Intel Core Ultra 7 155H
Intel Core Ultra 7 155H: Hybrid Power for Next-Gen Thin Notebooks
Introduction
With the release of the Meteor Lake processor line, Intel has focused on revolutionary architecture, energy efficiency, and versatility. The Core Ultra 7 155H is the flagship model designed for premium ultrabooks and workstations. Let’s explore how it stands out from the competition, how it performs in real-world scenarios, and who should pay attention to it.
Architecture and Process Technology: Hybrid Cores and a New Era of 7nm
Core and Thread Composition
The Core Ultra 7 155H is built on a hybrid architecture with three types of cores:
- 6 Performance Cores (P-cores) with Hyper-Threading support (12 threads).
- 8 Efficient Cores (E-cores) without multi-threading (8 threads).
- 2 Low Power Efficient Cores (LP E-cores) for background tasks (2 threads).
Total: 16 cores and 22 threads. This allows for flexible task distribution: P-cores handle heavy applications, E-cores manage multi-threaded loads, while LP E-cores reduce power consumption during idle periods.
Clock Frequencies and Cache
- Base frequency of P-cores: 3.8 GHz.
- Maximum Turbo frequency: 4.8 GHz.
- L3 Cache: 24 MB — sufficient for quick data access in professional applications.
Xe LPG 128EU Graphics
The integrated GPU Xe Graphics LPG 128EU supports DirectX 12 Ultimate and ray tracing. This is an enhanced version of Iris Xe, optimized for gaming and rendering. In tests, it shows performance levels comparable to entry-level discrete graphics cards (e.g., NVIDIA MX450).
Intel 4 Process Technology
The processor is manufactured using the Intel 4 (7nm) standards, which led to a 20% reduction in power consumption compared to the previous generation (Raptor Lake). It is the first Intel chip utilizing Foveros 3D technology for vertical stacking of chips.
Power Consumption and TDP: Balance Between Power and Autonomy
The nominal TDP of the processor is 28 W, but in turbo mode, it can temporarily consume up to 64 W. However, thanks to architectural optimization and task distribution among cores, average power consumption in office scenarios rarely exceeds 15–20 W.
Energy-saving Technologies:
- Intel Thread Director — dynamically allocates tasks between cores.
- Dynamic Power Share — redistributes power between the CPU and GPU.
- Adaptive Screen Dimming — reduces power consumption by the display.
Performance: From Office to Gaming
Office Tasks
- Opening 50 tabs in Chrome + Word + Excel: the processor utilizes E-cores, maintaining smooth interface performance.
- Rendering presentations in PowerPoint: accelerated by P-cores.
Multimedia
- Adobe Premiere Pro: 4K video rendering is 30% faster than the Core i7-13700H.
- Blender: BMW Render scene completes in 8.2 minutes (compared to 9.5 minutes on Ryzen 7 7840U).
Gaming
- Cyberpunk 2077 (1080p, low settings): 34–38 FPS (Xe Graphics).
- Fortnite (1080p, medium settings): 56 FPS.
For comfortable play in AAA titles, a discrete graphics card will be needed, but the iGPU is sufficient for casual gaming.
Turbo Mode: How Long Can It Hold Up?
Under load, the processor reaches 4.8 GHz, but after 2–3 minutes, it reduces frequency to 4.2–4.3 GHz due to heat. In laptops with advanced cooling (e.g., Dell XPS 15), the turbo mode operates more stably.
Use Cases: Who Is Ultra 7 155H Suitable For?
1. Creative Professionals: Designers, video editors, 3D artists will appreciate multi-threading and fast rendering.
2. Office Workers: Multitasking without hiccups.
3. Students: Versatile for study and entertainment.
4. Casual Gamers: Gaming at medium settings or with an eGPU via Thunderbolt 4.
Not Suitable For:
- Hardcore gamers requiring 100+ FPS in 4K.
- Enthusiasts preferring desktop CPUs.
Battery Life: How Long Will the Laptop Last?
With moderate use (web surfing, working in Office), a laptop with a 60-70 Wh battery runs for 8–10 hours. In maximum performance mode — 2–3 hours.
Energy Saving Secrets:
- LP E-cores handle background processes (updates, notifications).
- The built-in NPU (neural processing unit) accelerates AI tasks without taxing the CPU.
Comparison with Competitors: Who Does Meteor Lake Outperform?
AMD Ryzen 7 7840U
- AMD Advantages: Higher iGPU performance (Radeon 780M).
- Disadvantages: Poorer optimization for Windows 11.
Apple M3
- Apple Advantages: Battery life up to 18 hours.
- Disadvantages: Limited compatibility with Windows programs.
Intel Core i7-13700H (Previous Generation)
- 13700H Advantages: Lower price.
- Disadvantages: Higher power consumption, no NPU.
Conclusion: The Core Ultra 7 155H is the best choice for Windows laptops that balance power and autonomy.
Pros and Cons
Strengths:
- High multi-threaded performance.
- Support for Wi-Fi 7 and Thunderbolt 5.
- Neural processor for accelerating AI tasks.
Weaknesses:
- Price: Laptops with this CPU start at $1500.
- Integrated graphics cannot replace discrete cards for gaming.
Laptop Selection Recommendations
1. Device Type:
- Ultrabook (e.g., ASUS ZenBook 14X) — for mobility.
- Workstation (MSI Prestige 16) — for creative tasks.
2. What to Look For:
- Cooling: At least two fans.
- Display: 100% sRGB and above.
- Ports: 2x Thunderbolt 4, HDMI 2.1.
- Battery: At least 70 Wh.
3. Optimal Configuration:
- 32 GB LPDDR5X RAM.
- 1 TB PCIe 4.0 SSD.
Final Conclusion
Intel Core Ultra 7 155H is ideal for those seeking a powerful and portable laptop for work and multimedia. It combines the performance of desktop CPUs with the autonomy of an ultrabook. If you’re not ready to pay extra for discrete graphics and want a "jack of all trades" — this is your choice. However, for gaming or specialized tasks, it's better to consider models with RTX 4060 or Apple MacBook Pro.
