Intel

Intel Intel Core Ultra 7 265K Desktop Processor 20 Cores

4.5 (103 reviews)

Unlock next-gen desktop performance with 20 cores, 5.5 GHz boost, and Intel's efficient hybrid architecture.

$313.99*$404.00Save 22%
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*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated:Jun 03, 2026.Price and availability are subject to change.

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Overview

The Intel Core Ultra 7 265K is a 20-core desktop processor built on Intel's latest hybrid architecture, combining 8 high-performance P-cores with 12 efficiency-focused E-cores. This design allows the CPU to intelligently distribute workloads, dedicating P-cores to latency-sensitive tasks like gaming and single-threaded applications while offloading background and multi-threaded work to the E-cores. With an unlocked multiplier and boost speeds reaching 5.5 GHz, the 265K gives enthusiasts headroom to push performance further through overclocking, backed by a generous 36MB cache for reduced memory latency in demanding scenarios.

Designed for the Intel 800 series chipset and the LGA 1851 socket, this processor supports PCIe 5.0 and 4.0 connectivity, making it ready for the latest graphics cards and high-speed NVMe storage. Intel Turbo Boost Max Technology 3.0 dynamically identifies the best-performing cores for peak single-threaded speed, while the overall architecture prioritizes improved performance-per-watt. Buyers should note that no stock cooler is included, so a capable aftermarket thermal solution is essential, especially for those planning to overclock.

Key Features

Get ultra-efficient with Intel Core Ultra desktop processors that improve both performance and efficiency so your PC can run cooler, quieter, and quicker.

Core and Threads 20 cores (8 P-cores plus 12 E-cores) and 20 threads

Performance Hybrid Architecture Integrates two core microarchitectures, prioritizing and distributing workloads to optimize performance

Performance Unlocked Up to 5.5 GHz unlocked. 36MB Cache

Compatibility Compatible with Intel 800 series chipset-based motherboards

PCIe Express Version Turbo Boost Max Technology 3.0, and PCIe 5.0 and 4.0 support. Intel Optane Memory support. No thermal solution included

Specifications

Brand
Intel
Model
Intel Core Ultra 7 265K
Total Cores
20 (8 P-cores + 12 E-cores)
Total Threads
20
Max Boost Clock
5.5 GHz
Cache
36MB
Socket
LGA 1851
Chipset Compatibility
Intel 800 Series
PCIe Support
PCIe 5.0 and 4.0
Turbo Boost Max Technology
3.0
Thermal Solution
Not Included
Item Weight
2.8 ounces
Product Dimensions
9.17 x 4.65 x 0.04 inches

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

  • 20-core hybrid architecture balances high single-threaded performance with efficient multi-threaded workloads
  • Unlocked multiplier allows overclocking up to 5.5 GHz for demanding gaming and creative tasks
  • Large 36MB cache helps reduce latency in complex applications and gaming scenarios
  • PCIe 5.0 support provides future-proof bandwidth for next-gen GPUs and NVMe storage
  • Improved power efficiency compared to previous-generation Intel desktop processors

👎 Cons

  • No thermal solution included, requiring an additional cooler purchase
  • Requires a new Intel 800 series motherboard, so existing LGA 1700 boards are not compatible
  • 20 threads from 20 cores means E-cores lack Hyper-Threading, reducing multi-threaded scaling compared to designs with more threads
  • Higher-end cooling is recommended to sustain boost clocks under sustained loads

Frequently Asked Questions

It uses the LGA 1851 socket and is compatible with Intel 800 series chipset-based motherboards.
No, there is no thermal solution included. You will need to purchase a compatible aftermarket CPU cooler separately.
The processor uses a hybrid architecture with 8 Performance cores (P-cores) and 12 Efficient cores (E-cores), totaling 20 cores and 20 threads.
Yes, the "K" designation means the processor is fully unlocked, with boost clocks up to 5.5 GHz.
It supports both PCIe 5.0 and PCIe 4.0, allowing compatibility with the latest and previous-generation expansion cards and storage devices.