The Intel Core i5-1240P is a mid-range processor from Intel's Alder Lake-P family, specifically designed for ultra-light and ultra-thin laptops. Released in early 2022, this processor offers a balance of performance and power efficiency, making it suitable for most consumers. In this article, we will explore the architecture, performance, graphics capabilities, power consumption, and other key features of the Intel Core i5-1240P.
Architecture
The Intel Core i5-1240P utilizes Intel's big.LITTLE technology, which integrates 4 performance cores (P-cores) based on the Golden Cove architecture and 8 efficient cores (E-cores) based on the Gracemont architecture. The P-cores support Hyper-Threading, allowing for a total of 16 threads when combined with the E-cores. With access to 12 MB of L3 cache, this processor delivers efficient data processing capabilities.
The integrated memory controller supports various memory types, including LPDDR5-5200, DDR5-4800, LPDDR4x-4267, or DDR4-3200. Intel recommends a maximum of 64 GB of RAM for optimal performance. Additionally, the Core i5-1240P features the Thread Director functionality, which optimizes core utilization for enhanced performance and efficiency, especially when paired with the Windows 11 operating system.
Performance
The multi-thread performance of the Core i5-1240P is comparable to processors like the AMD Ryzen 5 5500U and Ryzen 5 5600U. It also competes well with the slightly faster Intel Core i5-1250P. While the Core i5-1240P is suitable for most consumers, content creators and gamers might prefer the more powerful Intel Core i7-12700H.
To maximize the performance of the Core i5-1240P, a decent cooling solution and high power limits are necessary. This processor offers impressive performance within its power constraints, making it a reliable choice for lightweight laptops.
Graphics
The Core i5-1240P is equipped with the Intel Iris Xe Graphics G7, which features 80 execution units (EUs) and operates at a clock speed of up to 1.3 GHz. This integrated graphics solution offers modern features such as AV1 video decoding and support for SUHD 4320p monitors. With the necessary display outputs, users can connect up to four monitors simultaneously.
While the Iris Xe Graphics G7 can handle casual gaming, the actual performance depends on factors like power limits and the cooling capabilities of the laptop. When playing games at 1080p resolution with low settings, users can expect acceptable frame rates similar to NVIDIA's MX250 graphics card. It's important to note that fast RAM is essential for optimal performance, as the Iris Xe relies on system memory instead of dedicated video memory.
Power Consumption
The Core i5-1240P has a base power consumption (TDP) of 28 W and a recommended maximum Turbo power consumption (PL2) of 64 W. The "Minimum Assured" power consumption is set at 20 W. Due to these power requirements, an active cooling solution is crucial to maintain optimal performance and prevent overheating.
Manufactured using Intel's third-gen 10 nm process (marketed as Intel 7), the Core i5-1240P strikes a balance between performance and energy efficiency. However, some 7 nm U-class AMD Ryzen 5000 chips can deliver similar or even better performance with lower power consumption.
Conclusion
The Intel Core i5-1240P is a mid-range processor designed for ultra-light and ultra-thin laptops. Its big.LITTLE architecture, combining performance cores and efficient cores, enables a balance between power and efficiency. With 16 threads, 12 MB of L3 cache, and support for various memory types, the Core i5-1240P delivers reliable performance for most consumers.
The integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics G7 provides modern features and capable graphics performance for casual gaming and multimedia tasks. However, demanding users such as content creators and gamers might prefer higher-performance CPUs like the Intel Core i7-12700H.
To ensure optimal performance, it is important to pair the Core i5-1240P with a suitable cooling solution and high power limits. With its energy-efficient design and Intel's 10 nm process technology, the Core i5-1240P offers a good balance between performance and power consumption in the ultra-light laptop segment.
