Intel Core 5 120U
Opinion and specs

Our verdict

Mid-range

The Intel Core 5 120U is a mid-range processor. It is a low-power chip (15 W): the kind that goes into thin, quiet laptops with long battery life. It came out in 2024.

It is currently fitted in 20 laptops from $399, at an average price of $895.

Above $587 there are clearly better options: for that money the Intel Core Ultra 5 226V is 18% faster. That is the sensible ceiling.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Intel Core 5 120U a good processor?

The Intel Core 5 120U is a mid-range processor. It is a low-power chip (15 W): the kind that goes into thin, quiet laptops with long battery life. It ranks 161 of 273 and delivers 24.2% of what the fastest one on the market does.

What does the U mean in Intel processors?

The U marks Intel's low-power line: 15 W, for thin, quiet laptops with longer battery life.

What year is the Intel Core 5 120U from?

Intel Core 5 120U came out in 2024.

What is the AMD equivalent of Intel Core 5 120U?

The closest in performance is AMD Ryzen 5 7530U.

What integrated graphics does the Intel Core 5 120U have?

The Intel Core 5 120U has Intel Graphics integrated graphics.

How much does a laptop with the Intel Core 5 120U cost?

It is currently fitted in 20 laptops from $399, at an average price of $895.

Which alternative is worth it?

Above $587 there are clearly better options: for that money the Intel Core Ultra 5 226V is 18% faster. That is the sensible ceiling.

Specs

Model 120U
Manufacturer Intel
L2 cache 12 MB
Family Intel Core 5
Socket BGA 1744
L3 cache 12 MB
Boost frequency 5 GHz
Cores 10
Number of processors supported 1
Threads 12
Frequency 1,4 GHz
Cache 12 MB
Operating modes 64-bit
Cache type Smart Cache

Performance summary

#161 of 273
Relative performance 24.2%
Laptops 20
Price from $399
Average price $895

Recommended alternatives

More powerful, also low-power, with a similar starting price

Our pick Intel Core Ultra 5 226V 28.5% From $587 AMD Ryzen 7 5700U 24.6% From $500

Laptops with Intel Core 5 120U:

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