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日本What is the difference between Intel Core Ultra and Intel Core, and is Ultra for you?
If you’re considering your next laptop, you’ve likely come across both Intel’s Core and Core Ultra lines. Many people are wondering if they need the Ultra variants, and now, Intel has just released nine new Core Ultra Series 2 processors, making the task of choosing the best CPU for your needs even more challenging.
No worries—we’re here to simplify everything and help you decide whether you need the Ultra CPUs, and where their strengths lie.
Meanwhile, go check out our Top Laptop CPU Rankings and see the position of the CPU your favorite laptop has.
What is special about Intel Core Ultra?
Two key features: integrated NPUs (better AI performance) and, in most cases, Intel Arc GPUs.
Regarding AI performance, you should know that the difference between Core Ultra and Core Ultra 2 is significant. While peak INT8 TOPS may not be the ideal measure of AI performance, it’s the only standardized one for consumer electronics.
The Intel Core Ultra (Series 1) CPUs have integrated NPUs with 11 TOPS of peak INT8 performance, while the Intel Core Ultra (Series 2) lineup’s NPUs go up to 48.
You can check that in our AI Hardware Performance Rankings.
| CPU Lineup | NPU | INT8 TOPS Performance |
|---|---|---|
| Intel Core | No NPU | – |
| Intel Core Ultra (Series 1) | Intel AI Boost NPU | Up to 11 TOPS |
| Intel Core Ultra (Series 2) | Intel AI Boost NPU | Up to 48 TOPS |
GPU performance-wise, Intel Core CPUs use basic Intel UHD Graphics GPUs. There is a difference between the Series 1 Ultra U and Ultra H processors—while the U-variants have low-end Intel Graphics, the H-series use the much better Intel Arc GPU.
All of the Intel Core Ultra Series 2 CPUs use the new variants of Intel Arc—130V or 140V.
For the most up-to-date benchmark results, go to our Top Laptop Graphics Rankings.
The results are from 3DMark Time Spy (Graphics). Higher is better.
The results are from 3DMark Wild Life Extreme Unlimited. Higher is better.
Intel Core or Intel Ultra: Which is best for Gaming?
While the Arc-equipped Intel Ultra processors have better graphics performance than the 14th Gen Intel Core and their UHD Graphics iGPUs, most gamers aren’t looking to play with integrated GPUs.
The main deciding factor for gaming CPUs is their P-cores (Performance cores) and, more importantly, their single-core performance.
Generally speaking, the 14th generation Intel Core processors are better than the Intel Core Ultra for gaming as they’re much more powerful. Even the Core i5-14450HX has 50% more P-cores than the Core Ultra Series 2 flagship 288V — 6 vs. 4. When comparing the P-cores 1 vs 1, the winner is still the 14th Gen Core, although not by a large margin.
However, we should note that the Core Ultra Series 2 processors are great for casual gaming. Here are some benchmarks we’ve done with the iGPU Arc 140V:
| CS:GO | HD 1080p, Low (Check settings) | HD 1080p, Medium (Check settings) | HD 1080p, MAX (Check settings) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average FPS | 207 fps | 184 fps | 126 fps |
| Metro Exodus | Full HD, Low (Check settings) | Full HD, High (Check settings) | Full HD, Extreme (Check settings) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average FPS | 58 fps | 29 fps | 15 fps |
You can see more gaming tests with the integrated graphics in Core Ultra series 2 here:
Intel Arc Graphics 140V in Core Ultra For Gaming? Test in 6 Games!
Intel Core or Intel Ultra: Which is best for Heavy Work?
While the second generation of Core Ultra is a remarkable achievement, it’s not intended for professional tasks requiring massive computational performance, such as 3D rendering or video editing. It’s designed with a focus on achieving the best power/efficiency ratio and long battery life.
Here, we evaluate the CPU's performance using a real-world 3D rendering task, assessing its ability to handle complex computations and rendering workloads efficiently.
Results are from the Cinebench 2024 Multi-Core test (higher is better)
Single-core performance ensures smooth operation and responsiveness in operating systems, providing a better user experience.
Results are from the Geekbench 6 Single-Core test (higher is better)
Multi-core performance is essential for handling complex and demanding tasks, such as Video editing, CAD, and Scientific simulations.
Results are from the Geekbench 6 Multi-Core test (higher is better)
Conclusion
When to choose Intel Core:
For gaming, the most cost-effective solution will likely be a 14th Gen Intel Core CPU. For heavy workloads like 3D rendering, video editing, etc., the situation is similar—focus on the Intel Core.
If you’re working with AI models professionally, the 14th generation Intel Core is again the better choice when combined with a dedicated GPU.
When to choose Intel Core Ultra:
If you plan to use your laptop for “basic” AI tasks (like using AI features integrated into Windows), the Core Ultra 2 CPUs are a solid choice.
For everyday tasks, the Core Ultra CPUs are also the better choice as they are more power-efficient while still being powerful. As a bonus, if you’re looking for a laptop with long battery life, the Core Ultra CPUs are the best option right now. It’s no coincidence that the best laptop in our Top 50 Laptops with the Best Battery Life is a Core Ultra machine.
Did we miss something you want to know? Leave a comment below!
All laptops with the most popular Intel Core Ultra 2 CPU in our Laptop Specs System, Core Ultra 7 258V:
All laptops with the most popular 14th Gen Intel Core CPU in our Laptop Specs System, Core i9-14900HX:
