OVERALL
SPECS
VS AVERAGE
REVIEWS
ALTERNATIVES

Intel Core Ultra 7 256V Review | 78 Data compared

double-arrow
  • Avg. price in UK: ~£740
  • Avg. price in US: ~$1,030
  • PassMark benchmark result: 19551
  • N. of physical cores: 8
  • CPU boost clock speed: 4.8 GHz

Intel Core Ultra 7 256V review. Compare 78 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among processors and if it is worth buying.

6.5

Overall score

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

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

Score components:

90.0%

6.5

Technical Score

10.0%

?

User score

Good
6.5

Technical Score

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

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

Score components:

60.0%

5.7

Performance

18.0%

8.6

Cache & Architecture

10.0%

6.0

Memory & PCIe

7.0%

7.4

Power & Thermal

4.0%

8.0

Platform

1.0%

8.3

Integrated Graphics

Good
?

User score

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

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

Score components:

70.0%

?

User reviews

30.0%

?

Popularity

  • 6.2
    Gaming

    Score components:

    30.0%

    7.7

    PassMark single-core benchmark score

    25.0%

    7.0

    Geekbench 6 single-core benchmark score

    20.0%

    7.0

    CPU boost clock speed

    17.0%

    2.7

    L3 cache

    8.0%

    3.5

    N. of physical cores

  • 3.7
    Video editing

    Score components:

    45.0%

    4.6

    Geekbench 6 multi-core benchmark score

    20.0%

    3.5

    N. of physical cores

    20.0%

    2.8

    CPU threads

    15.0%

    2.7

    L3 cache

  • No image
No image

Best prices in UK

    N/A~ £740

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 Ultra 7 256V is a premium Lunar Lake (Series 2) mobile processor featuring 8 cores (4 Performance and 4 Low-Power Efficient) and 8 threads, with a max turbo frequency of 4.8 GHz and a 12 MB L3 cache. Built on a 3nm process, it integrates 16 GB of high-speed on-package LPDDR5X-8533 memory and an Intel Arc 140V iGPU with 8 Xe2-cores. Its primary advantages include exceptional power efficiency with a 17W base TDP, a high-performance NPU delivering up to 47 TOPS for AI tasks, and impressive battery life for ultra-thin laptops. However, a significant drawback is that the 16 GB of on-package memory is non-upgradable, and its 8-thread count limits heavy multi-threaded performance compared to higher-tier workstation chips.

Technical Specifications of processor Intel Core Ultra 7 256V

Technical Score

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

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

Score components:

60.0%

?

Performance

18.0%

?

Cache & Architecture

10.0%

?

Memory & PCIe

7.0%

?

Power & Thermal

4.0%

?

Platform

1.0%

?

Integrated Graphics

6.5
Intel Core Ultra 7 256V has a technical score of 6.49 points, which is higher than that of 73.8% 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 Ultra 7 256V has a popularity of 1 points, which is higher than 0% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

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

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

Score components:

60.0%

6.5

Overall score

40.0%

6.6

Price

6.5
Intel Core Ultra 7 256V has a quality-to-price ratio of 6.5 points, which is higher than 53% 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 Ultra 7 256V 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

FCBGA2833
Intel Core Ultra 7 256V uses the FCBGA2833 CPU socket, which is older than that of 64.2% of processors and equal to that of 0.6% 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 Ultra 7 256V 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.
Show more
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+

8
Intel Core Ultra 7 256V has 8 CPU cores, which is more than 63.4% of processors and equal to 13.6% 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+

8
Intel Core Ultra 7 256V 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

1
Intel Core Ultra 7 256V offers 1 threads per core, which is fewer than 69.7% of processors and equal to 30.3% 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

4.8 GHz
Intel Core Ultra 7 256V reaches a boost clock of 4.8 GHz which is higher than that of 71.2% of processors and equal to that of 4.3% 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 2.2 GHz & 4 x 2.2 GHz
Intel Core Ultra 7 256V has a base clock of 4x2.2 GHz & 4x2.2 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

3 nm
Intel Core Ultra 7 256V uses a 3 nm process node, which is more advanced than that of 96% of processors and equal to that of 4% 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

TSMC 3 nm
Intel Core Ultra 7 256V is built on the TSMC 3 nm foundry process, which is more advanced than that of 96.2% of processors and equal to that of 3.8% of processors.
L3 cache
What it is: The total amount of L3 cache available on the processor.
When it matters: When you want better performance in cache-sensitive workloads and games.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=16 MB

12 MB
Intel Core Ultra 7 256V has an L3 cache of 12 MB which is larger than that of 54.4% of processors and equal to that of 9% of processors.
L2 cache
What it is: The total amount of L2 cache available across the processor.
When it matters: When you want to compare CPU design efficiency and how much fast intermediate cache the cores have available.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=6 MB

14 MB
Intel Core Ultra 7 256V has an L2 cache of 14 MB which is larger than that of 87.5% of processors and equal to that of 2.2% 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

1,408 KB
Intel Core Ultra 7 256V has an L1 cache of 1408 KB which is larger than that of 92.9% of processors and equal to that of 1.4% of processors.
Show more
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

LPDDR5X
Intel Core Ultra 7 256V supports DDR LPDDR5X, which is newer than that of 89.9% of processors and equal to that of 1.5% of processors.
Maximum memory speed
What it is: The highest official memory speed supported by the processor.
When it matters: When you choose RAM and want to know the supported speed ceiling.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >=4800 MHz

8,533 MHz
Intel Core Ultra 7 256V supports memory speeds up to 8533 MHz, which is higher than that of 99.1% of processors and equal to 0.9% 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

LPDDR5X-8533 MHz
Intel Core Ultra 7 256V supports JEDEC memory speeds up to LPDDR5X-8533 MHz, which is higher than that of 99.2% of processors and equal to 0.8% 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

16 GB
Intel Core Ultra 7 256V 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 Ultra 7 256V includes integrated graphics. 87.6% of processors include integrated graphics.
Integrated GPU model
What it is: The model name of the integrated graphics processor, if present.
When it matters: When you plan to use the CPU's built-in graphics.

Importance: MEDIUM

Intel Arc Graphics 140V
Intel Core Ultra 7 256V uses the Intel Arc Graphics 140V integrated GPU, which is more advanced than that in 87.5% of processors and equal to that in 0.3% of processors.
Integrated GPU execution units
What it is: The number of execution units available in the integrated graphics part of the processor.
When it matters: When you plan to rely on built-in graphics and want a better sense of its light gaming, display, or media capability.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=24

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

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=350 MHz

600 MHz
Intel Core Ultra 7 256V has an integrated GPU clock of 600 MHz which is higher than that of 83.1% of processors and equal to that of 0.7% 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

VP9 (HW decode/encode), VVC (HW decode)
Intel Core Ultra 7 256V supports VP9 (HW decode/encode), VVC (HW decode) media codecs, which is broader support than 53.9% 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

17 W
Intel Core Ultra 7 256V has a TDP of 17 W which is lower than that of 76.1% of processors and equal to that of 1.4% 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

17 W
Intel Core Ultra 7 256V has a base power of 17 W which is lower than that of 75.7% of processors and equal to that of 1.4% 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

37 W
Intel Core Ultra 7 256V has a boost power of 37 W which is lower than that of 73.3% of processors and equal to that of 1% of processors.
Tau (power duration limit)
What it is: The time limit the CPU can stay at higher boost power before dropping toward sustained power.
When it matters: When you want to understand turbo behavior under longer loads.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=28 s

28 seconds
Intel Core Ultra 7 256V 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 Ultra 7 256V supports configurable TDP. 52.9% of processors support configurable TDP.
cTDP: 1 W
Show more

Intel Core Ultra 7 256V vs the average processor

  • 62% better single-core performance
    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V has a higher PassMark single-core score than the average processor (4,022 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 7 256V has a higher PassMark single-core score than the average processor (4,022 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.4,022 vs 2,483
  • More advanced microarchitecture
    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V uses a more advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Lunar 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 7 256V uses a more advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Lunar Lake vs Kaby Lake).Lunar Lake vs Kaby Lake
  • 5.6x larger L2 cache
    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V has a higher L2 cache than the average processor (14 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 7 256V has a higher L2 cache than the average processor (14 MB vs 2.5 MB). The average processor has L2 cache of 2.5 MB.14 MB vs 2.5 MB
  • 63.6% higher single-core score
    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V has a higher Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (2,407 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 7 256V has a higher Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (2,407 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.2,407 vs 1,471
  • 5x more L2 per core
    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V has more L2 cache per core than the average processor (2.5 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 Ultra 7 256V has more L2 cache per core than the average processor (2.5 MB/core vs 0.5 MB/core). The average processor provides 0.5 MB/core of L2 cache per core.2.5 MB/core vs 0.5 MB/core
  • Newer PCIe version
    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V supports a newer PCIe version than the average processor (5 vs 3.0).
    What it is: The newest PCIe generation the processor can use directly for graphics cards, SSDs, and other high-speed expansion devices.
    When it matters: When you want support for newer GPUs or SSDs, or more bandwidth for high-speed expansion hardware.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: 4.0

    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V supports a newer PCIe version than the average processor (5 vs 3.0).5.0 vs 3.0
  • 2.91x higher memory speed
    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V has a higher maximum memory speed than the average processor (8,533 MHz vs 2,933 MHz). The average processor supports memory speed of 2,933 MHz.
    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

    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V has a higher maximum memory speed than the average processor (8,533 MHz vs 2,933 MHz). The average processor supports memory speed of 2,933 MHz.8533 MHz vs 2933 MHz
  • 75% smaller process node
    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V has a lower process node than the average processor (3 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 Ultra 7 256V has a lower process node than the average processor (3 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.3 nm vs 12 nm
  • 4 year/s newer release date
    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V has a newer release date than the average processor (2,024 vs 2,020).
  • Supports HMP
    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V supports HMP, the average processor does not.
  • 62% better single-core performance
    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V has a higher PassMark single-core score than the average processor (4,022 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.
  • 63.6% higher single-core score
    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V has a higher Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (2,407 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.
  • 2x higher multi-core score
    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V has a higher Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (9,601 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.
  • 11.6% higher boost clock
    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V has a higher boost clock speed than the average processor (4.8 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.
  • 85.6% higher PassMark score
    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V has a higher PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (19,551 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.
  • 2 more CPU cores
    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V has more CPU cores than the average processor (8 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.
  • 4 wider front-end design
    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V has a higher front-end width than the average processor (8 vs 4). The average processor uses front-end width of 4.
  • More advanced microarchitecture
    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V uses a more advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Lunar Lake vs Kaby Lake).
  • 5.6x larger L2 cache
    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V has a higher L2 cache than the average processor (14 MB vs 2.5 MB). The average processor has L2 cache of 2.5 MB.
  • 5x more L2 per core
    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V has more L2 cache per core than the average processor (2.5 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 7 256V has a lower process node than the average processor (3 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.
  • Uses big.LITTLE design
    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V uses a big.LITTLE design, the average processor does not.
  • More advanced foundry
    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V uses a more advanced foundry process than the average processor (TSMC 3 nm vs Intel 14 nm).
  • 3.67x larger L1 cache
    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V has a higher L1 cache than the average processor (1,408 KB vs 384 KB). The average processor has L1 cache of 384 KB.
  • 50% larger L3 cache
    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V has a higher L3 cache than the average processor (12 MB vs 8 MB). The average processor has L3 cache of 8 MB.
  • Newer PCIe version
    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V supports a newer PCIe version than the average processor (5 vs 3.0).
  • 2.91x higher memory speed
    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V has a higher maximum memory speed than the average processor (8,533 MHz vs 2,933 MHz). The average processor supports memory speed of 2,933 MHz.
  • 2.97x higher memory bandwidth
    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V has a higher memory bandwidth than the average processor (136 GB/s vs 45.8 GB/s). The average processor offers memory bandwidth of 45.8 GB/s.
  • Newer DDR support
    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V supports a newer DDR generation than the average processor (LPDDR5X vs DDR4).
  • Better integrated GPU
    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V uses a better integrated GPU than the average processor (Intel Arc Graphics 140V vs Intel UHD Graphics 630).
  • 71.4% higher GPU clock speed
    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V has a higher integrated GPU frequency than the average processor (600 MHz vs 350 MHz). The average processor has integrated GPU frequency of 350 MHz.
  • 62.2% lower base power
    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V has a lower base power draw than the average processor (17 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.
  • 42.2% lower boost power
    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V has a lower boost power draw than the average processor (37 W vs 64 W). The average processor has a boost power draw of 64 W.
  • 62.2% lower TDP
    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V has a lower TDP than the average processor (17 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.

Total
Platform
Performance
Cache & Architecture
Memory & PCIe
Integrated Graphics
Power & Thermal
  • No multithreading support
    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V does not support multithreading, the average processor does.
  • 1 fewer threads per core
    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V has fewer threads per core than the average processor (1 vs 2). The average processor offers 2 threads per core.
  • 6 lower clock multiplier
    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V has a lower clock multiplier than the average processor (22 vs 28). The average processor has a clock multiplier of 28.
  • 12.5% less L3 per core
    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V 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.
  • 8 fewer PCIe lanes
    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V has fewer PCIe lanes than the average processor (8 vs 16). The average processor offers 16 PCIe lanes.
  • 75% less memory capacity
    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V has fewer maximum memory capacity than the average processor (16 GB vs 64 GB). The average processor supports 64 GB of memory.
  • Narrower media codec support
    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V supports fewer media codecs than the average processor (VP9 (HW decode/encode), VVC (HW decode) vs H.264 (HW decode/encode), H.265 (HW decode/encode), VP9 (HW decode/encode), AV1 (HW decode)).
  • No multithreading support
    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V 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 7 256V does not support multithreading, the average processor does.
  • 8 fewer PCIe lanes
    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V has fewer PCIe lanes than the average processor (8 vs 16). The average processor offers 16 PCIe lanes.
    What it is: The number of PCIe lanes provided directly by the processor.
    When it matters: When you connect fast GPUs, SSDs, or expansion cards.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >=20

    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V has fewer PCIe lanes than the average processor (8 vs 16). The average processor offers 16 PCIe lanes.8 vs 16
  • 75% less memory capacity
    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V has fewer maximum memory capacity than the average processor (16 GB vs 64 GB). The average processor supports 64 GB of memory.
    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

    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V has fewer maximum memory capacity than the average processor (16 GB vs 64 GB). The average processor supports 64 GB of memory.16 GB vs 64 GB
  • 12.5% less L3 per core
    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V 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.
    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 Ultra 7 256V 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.1.5 MB/core vs 1.714 MB/core
  • 2.96x more expensive
    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V is more expensive than the average processor (£740 vs £250).
    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V is more expensive than the average processor (£740 vs £250).£740 vs £250
  • 1 fewer threads per core
    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V 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 7 256V has fewer threads per core than the average processor (1 vs 2). The average processor offers 2 threads per core.1 vs 2
  • Narrower media codec support
    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V supports fewer media codecs than the average processor (VP9 (HW decode/encode), VVC (HW decode) vs H.264 (HW decode/encode), H.265 (HW decode/encode), VP9 (HW decode/encode), AV1 (HW decode)).
    What it is: The hardware media formats the processor can encode or decode directly.
    When it matters: When you stream, edit video, or rely on hardware media acceleration.

    Importance: LOW

    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V supports fewer media codecs than the average processor (VP9 (HW decode/encode), VVC (HW decode) vs H.264 (HW decode/encode), H.265 (HW decode/encode), VP9 (HW decode/encode), AV1 (HW decode)).VP9 (HW decode/encode), VVC (HW decode) vs H.264 (HW decode/encode), H.265 (HW decode/encode), VP9 (HW decode/encode), AV1 (HW decode)
  • 6 lower clock multiplier
    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V has a lower clock multiplier than the average processor (22 vs 28). The average processor has a clock multiplier of 28.
    What it is: The ratio used to derive CPU frequency from the base clock.
    When it matters: When you tune or compare overclocking behavior.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: >33

    Intel Core Ultra 7 256V has a lower clock multiplier than the average processor (22 vs 28). The average processor has a clock multiplier of 28.22 vs 28
Total
Overall
Performance
Cache & Architecture
Memory & PCIe
Integrated Graphics

Graphic comparison of Intel Core Ultra 7 256V and other processors

Attribute category
Attribute
No results found

Third-party reviews

What customers like about Intel Core Ultra 7 256V?

  • Exceptional power efficiency and low power draw (17W base TDP)
  • Significant gains in battery life, with some laptops reaching 14–16 hours of real-world use
  • Improved integrated Intel Arc 140V graphics, capable of handling modern games at 1080p
  • Strong single-core performance, outperforming previous U-series chips and some higher-TDP competitors
  • Dedicated NPU with 47 TOPS for local AI acceleration and enhanced multitasking
  • Lower operating temperatures and improved thermal management compared to previous generations

What customers dislike about Intel Core Ultra 7 256V?

  • Limited multi-threaded performance due to having only 8 cores and no Hyper-Threading
  • Memory is on-package (16GB for the 256V), meaning it cannot be upgraded later
  • Multi-core benchmarks often trail behind AMD Ryzen AI 9 and Apple M-series chips
  • Performance is highly dependent on the laptop's specific TDP configuration (ranging from 17W to 32W)
  • Not a top-tier choice for heavy gaming or intensive 3D rendering compared to H-series or discrete GPUs

Expert reviews

P
phoronix.com
15/05/2025
Intel Core Ultra 7 256V "Lunar Lake" Linux Performance In Mid-2025 vs. Launch Day Would you like to see how the integrated Arc 140V GPU in this specif...

Mid-2025 testing of the Intel Core Ultra 7 256V "Lunar Lake" on Linux reveals a significant performance turnaround, with roughly 20% gains since launch driven by advancements in the Linux 6.14 kernel and Mesa 25.2-devel. While initial performance was underwhelming, these software updates allow the processor to finally outperform Meteor Lake, with Xe2 graphics showing a notable 32%...Read more

O
openbenchmarking.org
29/03/2026
Intel Core Ultra 7 256V Benchmarks, Linux Performance

The Intel Core Ultra 7 256V ("Lunar Lake") is a low-power, 3nm processor featuring a 4 E core configuration without hyper-threading, prioritizing extreme efficiency with a 17W-37W TDP. A major pro is its on-package memory (16GB LPDDR5X-8533) and strong integrated Arc 140V Xe2 graphics, delivering high-end iGPU performance and AI capabilities (45-47 TOPS NPU) while consuming...Read more

B
browser.geekbench.com
29/03/2026
Intel Core Ultra 7 256V Benchmarks - Geekbench Browser

The Intel Core Ultra 7 256V ("Lunar Lake") is an 8-core/8-thread processor (4 E) designed for energy-efficient, thin-and-light laptops, featuring on-package LPDDR5X-8533 memory. Geekbench 6 tests indicate single-core scores around 2,600-2,700 and multi-core scores near 10,500-11,000, with a 2.2 GHz base and 4.8 GHz boost clock. Pros include high single-threaded performance that...Read more

C
cpubenchmark.net
29/03/2026
Intel Core Ultra 7 256V - CPU PassMark Benchmarks

The Intel Core Ultra 7 256V ("Lunar Lake") is a power-efficient mobile processor designed for thin-and-light laptops, featuring 8 cores (4P + 4E) and 8 threads with integrated 16GB LPDDR5X-8533 memory. Key advantages include a 17W base power for high efficiency, strong single-core speeds up to 4.8 GHz, robust integrated Intel Arc Graphics 140V, and a 47 TOPS NPU for AI tasks....Read more

L
laptopmedia.com
29/03/2026
Intel Core Ultra 7 256V - Benchmark tests (Cinebench, Geekbench)

The Intel Core Ultra 7 256V is designed for power-efficient, thin-and-light laptops, featuring an 8-core/8-thread (4 E) configuration on a 3nm process with a 17W base TDP. It delivers snappy single-core performance suitable for daily productivity and AI tasks, though it offers modest multi-core capability compared to high-power alternatives. Key strengths include exceptional battery...Read more

P
phoronix.com
21/10/2024
Intel Core Ultra 7 256V Lunar Lake With ASUS Zenbook S 14 (UX5406) Linux Benchmarks

A Phoronix review of the ASUS Zenbook with Intel Core Ultra 7 256V (Lunar Lake) reveals that an ASUS Intelligent Performance Technology (AIPT) patch significantly resolves a "whisper mode" bug that previously crippled Linux performance. Applying this patch enables "Standard" mode, resulting in a 22% overall performance boost and substantial gains for the Xe2 Arc Graphics, allowing...Read more

P
phoronix.com
15/05/2025
Intel Core Ultra 7 256V "Lunar Lake" Linux Performance In Mid-2025

Mid-2025 benchmarks indicate a significant maturation of Intel Lunar Lake (Core Ultra 200V) performance on Linux, with recent 6.14 kernel and Mesa 25.0 driver updates delivering up to a 20% CPU performance boost and 32% improved Xe2 graphics over the initial launch state. The platform now offers highly competitive, industry-leading power efficiency (often around 3 Watts during web...Read more

V
valid.x86.fr
Mars 2026
CPU-Z Single-Thread Benchmark for Intel Core Ultra 7 256V: Looking for tests on a specific laptop model?

The AMD Ryzen 7 5700X3D, featured in the CPU-Z benchmark, is an 8-core/16-thread Zen 3 processor utilizing 96 MB of L3 cache to deliver high-end gaming performance for the AM4 platform. With typical scores of ~550 single-thread and ~5,700 multi-thread, it operates at lower clock speeds (3.0-4.1 GHz) than the 5800X3D, yet offers nearly identical gaming performance at a lower price...Read more

(Translated)Show original
L
laptopmedia.com
20/09/2024
Intel Core Ultra 7 256V: Specifications and Benchmark Tests

The Intel Core Ultra 7 256V, based on the Lunar Lake architecture, prioritizes efficiency and portability, featuring highly integrated Intel Arc Graphics 140V for strong iGPU performance in games like Genshin Impact. A major advantage is the updated NPU, which offers up to 48 TOPS for AI tasks, alongside impressive power efficiency derived from a 3nm process and a low 17W TDP....Read more

(Translated)Show original
T
tweakers.net
07/04/2025
Arrow Lake H is a significant upgrade - Benchmarks

The Asus Zenbook Duo (2025) with the Intel Core Ultra 9 285H offers a major boost in dual-screen productivity, driven by the improved multi-threaded performance of the "Arrow Lake-H" architecture. It retains the 14-inch dual OLED setup, offering high versatility and a sturdy build, with pros including excellent screen quality and a superior typing experience. The 285H chip brings...Read more

(Translated)Show original
T
tweakers.net
03/09/2024
Intel launches frontal assault on Qualcomm - Intel Lunar Lake

Intel's Lunar Lake (Core Ultra Series 2) processor targets the efficiency market, utilizing on-package memory to significantly improve battery life, which in some cases exceeds 20 hours. The architecture moves to an 8-core, non-hyperthreaded configuration focusing on peak efficiency for everyday productivity over raw multi-threaded performance. A major benefit is the new Xe2-LPG...Read more

(Translated)Show original

Video reviews

Best alternatives

intel-core-ultra-9-285k
Intel Core Ultra 9 285K

Processors

8.9
amd-ryzen-threadripper-pro-9965wx
AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 9965WX

Processors

8.8
amd-ryzen-threadripper-pro-9995wx
AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 9995WX

Processors

8.8
amd-ryzen-threadripper-9960x
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 9960X

Processors

8.8
amd-ryzen-threadripper-7970x
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 7970X

Processors

8.7
amd-ryzen-threadripper-pro-9985wx
AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 9985WX

Processors

8.7
intel-core-ultra-9-285
Intel Core Ultra 9 285

Processors

8.6
amd-ryzen-threadripper-pro-9975wx
AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 9975WX

Processors

8.6
amd-ryzen-threadripper-pro-7985wx
AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 7985WX

Processors

8.6
amd-ryzen-9-9950x3d
AMD Ryzen 9 9950x3d

Processors

8.6
intel-core-i9-13900k
Intel Core i9 13900K

Processors

8.5
amd-ryzen-threadripper-pro-7965wx
AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 7965WX

Processors

8.5

Compare Intel Core Ultra 7 256V with other processors

VS
VS

Compare