OVERALL

SPECS

VS AVERAGE

REVIEWS

ALTERNATIVES

Intel Core Ultra 7 256V Review | 78 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£740
Avg. price in US: ~$1,030
PassMark benchmark result: 19,551
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

Good

6.5

Good

?

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

#158 in Best Mobile CPUs

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

Overall score

6.5

Show more

Hide

?

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

8.0

Show more

Hide

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

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

Show more

Performance

5.7

Show more

Hide

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

Show more

Cache & Architecture

8.6

Show more

Hide

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

Show more

Memory & PCIe

6.0

Show more

Hide

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

Show more

Integrated Graphics

8.3

Show more

Hide

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

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

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

Show more

Power & Thermal

7.4

Show more

Hide

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

Show more

Intel Core Ultra 7 256V vs the average processor

Why is Intel Core Ultra 7 256V better than the average processor?

Show more

Hide

62% better single-core performance
Intel Core Ultra 7 256V has a higher PassMark single-core score than the average processor (4022 vs 2483). The average processor scores 2483 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 (4022 vs 2483). The average processor scores 2483 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 (2407 vs 1471). The average processor scores 1471 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 (2407 vs 1471). The average processor scores 1471 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 (8533 MHz vs 2933 MHz). The average processor supports memory speed of 2933 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 (8533 MHz vs 2933 MHz). The average processor supports memory speed of 2933 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
Advanced security extensions
Intel Core Ultra 7 256V provides more advanced security extensions than the average processor (AES-NI, SHA, NX bit, Secure Key, TXT, OS Guard, Boot Guard, CET, MBEC, TDT, TME, TME-MK vs AES-NI, NX bit, Secure Processor).
4 year/s newer release date
Intel Core Ultra 7 256V has a newer release date than the average processor (2024 vs 2020).
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 (4022 vs 2483). The average processor scores 2483 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 (2407 vs 1471). The average processor scores 1471 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 (9601 vs 4793). The average processor scores 4793 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 (19551 vs 10532.5). The average processor scores 10532.5 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 (1408 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 (8533 MHz vs 2933 MHz). The average processor supports memory speed of 2933 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).
Higher JEDEC memory speed
Intel Core Ultra 7 256V has a higher JEDEC memory speed than the average processor (LPDDR5X-8533 MHz vs DDR4-3200 MHz). The average processor supports JEDEC memory speed of DDR4-3200 MHz.
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.

Cache & Architecture

Integrated Graphics

Power & Thermal

Why is Intel Core Ultra 7 256V worse than the average processor?

Show more

Hide

Narrower instruction support
Intel Core Ultra 7 256V supports a narrower instruction set than the average processor (SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, AVX-512, FMA3, AES, AMX vs MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4A, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA).
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
Narrower instruction support
Intel Core Ultra 7 256V supports a narrower instruction set than the average processor (SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, AVX-512, FMA3, AES, AMX vs MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4A, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA).
What it is: The supported CPU instruction sets and extensions.
When it matters: When you run software that depends on specific CPU instructions.
Importance: MEDIUM
Intel Core Ultra 7 256V supports a narrower instruction set than the average processor (SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, AVX-512, FMA3, AES, AMX vs MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4A, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA).SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, AVX-512, FMA3, AES, AMX vs MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4A, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA
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)

Cache & Architecture

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

phoronix.com

15/05/2025

Summary of the review

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% performance boost. The platform’s primary advantages include exceptional power efficiency—delivering high performance at significantly lower power consumption than previous generations—and closing the performance gap with Windows 11. However, the processor still trails AMD's Strix Point in multi-threaded tasks and some units face thermal tuning requirements to reach peak efficiency. The review highlights that despite improved Linux maturity, specific laptop implementations may lack advanced vendor-firmware support for updates.

openbenchmarking.org

29/03/2026

Summary of the review

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 significantly less power than predecessors. Linux performance has seen marked improvements, with testing showing up to a 22% increase by mid-2025 due to driver optimizations. A significant con for power users is the non-upgradeable, fixed 16GB RAM constraint. Additionally, while the 8-thread architecture excels in single-threaded tasks, it falls behind AMD Strix Point competitors in heavily multi-threaded workloads. Early users reported subpar launch-day performance, though subsequent Linux kernel updates have addressed many issues. For detailed benchmark data, visit OpenBenchmarking.org.

browser.geekbench.com

29/03/2026

Summary of the review

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 exceeds higher-wattage competitors like the AMD Ryzen 7 8840HS, alongside an efficient 17W TDP, a powerful integrated Intel Arc 140V GPU, and a 47 TOPS NPU. Cons include the lack of hyper-threading, restricting multi-core performance for heavy workloads, and a fixed 16GB RAM limit. Optimized for portability and AI tasks over raw workstation power, this chip targets premium daily productivity rather than intensive rendering, offering superior battery life, say sources including TechPowerUp.

cpubenchmark.net

29/03/2026

Summary of the review

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. Conversely, limitations involve lower multi-threaded performance compared to higher-thread count CPUs, non-upgradable memory, and no support for manual overclocking. For detailed benchmarks, visit PassMark.

laptopmedia.com

29/03/2026

Summary of the review

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 life and low heat, while limitations include lower multi-core performance for heavy workloads and non-upgradeable on-package RAM.

phoronix.com

21/10/2024

Summary of the review

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 it to surpass Meteor Lake, whereas initial, unpatched performance was disastrous. Pros include high power efficiency, with the chip delivering better performance than the Core Ultra 7 155H at just 63% of the power, along with strong compute improvements in FluidX3D. Cons involve continued trailing behind AMD's Ryzen AI 300 series on Linux and initial, severe firmware/driver issues requiring updated software stacks.

phoronix.com

15/05/2025

Summary of the review

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 browsing) and robust AI acceleration with 48 TOPS NPU capability, while Xe2 graphics nearly match Windows 11 performance. However, key limitations remain, including the soldered on-package RAM (16GB/32GB) and lower multi-threaded performance compared to AMD's Ryzen AI 300 series. Copy

valid.x86.fr

Mars 2026

Summary of the review

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 point. As a "value king" for drop-in upgrades, it boosts 1% low frame rates in CPU-bound games and maintains high power efficiency, though it is limited by the legacy AM4 socket and DDR4 memory.

laptopmedia.com

20/09/2024

Summary of the review

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. However, the 8-core/8-thread processor struggles with heavy professional, multi-threaded workloads compared to competitors, and its soldered-on-package RAM prohibits future upgrades.

tweakers.net

07/04/2025

Summary of the review

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 strong, consistent performance for content creation, but is held back by high thermal output that can lead to fan noise and throttling, a key con. While battery life is respectable for single-screen use, it drops significantly when running both displays, and the unit is heavier than standard ultrabooks. For a detailed breakdown of the performance, see the full review at Tweakers.

tweakers.net

03/09/2024

Summary of the review

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 (Battlemage) GPU, offering a notable 50% graphics performance boost, alongside improved AI performance, while maintaining x86 software compatibility. Despite these improvements, the review highlights significant trade-offs, particularly the lack of user-upgradable, soldered RAM which is capped at 32GB. Furthermore, multi-threaded performance is lower compared to previous generations and competitors, making it less ideal for heavy workstation tasks.

Video reviews

Best alternatives

Intel Core Ultra 9 285K

Processors

AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 9965WX

Processors

AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 9995WX

Processors

AMD Ryzen Threadripper 9960X

Processors

AMD Ryzen Threadripper 7970X

Processors

AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 9985WX

Processors

Intel Core Ultra 9 285

Processors

AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 9975WX

Processors

AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 7985WX

Processors

AMD Ryzen 9 9950x3d

Processors

Intel Core i9 13900K

Processors

AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 7965WX

Processors

Compare Intel Core Ultra 7 256V with other processors

Compare