🧠 Specifications
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Architecture: Meteor Lake
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Cores/Threads: 20 cores (8 P-cores + 12 E-cores) / 28 threads
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Base/Boost Clock: up to 5.5 GHz
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Graphics: Integrated Intel Arc Xe-LPG (in the “K” version)
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TDP: 125W (PL1), up to 181W (PL2)
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Socket: LGA 1851
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Memory Support: DDR5 up to 5600+ MHz
❗ Why It’s Underrated
1. 💸 Near-Flagship Performance at a Mid-Tier Price
| CPU | Cinebench R23 Multi | Gaming (Avg FPS) | TDP | Avg Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Intel Ultra 7 265K | ~26,000 | ~95–100% of top | 125W | $269–$311 |
| Intel Core i7‑14700K | ~29,000 | 100% | 253W | $360–$399 |
| AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D | ~19,000 | 110–115% | 120W | $340 |
| AMD Ryzen 9 7900 | ~28,000 | ~95–97% | 170W | $320 |
| Intel Ultra 9 285K | ~32,000 | 103–105% | 253W | $500 |
➡️ The Ultra 7 265K delivers 90–97% of i7‑14700K performance, but is ~$100 cheaper and runs 15–20 °C cooler.
2. 🔥 Balanced for Gaming and Productivity
In games, the Ultra 7 265K is:
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~3–5% slower than the i7‑14700K with the same GPU (e.g., RTX 4070/4080).
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~10–12% behind the AMD 7800X3D in cache-heavy titles (CS2, Starfield, Baldur’s Gate 3).
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Stronger in productivity: better for streaming, encoding, and multitasking.
⏱ FPS Comparison (1440p, RTX 4070 Ti):
| Game | 7800X3D | 265K | 14700K |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cyberpunk 2077 | 132 fps | 116 fps | 121 fps |
| Baldur's Gate 3 | 178 fps | 132 fps | 139 fps |
| Hogwarts Legacy | 108 fps | 101 fps | 105 fps |
| Call of Duty MW3 | 210 fps | 196 fps | 202 fps |
3. 🧊 Cool and Efficient
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Under load, the 265K draws 150–160W and maintains temps around 70–80 °C with proper cooling.
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Idle power draw is just 7–10W.
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Much easier to cool compared to the 14700K, which can spike to 95–100 °C under load.
4. 🧩 LGA 1851 = Forward-Looking Platform
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PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 support out of the box.
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Compatible with next-gen Arrow Lake (depending on motherboard).
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Integrated Xe graphics — handy if your GPU is unavailable.
🆚 Real-World Competition
| Category | Competitor | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Max FPS in gaming | AMD 7800X3D | Pure gamers |
| Best multitasking value | Intel 265K | Gaming + streaming/work |
| Intel flagship | Ultra 9 285K | Enthusiasts & professionals |
| Older LGA1700 upgrade | i7‑14700K | Only if you already own the platform |
💡 Final Thoughts
The Intel Core Ultra 7 265K is one of the best-balanced CPUs of mid-2025. It offers:
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Near-flagship gaming performance under $300
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Strong multicore capabilities for creative work or streaming
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Excellent power efficiency and cooler operation
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Future-proof socket and features
🔥 If you want a powerful, well-rounded gaming and productivity CPU — this is one of the best-value choices today.
🛒 Ready-to-Go Gaming PCs with Intel Core Ultra 7 265K
👉 See prebuilt gaming PCs with this processor on Hypercyber.com
