Intel Core Ultra 5 235A specifications and in-depth review

Intel Core Ultra 5 235A

Manufacturer: Intel

The Intel Core Ultra 5 235A is a desktop CPU designed to offer solid performance with a base clock speed of 3.4 GHz, supporting 14 threads. Its architecture includes integrated graphics and a 65W thermal design power (TDP), making it suitable for various computing tasks. With support for a maximum RAM of 256GB, it can handle demanding applications and multitasking needs efficiently.

In terms of performance, the Core Ultra 5 235A features a turbo clock speed of up to 5 GHz for enhanced bursts of power when needed. It also supports PCIe 5.0, offering fast data transfer rates. With a 3 nm semiconductor size and support for DDR5 memory at up to 6400 MHz, the CPU is equipped to handle modern workloads. The chip includes support for ECC memory, ensuring data integrity in mission-critical applications.

Pros
  • Supports integrated graphics, providing basic visual performance without the need for a separate GPU.
  • Compatible with PCIe 5.0, offering faster data transfer speeds for compatible devices.
  • Supports up to 256GB of DDR5 RAM, allowing for a high memory capacity for demanding tasks.
  • Includes ECC memory support, ensuring data integrity for critical applications.
  • Has 14 threads, improving multitasking performance and responsiveness in multi-threaded workloads.
Cons
  • Lacks an unlocked multiplier, limiting overclocking potential for users seeking to push performance further.
  • The base clock speed is relatively modest, which may limit performance for certain high-demand tasks.
Who is this for?

The Intel Core Ultra 5 235A is ideal for users seeking a reliable desktop CPU for multitasking and moderate computing tasks. With its support for 256GB of DDR5 RAM and 14 threads, it is well-suited for those running demanding applications or handling multiple tasks at once. Its integrated graphics also make it a good choice for users who don't need a separate GPU but still require decent visual performance for everyday use.

Who is this NOT for?

This processor may not be the best choice for users looking for extreme overclocking capabilities or those running highly CPU-intensive workloads. The lack of an unlocked multiplier means it cannot be overclocked to boost performance. Additionally, while it has a reasonable base clock, it may fall short for users needing maximum processing power for high-end gaming, 3D rendering, or similar tasks that demand the highest raw CPU speeds.

General info:

Type Desktop
CPU socket LGA 1851
Has integrated graphics
release date July 2025
Thermal Design Power (TDP) 65W
semiconductor size 3 nm
PCI Express (PCIe) version 5
Supports 64-bit

The Intel Core Ultra 5 235A is a desktop CPU that supports integrated graphics, making it versatile for various use cases. It operates with a thermal design power (TDP) of 65W, offering an efficient balance between performance and power consumption. The processor uses the LGA 1851 socket and is built on a 3 nm semiconductor size for improved performance and energy efficiency. Additionally, it supports PCIe 5.0, enabling faster data transfer rates, and is fully compatible with 64-bit systems.

Performance:

CPU speed 6 x 3.4 & 8 x 2.9 GHz
CPU threads 14 threads
turbo clock speed 5GHz
Has an unlocked multiplier
L2 cache 26 MB
L3 cache 24 MB
Uses big.LITTLE technology
clock multiplier 34
Turbo Boost version 2

The Intel Core Ultra 5 235A delivers solid performance with a base CPU speed of 6 x 3.4 GHz and 8 x 2.9 GHz, providing versatility for a range of workloads. It features a turbo clock speed of 5 GHz for high-demand tasks and includes 14 threads to handle multitasking efficiently. The processor also boasts significant cache sizes, with 26 MB of L2 cache and 24 MB of L3 cache. Built on big.LITTLE technology, it intelligently manages performance across different workloads, while the Turbo Boost version 2 enhances its responsiveness under load.

Benchmarks:

Integrated graphics:

GPU clock speed 300 MHz
GPU turbo 2000 MHz
DirectX version DirectX 12
supported displays 4
OpenGL version 4.5
OpenCL version 3

The Intel Core Ultra 5 235A comes with integrated graphics featuring a base GPU clock speed of 300 MHz, which can boost up to 2000 MHz for higher graphical performance. It supports up to 4 displays, making it versatile for multi-monitor setups. Additionally, the GPU is compatible with DirectX 12, OpenGL 4.5, and OpenCL 3, ensuring broad compatibility with modern graphics applications and gaming engines.

Memory:

RAM speed (max) 6400 MHz
DDR memory version 5
memory channels 2
maximum memory amount 256GB
Supports ECC memory

The Intel Core Ultra 5 235A supports high-performance memory configurations with a maximum RAM speed of 6400 MHz and uses the latest DDR5 memory standard. It features two memory channels for efficient data transfer and can handle up to 256GB of RAM, providing ample capacity for demanding tasks. Additionally, the processor supports ECC memory, which helps ensure data integrity in mission-critical applications.

Features:

instruction sets MMX, F16C, FMA3, AES, AVX, AVX2, SSE 4.1, SSE 4.2
Has NX bit

The Intel Core Ultra 5 235A includes a broad range of instruction sets such as MMX, F16C, FMA3, AES, AVX, AVX2, SSE 4.1, and SSE 4.2, enhancing its ability to handle various computing tasks efficiently. Additionally, it features NX bit support, which helps protect against certain types of malicious software by marking memory areas as non-executable.

Final Verdict

The Intel Core Ultra 5 235A is a solid desktop CPU offering reliable performance for users who need efficient multitasking and moderate computing power. With support for up to 256GB of DDR5 RAM and 14 threads, it excels in handling demanding tasks without requiring a separate GPU. While its lack of overclocking support and modest base clock speed may limit its appeal to enthusiasts and heavy workloads, it remains a capable choice for everyday computing, moderate content creation, and general productivity tasks. Overall, it strikes a good balance between efficiency and performance for a wide range of users.

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