Video editing

    Score components:

    45.0%

    1.1

    Geekbench 6 multi-core benchmark score

    20.0%

    1.0

    N. of physical cores

    20.0%

    1.6

    CPU threads

    15.0%

    1.6

    L3 cache

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Best prices in UK

    N/A~ £310

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 i7-5500U is a 5th Generation Broadwell-based dual-core processor designed for ultrabooks, featuring a base clock speed of 2.4 GHz with a Turbo Boost up to 3.0 GHz and 4 MB of L3 cache. Built on a 14 nm process, it includes 4 threads via Hyper-Threading, a low 15W TDP for power efficiency, and integrated Intel HD Graphics 5500. Its main advantages are its energy efficiency, which extends battery life in portable devices, and solid single-threaded performance for everyday productivity and multimedia tasks. However, it is limited by having only two physical cores, which restricts heavy multitasking, and its dated integrated graphics struggle with modern AAA gaming and intensive 4K video editing.

Technical Specifications of processor Intel Core i7 5500U

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

3.9
Intel Core i7 5500U has a technical score of 3.86 points, which is lower than that of 86.6% 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 i7 5500U 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%

3.9

Overall score

40.0%

8.9

Price

5.4
Intel Core i7 5500U has a quality-to-price ratio of 5.4 points, which is lower than 88.4% 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 i7 5500U 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 i7 5500U 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 i7 5500U 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 i7 5500U 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 i7 5500U 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 i7 5500U 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

3.0 GHz
Intel Core i7 5500U reaches a boost clock of 3.0 GHz which is lower than that of 92.9% of processors and equal to that of 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 2.4 GHz
Intel Core i7 5500U has a base clock of 2x2.4 GHz which is equal to that of 100% of processors.
Show more
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 i7 5500U 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 i7 5500U 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

4 MB
Intel Core i7 5500U has an L3 cache of 4 MB which is smaller than that of 70.2% of processors and equal to that of 14.6% 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 i7 5500U 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 i7 5500U 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

DDR3L/LPDDR3
Intel Core i7 5500U supports DDR DDR3L/LPDDR3, which is older than that of 83.2% of processors and equal to that of 0.8% 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 i7 5500U 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

1,600 MHz
Intel Core i7 5500U supports JEDEC memory speeds up to 1600 MHz, which is lower than that of 96.6% of processors and equal to 2.1% 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 i7 5500U supports up to 16 GB of memory, which is less than 91.7% of processors and equal to 6.4% of processors.
Show more
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 i7 5500U includes integrated graphics. 87.6% of processors include integrated graphics.
Intel HD Graphics 5500
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 i7 5500U 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

24
Intel Core i7 5500U 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 i7 5500U 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), VP9 (HW decode), VP8 (HW decode), MPEG-2 (HW decode/encode), VC-1 (HW decode)
Intel Core i7 5500U supports H.264 (HW decode/encode), H.265 (HW decode), VP9 (HW decode), VP8 (HW decode), MPEG-2 (HW decode/encode), VC-1 (HW decode) media codecs, which is broader support than 94.3% of processors and equal to 0.2% of processors.
Show more
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 i7 5500U 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 i7 5500U 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 i7 5500U 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 i7 5500U 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 i7 5500U supports configurable TDP. 52.9% of processors support configurable TDP.
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Intel Core i7 5500U vs the average processor

  • 53.9% smaller die size
    Intel Core i7 5500U 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 i7 5500U 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 i7 5500U 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 i7 5500U 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 i7 5500U 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 i7 5500U 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
  • 5 °C higher TJ Max
    Intel Core i7 5500U 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 i7 5500U 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 i7 5500U 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 i7 5500U 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
  • 16.7% more L3 per core
    Intel Core i7 5500U has more L3 cache per core than the average processor (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 i7 5500U has more L3 cache per core than the average processor (2 MB/core vs 1.714 MB/core). The average processor provides 1.714 MB/core of L3 cache per core.2 MB/core vs 1.714 MB/core
  • 53.9% smaller die size
    Intel Core i7 5500U has a lower die size than the average processor (82 mm² vs 178 mm²). The average processor has a die size of 178 mm².
  • 16.7% more L3 per core
    Intel Core i7 5500U has more L3 cache per core than the average processor (2 MB/core vs 1.714 MB/core). The average processor provides 1.714 MB/core of L3 cache per core.
  • 66.7% lower base power
    Intel Core i7 5500U 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 i7 5500U 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.
  • 5 °C higher TJ Max
    Intel Core i7 5500U 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 i7 5500U has a lower TDP than the average processor (15 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.

Total
Cache & Architecture
Power & Thermal
  • Older CPU socket
    Intel Core i7 5500U uses an older CPU socket than the average processor (FCBGA1,168 vs FP2).
  • 5 year/s older release date
    Intel Core i7 5500U has an older release date than the average processor (2,015 vs 2,020).
    May 2015
  • No crypto acceleration
    Intel Core i7 5500U does not include crypto acceleration, the average processor does.
  • 30.2% lower boost clock
    Intel Core i7 5500U has a lower boost clock speed than the average processor (3 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.
  • 4 fewer CPU cores
    Intel Core i7 5500U has fewer CPU cores than the average processor (2 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.
  • 33.5% weaker single-core performance
    Intel Core i7 5500U has a lower PassMark single-core score than the average processor (1,651 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.
  • 40.1% lower single-core score
    Intel Core i7 5500U has a lower Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (881 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.
  • 81.6% lower multi-core score
    Intel Core i7 5500U has a lower Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (881 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.
  • 73.4% lower PassMark score
    Intel Core i7 5500U has a lower PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (2,803 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.
  • 4 fewer CPU threads
    Intel Core i7 5500U 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 i7 5500U 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 i7 5500U 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.
  • 80% smaller L2 cache
    Intel Core i7 5500U 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 i7 5500U has a higher process node than the average processor (14 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.
  • 66.7% smaller L1 cache
    Intel Core i7 5500U 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 i7 5500U 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.
  • 50% smaller L3 cache
    Intel Core i7 5500U has a lower L3 cache than the average processor (4 MB vs 8 MB). The average processor has L3 cache of 8 MB.
  • 73.7% fewer transistors
    Intel Core i7 5500U 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 i7 5500U uses a less advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Broadwell vs Kaby Lake).
  • 44.1% lower memory bandwidth
    Intel Core i7 5500U 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 i7 5500U 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 i7 5500U supports an older PCIe version than the average processor (2 vs 3.0).
  • 4 fewer PCIe lanes
    Intel Core i7 5500U has fewer PCIe lanes than the average processor (12 vs 16). The average processor offers 16 PCIe lanes.
  • Older DDR support
    Intel Core i7 5500U supports an older DDR generation than the average processor (DDR3L/LPDDR3 vs DDR4).
  • 75% less memory capacity
    Intel Core i7 5500U has fewer maximum memory capacity than the average processor (16 GB vs 64 GB). The average processor supports 64 GB of memory.
  • Limited PCIe bifurcation
    Intel Core i7 5500U supports less flexible PCIe bifurcation than the average processor (x1/x1/x1/x1 vs x16, x8/x8).
  • 5 °C higher CPU temperature
    Intel Core i7 5500U 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.
  • 30.2% lower boost clock
    Intel Core i7 5500U has a lower boost clock speed than the average processor (3 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 i7 5500U has a lower boost clock speed than the average processor (3 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.3.0 GHz vs 4.3 GHz
  • 4 fewer CPU cores
    Intel Core i7 5500U 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 i7 5500U has fewer CPU cores than the average processor (2 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.2 vs 6
  • 33.5% weaker single-core performance
    Intel Core i7 5500U has a lower PassMark single-core score than the average processor (1,651 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 i7 5500U has a lower PassMark single-core score than the average processor (1,651 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.1,651 vs 2,483
  • 40.1% lower single-core score
    Intel Core i7 5500U has a lower Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (881 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 i7 5500U has a lower Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (881 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.881 vs 1,471
  • 81.6% lower multi-core score
    Intel Core i7 5500U has a lower Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (881 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 i7 5500U has a lower Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (881 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.881 vs 4,793
  • 73.4% lower PassMark score
    Intel Core i7 5500U has a lower PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (2,803 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 i7 5500U has a lower PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (2,803 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.2,803 vs 10,532.5
  • 80% smaller L2 cache
    Intel Core i7 5500U 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 i7 5500U 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
  • 16.7% larger process node
    Intel Core i7 5500U 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 i7 5500U 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
Total
Overall
Platform
Performance
Cache & Architecture
Memory & PCIe
Power & Thermal

Graphic comparison of Intel Core i7 5500U and other processors

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Third-party reviews

What customers like about Intel Core i7 5500U?

  • Energy efficient with a low 15W TDP, making it suitable for thin ultrabooks and improving battery life
  • Solid single-thread performance that handles everyday tasks like web browsing and office work smoothly
  • Integrated HD 5500 graphics perform better than previous generations (Haswell) for casual, low-demand gaming
  • Reliable for moderate multitasking and multimedia streaming due to Hyper-Threading support
  • Good thermal management with a high maximum operating temperature of 105°C

What customers dislike about Intel Core i7 5500U?

  • Dual-core architecture limits its performance in heavy multi-threaded applications compared to quad-core CPUs
  • Struggles with modern, intensive gaming and high-resolution (4K) video editing
  • Marginal performance gains over the cheaper Core i5-5200U, often making it poor value for the extra cost
  • Susceptible to older hardware-level security vulnerabilities like Spectre
  • Considered outdated ('dinosaur') by modern standards, lacking support for newer standards like HDMI 2.0 or AVX-512

Expert reviews

C
cpu.userbenchmark.com
30/03/2026
Intel Core i7-5500U - CPU UserBenchmarks Would you like a performance comparison between this model and its successor, or are you looking for specific...

The Intel Core i7-5500U is a 5th Generation "Broadwell" dual-core processor, featuring a 2.4 GHz base clock, 3.0 GHz turbo, and a 15W TDP designed for thin-and-light laptops. It offers modest 5–15% performance gains over Haswell processors, targeting everyday tasks, web browsing, and media consumption rather than intensive workstations. Key advantages include high energy efficiency,...Read more

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cpubenchmark.net
30/03/2026
Intel Core i7-5500U @ 2.40GHz - CPU Benchmarks (PassMark)

The Intel Core i7-5500U is a dual-core Broadwell-generation mobile processor released in early 2015, featuring a 14nm process, 2.40 GHz base frequency (3.00 GHz boost), and a 15W TDP tailored for thin laptops. While providing a moderate performance boost over the previous Haswell generation with improved Intel HD Graphics 5500, the processor is limited by its dual-core design,...Read more

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techspot.com
23/02/2015
Dell XPS 13 (2015) Review (Core i7-5500U tested) - TechSpot

The Feb 2015 TechSpot review calls the Dell XPS 13 (9343) a revolutionary, premium Ultrabook featuring a machined aluminum and carbon fiber chassis that houses a 13-inch display in an 11-inch frame. Powered by Intel's Broadwell-U processors, the laptop offers excellent performance for daily tasks and solid efficiency. Key pros include the near-borderless 1080p display and...Read more

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ultrabookreview.com
16/01/2015
Intel Core i7-5500U benchmarks (vs i7-4500U and i7-4558U) - UltraBookReview

The Intel Core i7-5500U (Broadwell-U) offers a 5–15% CPU performance boost over the i7-4500U, providing solid efficiency for everyday tasks in thin-and-light devices, though it lacks the power for heavy workstation applications. Integrated Intel HD Graphics 5500 improves performance per clock, supporting DirectX 11.2 and 24 Execution Units, yet gaming capability remains limited....Read more

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laptopmedia.com
15/01/2015
Intel Core i7-5500U review | LaptopMedia UK

The LaptopMedia review of the Intel Core i7-5500U highlights the 14nm Broadwell architecture's focus on efficiency, offering improved base frequencies and a 15W TDP ideal for ultrabooks, with pros including strong single-core performance for productivity. Integrated HD Graphics 5500 provides support for modern APIs like DirectX 11.2, but the review notes disappointing,...Read more

U
ultrabookreview.com
24/06/2015
Intel Core i5-5200U vs Core i7-5500U - which one's the better deal?

The Intel Core i7-5500U provides only a marginal 5–15% performance increase over the Core i5-5200U, with the latter offering better value and slightly higher battery efficiency for daily tasks. While the i7 boasts higher clock speeds and 33% more cache, these improvements rarely translate to a noticeable speed difference in everyday usage. However, the i7 is often bundled with...Read more

N
notebookcheck.com
16/01/2015
Broadwell: Intel Core i7-5500U Review

The Intel Core i7-5500U, based on the 14nm Broadwell architecture, is a dual-core ULV processor featuring a 2.4 GHz base clock and improved energy efficiency for thin laptops. It provides a 5–15% performance increase over the Haswell i7-4500U, featuring HD Graphics 5500 with support for DirectX 11.2, OpenCL 2.0, and OpenGL 4.3. While praised for efficiency, the chip is limited by...Read more

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laptopmedia.com
15/01/2015
Intel Core i7-5500U Review

The Intel Core i7-5500U, based on the 14nm Broadwell architecture, offers superior power efficiency and a 5–15% performance boost over the previous generation via a 15W TDP, dual-core design. Ideal for thin ultrabooks, it delivers strong single-core performance for daily tasks, though it lacks the raw power of quad-core alternatives, representing a potential limitation for heavy...Read more

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valid.x86.fr
Mars 2026
CPU-Z Benchmark for Intel Core i7-5500U (Single-Thread)

The CPU-Z validation for the AMD Ryzen 5 2600 (12nm "Pinnacle Ridge") confirms a mid-range performance profile, featuring 6 cores and 12 threads with a base clock of 3.4 GHz and boost up to 3.9 GHz. While offering solid, functional performance for basic multi-threaded tasks and older gaming, it is significantly outclassed by modern, higher-efficiency processors. Key advantages...Read more

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laptopmedia.com
15/01/2015
The New Generation of Broadwell Processors Is Here - Intel Core i7-5500U Review

The Intel Core i7-5500U, based on the 14nm Broadwell architecture, is a 15W dual-core SoC offering improved efficiency and higher base frequencies over the Haswell generation for enhanced responsiveness. The CPU delivers a noticeable performance increase for daily tasks and multitasking within tight power limits, serving as a solid option for ultrabooks. However, a key limitation is...Read more

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lesnumeriques.com
27/01/2016
Lenovo Yoga 3 14" Review: A Highly Versatile and Compact Hybrid (i7-5500U Model)

The Lenovo Yoga 3 14 is a versatile hybrid laptop with a high-quality chassis, a robust 360-degree hinge, and a responsive touchpad. Equipped with an Intel Core i7-5500U, 8GB RAM, and a 256GB SSD, it provides a snappy user experience, though it faces thermal management challenges under heavy loads, resulting in hot spots despite limited fan noise. The 14-inch Full HD IPS display...Read more

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androidpc.es
21/03/2016
REVIEW: Partaker Fanless Mini PC Core i7-5500U - AndroidPC

The Partaker fanless mini PC, featuring an Intel Core i7-5500U, is an industrial-grade desktop designed for 24/7 operation with a silent, "ice spine" heat dissipation structure. It features a rugged, brushed-aluminum alloy chassis for durability and dust resistance, making it suitable for industrial control or media consumption with 15W power consumption. Connectivity is extensive,...Read more

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laptopmedia.com
15/01/2015
Intel Core i7-5500U Review: The New Broadwell Generation Is Here

The Intel Core i7-5500U, based on the 14nm Broadwell architecture, is a dual-core, 15W ULV processor designed for thin-and-light laptops, offering a 5% to 15% performance increase over its Haswell predecessor. It features improved energy efficiency and integrated Intel HD Graphics 5500 with 24 Execution Units, supporting modern APIs for better multimedia and light gaming. While...Read more

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laptopmedia.com
02/06/2026
Specifications and benchmark tests for Intel Core i7-5500U

The Intel Core i7-5500U, based on the 14nm Broadwell architecture with a 15W TDP, offers improved single-core performance and efficiency over the previous Haswell generation, featuring 2 cores and 4 threads. According to LaptopMedia, the CPU delivers a snappier experience for daily tasks, although performance gains over the mid-range i5-5200U are often negligible, and it struggles...Read more

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laptopmedia.com
15/01/2015
The new generation Broadwell processors are here - Intel Core i7-5500U review

The Intel Core i7-5500U, based on the 14nm Broadwell architecture, offers improved efficiency with a 15W TDP, featuring two cores, four threads, and higher base frequencies (2.4GHz) than its predecessor. A key pro is the significant increase in single-core performance suitable for productivity tasks, though the integrated HD Graphics 5500, while supporting newer standards like...Read more

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tweakers.net
15/02/2016
Toshiba Satellite Radius 12 Review - Ultra HD on 12.5 inches

The Toshiba Satellite Radius 12 (P20W-C-106) is a high-end 12.5-inch convertible featuring a standout 4K Ultra HD touchscreen with Technicolor certification and nearly 100% Adobe RGB coverage, offering exceptional color accuracy. Housed in a sturdy brushed-aluminum chassis weighing around 1.3 kg, the device is powered by a sixth-gen Intel Core i7, 8GB of RAM, and a fast 256GB SSD,...Read more

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tweakers.net
01/02/2016
Laptop Best Buy Guide - February 2016

The Tweakers Laptop Best Buy Guide for February 2016 recommended laptops across three price tiers, emphasizing the shift to 6th-gen Intel processors, SSDs, and 1080p IPS displays as standards. Budget options (up to €500) prioritized screen quality, though often relied on smaller 128GB SSDs or slow HDDs. The basic €700 segment, featuring models like the HP Pavilion 15, offered solid...Read more

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hardware.info
12/01/2016
ASUS Zenbook UX305LA-FC022T review: i7 speed boost - Under the hood

The Asus Zenbook UX305LA-FC022T upgrades to an Intel Core i7-5500U processor, delivering significant performance boosts over previous Core M models while maintaining a 12.3mm thin, all-aluminum chassis. It features a 13.3-inch matte Full HD IPS display with excellent color accuracy and a strong selection of ports, including three USB 3.0 ports. While the design is premium, drawbacks...Read more

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hardware.info
15/05/2015
HP Spectre X360 13-4040nd review: better than Yoga - Core i7 / 512 GB large SSD

The HP Spectre x360 13-4040nd is a high-end 2-in-1 featuring a premium CNC-milled aluminium unibody, a robust 360-degree hinge, and a high-contrast 13.3-inch Full HD IPS touchscreen. Powered by an Intel Core i7-5500U, 8GB of RAM, and a 512GB SSD, the device excels in productivity, with its large storage and extensive connectivity—including three USB 3.0 ports, HDMI, and Mini...Read more

(Translated)Show original
T
tweakers.net
26/01/2015
Asus R556: First benchmarks with Broadwell-U

The Tweakers review of the Asus R556 highlights the transition to Intel’s Broadwell-U architecture, with the R556LA model delivering a notable performance boost over older Haswell chips despite using a familiar chassis. Evaluated as a budget-friendly machine, it receives a 7 out of 10 score for prioritizing internal hardware over premium construction. A 240GB SSD makes the system...Read more

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hardware.info
07/03/2015
Gigabyte Brix GB-BXI7H-5500 review: Brix with Broadwell power

The Gigabyte BRIX GB-BXi7H-5500 is a 0.58-liter barebones mini PC featuring an Intel Core i7-5500U ("Broadwell") processor, offering strong processing performance and excellent connectivity (USB 3.0, HDMI, Mini DisplayPort) in a compact form factor. Key advantages include its dual-storage capacity (mSATA and 2.5-inch drive) and quiet operation. Limitations include high overall cost,...Read more

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