Intel Core i7-6950X vs Intel Core Ultra 5 235U

The Intel Core i7-6950X is an end-of-life 10-core (20-thread) processor built for the desktop CPU market. It launched in Q2 2016 with a suggested retail price of $1,723. It is part of Intel's Core i7 Extreme lineup, which is based on the Broadwell-E microarchitecture. The i7-6950X is compatible with Intel Socket 2011-3 motherboards and is fabricated on Intel's 14 nm manufacturing process.

Memory and Cache

The Core i7-6950X supports DDR4 memory and features a quad-channel memory controller, allowing it to utilize 4 memory modules simultaneously. In terms of cache, the Core i7-6950X has multiple levels of cache. Its L1 cache, which is the smallest and fastest, is 64 KB in size, providing rapid access to crucial instructions. Its L2 cache, at 256 KB, is larger but slower than the L1. Its L3 cache, a shared resource among the CPU's cores, has a capacity of 25 MB.

Cores and Clock Speeds

The Core i7-6950X features 10 total cores which can process 20 threads simultaneously. The multi-threading capability allows the CPU to execute multiple computational tasks in parallel. The base clock speed of the CPU is 3.0 GHz, and it can boost up to 3.5 GHz under heavy workloads. Higher clock speeds result in better performance for the same microarchitecture. The multiplier is unlocked, enabling overclocking for those seeking to push the CPU's performance further.

Integrated Graphics

The Core i7-6950X does not include an integrated graphics solution. A dedicated graphics card will be required if you require a monitor with your computer.

Benchmark Performance & Value

The Core i7-6950X has the 142nd best 3DMark 11 Performance Physics score among the 768 benchmarked CPUs in our database. It achieves 42.86% of the performance of the best benchmarked CPU, the AMD Ryzen 9 9950X. Its 16,403 score and $1,723 launch price (MSRP) gives it a performance per dollar of 9.52. This is the 213th best in value for the 3DMark 11 Perf. Physics benchmark.

The Intel Core Ultra 5 235U is a 12-core (14-thread) processor built for the mobile CPU market. The Ultra 5 235U is compatible with FCBGA2049 motherboards and is fabricated on a 5 nm manufacturing process.

Memory and Cache

In terms of cache, the Core Ultra 5 235U has a L3 cache with a capacity of 12 MB, providing a shared resource to the CPU's cores.

Cores and Clock Speeds

The Core Ultra 5 235U features 12 total cores which can process 14 threads simultaneously. The multi-threading capability allows the CPU to execute multiple computational tasks in parallel. The 12 cores consist of 2 P-Cores and 10 E-Cores. P-Cores are designed for high-performance tasks and E-Cores are intended for efficiency and lighter tasks. The base clock speed of the CPU is 2400.0 MHz, and it can boost up to 4900.0 MHz under heavy workloads. Higher clock speeds result in better performance for the same microarchitecture.

Integrated Graphics

The Core Ultra 5 235U does not include an integrated graphics solution. A dedicated graphics card will be required if you require a monitor with your computer.