INTEL

Intel Core i5-2515E

Intel processor specifications and benchmark scores

2
Cores
4
Threads
GHz Boost
35W
TDP
🖥️Integrated GPU

Intel Core i5-2515E Specifications

⚙️

Core i5-2515E Core Configuration

Processing cores and threading

The Intel Core i5-2515E features 2 physical cores and 4 threads, which directly impacts multi-threaded performance in CPU benchmarks. More cores allow the processor to handle parallel workloads efficiently, improving performance in video editing, 3D rendering, and multitasking scenarios. Thread count determines how many simultaneous tasks the CPU can process, with higher thread counts benefiting productivity applications and content creation workflows.

Cores
2
Threads
4
SMP CPUs
1
⏱️

i5-2515E Clock Speeds

Base and boost frequencies

Clock speed is a critical factor in Core i5-2515E benchmark performance, measured in GHz. The base clock represents the guaranteed operating frequency, while the boost clock indicates maximum single-core performance under optimal conditions. Higher clock speeds translate to faster single-threaded performance, which is essential for gaming and applications that don't fully utilize multiple cores. The Core i5-2515E by Intel can dynamically adjust its frequency based on workload and thermal headroom.

Base Clock
2.5 GHz
Boost Clock
N/A
Multiplier
25x
💾

Intel's Core i5-2515E Cache Hierarchy

L1, L2, L3 cache sizes

Cache memory is ultra-fast storage built directly into the i5-2515E processor die. L1 cache provides the fastest access for frequently used data, while L2 and L3 caches offer progressively larger storage with slightly higher latency. Larger cache sizes significantly improve CPU benchmark scores by reducing memory access times. The Core i5-2515E's cache configuration is optimized for both gaming performance and productivity workloads, minimizing data fetch delays during intensive computations.

L1 Cache
64 KB (per core)
L2 Cache
256 KB (per core)
L3 Cache
3 MB (shared)
🏗️

Sandy Bridge Architecture & Process

Manufacturing and design details

The Intel Core i5-2515E is built on Intel's 32 nm manufacturing process, which determines power efficiency and thermal characteristics. Smaller process nodes allow for more transistors in the same space, enabling higher performance per watt. The architecture defines how the processor handles instructions and manages data flow, directly impacting benchmark results across different workload types. Modern CPU architectures like the one in i5-2515E incorporate advanced branch prediction and out-of-order execution for optimal performance.

Architecture
Sandy Bridge
Codename
Sandy Bridge
Process Node
32 nm
Foundry
Intel
Transistors
624 million
Die Size
149 mm²
Generation
Core i5 (Sandy Bridge)
🔢

Sandy Bridge Instruction Set Features

Supported CPU instructions and extensions

The Core i5-2515E by Intel supports various instruction set extensions that enable optimized performance for specific workloads. SIMD instructions like SSE and AVX accelerate multimedia, scientific computing, and AI workloads by processing multiple data points simultaneously. Features like AES-NI provide hardware-accelerated encryption, while AVX-512 (if supported) enables advanced vector processing for data centers and high-performance computing. These instruction sets are critical for software compatibility and performance in modern applications.

MMX
SSE
SSE2
SSE3
SSSE3
SSE4.1
SSE4.2
AVX
AES-NI
Intel 64
VT-x
VT-d
🔌

i5-2515E Power & Thermal

TDP and power specifications

The Intel Core i5-2515E has a TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 35W, indicating the cooling solution required for sustained operation. TDP affects both system power consumption and the type of cooler needed. Lower TDP processors are ideal for compact builds and laptops, while higher TDP chips typically offer better sustained performance in demanding CPU benchmarks. Understanding power requirements helps ensure your system can deliver consistent performance without thermal throttling.

TDP
35W
🔧

Intel BGA 1023 Platform & Socket

Compatibility information

The Core i5-2515E uses the Intel BGA 1023 socket, which determines motherboard compatibility. Choosing the right platform is essential for building a system around this processor. The socket type also influences available features like PCIe lanes, memory support, and upgrade paths. When comparing CPU benchmarks, ensure you're looking at processors compatible with your existing or planned motherboard to make informed purchasing decisions.

Socket
Intel BGA 1023
Package
rPGA
DDR5

Intel BGA 1023 Memory Support

RAM compatibility and speeds

Memory support specifications for the i5-2515E define which RAM types and speeds are compatible. Faster memory can significantly improve CPU benchmark performance, especially in memory-intensive applications and gaming. The memory controller integrated into the Core i5-2515E determines maximum supported speeds and channels. Dual-channel or quad-channel memory configurations can double or quadruple memory bandwidth, providing noticeable performance gains in content creation and scientific workloads.

Memory Type
DDR3
Memory Bus
Dual-channel
🖥️

Intel's Core i5-2515E Integrated Graphics

Built-in GPU specifications

The Intel Core i5-2515E includes integrated graphics, eliminating the need for a dedicated GPU in basic computing scenarios. Integrated graphics are ideal for office productivity, video playback, and light gaming. While not designed for demanding GPU benchmarks, the iGPU in the i5-2515E provides hardware video encoding and decoding capabilities. This makes the processor suitable for compact builds, HTPCs, and systems where power efficiency is prioritized over gaming performance.

iGPU
Intel HD 3000
Graphics Model
Intel HD 3000
📦

Core i5-2515E Product Information

Release and pricing details

The Intel Core i5-2515E is manufactured by Intel and represents their commitment to delivering competitive CPU performance. Understanding the release date and pricing helps contextualize benchmark comparisons with other processors from the same generation. Launch pricing provides a baseline for evaluating value, though street prices often differ. Whether you're building a new system or upgrading, the Core i5-2515E by Intel offers a specific balance of performance, features, and cost within Intel's product lineup.

Manufacturer
Intel
Release Date
Feb 2011
Market
Mobile
Status
End-of-life
Part Number
SR075

Core i5-2515E Benchmark Scores

cinebench_cinebench_r15_multicoreSource

Cinebench R15 multi-core renders a complex 3D scene using all CPU threads simultaneously. This test reveals how Intel Core i5-2515E performs in parallel rendering workloads like video production and 3D animation. Higher scores mean faster render times in professional applications.

cinebench_cinebench_r15_multicore #1618 of 1788
161
1%
Max: 14,978
Compare with other CPUs

cinebench_cinebench_r20_multicoreSource

Cinebench R20 multi-core uses a scene requiring 4x more computational power than R15. This test better reflects modern CPU capabilities for professional rendering on Intel Core i5-2515E.

cinebench_cinebench_r20_multicore #1618 of 1788
671
1%
Max: 62,412
Compare with other CPUs

cinebench_cinebench_r20_singlecoreSource

Cinebench R20 single-core tests one thread against a more demanding scene than R15. This reveals the true single-thread rendering capability of Intel Core i5-2515E.

cinebench_cinebench_r20_singlecore #1619 of 1784
94
1%
Max: 8,811

cinebench_cinebench_r23_multicoreSource

Cinebench R23 multi-core is the current standard for CPU rendering benchmarks with a 10-minute minimum runtime. This extended test reveals sustained performance of Intel Core i5-2515E after thermal limits kick in.

cinebench_cinebench_r23_multicore #1617 of 1788
1,599
1%
Max: 148,601
Compare with other CPUs

🏆 Top 5 Performers

cinebench_cinebench_r23_singlecoreSource

Cinebench R23 single-core measures sustained single-thread performance over 10 minutes. This reveals how Intel Core i5-2515E maintains boost clocks under continuous load.

cinebench_cinebench_r23_singlecore #1618 of 1788
225
1%
Max: 20,979
Compare with other CPUs

About Intel Core i5-2515E

The Intel Core i5-2515E is a dual-core processor from Intel's Sandy Bridge generation, designed for embedded and specialized compact systems with a focus on power efficiency. Its 2.50 GHz base clock and 35W TDP position it as a solution for thermally constrained environments where consistent, low-power operation is paramount. For typical day-to-day usage such as web browsing, document editing, and media playback, this chip provides adequate performance, though its dual-core design shows limitations with modern multitasking. Users can expect smooth operation for basic productivity suites, but demanding applications or numerous concurrent browser tabs may lead to noticeable slowdowns. This specific processor variant leverages Hyper-Threading to handle four threads, which helps manage lighter concurrent workloads effectively. Its integrated Intel HD Graphics from the era can drive display outputs but is unsuited for any form of modern gaming or intensive graphical tasks.

In a workstation context, the performance profile of the 2515E is significantly constrained by its core count and architectural age. Benchmark results, such as a Cinebench R23 multi-core score of 1,599 points, clearly indicate it is not intended for CPU-intensive professional applications like video rendering, complex simulations, or advanced data analysis. The processor can competently handle legacy business software and light database operations, but any sustained heavy computational load will quickly become a bottleneck. Its 3 MB of shared L3 cache further limits data throughput for demanding professional software. Consequently, this Sandy Bridge part is best viewed as a component for dedicated fixed-function terminals or very light office workstations. Deploying this CPU in a modern creative or engineering workflow would result in unsatisfactory productivity and extended processing times.

From a cost-effectiveness perspective, the Core i5-2515E is a legacy component whose value proposition is highly niche in the current market. For new system integrations, its relevance is primarily in upgrade scenarios for existing embedded platforms that require a drop-in replacement with identical thermal and power characteristics. When evaluating raw performance per dollar against even low-end contemporary processors, this dual-core chip is at a substantial disadvantage. However, for maintaining legacy industrial systems or specific commercial hardware where platform longevity and consistency are critical, this Intel CPU can represent a cost-effective solution. Its value is not derived from computational power but from its role in extending the lifecycle of deployed infrastructure. Organizations must weigh the lower acquisition cost against the operational inefficiencies of using an outdated architecture for general computing tasks.

The platform requirements for this particular Sandy Bridge CPU are defining and restrictive, as it utilizes an Intel BGA 1023 socket denoting it is permanently soldered to the motherboard. This means the i5-2515E is not a user-upgradable component and is integrated into system designs by OEMs during manufacturing, typically for all-in-one units, digital signage, or specialized industrial PCs. The platform will require DDR3 memory and compatible chipset drivers, tying it to an older software and hardware ecosystem that may present security and compatibility challenges. System builders must source appropriate motherboards designed for embedded applications, which are not commonly available on the consumer retail market. Therefore, deploying this dual-core processor necessitates a commitment to a complete, legacy platform rather than a selective component upgrade. Its use case is effectively confined to maintaining or replicating existing system designs from its era of release.

The AMD Equivalent of Core i5-2515E

Looking for a similar processor from AMD? The AMD Ryzen 5 1400 offers comparable performance and features in the AMD lineup.

AMD Ryzen 5 1400

AMD • 4 Cores

View Specs Compare

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