Intel Core i5-1240P

Intel Core i5-1240P: A Versatile Processor for Mobile Tasks in 2025
Review of Architecture, Performance, and Use Cases
Architecture and Process Technology: The Hybrid Alder Lake Approach
The Intel Core i5-1240P processor, released in 2022, remains relevant in 2025 thanks to its hybrid Alder Lake architecture. It combines 4 performance cores (P-cores) with Hyper-Threading support (8 threads) and 8 efficient cores (E-cores) (8 threads), totaling 12 cores and 16 threads. This combination allows for task optimization: P-cores handle heavy computations (e.g., rendering), while E-cores manage background processes (updates, streaming).
- Intel 7 Process Technology (10nm Enhanced SuperFin): Improved transistor density and energy efficiency.
- Frequencies: Base frequency — 1.7 GHz, maximum turbo frequency — 4.4 GHz for P-cores.
- Integrated graphics Iris Xe (80 EU): Supports 4K displays, light gaming (e.g., CS:GO at medium settings), and accelerates AI tasks.
- Cache: 12 MB L3, which speeds up multi-threaded operations.
This architecture is Intel’s response to the growing demand for a balance between power and battery life in ultrabooks.
Power Consumption and TDP: 28 W for Balance
The 28 W TDP positions the i5-1240P as a processor for slim laptops with active cooling. Unlike the 15-Watt U-series, it offers higher performance but requires an effective heat dissipation system.
- Dynamic Management (Intel Dynamic Tuning): Automatically adjusts frequency and voltage based on load.
- Operating Modes: In power-saving mode, E-cores dominate, reducing consumption to 10-15 W. Under load, P-cores activate, which can briefly increase power consumption to 40-50 W.
Example: The Lenovo Yoga Slim 7i Pro laptop with this processor features a dual-fan cooling system, preventing throttling even under prolonged load.
Performance: From Office Work to Light Gaming
According to Geekbench 6 (1919 / 6964), the i5-1240P outperforms the AMD Ryzen 5 6600U (~1800 / 6500) in single-threaded tasks but slightly lags behind the Apple M2 (~2100 / 8500) in multi-threading.
- Office Tasks: Running 30+ tabs in Chrome, working with Excel (spreadsheets with 100k rows) — no lag at all.
- Multimedia: Converting 4K video in HandBrake (~35-40 minutes for a 10-minute clip).
- Gaming: In Fortnite (1080p, low settings) — 45-55 FPS; Dota 2 — 60-70 FPS.
- Turbo Mode: Peak frequency of 4.4 GHz lasts up to 20-30 seconds, stabilizing at 3.8-4.0 GHz afterwards (depends on cooling).
For streamers: OBS + game + browser — occasional minor stutters are possible, but overall stable.
Use Cases: Who Is the i5-1240P Ideal For?
1. Students and Office Workers: Multitasking (Zoom + documents + email).
2. Amateur Creatives: Photo editing in Lightroom, editing short videos.
3. Mobile Gamers: Games like Overwatch 2 or Genshin Impact on low settings.
4. Remote Workers: Stable work with cloud services and VPNs.
Not recommended for 3D modeling in Blender or streaming in 4K.
Battery Life: 8–10 Hours in Real Conditions
With a battery capacity of 60 Wh (e.g., Dell XPS 13):
- Web browsing: 9–10 hours.
- Video (YouTube, 1080p): 8 hours.
- Load (Photoshop + browser): 4–5 hours.
Power-saving Technologies:
- Intel Speed Shift: Fast switching between processor states.
- Adaptix Dynamic Tuning: Machine learning for load forecasting.
Tip: Disable turbo mode in power settings to extend battery life by 15–20%.
Comparison with Competitors: AMD, Apple, and Previous Generations
- AMD Ryzen 5 7640U (Zen 4): Better in multi-threaded tasks (~7200 in Geekbench 6 Multi), but pricier (laptops from $1000).
- Apple M3: More energy-efficient (12+ hours of battery life), but limited compatibility with Windows software.
- Intel Core i5-1135G7 (11th generation): Lags 30% in multi-threading, lacks E-cores.
Prices for laptops with the i5-1240P in 2025: $800–$1200 (e.g., Acer Swift 5 — $999, HP Envy 14 — $1099).
Pros and Cons
Strengths:
- Hybrid architecture for multitasking.
- Support for Thunderbolt 4 and Wi-Fi 6E.
- Competitive pricing in the segment.
Weaknesses:
- Heating under prolonged load.
- Lags behind Apple M3 in battery life.
Laptop Selection Recommendations
- Device Type: Ultrabooks (Asus ZenBook), business laptops (ThinkPad T14).
- What to Look For:
- Cooling system (at least 2 fans).
- Display: IPS or OLED with at least FHD resolution.
- Battery: at least 50 Wh.
- Ports: 2x Thunderbolt 4 for peripherals.
Avoid models with passive cooling — the processor will not reach its full potential.
Final Conclusion
The Intel Core i5-1240P in 2025 is an optimal choice for those searching for a balance between price ($800–$1200), performance, and portability. It is suitable for:
- Students for studying and entertainment.
- Office Workers valuing stability.
- Travelers needing a lightweight laptop with long battery life.
If you are not willing to pay extra for top models but want modern functionality — this processor is for you. However, for professional tasks (4K editing, AAA gaming), it may be worth looking into more powerful CPUs or discrete graphics.