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Intel Core i3-1305U

Intel Core i3-1305U: Compact Power for Everyday Tasks

March 2025

Modern laptops require a balance between performance, energy efficiency, and price. In this review, we will examine the Intel Core i3-1305U processor — a budget solution for ultrabooks and work laptops. We will find out who it is suitable for, how it performs in real scenarios, and what to pay attention to when buying.

Architecture and Technology: Hybrid Cores and Optimization

Hybrid Raptor Lake Architecture

The Core i3-1305U belongs to the 13th generation of Intel (codename Raptor Lake) and is produced on Intel 7 technology (equivalent to 10 nm). Its distinguishing feature is its hybrid core structure:

- 1 performance core (P-core) with Hyper-Threading support (2 threads).

- 4 energy-efficient cores (E-core) without Hyper-Threading.

In total: 5 cores and 6 threads. Base frequency is 1.2 GHz, with a maximum turbo frequency of 4.5 GHz for the P-core and 3.3 GHz for the E-cores.

Intel UHD Graphics for the 13th Generation

The integrated GPU is Intel UHD Graphics (for the 13th generation) with 64 EU (Execution Units) and a frequency of up to 1.25 GHz. It supports 4K@60 Hz via HDMI 2.1, AV1 decoding, and HDR. For gaming, it is only suitable at low settings: for example, CS:GO at 720p provides 40-50 FPS.

Power Consumption and TDP: Balancing Power and Battery Life

The nominal TDP of the processor is 15 W, which is typical for ultrabooks. However, in turbo mode, power can temporarily reach 55 W, requiring an efficient cooling system.

Energy-saving technologies:

- Intel Dynamic Tuning 2.0 — automatically adjusts frequencies based on workload.

- Adaptix Thermal Framework — optimizes fan operation to reduce noise.

In laptops with passive cooling (for example, Acer Swift 3), the processor may limit frequencies during prolonged workloads, but this is not critical for office tasks.

Performance: From Office to Casual Gaming

Real-World Task Tests

- Office Work (Chrome, Excel, Zoom): 10-15 tabs + video call — no lags.

- Multimedia: 4K video in VLC or YouTube — smooth playback. Photo editing in Lightroom — acceptable for basic retouching, but exporting 100 images will take around 7 minutes.

- Gaming: Fortnite at 720p/low — 35-40 FPS; Indie games (Hollow Knight, Stardew Valley) — 60 FPS.

Turbo Mode: Brief Boost

In Turbo Boost mode (up to 4.5 GHz), the processor speeds up application launches and handles short-term tasks. For example, opening Photoshop will take 2-3 seconds. However, after 15-20 seconds, the frequency drops to 3.8 GHz due to heating.

Use Cases: Who is the i3-1305U Suitable For?

1. Students and Office Workers — for document work, online courses, Zoom meetings.

2. Home Laptop Users — surfing the web, streaming, light photo editing.

3. Mobile Users — thanks to the low TDP, such laptops are lightweight (from 1.2 kg) and thin.

Not Suitable For:

- Gamers (except for casual gaming).

- Video editors (4K rendering will be slow).

Battery Life: Up to 10 Hours in Energy-Saving Mode

Laptops with the i3-1305U and a 50-60 Wh battery provide:

- 8-10 hours with text work and web browsing (brightness at 50%).

- 5-6 hours during streaming video (Netflix, YouTube).

Energy Savings:

- Intel Speed Shift — instant switching between C-state modes.

- Windows 12 Optimization — AI mode "EcoBalance" reduces background load.

Tip: Turn off Turbo Boost in power settings to extend battery life by 15-20%.

Comparison with Competitors

AMD Ryzen 3 7440U

- Pros: 6 Zen 4 cores, better in multi-threaded tasks (Geekbench Multi ~4200).

- Cons: Higher price for laptops (from $700).

Apple M1 (2023)

- Pros: Better battery life (up to 14 hours), fast SSD.

- Cons: Limited compatibility with Windows programs.

Intel Core i5-1245U (Previous Generation)

- Pros: Cheaper (laptops from $450).

- Cons: 20% weaker in single-threaded tests.

Pros and Cons of the Core i3-1305U

Strengths:

- Energy efficiency.

- Sufficient performance for everyday tasks.

- Support for modern standards (Wi-Fi 6E, Thunderbolt 4).

Weaknesses:

- Limited multi-threaded power.

- Weak iGPU for gaming.

Laptop Selection Recommendations

1. Device Type: Ultrabooks (Asus ZenBook, Lenovo Yoga) or budget models (HP Pavilion, Acer Aspire 5).

2. Minimum Configuration:

- 8 GB RAM (16 GB preferred for multitasking).

- 512 GB NVMe SSD.

- IPS screen with a resolution of 1920x1080.

3. Prices: $550–$800 depending on brand and specifications.

Examples of 2025 Models:

- Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 5i ($599): 16 GB RAM, 1 TB SSD, 15.6" FHD.

- Dell Inspiron 14 ($699): touchscreen, Thunderbolt 4.

Final Conclusion

The Intel Core i3-1305U is a good choice for those looking for an affordable, lightweight laptop with long battery life. It will handle office tasks, web browsing, and light creativity but is not designed for professional workloads. If your budget is up to $800 and you need a reliable companion for studying or working, this processor is worth considering. However, for gaming or video editing, it's better to look at models with Ryzen 5 or Core i5.

Basic

Label Name

Intel

Platform

Mobile

Launch Date

January 2023

Model Name

The Intel processor number is just one of several factors - along with processor brand, system configurations, and system-level benchmarks - to be considered when choosing the right processor for your computing needs.

i3-1305U

Code Name

Raptor Lake

CPU Specifications

Total Cores

Cores is a hardware term that describes the number of independent central processing units in a single computing component (die or chip).

Total Threads

Where applicable, Intel® Hyper-Threading Technology is only available on Performance-cores.

Performance-cores

Efficient-cores

Max Turbo Frequency

Max Turbo Frequency is the maximum single-core frequency at which the processor is capable of operating using Intel® Turbo Boost Technology and, if present, Intel® Turbo Boost Max Technology 3.0 and Intel® Thermal Velocity Boost. Frequency is typically measured in gigahertz (GHz), or billion cycles per second.

4.50 GHz

Intel Hyper-Threading Technology

Intel® Hyper-Threading Technology (Intel® HT Technology) delivers two processing threads per physical core. Highly threaded applications can get more work done in parallel, completing tasks sooner.

Yes

L3 Cache

10 MB

CPU Socket

The socket is the component that provides the mechanical and electrical connections between the processor and motherboard.

FCBGA1744

Technology

Lithography refers to the semiconductor technology used to manufacture an integrated circuit, and is reported in nanometer (nm), indicative of the size of features built on the semiconductor.

Intel 7

TDP

15 W

Processor Base Power

The time-averaged power dissipation that the processor is validated to not exceed during manufacturing while executing an Intel-specified high complexity workload at Base Frequency and at the junction temperature as specified in the Datasheet for the SKU segment and configuration.

15 W

Maximum Turbo Power

The maximum sustained (>1s) power dissipation of the processor as limited by current and/or temperature controls. Instantaneous power may exceed Maximum Turbo Power for short durations (<=10ms). Note: Maximum Turbo Power is configurable by system vendor and can be system specific.

55 W

Minimum Assured Power

12 W

Max. Operating Temperature

Junction Temperature is the maximum temperature allowed at the processor die.

100°C

Number of PCI Express Lanes

A PCI Express (PCIe) lane consists of two differential signaling pairs, one for receiving data, one for transmitting data, and is the basic unit of the PCIe bus. Max # of PCI Express Lanes is the total number of supported lanes.

Instruction Set

The instruction set is a hard program stored inside the CPU that guides and optimizes CPU operations. With these instruction sets, the CPU can run more efficiently. There are many manufacturers that design CPUs, which results in different instruction sets, such as the 8086 instruction set for the Intel camp and the RISC instruction set for the ARM camp. x86, ARM v8, and MIPS are all codes for instruction sets. Instruction sets can be extended; for example, x86 added 64-bit support to create x86-64. Manufacturers developing CPUs that are compatible with a certain instruction set need authorization from the instruction set patent holder. A typical example is Intel authorizing AMD, enabling the latter to develop CPUs compatible with the x86 instruction set.

64-bit

Microprocessor PCIe Revision

Gen 4

Memory Specifications

Memory Type

Intel® processors come in four different types: Single Channel, Dual Channel, Triple Channel, and Flex Mode. Maximum supported memory speed may be lower when populating multiple DIMMs per channel on products that support multiple memory channels.

Up to DDR5 5200 MT/s Up to DDR4 3200 MT/s Up to LPDDR5/x 5200 MT/s Up to LPDDR4x 4267 MT/s

Max Memory Size

Max memory size refers to the maximum memory capacity supported by the processor.

96 GB

Memory Channels

The number of memory channels refers to the bandwidth operation for real world application.

ECC Memory Supported

ECC Memory Supported indicates processor support for Error-Correcting Code memory. ECC memory is a type of system memory that can detect and correct common kinds of internal data corruption. Note that ECC memory support requires both processor and chipset support.

GPU Specifications

Integrated Graphics Model

An integrated GPU refers to the graphics core that is integrated into the CPU processor. Leveraging the processor's powerful computational capabilities and intelligent power efficiency management, it delivers outstanding graphics performance and a smooth application experience at a lower power consumption.

Intel® UHD Graphics for 13th Gen Intel® Processors

Graphics Frequency

Graphics max dynamic frequency refers to the maximum opportunistic graphics render clock frequency (in MHz) that can be supported using Intel® HD Graphics with Dynamic Frequency feature.

1.25 GHz

DirectX Support

DirectX* Support indicates support for a specific version of Microsoft’s collection of APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) for handling multimedia compute tasks.

12.1

Execution Units

The Execution Unit is the foundational building block of Intel’s graphics architecture. Execution Units are compute processors optimized for simultaneous Multi-Threading for high throughput compute power.

Max Resolution (HDMI)

Max Resolution (HDMI) is the maximum resolution supported by the processor via the HDMI interface (24bits per pixel & 60Hz). System or device display resolution is dependent on multiple system design factors; actual resolution may be lower on your system.

4096 x 2304 @ 60Hz

Max Resolution (DP)

Max Resolution (DP) is the maximum resolution supported by the processor via the DP interface (24bits per pixel & 60Hz). System or device display resolution is dependent on multiple system design factors; actual resolution may be lower on your system.

7680 x 4320 @ 60Hz

Max Resolution (eDP - Integrated Flat Panel)

Max Resolution (Integrated Flat Panel) is the maximum resolution supported by the processor for a device with an integrated flat panel (24bits per pixel & 60Hz). System or device display resolution is dependent on multiple system design factors; actual resolution may be lower on your device.

4096 x 2304 @ 120Hz

Number of Displays Supported

Graphics Output

Graphics Output defines the interfaces available to communicate with display devices.

eDP 1.4b | DP 1.4a | HDMI 2.1

Miscellaneous

Intel Deep Learning Boost (Intel DL Boost) on CPU

A new set of embedded processor technologies designed to accelerate AI deep learning use cases. It extends Intel AVX-512 with a new Vector Neural Network Instruction (VNNI) that significantly increases deep learning inference performance over previous generations.

Yes

Intel Image Processing Unit

6.0

Intel Virtualization Technology (VT-x)

Intel® Virtualization Technology (VT-x) allows one hardware platform to function as multiple “virtual” platforms. It offers improved manageability by limiting downtime and maintaining productivity by isolating computing activities into separate partitions.

Yes

Intel Virtualization Technology for Directed I/O (VT-d)

Intel® Virtualization Technology for Directed I/O (VT-d) continues from the existing support for IA-32 (VT-x) and Itanium® processor (VT-i) virtualization adding new support for I/O-device virtualization. Intel VT-d can help end users improve security and reliability of the systems and also improve performance of I/O devices in virtualized environments.

Yes

Intel Standard Manageability (ISM)

Intel® Standard Manageability is the manageability solution for Intel vPro® Essentials platforms and is a subset of Intel® AMT with out-of-band management over Ethernet and Wi-Fi, but no KVM or new life cycle management features.

Intel® SSE4.1 | Intel® SSE4.2 | Intel® AVX2

Execute Disable Bit

Execute Disable Bit is a hardware-based security feature that can reduce exposure to viruses and malicious-code attacks and prevent harmful software from executing and propagating on the server or network.

Yes

Cache

CPU Cache is an area of fast memory located on the processor. Intel® Smart Cache refers to the architecture that allows all cores to dynamically share access to the last level cache.

10 MB Intel® Smart Cache

Intel AES New Instructions

Intel® AES New Instructions (Intel® AES-NI) are a set of instructions that enable fast and secure data encryption and decryption. AES-NI are valuable for a wide range of cryptographic applications, for example: applications that perform bulk encryption/decryption, authentication, random number generation, and authenticated encryption.

Yes

Intel High Definition Audio

Yes

Intel Volume Management Device (VMD)

Intel® Volume Management Device (VMD) provides a common, robust method of hot plug and LED management for NVMe-based solid state drives.

Yes

Intel Boot Guard

Intel® Device Protection Technology with Boot Guard helps protect the system’s pre-OS environment from viruses and malicious software attacks.

Yes

Intel VT-x with Extended Page Tables (EPT)

Intel® VT-x with Extended Page Tables (EPT), also known as Second Level Address Translation (SLAT), provides acceleration for memory intensive virtualized applications. Extended Page Tables in Intel® Virtualization Technology platforms reduces the memory and power overhead costs and increases battery life through hardware optimization of page table management.

Yes

Intel QuickAssist Software Acceleration

Yes

Intel Control-Flow Enforcement Technology

CET - Intel Control-flow Enforcement Technology (CET) helps protect against the misuse of legitimate code snippets through return-oriented programming (ROP) control-flow hijacking attacks.

Yes

Intel Flex Memory Access

Yes

Intel OS Guard

Yes

OpenGL Support

OpenGL (Open Graphics Library) is a cross-language, multi-platform API (Application Programming Interface) for rendering 2D and 3D vector graphics.

4.6

OpenCL Support

OpenCL (Open Computing Language) is a multi-platform API (Application Programming Interface) for heterogeneous parallel programming.

3.0

Intel Quick Sync Video

Intel® Quick Sync Video delivers fast conversion of video for portable media players, online sharing, and video editing and authoring.

Yes

Benchmarks

Geekbench 6

Single Core Score

1805

Geekbench 6

Multi Core Score

3869

Geekbench 5

Single Core Score

1281

Geekbench 5

Multi Core Score

3446

Passmark CPU

Single Core Score

3239

Passmark CPU

Multi Core Score

8923

Compared to Other CPU

Geekbench 6 Single Core

Core i3-12300HL

2031 +12.5%

Core i9-12900TE

1923 +6.5%

Core i3-1305U

1805

Ryzen 5 3600XT

1697 -6%

EPYC 8324P

1648 -8.7%

Geekbench 6 Multi Core

Core i7-1180G7

4339 +12.1%

Core i7-5850HQ

4110 +6.2%

Core i3-1305U

3869

Ryzen 3 PRO 4450U

3628 -6.2%

Core i3-9350K

3404 -12%

Geekbench 5 Single Core

Xeon Silver 4410Y

1383 +8%

Core i5-10600KF

1328 +3.7%

Core i3-1305U

1281

Ryzen 3 PRO 7330U

1239 -3.3%

Ryzen 3 5425U

1202 -6.2%

Geekbench 5 Multi Core

Xeon E5-2630L v3

3718 +7.9%

Core i5-1035G4

3582 +3.9%

Core i3-1305U

3446

Athlon Gold PRO 3150GE

3316 -3.8%

Core i5-6685R

3199 -7.2%

Passmark CPU Single Core

Xeon E-2378G

3389 +4.6%

Ryzen 7 PRO 5750G

3315 +2.3%

Core i3-1305U

3239

Xeon W-1290P

3193 -1.4%

Core i3-12100TE

3101 -4.3%

Passmark CPU Multi Core

Xeon E-2174G

9741 +9.2%

Xeon D-1557

9285 +4.1%

Core i3-1305U

8923

Core i5-10300H

8469 -5.1%

Core i3-10305T

8136 -8.8%