Intel Core Ultra Series 3 • Panther Lake • Mobile processor
The Intel Core Ultra 5 325 is an 8-core, 8-thread Panther Lake mobile processor launched in Q1 2026. Intel lists four Performance-cores, four Low Power Efficient-cores, a maximum turbo frequency of 4.5 GHz, 12 MB of Smart Cache, a 47-TOPS NPU, and integrated Intel Graphics with four Xe-cores. Its published power limits are 25 W processor base power and 55 W maximum turbo power. [1]
The practical takeaway is simple: this is a mobile BGA processor for complete laptops and compact systems, not a normal socketed desktop CPU for a DIY motherboard. Intel identifies the package as FCBGA2540 and classifies the processor's vertical segment as Mobile. [1]
Intel Core Ultra 5 325: quick answer
The Core Ultra 5 325 is a current-generation Intel mobile chip aimed at systems that need strong everyday CPU performance, modern media support and a dedicated NPU for supported local AI workloads. Its 47-TOPS NPU clears the 40+ TOPS NPU threshold referenced by Microsoft for many Copilot+ PC experiences, but the finished computer must still meet Microsoft's full device requirements. [3]
Its biggest limitation is graphics scale: the Core Ultra 5 325 uses Intel Graphics with four Xe-cores, not the larger Intel Arc B370/B390 configurations available on higher Series 3 models. That makes it more naturally suited to productivity, media, AI-assisted applications and lighter gaming than to demanding GPU-heavy work. [2]
Key facts at a glance
- Processor
- Intel Core Ultra 5 325
- Family
- Intel Core Ultra Series 3
- Code name
- Panther Lake
- Launch
- Q1 2026
- CPU
- 8 cores / 8 threads
- Core layout
- 4 P-cores + 4 Low Power E-cores
- Max turbo
- Up to 4.5 GHz
- Cache
- 12 MB Intel Smart Cache
- NPU
- 47 TOPS peak INT8
- Integrated GPU
- Intel Graphics, 4 Xe-cores
- Base / max turbo power
- 25 W / 55 W
- Maximum memory
- Up to 128 GB, depending on memory type/system design
Intel Core Ultra 5 325 specifications
| Specification | Intel Core Ultra 5 325 |
|---|---|
| Product family | Intel Core Ultra Series 3 |
| Code name | Panther Lake |
| Launch date | Q1 2026 |
| Vertical segment | Mobile |
| Total cores | 8 |
| Performance-cores | 4 |
| Efficient-cores | 0 |
| Low Power Efficient-cores | 4 |
| Total threads | 8 |
| Maximum turbo frequency | Up to 4.5 GHz |
| P-core maximum turbo | 4.5 GHz |
| LP E-core maximum turbo | 3.4 GHz |
| P-core base frequency | 2.1 GHz |
| LP E-core base frequency | 1.6 GHz |
| Cache | 12 MB Intel Smart Cache |
| Processor base power | 25 W |
| Maximum turbo power | 55 W |
| Minimum assured power | 12 W |
| CPU lithography | Intel 18A |
| NPU peak throughput | 47 TOPS peak INT8 |
| Integrated GPU | Intel Graphics |
| Xe-cores | 4 |
| GPU maximum dynamic frequency | 2.45 GHz |
| GPU peak AI throughput | 40 TOPS peak INT8 |
| Ray tracing | Yes |
| DirectX | DirectX 12 Ultimate |
| Maximum memory | Up to 128 GB, dependent on memory type |
| Memory support | Up to LPDDR5X-7467 or DDR5-6400 |
| Memory channels | 2 |
| PCI Express | PCIe 5.0 and PCIe 4.0 |
| Maximum PCIe lanes | 12 |
| Thunderbolt 4 | Supported |
| Package | FCBGA2540 |
| Package size | 50 mm × 25 mm |
| Maximum operating temperature | 100°C |
| Intel Thread Director | Yes |
| Intel Standard Manageability | Yes |
| Intel Active Management Technology (AMT) | No |
Source priority: the table above follows Intel's current ARK specification page for the Core Ultra 5 325. When third-party databases disagree with Intel on a specification, Intel's published processor specification is used here as the primary reference. [1]
Panther Lake architecture: what is different about the Core Ultra 5 325?
The Core Ultra 5 325 is part of Intel's Panther Lake generation. Intel lists the CPU portion on its Intel 18A process and the GPU portion on Intel 3. [1]
Its CPU topology is notable because it has four Performance-cores and four Low Power Efficient-cores, with no conventional Efficient-cores on this SKU. The result is eight physical cores and eight total threads.
Do eight threads make it slow?
No useful CPU comparison can be made from thread count alone. Core architecture, frequency, sustained power, memory behavior, software scheduling and cooling all affect performance. A laptop with more threads is not automatically faster in every workload.
What Intel 18A does—and does not—tell you
The manufacturing process is relevant to Intel's performance-per-watt goals, but a process name is not a benchmark. It cannot tell you how fast a specific notebook will be, how loud its fans will become, or how long its battery will last.
Current Core Ultra 5 325 benchmark snapshot
Unlike at launch, there is now enough public test data to give the Core Ultra 5 325 a more concrete performance context. As of September 19, 2026, Notebookcheck's processor database lists results from multiple shipping laptops using the 325. [4]
| Benchmark | Current listed average | Listed sample |
|---|---|---|
| Geekbench 6.x single-core | 2,590 points | 5 systems |
| Geekbench 6.x multi-core | 10,928 points | 5 systems |
| Cinebench R23 single-core | 1,874 points | 4 systems |
| Cinebench R23 multi-core | 10,868 points | 4 systems |
| Cinebench 2024 single-core | 113.6 points | 2 systems |
| Cinebench 2024 multi-core | 637 points | 2 systems |
Do not treat these numbers as guaranteed laptop scores. They are third-party results from different machines with different thermal designs, power limits, firmware and memory configurations. The sample size is also still much smaller than for older CPUs. Use them as a range-setting reference, then check a review of the exact laptop you are considering.
What the benchmark data suggests
The available results support the idea that the Core Ultra 5 325 is a capable mainstream productivity processor, but they do not erase the importance of chassis design. Notebookcheck's own entries show the same processor operating under different reported power settings across Dell and Lenovo systems. [4]
Core Ultra 5 325 AI performance: what does the 47-TOPS NPU mean?
Intel rates the processor's NPU at 47 TOPS peak INT8. The NPU is a dedicated compute block for supported AI inference tasks such as camera effects, audio processing, transcription and application features that have been built to use the NPU. Intel lists support for frameworks including OpenVINO, Windows ML, WebNN and ONNX Runtime on the NPU. [1]
Does it meet the Copilot+ NPU requirement?
On NPU throughput, yes. Microsoft says many Copilot+ PC experiences require an NPU capable of 40+ TOPS, while Intel rates the Core Ultra 5 325 at 47 TOPS. [3]
That does not mean the CPU model by itself certifies a computer as a Copilot+ PC. The finished device still has to satisfy Microsoft's platform, memory, storage, operating-system and feature-support requirements.
TOPS is not a universal speed score
TOPS means trillions of operations per second under a defined workload and numerical precision. It does not mean a 47-TOPS NPU makes every AI application “47 times faster,” and it should not be used to predict gaming frame rates or general CPU speed.
Will the NPU run large local language models?
Possibly for models and applications specifically optimized for it, but NPU TOPS alone is not enough to predict local LLM performance. Model size, quantization, supported operators, runtime, available system memory and whether the application targets the CPU, GPU or NPU all matter. Many local generative-AI tools still rely heavily on GPU or CPU execution.
Intel Graphics with four Xe-cores: gaming expectations
The Core Ultra 5 325 has Intel Graphics with four Xe-cores, a maximum dynamic frequency of 2.45 GHz, DirectX 12 Ultimate support, hardware ray tracing and a published GPU AI figure of 40 TOPS peak INT8. [1]
The naming matters. Intel calls this GPU simply Intel Graphics. Higher Series 3 processors such as the Core Ultra 5 338H use an Intel Arc B370 GPU, while the Core Ultra X7/X9 models can use Arc B390. [2]
Can it play games?
Yes, but the correct expectation is integrated-graphics gaming. Esports, older titles and lighter games are the most natural fit. More demanding games may require lower quality settings, lower resolution, upscaling or frame-generation features where supported.
If gaming is a major purchase criterion, do not buy based only on the words “Xe,” “ray tracing,” or “40 TOPS.” Look for game benchmarks from the exact laptop. Memory bandwidth, cooling and power allocation can materially affect integrated-GPU performance.
When should you look for stronger graphics?
For demanding AAA gaming, 3D rendering, GPU-heavy video effects or substantial local generative-AI workloads, consider a Series 3 system with Arc B370/B390 graphics or a laptop with a discrete GPU.
Video engine, media support and external displays
Intel lists hardware encode/decode support for H.264, H.265/HEVC and AV1, plus H.266/VVC hardware decode and Intel Quick Sync Video. This is useful for supported video-editing applications, video conferencing, streaming and efficient media playback. [1]
At the processor level, Intel lists support for up to four displays and graphics outputs including eDP 1.5, DisplayPort 2.1 UHBR20 and HDMI 2.1 FRL. The actual ports exposed on a laptop are an OEM decision, so the CPU specification does not guarantee that your notebook will have every connector.
Memory, PCIe and Thunderbolt support
The Core Ultra 5 325 supports up to 128 GB of memory depending on memory type. Intel lists up to LPDDR5X-7467 and DDR5-6400 across two memory channels. [1]
How much RAM should you buy?
For a new general-purpose Windows laptop, 16 GB is a sensible practical baseline. Consider 32 GB if you routinely keep many heavy applications open, run development tools or virtual machines, edit larger media projects, or experiment with local AI models. The processor's 128 GB maximum does not mean every laptop will be sold with or physically support 128 GB.
Is the RAM upgradeable?
That depends on the laptop. LPDDR memory is normally soldered, while a DDR5 implementation may use replaceable modules or may still be soldered. Check the service manual or an independent teardown of the exact model.
PCI Express
Intel lists PCIe 5.0 and PCIe 4.0 support with up to 12 lanes. How those lanes are allocated to storage and other devices is determined by the system design.
Thunderbolt 4
Thunderbolt 4 is supported at the processor/platform level, but that does not make every USB-C port on every laptop a Thunderbolt 4 port. Confirm the port specification of the actual device.
Power, cooling and battery life
Intel publishes a 25 W processor base power, 55 W maximum turbo power and 12 W minimum assured power for the Core Ultra 5 325. [1]
Those values define part of the processor's power envelope. They are not a statement that the CPU constantly consumes 25 W or 55 W. Mobile processors continuously change power and frequency based on workload, temperature and system firmware.
Does the Core Ultra 5 325 guarantee long battery life?
No. The processor can be part of an efficient laptop, but battery size, display type, brightness, refresh rate, wireless activity, firmware, background software and the manufacturer's performance profile are all significant variables.
Does it run cool?
There is no universal answer. The same processor can run at different sustained power levels in a thin 14-inch notebook and a larger 16-inch chassis. Review the exact laptop's temperature, fan-noise and sustained-performance tests.
Where the Core Ultra 5 325 sits in Intel Core Ultra Series 3
Intel's current Series 3 catalog makes the product positioning easier to understand. The Core Ultra 5 325 is one of the eight-core non-H Core Ultra 5 models. The 335 raises clock speed while keeping a similar basic 8-core configuration; the 336H adds more CPU cores and cache; the 338H also moves to Arc B370 integrated graphics. [2]
| Processor | Cores / threads | Max turbo | Cache | Integrated GPU | Best reason to consider it |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Core Ultra 5 325 | 8 / 8 | 4.5 GHz | 12 MB | Intel Graphics | Balanced mainstream Series 3 option |
| Core Ultra 5 335 | 8 / 8 | 4.6 GHz | 12 MB | Intel Graphics | Similar class with slightly higher clocks and Intel vPro eligibility |
| Core Ultra 5 336H | 12 / 12 | 4.6 GHz | 18 MB | Intel Graphics | More CPU cores for heavier multi-core work |
| Core Ultra 5 338H | 12 / 12 | 4.7 GHz | 18 MB | Intel Arc B370 | Stronger integrated-graphics tier |
Do not choose by model number alone. A Core Ultra 5 325 laptop can still be the better purchase when it has more RAM, a better display, a larger battery or a substantially lower price than a poorly configured higher-tier model.
Business-management note: 325 vs 335
Intel lists AMT as unavailable on the Core Ultra 5 325. By contrast, Intel lists the Core Ultra 5 335 as eligible for the Intel vPro Platform and shows AMT support. Organizations that specifically require vPro/AMT should verify the processor and complete commercial-platform configuration rather than assuming every Series 3 Core Ultra 5 offers the same manageability features. [5]
Who is the Intel Core Ultra 5 325 for?
Good fit
- Office productivity and browser-heavy work
- School and university use
- Business applications and video meetings
- Programming and general development
- AI-assisted apps that can use the NPU
- Media playback and light creative work
Possible, but check the exact laptop
- 1080p video editing
- Photo editing with larger files
- Esports and lighter games
- Small local AI models
- Occasional heavier multi-core workloads
Consider a higher-performance system for
- High-refresh demanding AAA gaming
- Professional 3D rendering
- Heavy GPU compute
- Large local generative-AI models
- Long, sustained CPU rendering workloads
Core Ultra 5 325 laptop buying checklist
The processor is only one part of the computer. Before paying, check these items on the exact laptop model:
- RAM: 16 GB is a sensible baseline for a new mainstream machine; 32 GB is safer for heavier multitasking and professional use.
- RAM upgradeability: verify whether memory is soldered or replaceable.
- SSD: 512 GB is workable for general use; 1 TB is more comfortable for large applications, media libraries and games.
- Display: check resolution, brightness, color coverage, refresh rate and panel type—not just screen size.
- Cooling: read sustained-performance and fan-noise tests for the exact model.
- Battery: compare real runtime tests rather than assuming all Core Ultra 5 325 laptops have the same endurance.
- Ports: verify which ports actually support Thunderbolt, display output and charging.
- Gaming: use game benchmarks from the specific laptop because four-Xe-core iGPU performance depends on the system configuration.
- Copilot+ status: verify the complete device's Copilot+ support, not just its 47-TOPS NPU.
- Business deployment: if you need Intel vPro/AMT, check the exact CPU and commercial platform; the 325 does not list AMT support.
- Price: compare the whole laptop configuration. A better screen, more memory or a larger battery may matter more than a small CPU-tier change.
What the specification sheet cannot tell you
Intel's specification page can reliably tell you the processor's core layout, clocks, cache, NPU rating, graphics resources, supported memory technologies, media engine and platform I/O capabilities. It cannot tell you whether a particular laptop has a good keyboard, bright display, quiet cooling system, replaceable RAM or excellent battery life.
The sharper buying method is:
- Verify the processor specification.
- Check the exact laptop configuration.
- Read independent testing of that exact chassis.
- Compare its price with nearby configurations.
That approach prevents a common mistake: paying more for a higher CPU badge while accepting worse memory, display, battery or cooling.
Intel Core Ultra 5 325 FAQ
Is the Intel Core Ultra 5 325 a laptop processor?
Yes. Intel classifies it as a mobile processor. It uses the FCBGA2540 package, so it is normally soldered to the system board rather than installed in a user-replaceable desktop socket.
How many cores and threads does the Core Ultra 5 325 have?
It has 8 cores and 8 threads: 4 Performance-cores and 4 Low Power Efficient-cores.
What is the maximum turbo speed?
Intel lists a maximum turbo frequency of 4.5 GHz.
How fast is the Core Ultra 5 325 NPU?
Intel rates it at 47 TOPS peak INT8.
Is the Core Ultra 5 325 a Copilot+ PC processor?
Its 47-TOPS NPU exceeds Microsoft's 40+ TOPS NPU threshold used by many Copilot+ experiences, but the finished PC must still meet Microsoft's complete Copilot+ requirements.
Does the Core Ultra 5 325 have Intel Arc graphics?
Intel's official specification identifies its integrated GPU as “Intel Graphics” with 4 Xe-cores. The Core Ultra 5 338H is the Series 3 Core Ultra 5 model Intel lists with Arc B370 graphics.
Can the Core Ultra 5 325 play games?
Yes, especially lighter games and esports titles. For demanding AAA gaming, check exact laptop benchmarks or consider a system with stronger integrated graphics or a discrete GPU.
Does it support AV1?
Yes. Intel lists AV1 hardware encode and decode support.
How much memory does it support?
Intel lists up to 128 GB, dependent on memory type and system design. Actual laptop limits can be lower.
Does it support DDR5?
Yes. Intel lists up to DDR5-6400 and LPDDR5X-7467.
Is it good for video editing?
It can suit light to moderate editing, especially in software that uses Intel Quick Sync and hardware media acceleration. Heavy effects, complex timelines and professional GPU workloads may benefit from a higher-tier processor and stronger GPU.
Does the Core Ultra 5 325 support Thunderbolt 4?
Intel lists Thunderbolt 4 support, but the laptop manufacturer decides which physical ports and features are actually exposed.
Does the Core Ultra 5 325 support Intel vPro?
Intel's 325 specification lists Intel Standard Manageability but shows Active Management Technology (AMT) as unavailable. If Intel vPro/AMT is a requirement, verify a commercial platform using a processor such as the Core Ultra 5 335 that Intel explicitly lists as vPro eligible.
Bottom line
The Intel Core Ultra 5 325 is an 8-core Panther Lake mobile processor with a useful combination of mainstream CPU performance, a 47-TOPS NPU, modern media support, DDR5/LPDDR5X compatibility and current I/O features.
Its integrated graphics are capable but modest within the Series 3 family: four Xe-cores are a different class from the Arc B370/B390 configurations found higher in Intel's lineup. Buyers focused on demanding gaming, rendering or GPU-heavy AI should factor that in.
For productivity, education, business use, development and AI-assisted everyday computing, the Core Ultra 5 325 can be a sensible platform. The final decision should still be made on the complete laptop: RAM, storage, screen, battery, cooling, ports, upgradeability and price.
Sources and verification
- Intel — Core Ultra 5 Processor 325 specifications
- Intel — Core Ultra Series 3 processor lineup
- Microsoft Learn — Copilot+ PC NPU developer guidance
- Notebookcheck — Core Ultra 5 325 benchmark database
- Intel — Core Ultra 5 Processor 335 specifications
- Intel — Core Ultra 5 Processor 336H specifications
Last verified: September 19, 2026. Processor specifications use Intel as the primary source. Benchmark figures are identified as third-party results and may change as more devices are tested.