Intel Core Ultra 9 285T

The Intel Core Ultra 9 285T is a 24-core, 24-thread desktop processor from the Core Ultra Series 2, built on the Arrow Lake-S architecture and fabricated on TSMC's 3 nm process. It operates with a base clock of 1.40 GHz and a boost clock of 5.40 GHz, with a 35 W TDP, and is positioned for Socket 1851 platforms. It carries a launch MSRP of $549.

Benchmark Performance

The aggregate benchmark score of the Core Ultra 9 285T is 46409, placing it in the 92nd percentile of all CPUs in the database. This is a strong result, but the surrounding competition is extremely tight. Its nearest rivals all fall within a 0.8% band of the 285T's average score, indicating that the processor sits in a densely packed performance cluster where small margins separate the top desktop and mobile parts.

In Cinebench R23, the 285T scores 31399 points in multi-core and 4432 points in single-core. The multi-core figure reflects the 24-core, 24-thread configuration, while the single-core result benefits from the 5.40 GHz boost clock. The Cinebench R20 run yields 13187 multi-core and 1861 single-core, and R15 produces 3164 and 446 respectively. These numbers show a consistent pattern: the 285T delivers strong threaded throughput while maintaining competitive per-thread performance.

PassMark results reinforce this picture. The multithread score is 36940, and the single-thread score is 4775. Integer math hits 135890, floating point math 129032, and extended instructions 21956. Data compression reaches 328003, encryption 28813, and random string sorting 41091. The find prime numbers test returns 319, and physics simulation scores 2875. These varied workloads collectively contribute to the 46409 average, which is the basis for the 92nd percentile ranking.

The deltaPct values against nearest rivals are small. The 285T is 0.1% slower than the Intel Core Ultra 7 265T (average score 46468), 0.2% faster than the AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 375 (46329), 0.4% slower than the Intel Core i9-13900HX (46613), and 0.8% slower than the AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX PRO 375 (46773). In practical terms, the 285T is statistically indistinguishable from these parts in aggregate performance, with differences that would be imperceptible in real-world usage.

Platform and Compatibility

The Core Ultra 9 285T uses the Intel Socket 1851, which is the LGA 1851 platform for Arrow Lake-S desktop processors. The architecture is Arrow Lake, with the codename Arrow Lake-S. The processor is fabricated on a 3 nm process at TSMC, with 17,800 million transistors on a 243 mm² die. This advanced node contributes to the low power envelope while enabling high core counts.

Memory support is DDR5, operating in dual-channel mode with a bandwidth of 102.4 GB/s. The processor supports ECC memory, which is a valuable feature for workstation and reliability-focused builds. For expansion, the CPU provides 20 PCIe Gen 5 lanes, which are dedicated to the CPU. This allows for high-bandwidth connectivity to GPUs or NVMe storage.

The integrated graphics are Arc Xe-LPG with 64 execution units. This provides basic display output and hardware acceleration without requiring a discrete GPU. The processor is not multiplier unlocked, so overclocking headroom is limited by design. The production status is listed as Active, and the release date is January 6, 2025. The part number is SRQD3.

Power and Thermals

The TDP of the Core Ultra 9 285T is 35 W, which is exceptionally low for a 24-core desktop processor. This places it in the low-power tier, where typical cooling solutions—including compact air coolers or small form factor heatsinks—are sufficient. The base clock of 1.40 GHz is modest, but the boost clock reaches 5.40 GHz, indicating a wide dynamic range. The processor likely spends most of its time at low clocks under light loads, ramping up to high frequencies only when needed.

Because the multiplier is locked, users cannot push clocks beyond the stock boost. The low TDP suggests that the 285T is designed for systems where thermal output and energy consumption are primary concerns, such as mini-ITX builds, silent PCs, or always-on servers. The 3 nm process and 17.8 billion transistors on a 243 mm² die allow this performance level within a 35 W envelope.

How It Compares

vs. Intel Core Ultra 7 265T

The 285T is 0.1% slower in aggregate benchmark score (46409 vs 46468). This is a negligible difference, effectively a tie. The two processors share the same socket and architecture family, but the 265T has fewer cores (though the pack does not specify its core count). The 285T's higher core count is offset by a slightly lower average score, likely due to clock or power management differences.

vs. AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 375

The 285T is 0.2% faster than the Ryzen AI 9 HX 375 (46409 vs 46329). This is a marginal lead. The HX 375 is a mobile-class processor, yet it competes closely with the desktop 285T. The 285T's advantage, though small, is consistent across the benchmark suite.

vs. Intel Core i9-13900HX

The 285T is 0.4% slower than the i9-13900HX (46409 vs 46613). The i9-13900HX is a high-end mobile processor with a different architecture (Raptor Lake). Despite the generational difference, the performance gap is under half a percent, making the 285T a comparable option for mobile-class performance in a desktop form factor.

vs. AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX PRO 375

The 285T is 0.8% slower than the Ryzen AI 9 HX PRO 375 (46409 vs 46773). This is the largest delta among the nearest rivals, but still under 1%. The PRO variant likely includes additional security or management features, but raw performance is only slightly ahead of the 285T.

Who Should Consider It

The Core Ultra 9 285T is best suited for users who need high multi-core throughput in a power-constrained environment. The Cinebench R23 multi-core score of 31399 indicates strong performance in rendering, video encoding, 3D modeling, and other heavily threaded workloads. The 24 cores and 24 threads provide ample parallelism for productivity applications that scale across cores.

The single-core performance, with a Cinebench R23 score of 4432 and a PassMark single-thread score of 4775, is adequate for everyday tasks, web browsing, and office applications. Gaming performance is likely good, as modern titles benefit from high single-thread speeds, though the lack of a discrete GPU in the package means a separate graphics card is required for demanding games. The integrated Arc Xe-LPG 64EU can handle light gaming and media playback.

The 35 W TDP makes this processor an excellent choice for small form factor builds, home servers, or any system where heat and noise are concerns. The ECC memory support further positions it for reliability-focused workstations. However, the locked multiplier means it is not for overclocking enthusiasts. Users who prioritize raw multi-core performance without power constraints might prefer higher-TDP parts, but the 285T offers a unique balance of core count and efficiency.

FAQ

Q: What is the TDP of the Intel Core Ultra 9 285T?

A: The TDP is 35 W.

Q: Does the Core Ultra 9 285T support ECC memory?

A: Yes, it supports ECC memory.

Q: What socket does the processor use?

A: It uses Intel Socket 1851.

Q: How many PCIe lanes does the CPU provide?

A: It provides 20 PCIe Gen 5 lanes from the CPU.

Q: What is the process node for this processor?

A: It is fabricated on a 3 nm process at TSMC.

Q: Is the multiplier unlocked for overclocking?

A: No, the multiplier is locked.