Intel Core M-5Y31
Intel processor specifications and benchmark scores
Intel Core M-5Y31 Specifications
Core M-5Y31 Core Configuration
Processing cores and threading
The Intel Core M-5Y31 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.
M-5Y31 Clock Speeds
Base and boost frequencies
Clock speed is a critical factor in Core M-5Y31 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 M-5Y31 by Intel can dynamically adjust its frequency based on workload and thermal headroom.
Intel's Core M-5Y31 Cache Hierarchy
L1, L2, L3 cache sizes
Cache memory is ultra-fast storage built directly into the M-5Y31 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 M-5Y31's cache configuration is optimized for both gaming performance and productivity workloads, minimizing data fetch delays during intensive computations.
Broadwell Architecture & Process
Manufacturing and design details
The Intel Core M-5Y31 is built on Intel's 14 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 M-5Y31 incorporate advanced branch prediction and out-of-order execution for optimal performance.
Broadwell Instruction Set Features
Supported CPU instructions and extensions
The Core M-5Y31 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.
M-5Y31 Power & Thermal
TDP and power specifications
The Intel Core M-5Y31 has a TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 5W, 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.
Intel BGA 1234 Platform & Socket
Compatibility information
The Core M-5Y31 uses the Intel BGA 1234 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.
Intel BGA 1234 Memory Support
RAM compatibility and speeds
Memory support specifications for the M-5Y31 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 M-5Y31 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.
Intel's Core M-5Y31 Integrated Graphics
Built-in GPU specifications
The Intel Core M-5Y31 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 M-5Y31 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.
Core M-5Y31 Product Information
Release and pricing details
The Intel Core M-5Y31 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 M-5Y31 by Intel offers a specific balance of performance, features, and cost within Intel's product lineup.
Core M-5Y31 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 M-5Y31 performs in parallel rendering workloads like video production and 3D animation. The R15 version remains useful for comparing against older hardware benchmarks. Higher scores directly correlate with faster render times in Cinema 4D and similar 3D applications.
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 M-5Y31. The more demanding workload provides better differentiation between current-generation processors.
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 M-5Y31. The increased complexity provides more accurate performance differentiation between modern CPUs.
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 M-5Y31 after thermal limits kick in. The longer duration exposes cooling limitations that shorter benchmarks miss.
cinebench_cinebench_r23_singlecoreSource
Cinebench R23 single-core measures sustained single-thread performance over 10 minutes. This reveals how Intel Core M-5Y31 maintains boost clocks under continuous load. The extended runtime shows whether thermal throttling affects single-core performance.
About Intel Core M-5Y31
The Intel Core M-5Y31 from Intel is built on a 14nm process, prioritizing extreme power efficiency with a remarkably low 5W TDP. This Broadwell-Y generation chip features two cores and four threads, leveraging Hyper-Threading to handle multiple tasks. Its base clock is a modest 900 MHz, intelligently scaling up to 2.40 GHz via Turbo Boost when demanding applications require extra performance. The shared 4MB L3 cache helps reduce latency for frequently accessed data. This design was engineered for fanless, ultra-thin devices where thermal headroom is severely limited. The Intel Core M-5Y31 from Intel delivers competent performance for everyday tasks within a strict power envelope. Gamers should note this design favors battery life and portability over raw gaming horsepower.
Benchmark results provide a clear picture of the Intel Core M-5Y31's capabilities. In Cinebench R23, it scores 227 points in single-core and 1,611 points in multi-core tests. The older R20 benchmark shows 95 single-core and 676 multi-core points, while R15 multi-core reaches 162 points. These scores indicate a processor suited for light productivity and media consumption. For gaming, this translates to the ability to run older or less demanding titles at lower settings. The chip is not designed for modern AAA gaming but can handle casual and indie games adequately. The performance is a direct result of the low thermal design power.
When considering competitive positioning, the Core M-5Y31 was aimed squarely at competing with efficient mobile processors from AMD and ARM-based designs. Its key advantage was enabling incredibly thin and quiet laptops and 2-in-1 devices. Compared to standard ultra-low-voltage chips of its time, it offered superior power efficiency at the cost of peak performance. In the gaming landscape, it positioned itself as an entry-level solution for portable, non-gaming-centric machines. Gamers seeking a primary system would find much more powerful options even within Intel's own lineup.
For upgrade considerations, the socketed BGA design means the processor is permanently soldered to the motherboard. Therefore, upgrading the CPU is not a feasible option for end-users. A system built around this chip has a fixed performance ceiling. Your upgrade path is limited to other components, which highlights key considerations:
- Maximize system RAM, as integrated graphics performance shares this resource.
- Ensure the system uses a fast SSD to minimize storage bottlenecks.
- Consider external GPU solutions if gaming performance is a must, though compatibility is limited.
- Evaluate if your needs have outgrown the platform entirely, necessitating a new system for serious gaming.
The AMD Equivalent of Core M-5Y31
Looking for a similar processor from AMD? The AMD Ryzen 5 1400 offers comparable performance and features in the AMD lineup.
Popular Intel Core M-5Y31 Comparisons
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