Intel UHD Graphics 48EU: How Memory Affects Performance

Intel UHD Graphics 48EU is a version of the integrated Xe G4 graphics with 48 execution units designed for mobile Tiger Lake processors. Its performance is heavily influenced by memory configuration, power limits, and cooling: the performance difference between laptops in Time Spy exceeds 40%.

In 2026, its performance is sufficient for everyday tasks, video playback, and less demanding gaming. However, it is no longer adequate for modern demanding games.

Where Intel UHD Graphics 48EU is Found

The Xe G4 with 48 EU was installed in entry-level mobile Tiger Lake processors, including the Core i3-1115G4, Core i3-1125G4, Pentium Gold 7505, and Celeron 6305.

Since integrated graphics use the laptop's RAM, the performance of two systems with the same GPU can vary significantly. The results are affected by memory operating mode, GPU frequencies, power limits, and cooling.

Benchmarks Across Different Laptops

In 3DMark, the difference between laptops can reach several percentage points.

The difference is particularly noticeable on the Acer Aspire 5. After switching from single-channel to dual-channel RAM, the Time Spy Graphics score increases from 641 to 822 points, a rise of about 28%.

There are also differences among laptops with the same Core i3-1115G4. The Lenovo ThinkBook 14 G2 scores 634 in Time Spy Graphics, while the Realme Book Slim scores 913. This disparity cannot be explained by memory alone; power limits and cooling also play a significant role.

The average value tells little about the performance of a specific laptop.

Gaming

In Shadow of the Tomb Raider, the Acer Aspire 5 with Pentium Gold 7505 achieves about 25 fps at 1280 x 720 with minimum settings. In Cyberpunk 2077, the Lenovo IdeaPad 3 with Core i3-1115G4 gets around 14-15 fps at 720p with low settings.

Even at 720p, modern demanding games run too slowly.

For older games and less demanding online projects, performance is often sufficient.

Everyday Use and Video

In everyday tasks, high graphical performance is usually not required. The capabilities of the 48EU are enough for the Windows interface, browsing, office applications, and video playback.

Hardware decoding reduces CPU load during video playback, and Intel Quick Sync aids in encoding and transcoding tasks.

For complex video editing and 3D rendering, the 48EU is too slow, but it manages well with video playback and basic editing.

Why RAM is Important

Intel UHD Graphics 48EU has no dedicated video memory, so it utilizes the laptop's RAM.

Single-channel memory limits bandwidth and can significantly reduce graphical performance.

If a laptop is equipped with only one memory module, adding a second can noticeably speed up integrated graphics.

Intel UHD Graphics 48EU in 2026

For browsing, office applications, and video, Intel UHD Graphics 48EU is still adequate.

Older games and less demanding online projects also run at lower graphical settings. However, it is insufficient for modern AAA games, 3D rendering, and other GPU-intensive tasks.

When purchasing a used laptop, it is worthwhile to check the memory configuration, battery condition, screen, and price. In 2026, the 48EU should only be considered as basic graphics in an inexpensive used laptop.