The Intel Core i5-10210U is a state-of-the-art, quad-core SoC designed for laptop computing and released in August 2019. It is part of the Comet Lake (CML-U) generation and boasts a power-efficient performance that surpasses its similar Whiskey Lake processors (such as the Core i5-8665U). The key difference lies in the support for higher memory speeds, reaching up to LPDDR4-2933, as well as an added two cores in the top model (excluding the i5). The processor cores run at a clock speed of 1.6 to 4.2 GHz with a maximum of 3.9 GHz for all four cores. Thanks to Hyper-Threading, the i5-10210U allows for a total of 8 threads to be utilized simultaneously. It's worth mentioning that the level 3 cache has been reduced from 8 to 6 MB compared to its faster counterpart, the i5-10510U.
The integrated graphics adapter remains unchanged, still named Intel UHD Graphics 620, with a clock speed ranging from 300 to 1100 MHz in the i5. Additionally, the SoC integrates both a VP9 and H.265 de- and encoder.
In terms of performance, the average 10210U stands in line with the likes of the AMD Ryzen 5 2500U, Intel Core i7-8565U, and the Intel Core i5-1035G1 in terms of multi-thread performance. It may not be a powerhouse, but it certainly handles everyday workloads with ease. Laptops equipped with the i5 can expect better performance if the power limits are higher and the cooling solution is top-notch.
The Core i5 has a default TDP of 15 W, a value that laptop manufacturers can adjust between 10 W and 25 W, resulting in corresponding changes in clock speeds and performance. It's important to note that under short-term loads, the Comet Lake U processors can consume as much as 80 W or even 90 W. The i5 is built with the 14 nm Intel process, which by early 2023 standards, is considered relatively outdated in terms of energy efficiency.
Overall, the Intel Core i5-10210U represents a balanced and efficient option for laptop computing. With its Hyper-Threading capability and integrated graphics adapter, it's a smart choice for everyday users who require smooth and seamless performance.
