Intel Core 5 220H

The Intel Core 5 220H is a 12-core, 16-thread mobile processor built on Intel's Raptor Lake architecture and 10 nm process. With a base clock of 2.70 GHz and a boost of 4.90 GHz, it targets performance laptops. Benchmark data shows it sits at the 84th percentile among all CPUs, with an average score of 28083. The processor launched with an MSRP of $342.

Single-Thread vs Multi-Thread Behavior

The Cinebench R23 results reveal a multi-core score of 18077 against a single-core 2552, a ratio that indicates strong scaling across the 12 physical cores and 16 threads. In PassMark, the multithread score of 21268 versus single-thread 3120 further confirms the processor's bias toward parallel workloads. This split suggests that applications that can utilize many threads will see a significant benefit, while lightly-threaded tasks rely on the 4.90 GHz boost clock to deliver responsiveness. For real-world use, the single-thread scores are not class-leading but are sufficient for everyday productivity and many games, while the multi-thread performance is where the 220H distinguishes itself.

The Cinebench R15 and R20 results follow the same pattern: R15 multi-core 1822 versus single-core 257, and R20 multi-core 7592 versus single-core 1071. These consistent margins across multiple generations of Cinebench indicate that the 220H's architecture favors multi-threaded scaling. PassMark's integer math score of 71093 and floating point 50817 also point to strong parallel arithmetic throughput. In contrast, the single-thread PassMark score of 3120 shows that lightly threaded workloads are handled adequately, but not exceptionally. For workloads that are inherently serial, such as some legacy applications or certain game engines, the 4.90 GHz boost is the main lever.

Who Should Consider It

The multi-threaded performance, as measured by Cinebench R23's 18077 points and PassMark's 21268 multithread score, makes this processor a strong fit for content creation workloads such as 3D rendering, video editing, and software compilation. The single-core scores of 2552 (R23) and 3120 (PassMark) indicate that it can handle office applications, web browsing, and spreadsheet work with ease. For gaming, the single-thread performance is adequate for most titles, though the integrated Iris Xe Graphics 80EU is not intended for high-end gaming; a discrete GPU would be necessary for demanding games. The 45 W TDP class suggests it belongs in performance laptops rather than ultraportables.

The processor's 84th percentile standing among all CPUs means it outperforms the majority of processors on the market, making it a solid choice for users who need a balance of multi-core muscle and reasonable single-thread responsiveness. However, those whose primary workload is heavily single-threaded might find the 2552 single-core R23 score less impressive compared to higher-clocked desktop parts, though the mobile segment must balance power and thermals.

Benchmark Performance

The Core 5 220H achieves an average benchmark score of 28083, placing it in the 84th percentile of all CPUs. Relative to its closest rivals, the margin is razor-thin: it is 0.1% slower than the AMD Ryzen 5 PRO 8500GE (28111), 0.1% faster than the AMD Ryzen 5 7640HS (28053), and 0.3% slower than both the AMD Ryzen 5 230 (28164) and Intel Core i5-13490F (28173). These deltas are within noise, indicating that the 220H performs essentially on par with these competing parts in aggregate.

In specific workloads, the Cinebench R23 multi-core score of 18077 and single-core 2552 provide a baseline for comparison, though rival scores for these tests are not available in the data. The PassMark multithread score of 21268 and single-thread 3120 further illustrate the processor's strengths. The data compression score of 239677 and encryption 14366 show strong performance in data-heavy tasks, while the extended instructions score of 14246 and prime number finding at 86 reflect its computational versatility. The average benchmark score of 28083 is within 0.3% of all four nearest rivals, which means that real-world differences will be negligible for most users. The 84th percentile ranking underscores that this processor sits above the vast majority of CPUs, but the tight clustering of rivals suggests that choice among these parts should be based on other factors like platform features.

How It Compares

Against the AMD Ryzen 5 PRO 8500GE, the Core 5 220H trails by just 0.1% in average benchmark score (28083 vs 28111). This negligible difference means that in day-to-day use, the two processors are effectively interchangeable in performance.

With the AMD Ryzen 5 7640HS, the 220H holds a 0.1% lead (28083 vs 28053). The margin is so small that it would be impossible to notice outside of synthetic benchmarks.

The AMD Ryzen 5 230 sits 0.3% ahead of the 220H (28164 vs 28083). While the 230 edges out the 220H, the gap is still within typical run-to-run variance.

The Intel Core i5-13490F also leads by 0.3% (28173 vs 28083). As a competitor in the same performance band, the 13490F and the 220H are statistically similar, with the difference being well under a single percentage point.

Platform and Compatibility

The Intel Core 5 220H uses the Intel BGA 1744 socket, a ball-grid array package designed for mobile platforms. This means the processor is soldered directly to the motherboard and cannot be upgraded or replaced by the end user. Memory support includes both DDR4 and DDR5 in a dual-channel configuration, giving laptop OEMs the flexibility to choose between cost and performance. ECC memory is not supported, so the chip is not aimed at error-correcting workstation workloads.

The processor provides 8 PCIe Gen 5 lanes from the CPU, which can be used for a discrete GPU or high-speed NVMe storage, though the total lane count is limited compared to desktop parts. The integrated Iris Xe Graphics with 80 execution units handles display output and hardware acceleration for video playback and light gaming, but a dedicated GPU is recommended for serious graphics work. The architecture is Raptor Lake, specifically the Raptor Lake-H variant, part of the Core 5 (Raptor Lake Refresh) generation. Built on Intel's 10 nm process, the chip is currently active in production. The platform is designed for laptops, so the upgrade path is essentially non-existent; buyers should select a configuration with the desired RAM and storage at purchase time.

FAQ

Q: How many cores and threads does the Intel Core 5 220H have?

A: It has 12 cores and 16 threads.

Q: What is the boost clock speed?

A: The boost clock is 4.90 GHz, with a base clock of 2.70 GHz.

Q: What memory types does it support?

A: It supports DDR4 and DDR5 memory in a dual-channel configuration.

Q: Does it have integrated graphics?

A: Yes, it includes Iris Xe Graphics with 80 execution units.

Q: Is the multiplier unlocked for overclocking?

A: No, the multiplier is locked.

Q: What is the TDP?

A: The TDP is 45 W.

Power and Thermals

The 45 W TDP places the Core 5 220H in the mainstream mobile performance class. This power envelope is typical for laptops that require a dedicated cooling solution, such as a robust heat sink and fan. The 10 nm process and Raptor Lake architecture contribute to a balance between performance and efficiency. For thermal management, a capable air cooler is expected to be sufficient, though the exact cooling solution depends on the laptop design.

The 45 W TDP also implies that the processor can sustain high clocks under load, as seen in the multi-core benchmark scores, provided the chassis can dissipate the heat. In thin-and-light laptops, the 45 W TDP may be a challenge, but performance-oriented designs with robust cooling will allow the processor to reach its full potential. The locked multiplier means that users cannot overclock, so thermal headroom is not a factor for enthusiast tuning.