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Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF Review | 78 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£160
Avg. price in US: ~$190
PassMark benchmark result: 43250
N. of physical cores: 14
CPU boost clock speed: 5.2 GHz

Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF review. Compare 78 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among processors and if it is worth buying.

7.6

Very good

7.4

Very good

9.0

Exceptional

8.1
Gaming
Score components:
30.0%
9.4
PassMark single-core benchmark score
25.0%
9.7
Geekbench 6 single-core benchmark score
20.0%
8.2
CPU boost clock speed
17.0%
4.4
L3 cache
8.0%
5.9
N. of physical cores
6.2
Video editing
Score components:
45.0%
7.7
Geekbench 6 multi-core benchmark score
20.0%
5.9
N. of physical cores
20.0%
4.6
CPU threads
15.0%
4.4
L3 cache

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Verdict

The Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF is a mid-range Arrow Lake desktop processor featuring 14 cores (6 Performance-cores and 8 Efficient-cores) and 14 threads, with a max turbo frequency of 5.2 GHz and 24 MB of L3 cache. Built on a 3nm process for the LGA 1851 socket, it supports up to 192 GB of DDR5-6400 memory and PCIe 5.0, while operating at a 125W base TDP (159W max turbo). Its main strengths include significantly improved power efficiency and cooler operating temperatures compared to previous generations, alongside a dedicated NPU for AI-enhanced tasks. However, it lacks integrated graphics (requiring a discrete GPU), removes Hyper-Threading which can hinder heavily threaded workloads, and often shows stagnant or regressive gaming performance compared to older 14th Gen predecessors.

Technical Specifications of processor Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF

Overall score

7.6

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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.

Platform

9.3

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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

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

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

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

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Performance

7.1

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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+

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+

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

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

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Cache & Architecture

8.9

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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

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

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

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

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

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Memory & PCIe

8.9

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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

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

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

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

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Integrated Graphics

2.8

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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

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

N/A

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

N/A

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

N/A

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

N/A

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Power & Thermal

3.8

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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

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

Boost power (PL2)

What it is: The short-term boost power limit the processor may draw under heavier turbo loads.

When it matters: When you size cooling and power delivery for peak turbo behavior.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <50 W

Tau (power duration limit)

What it is: The time limit the CPU can stay at higher boost power before dropping toward sustained power.

When it matters: When you want to understand turbo behavior under longer loads.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=28 s

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

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Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF vs the average processor

Why is Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF better than the average processor?

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90.5% better single-core performance
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF has a higher PassMark single-core score than the average processor (4,731 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 Ultra 5 245KF has a higher PassMark single-core score than the average processor (4,731 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.4,731 vs 2,483
2.25x higher single-core score
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF has a higher Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (3,307 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 Ultra 5 245KF has a higher Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (3,307 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.3,307 vs 1,471
3.58x higher multi-core score
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF has a higher Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (17,150 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 Ultra 5 245KF has a higher Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (17,150 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.17,150 vs 4,793
4.11x higher PassMark score
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF has a higher PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (43,250 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 Ultra 5 245KF has a higher PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (43,250 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.43,250 vs 10,532.5
10.4x larger L2 cache
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF has a higher L2 cache than the average processor (26 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 Ultra 5 245KF has a higher L2 cache than the average processor (26 MB vs 2.5 MB). The average processor has L2 cache of 2.5 MB.26 MB vs 2.5 MB
8 more CPU cores
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF has more CPU cores than the average processor (14 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 Ultra 5 245KF has more CPU cores than the average processor (14 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.14 vs 6
20.9% higher boost clock
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF has a higher boost clock speed than the average processor (5.2 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 Ultra 5 245KF has a higher boost clock speed than the average processor (5.2 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.5.2 GHz vs 4.3 GHz
More advanced microarchitecture
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF uses a more advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Arrow 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 Ultra 5 245KF uses a more advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Arrow Lake vs Kaby Lake).Arrow Lake vs Kaby Lake
Advanced security extensions
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF provides more advanced security extensions than the average processor (AES-NI, Secure Key, TXT, OS Guard, Boot Guard, CET, MBEC, TDT, TME, TME-MK vs AES-NI, NX bit, Secure Processor).
Modern CPU socket
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF uses a more modern CPU socket than the average processor (LGA1,851 vs FP2).
Includes crypto acceleration
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF includes crypto acceleration, the average processor does not.
4 year/s newer release date
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF has a newer release date than the average processor (2024 vs 2020).
Supports HMP
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF supports HMP, the average processor does not.
90.5% better single-core performance
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF has a higher PassMark single-core score than the average processor (4,731 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.
2.25x higher single-core score
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF has a higher Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (3,307 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.
3.58x higher multi-core score
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF has a higher Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (17,150 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.
4.11x higher PassMark score
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF has a higher PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (43,250 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.
8 more CPU cores
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF has more CPU cores than the average processor (14 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.
20.9% higher boost clock
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF has a higher boost clock speed than the average processor (5.2 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.
Unlocked for overclocking
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF has an unlocked multiplier, the average processor does not.
6 more CPU threads
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF has more CPU threads than the average processor (14 vs 8). The average processor has 8 CPU threads.
4 wider front-end design
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF has a higher front-end width than the average processor (8 vs 4). The average processor uses front-end width of 4.
14 higher clock multiplier
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF has a higher clock multiplier than the average processor (42 vs 28). The average processor has a clock multiplier of 28.
10.4x larger L2 cache
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF has a higher L2 cache than the average processor (26 MB vs 2.5 MB). The average processor has L2 cache of 2.5 MB.
More advanced microarchitecture
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF uses a more advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Arrow Lake vs Kaby Lake).
6x more L2 per core
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF has more L2 cache per core than the average processor (3 MB/core vs 0.5 MB/core). The average processor provides 0.5 MB/core of L2 cache per core.
75% smaller process node
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF has a lower process node than the average processor (3 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.
3x larger L3 cache
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF has a higher L3 cache than the average processor (24 MB vs 8 MB). The average processor has L3 cache of 8 MB.
Uses big.LITTLE design
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF uses a big.LITTLE design, the average processor does not.
More advanced foundry
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF uses a more advanced foundry process than the average processor (TSMC 3 nm vs Intel 14 nm).
3.25x larger L1 cache
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF has a higher L1 cache than the average processor (1,248 KB vs 384 KB). The average processor has L1 cache of 384 KB.
3.6x more transistors
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF has more transistors than the average processor (17.8 billion vs 4.95 billion). The average processor has 4.95 billion transistors.
Newer PCIe version
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF supports a newer PCIe version than the average processor (5 vs 3.0).
8 more PCIe lanes
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF has more PCIe lanes than the average processor (24 vs 16). The average processor offers 16 PCIe lanes.
2.24x higher memory bandwidth
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF has a higher memory bandwidth than the average processor (102.4 GB/s vs 45.8 GB/s). The average processor offers memory bandwidth of 45.8 GB/s.
3x more memory capacity
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF has more maximum memory capacity than the average processor (192 GB vs 64 GB). The average processor supports 64 GB of memory.
2.18x higher memory speed
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF has a higher maximum memory speed than the average processor (6,400 MHz vs 2,933 MHz). The average processor supports memory speed of 2,933 MHz.
Supports memory overclocking
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
Newer DDR support
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF supports a newer DDR generation than the average processor (DDR5 vs DDR4).
Higher JEDEC memory speed
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF has a higher JEDEC memory speed than the average processor (DDR5-6400 MHz vs DDR4-3200 MHz). The average processor supports JEDEC memory speed of DDR4-3200 MHz.
5 °C higher TJ Max
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF has a higher TJ Max than the average processor (105 °C vs 100 °C). The average processor has a TJ Max of 100 °C.

Cache & Architecture

Power & Thermal

Why is Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF worse than the average processor?

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43.9% weaker multi-core performance
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF has a lower multi-core performance than the average processor (1,560 vs 2,783). The average processor scores 2,783 in Cinebench R20 multi-core.
No multithreading support
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF does not support multithreading, the average processor does.
1 fewer threads per core
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF has fewer threads per core than the average processor (1 vs 2). The average processor offers 2 threads per core.
No integrated graphics
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF does not include integrated graphics, the average processor does.
2.48x higher boost power
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF has a higher boost power draw than the average processor (159 W vs 64 W). The average processor has a boost power draw of 64 W.
2.78x higher base power
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF has a higher base power draw than the average processor (125 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.
2.78x higher TDP
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF has a higher TDP than the average processor (125 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.
5 °C higher CPU temperature
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF 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.
28 seconds shorter turbo duration
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF has a lower turbo duration limit than the average processor (56 seconds vs 28 seconds). The average processor maintains turbo for 28 seconds.
2.48x higher boost power
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF has a higher boost power draw than the average processor (159 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 Ultra 5 245KF has a higher boost power draw than the average processor (159 W vs 64 W). The average processor has a boost power draw of 64 W.159 W vs 64 W
43.9% weaker multi-core performance
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF has a lower multi-core performance than the average processor (1,560 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 Ultra 5 245KF has a lower multi-core performance than the average processor (1,560 vs 2,783). The average processor scores 2,783 in Cinebench R20 multi-core.1,560 vs 2,783
2.78x higher base power
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF has a higher base power draw than the average processor (125 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 Ultra 5 245KF has a higher base power draw than the average processor (125 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.125 W vs 45 W
No multithreading support
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF does not support multithreading, the average processor does.
What it is: Lets each physical core run more than one thread at the same time, such as with Hyper-Threading or SMT.
When it matters: When multitasking, rendering, compiling, virtualization, or other thread-heavy work benefits from more total processing threads.
Importance: HIGH
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF does not support multithreading, the average processor does.
2.78x higher TDP
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF has a higher TDP than the average processor (125 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 Ultra 5 245KF has a higher TDP than the average processor (125 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.125 W vs 45 W
No integrated graphics
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF does not include integrated graphics, the average processor does.
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
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF does not include integrated graphics, the average processor does.
5 °C higher CPU temperature
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF 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.
What it is: The reported operating temperature of the processor.
When it matters: When you monitor thermals, cooling, or system stability.
Importance: LOW
Good value: <100 °C
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF 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.105 °C vs 100 °C
1 fewer threads per core
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF has fewer threads per core than the average processor (1 vs 2). The average processor offers 2 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
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF has fewer threads per core than the average processor (1 vs 2). The average processor offers 2 threads per core.1 vs 2

Integrated Graphics

Power & Thermal

Graphic comparison of Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF and other processors

Attribute category

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

What customers like about Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF?

Significantly improved power efficiency and lower power consumption compared to the 14th Gen Core i5-14600K.
Excellent thermal performance, running much cooler than previous generations and often requiring less expensive cooling solutions.
Strong multi-threaded productivity performance in specific workloads like Blender and video editing (Adobe Premiere Pro).
Support for modern standards including PCIe Gen 5, Wi-Fi 7, and Thunderbolt 4/5.
Includes a dedicated NPU (Neural Processing Unit) to offload background AI tasks.
Unlocked multiplier allows for overclocking experimentation.

What customers dislike about Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF?

Disappointing gaming performance that often trails behind both its predecessor (14600K) and AMD's Ryzen 5 9600X.
Requires a new LGA 1851 socket motherboard, leading to high total platform upgrade costs.
The 'KF' variant lacks integrated graphics, removing a useful troubleshooting backup and QuickSync capabilities.
Removal of Hyper-Threading can lead to performance regressions in certain multi-threaded applications.
Lacks DDR4 memory support, forcing an additional expense for DDR5 RAM.
Poor value proposition for gamers as older, cheaper Intel or AMD chips often provide superior frame rates.

Expert reviews

hardwarezone.com.sg

28/10/2024

Summary of the review

Intel Core Ultra 5 245K review - HardwareZone

The HardwareZone review of the Intel Core Ultra 5 245K, based on the Arrow Lake-S architecture, highlights a significant shift toward power and thermal efficiency in the mid-range market, featuring 14 cores and a dedicated NPU. While priced at roughly US$294, the chip requires a new LGA1851 socket motherboard, impacting the total upgrade cost. Performance excels in productivity and content creation, such as video encoding in Handbrake, but the processor shows mixed results in gaming, often trailing its predecessor and competitors. Key pros identified include substantial power efficiency improvements over the 14th Gen, the inclusion of an integrated GPU and NPU, and strong content creation performance. Conversely, cons include inconsistent, often poor, gaming performance compared to alternatives, a weak pricing strategy, and the high entry cost of the mandatory new platform.

windowscentral.com

24/10/2024

Summary of the review

Intel Core Ultra 5 245K review: Is this truly an affordable option?

The Windows Central review highlights the Intel Core Ultra 5 245K as a productivity-focused "Arrow Lake" chip prioritizing power efficiency, cooler operation, and AI features over major gaming performance gains. It offers a solid, yet moderate, jump in multi-core performance over the previous generation, making it suitable for compact, budget-conscious builds. However, the review notes that gaming performance is relatively flat, and the chip requires a costly shift to a new LGA 1851/Z890 motherboard. Pros include improved thermals, better efficiency, and an integrated NPU, while cons center on high platform costs, limited gaming improvements, and the removal of Hyper-Threading.

gamersnexus.net

04/11/2024

Summary of the review

Intel Core Ultra 5 245K CPU Review & Benchmarks vs 5700X3D, 13700K & More

The Gamers Nexus review characterizes the Intel Core Ultra 5 245K as a disappointing release due to significant gaming performance regressions compared to its predecessors and older competitors, often trailing the i5-14600K and AMD's Ryzen 7 5700X3D. While the 14-core (6P/8E) chip lacks Hyper-Threading, it excels in power efficiency, offering up to 47% better efficiency than the 14600K in certain tasks, alongside improved integrated Arc Xe2 graphics. Despite these efficiency gains and competitive performance in specific productivity apps, the high total platform cost of Z890 motherboards and inconsistent gaming,, marked by double-digit losses to older alternatives in titles like Rainbow Six Siege, make it a poor value proposition for consumers.

ign.com

25/10/2024

Summary of the review

Intel Core Ultra 5 245K Review - IGN

IGN's review characterizes the Intel Core Ultra 5 245K as a "dull" release, positioning it as difficult to recommend due to underwhelming gaming performance that often trails the previous Core i5-14600K. While adopting new "Arrow Lake" architecture, the processor struggles to justify its $309 price point, especially with superior options available. Pros include significantly improved power efficiency and thermal management, with the 245K running much cooler and consuming roughly 20% less power than its predecessor. It displays strength in creative, multi-threaded workloads, such as Adobe Premiere and Blender, and introduces modern, though currently limited, features like an improved integrated GPU and a dedicated NPU. Cons focus on lacklustre gaming results—showing regressions in titles like Cyberpunk 2077—and high platform costs, as the new LGA 1851 socket forces expensive Z890 motherboard upgrades. The omission of Hyper-Threading and the inclusion of a relatively weak NPU further limit the chip's appeal for gamers.

pcgamer.com

29/10/2024

Summary of the review

Intel Core Ultra 5 245K review - PC Gamer

The Intel Core Ultra 5 245K, reviewed by PC Gamer, is a 14-core Arrow Lake mid-range processor prioritizing efficiency and multi-threaded productivity over raw gaming speed. It boasts strong productivity performance and improved power efficiency, making it a good choice for small-form-factor builds, yet it lacks hyperthreading. However, the chip's gaming performance is described as inconsistent and disappointing, often losing to older Raptor Lake models and cheaper AMD alternatives. Furthermore, the requirement for a new Z890 motherboard and generally weak gaming value relative to its cost make it a niche option, as noted in the PC Gamer analysis.

techspot.com

04/11/2024

Summary of the review

Intel Core Ultra 5 245K Review: Why So Slow for Gaming? - TechSpot

According to TechSpot, the Intel Core Ultra 5 245K is a disappointing release for gaming, offering roughly 8% slower performance on average than the previous-gen Core i5-14600K and lagging behind competitors. While gaming performance is underwhelming, the 245K shows significant strengths in productivity and efficiency, delivering faster multi-core performance while using substantially less power and running cooler than its predecessor. Ultimately, despite strong productivity, the processor is hard to recommend due to poor gaming value, the high cost of the required LGA 1851 platform, and the lack of hyper-threading.

pcmag.com

25/10/2024

Summary of the review

Intel Core Ultra 5 245K Review - PCMag

The Intel Core Ultra 5 245K, a 14-core "Arrow Lake" chip featuring a new chiplet design without Hyper-Threading, delivers impressive thermal and power efficiency, running cooler and consuming less power than the 14th Gen predecessors. It boasts strong multi-threaded productivity performance, frequently outperforming competitors in rendering tasks. However, the processor suffers from disappointing gaming performance, consistently falling behind the older Core i5-14600K in tests. Additional drawbacks include the necessity for a new LGA 1851 motherboard platform. PCMag finds the chip difficult to recommend for gamers due to these performance regressions, despite its efficiency benefits for workstations.

vividrepairs.co.uk

28/01/2026

Summary of the review

Intel Core Ultra 245KF Desktop Review UK (2026)

The Vivid Repairs review of the Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF highlights a significant architectural shift with its 14-core "Arrow Lake" design, which eliminates Hyper-Threading on the new LGA 1851 socket to prioritize power efficiency over multi-threaded performance. While the processor delivers solid 1080p gaming with excellent thermals—running in the high 50s (°C)—it often trails competitors like the Ryzen 5 9600X and the previous i5-14600K in heavy productivity tasks. advantages include vastly improved power efficiency, superior operating temperatures compared to previous generations, and a competitive entry-level price point. However, the 245KF faces drawbacks, including underwhelming multi-core performance, the lack of integrated graphics, and the requirement for expensive new Z890 motherboards, reducing its overall value proposition compared to AMD's AM5 platform.

cpubenchmark.net

23/03/2026

Summary of the review

Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF - CPU Benchmarks

The Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF is a 14-core, 14-thread "Arrow Lake" desktop processor lacking Hyper-Threading, designed for the new LGA 1851 socket. It operates at a 125W base power with boost speeds up to 5.2 GHz, with this specific KF variant requiring a discrete GPU. While offering significant improvements in energy efficiency and cooler operating temperatures compared to 14th Gen chips, it faces stiff competition and generally trails the 14600K in gaming performance. Pros include high efficiency, improved thermals, and solid productivity performance, while cons focus on weak gaming value, required platform upgrade, and lack of integrated graphics. For more details, visit PassMark.

hardwarecooking.fr

24/10/2024

Summary of the review

Intel Core Ultra 5 245K Review: A good CPU after all

The Intel Core Ultra 5 245K, reviewed by HardwareCooking, introduces the "Arrow Lake" architecture and LGA 1851 socket, highlighting exceptional energy efficiency and lower operating temperatures compared to the 14600K. However, the processor shows a significant regression in gaming performance, trailing predecessors and AMD's Ryzen 9000 series by up to 17%. While multi-threaded productivity performance remains strong despite the removal of Hyper-Threading, the new tile-based architecture introduces increased memory latency, hindering performance in specific, latency-sensitive applications. The review identifies the integrated Xe-LPG GPU and dedicated NPU as strong points, providing value for efficient office or creative workstations. Conversely, the requirement for costly new Z890 motherboards and limited gains over previous generations make it a tough recommendation for gamers and budget-conscious users.

lesnumeriques.com

24/10/2024

Summary of the review

Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF Review - Les Numériques

The Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF introduces the "Arrow Lake" architecture, featuring 14 cores (6 E) and 14 threads, removing Hyper-Threading while adopting a new tile-based design on the LGA 1851 socket. A major highlight is its superior energy efficiency and thermal management, with significantly lower power consumption and temperatures compared to the previous generation. While offering competitive multi-core performance for productivity, the 245KF's gaming performance is disappointing, often trailing the i5-14600K and AMD alternatives. The review highlights excellent efficiency and creative workload performance as key pros, but notes lackluster gaming, higher total platform cost, and the lack of integrated graphics (on the KF model) as drawbacks. Ultimately deemed a "transitional product," the 245KF is hard to recommend for gamers due to its regressions.

pausehardware.com

03/11/2024

Summary of the review

Intel Core Ultra 5 245K Review: The Versatile Mid-Range Choice

The Intel Core Ultra 5 245K (Arrow Lake-S) reviewed by Pause Hardware prioritizes exceptional power efficiency and thermals over raw performance, utilizing a 14-core design (6 E) without Hyper-Threading. While offering solid productivity gains (7–9% over the 14600K) and strong integrated graphics, the processor frequently underperforms in gaming by 8–14% compared to competitors. Key pros include significantly lower temperatures (68°C–77°C) and reduced power consumption, contrasted by cons such as lower gaming performance and high platform costs requiring new LGA 1851 motherboards.

notebookcheck.biz

25/10/2024

Summary of the review

Intel Core Ultra 5 245K Review: The Perfect Balance of Power and Efficiency

The Intel Core Ultra 5 245K ("Arrow Lake-S") pivots from raw speed to prioritize power efficiency, utilizing 14 cores (6 E) without Hyper-Threading to deliver exceptional energy savings. While offering strong multi-core performance in productivity tasks and including a new NPU, its gaming performance is inconsistent compared to previous generations. The platform requires a new LGA 1851 motherboard, making it a mixed-value proposition despite superior thermal performance, often running well below 80°C under load.

muycomputer.com

24/10/2024

Summary of the review

Intel Core Ultra 5 245K Review: Making a Strong Impression in the Mid-Range

The Intel Core Ultra 5 245K, reviewed by MuyComputer, introduces an "Arrow Lake" architecture that prioritizes power efficiency and lower operating temperatures over raw clock speeds, utilizing 14 cores (6 E) and a 3nm chiplet design. The CPU delivers strong, competitive productivity performance for its mid-range positioning, outperforming the previous Core i5-14600K in multi-threaded tasks while operating more efficiently. While praised for its, low power consumption and robust productivity, the processor faces drawbacks including high platform costs for the required Z890 motherboard, lack of DDR4 support, and mixed gaming performance that often falls behind competitors.

profesionalreview.com

24/10/2024

Summary of the review

Intel Core Ultra 5 245K Review (Full Analysis)

The Intel Core Ultra 5 245K (Arrow Lake) shifts toward efficiency, featuring 14 cores without Hyper-Threading, a new LGA 1851 socket, an NPU, and superior thermal management compared to previous generations. While providing robust productivity performance that rivals more expensive alternatives in creative apps, its gaming performance often lags behind 14th Gen predecessors, offering lower frame rates. Pros include excellent power efficiency and low operating temperatures, while cons include underwhelming gaming results and a required, high-cost platform upgrade.

multiplayer.it

15/11/2024

Summary of the review

Intel Core Ultra 5 245K review: the mid-range CPU that fails to shine in gaming

The Intel Core Ultra 5 245K introduces a "Arrow Lake" chiplet design featuring Foveros 3D packaging and a dedicated NPU, yet offers inconsistent performance that struggles to surpass the previous generation, says Multiplayer.it. While excelling in multi-threaded productivity tasks, the CPU shows weak gaming performance at 1080p, often falling behind both AMD and older Intel alternatives. Key benefits include improved thermal efficiency and lower power consumption, though the platform is marred by high costs for the new LGA 1851 motherboard and lackluster gaming value. Multiplayer

tomshw.it

25/10/2024

Summary of the review

Intel Core Ultra 5 245K: The New Mid-Range Benchmark?", "Intel Core Ultra 5 245K: The New Standard for Mid-Range?

The Intel Core Ultra 5 245K, based on the Arrow Lake architecture with 14 cores and 14 threads, serves as a power-efficient, all-around processor for the mid-range market. It demonstrates significant gains in productivity, offering roughly 10% higher performance in Cinebench R24 while consuming significantly less power and operating at lower temperatures than previous 14th Gen Intel or competing AMD processors. However, the chip faces drawbacks, including underwhelming gaming performance that often trails the i5-14600K, the removal of Hyper-Threading, and high total platform costs due to mandatory new LGA 1851 motherboards.

tweakers.net

10/10/2024

Summary of the review

Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF Review - Faster, Cooler, and More Efficient?

The Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF review by Tweakers highlights a significant shift toward efficiency, with improved power consumption often surpassing AMD competitors. It delivers strong multi-core productivity performance, outperforming the Ryzen 5 9600X, while introducing the Z890 platform with modern PCIe 5.0 and CUDIMM support. However, the processor shows disappointing gaming performance, frequently lagging behind the older i5-14600K by about 8% due to high memory latency, resulting in inconsistent frame rates. Additionally, the lack of hyper-threading limits its capabilities in certain workloads. The 245KF offers poor value for gamers due to high platform costs, making it a better option for budget-conscious rendering rather than gaming. It sits in an "awkward spot" as a "false start" unless prices drop or software updates resolve the gaming performance issues.

tweakers.net

24/10/2024

Summary of the review

Intel is Back! Core Ultra 200 vs. Ryzen 9000

The Intel Core Ultra 200 series (Arrow Lake) marks a shift toward power efficiency, with the Core Ultra 9 285K offering competitive productivity performance against the Ryzen 9 9950X while significantly improving energy efficiency and reducing heat over previous generations. However, gaming performance trails AMD’s X3D chips, and the removal of Hyper-Threading can lead to lower performance in specific, older workloads. The platform requires a new LGA-1851 motherboard, adding to the total cost of ownership. Ultimately, the review describes the series as a stable, efficient platform that, while not a dominant "must-buy," serves as a strong alternative for users focusing on multi-core productivity tasks rather than top-tier gaming.

ct.nl

29/10/2024

Summary of the review

Intel Core Ultra 5 245K, 7 265K & 9 285K Review

The Intel Core Ultra 200S (Arrow Lake) series focuses on architectural refinement, utilizing a disaggregated chiplet design and abandoning Hyper-Threading in favor of stronger Lion Cove and Skymont cores. This approach delivers substantial power savings—up to 40% lower in certain gaming scenarios compared to 14th Gen—but results in stagnant or lower gaming performance. Key advantages include improved productivity and impressive thermal management, with the flagship Core Ultra 9 285K running around 13°C cooler than its predecessor, alongside increased multi-threaded performance and a dedicated NPU for AI. However, the series often struggles in gaming benchmarks, trailing the 14th Gen and AMD’s Ryzen 9000 series by 5-10%, which limits its appeal to gamers. Significant drawbacks stem from the requirement of a new LGA 1851 socket and expensive Z890 motherboards, coupled with a high demand for fast DDR5 memory (7200MT/s+) to see optimal performance. For the full, original review, visit CT.nl.

tweakers.net

24/10/2024

Summary of the review

Intel Core Ultra 5 245K, 7 265K and 9 285K Review

According to the Tweakers review, Intel's "Arrow Lake" Core Ultra 200S series introduces a tile-based architecture and abandons hyperthreading. The processors, including the Ultra 5 245K, Ultra 7 265K, and Ultra 9 285K, excel in energy efficiency and significantly lower operating temperatures, matching or exceeding AMD in multi-core tasks. However, this requires a new LGA1851 motherboard and DDR5 memory. Performance results are mixed, with strong productivity gains in rendering and encoding for the Ultra 9 285K, but underwhelming gaming performance that often falls behind 14th Gen chips due to high memory latency. While the Ultra 5 245K offers efficient mid-range performance, it struggles in CPU-bound gaming scenarios. Ultimately, the review describes the series as a necessary, efficient, and cooler-running reset for Intel, rather than a necessary upgrade for pure gaming. The main pros include superior power efficiency, lower heat output, and strong multi-core performance, while cons focus on lackluster gaming results, high cost of entry, and increased memory latency.

tweakers.net

29/07/2026

Summary of the review

Reviews of the 2024 Intel Core Ultra 5 - Tweakers

The 2024 Tweakers review of the Intel Core Ultra 5 245K (Arrow Lake) highlights a major shift toward efficiency, offering lower power consumption and superior operating temperatures compared to the Core i5-14600K. While the processor delivers strong multi-threaded performance in productivity tasks and includes an improved Xe-LPG integrated GPU, it falters in gaming, often performing worse than its predecessor and struggling against AMD's 9000 series. Key drawbacks include subpar gaming results, high total platform costs due to new Z890 motherboards, and limited performance gains for those already using 12th-14th Gen Intel systems.

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