The Intel Core i7-1355U is a high-end mobile CPU for thin and light laptops based on the Alder Lake architecture (Raptor Lake-U / RPL-U series). It was announced in early 2023 and offers a unique combination of performance and efficiency.
Architecture
The Intel Core i7-1355U features 10 cores and 12 threads, with two performance cores (P-cores, Golden Cove architecture) and eight efficient cores (E-cores, Gracemont architecture). The P-cores support Hyper-Threading, which when combined with the E-cores, results in 12 supported threads. The integrated memory controller supports various memory types up to LPDDR5-6400. The Thread Director (in hardware) can support the operating system to decide which thread to use on the performance or efficient cores for the best performance.
Performance
The Core i7-1355U has a clock rate that ranges from 1.7 to 5 GHz on the performance cluster and 1.2 to 3.7 GHz on the efficient cluster. This results in a significant improvement in performance compared to the older core i7-1265U (up to 4.8 GHz). The integrated graphics card is based on the Xe-architecture and offers all 96 EUs (Execution Units) operating at up to 1.3 GHz.
Power Consumption
This Core i7 CPU is rated at a TDP of 15W (base power, PL1) and a maximum turbo power of 55W (PL2). The RPL-U processors are built in a further improved Intel 7 process (10nm SuperFin) that allows higher clock rates.
Features
The CPU supports "Essentials" vPro management features. For AI tasks, the CPU also integrates GNA 3.0 and DL Boost (via AVX2). Quick Sync in version 8 is the same as in the Rocket Lake CPUs and supports MPEG-2, AVC, VC-1 decode, JPEG, VP8 decode, VP9, HEVC, and AV1 decode in hardware. The CPU still only supports PCIe 4.0 x8 for a GPU and two PCIe 4.0 x4 for SSDs.
Comparison
Compared to the P-series (28W) or H-series (45W), the 15W TDP may limit the sustained performance. Other models in the Raptor Lake-U series, such as the Intel Core i7-1365U, offer only higher clock rates (and a faster iGPU) than the Core i7-1355U.
Conclusion
The Intel Core i7-1355U is a powerful mobile CPU that offers a balance of performance and efficiency. Its 10 cores and 12 threads, combined with a high clock rate and an integrated graphics card, make it a top-of-the-line option for thin and light laptops. The low TDP of 15W may limit its sustained performance, but it still offers an improvement over previous models in the same series. It's an ideal option for both business and consumer laptops, that supports advanced features such as AI Acceleration and vPro management.
We would love to hear your thoughts on the Intel Core i7-1355U, and the possibilities it opens up for thin and light laptops. Share your thoughts and experiences with us by leaving a comment or using the hashtag #IntelCorei71355U #ThinandLightLaptops #PerformanceEfficiency
