Intel Core i5-2500K Quad-Core Processor 3.3 GHz 6 MB Cache LGA 1155 - BX80623I52500K

by Intel

• Specs: Quad-core 3.3GHz, 6M Cache, Intel HD Graphics 3000, 95 watt TDP, Dual-channel DDR3 memory support, socket LGA1155
• Quad-core processor delivers four-way multicore processing via parallelism resulting in more efficient use of processor
• Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology is an advanced means of enabling very high performance while also delivery power-conservation.
• 6 MB Intel Smart Cache is dynamically shared to each processor core, based on workload
• All Core i5 processors have Intel Turbo Boost Technology

Product Details

• Product Dimensions: 4.5 x 4 x 3.2 inches
• Shipping Weight: 9.6 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Shipping: Currently, item can be shipped only within the U.S.
• ASIN: B004EBUXHQ
• Item model number: BX80623I52500K
• Average Customer Review: 4.8 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (180 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank:
  • #36 in Electronics > Computers & Add-Ons > Computer Components > CPU Processors
• Date first available at Amazon.com: January 9, 2011

Product Description

From the Manufacturer

Part of Intel's family of 2nd generation Intel Core computer processors, the Intel Core i5-2500K Processor delivers speed and smooth performance --whether you're uploading and editing home videos or checking your e-mail. This quad-core processor runs at 3.30 GHz and uses the LGA1155 socket. It features a 6 MB L3 cache, Intel Turbo Boost Technology 2.0, and Virtualization Technology to improve speed and computing productivity. It's also fully unlocked for extra performance and flexibility. Built-in visual technologies, like Clear Video and InTru3D, support high-definition and Blu-ray playback.

Intel Core i5-2500K Processor

Intel Core i5-2500K Processor At a Glance: Quad-core processor running at 3.30 GHz delivers fast performance Fully unlocked so you can independently raise clock speeds Uses LGA1155 socket 6 MB L3 shared cache dynamically allocated to each processor core Turbo Boost Technology 2.0 for increased speed when you need it Built-in visuals for a rich, seamless graphic experience

The Intel Core i5-2500K Processor has an unlocked core allowing for overclocking.

Quad-Core Processor Running at 3.30 GHz for Fast Performance

The Intel Core i5-2500K has four processing cores running at 3.30 GHz. It features a 6 MB L3 shared cache that is dynamically allocated to each processor core, based on workload. This reduces latency and improves performance.

Additionally, the i5 comes with Advanced Vector Extensions, a set of instructions to improve software performance for intensive applications like audio processing, audio codecs, and image and video editing applications.

Fully Unlocked Core for Overclocking

The Core i5-2500K is fully unlocked, allowing gamers and enthusiasts to overclock the processor for faster performance. With a fully unlocked processor, you can independently raise clock speeds without impacting other system components.

Turbo Boost for Extra Processor Speed

The i5-2500K features Intel Turbo Boost Technology 2.0, which delivers a burst of processor speed automatically when the workload demands additional performance. The technology dynamically increases the processor's frequency as needed by taking advantage of thermal and power headroom when operating below specified limits. The result is adaptive performance that's more intelligent and energy efficient.

Built-In Visuals Provide Rich, Steady Graphics

The built-in visuals of the Intel Core i5-2500K deliver a seamless graphic experience when you're viewing and manipulating pictures and media on your PC. They also eliminate the need for a discrete graphics card, reducing power consumption and system cost.

Intel Quick Sync Video enables quick conversions of video files for portable media players or online sharing. Experience sharp images and rich color with Clear Video Technology, which provides visual quality and color fidelity enhancements for vivid high-definition and Blu-ray playback. Intel HD Graphics offers enhanced 3D performance for immersive mainstream and casual gaming without hesitations or interruptions.

The Core i5 is also equipped with Intel InTru3D, which provides stereoscopic 3D Blu-ray playback in full 1080p resolution and premium audio via HDMI 1.4.

Intel Virtualization Technology

Intel Virtualization Technology allows multiple "virtual" environments to function on one hardware platform. It offers improved manageability, limiting downtime and maintaining productivity by isolating computing activities into separate partitions.

Optimized for Energy Efficiency

The Core i5 is designed to optimize every watt of electricity, resulting in a more energy-efficient system that is cooler and cheaper to run. In a system with other energy-efficient components, the processor can meet Energy Star specifications.

What's in the Box

Intel Core i5-2500K processor, fan/heat-sink cooling solution, warranty booklet, and Intel Inside logo label.

Intel Core i5 Processor Comparison
	Intel Core i5-2300	Intel Core i5-2400S	Intel Core i5-2400	Intel Core i5-2500	Intel Core i5-2500K
Number of Cores	4	4	4	4	4
Unlocked Core	No	No	No	No	Yes
Clock Speed	2.80 GHz	2.50 GHz	3.10 GHz	3.30 GHz	3.30 GHz
Max Turbo Frequency	3.10 GHz	3.30 GHz	3.40 GHz	3.70 GHz	3.70 GHz
Intel Smart Cache	6 MB	6 MB	6 MB	6 MB	6 MB
Built-in Visuals	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Intel HD Graphics Frequency/Turbo Frequency	850/1100 MHz	850/1100 MHz	850/1100 MHz	850/1100 MHz	850/1100 MHz
Thermal Design Power (TDP)	95 W	65 W	95 W	95 W	95 W
Socket	LGA 1155	LGA 1155	LGA 1155	LGA 1155	LGA 1155

Product Description

Part of Intel's family of 2nd generation Intel Core computer processors, the Intel Core i5-2500K Processor delivers speed and smooth performance --whether you're uploading and editing home videos or checking your e-mail. This quad-core processor runs at 3.30 GHz and uses the LGA1155 socket. It features a 6 MB L3 cache, Intel Turbo Boost Technology 2.0, and Virtualization Technology to improve speed and computing productivity. It's also fully unlocked for extra performance and flexibility. Built-in visual technologies, like Clear Video and InTru3D, support high-definition and Blu-ray playback.

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

135 of 137 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars Very easy to overclock July 2, 2011

By corry

Amazon Verified Purchase

I have it running at 4.9 GHz with liquid cooling, and no stability issues. It was able to be overclocked up to 4.0 GHz with stock cooling.

If you're building a computer with this CPU, make sure that your motherboard is compatible. Only a motherboard with LGA 1155 will work with 2nd-generation Intel processors (e.g. this one). There are three types of motherboards with LGA 1155: H67, P67, and Z68. Motherboards with H67 don't allow you to overclock. P67 motherboards allow you to overclock, but don't allow you to use the CPU's built-in graphics card (so you will have to buy a separate graphics card). Z68 motherboards don't have any restrictions. Personally, I chose to buy a P67 motherboard because it was slightly cheaper than Z68, and I didn't need the built-in graphics. But it's really up to you.

138 of 145 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars Boom for your Buck February 1, 2011

By T. R. Kanavy

Amazon Verified Purchase

I bought this as an upgrade for a stalwart Intel q6600 Core 2 Quad system I have been using for the past two years. My previous q6600 system was over-clocked (3.0ghz) and coupled with high performance parts to maximize efficacy. I figured this chip would be a MILD improvement over my aforementioned unit. Delightfully, I was WRONG.

The 2500k:

Saying this chip is a good "bang for the buck" is somewhat inaccurate. It's a sonic boom for the buck. It over-clocks to 4.5Ghz on air with moderate temperatures with a basic ($30) after-market air cooler and runs completly stable. I decided to run this chip on a daily basis at 4.0Ghz to preserve the longevity of its operation. This chip is excellent for use in programs like Photoshop, Adobe Creative Suite, and of course gaming. Providing you have an adequate video card this CPU simply WILL NOT let you down in intense graphic CPU-based games (Star Craft 2) or taxing programs (CS4+).

CONCLUSION:

This is an excellent chip with stellar price to performance ratio.

PRO's:

-Fantastic Value
-Runs Cool
-"K" edition is unlocked and easily overclocked
-Amazon's current pricing is in-line with the web's best.
-Loves to be overclocked with relatively low voltage.

CON's:

-No hyper threading (have to go to the i7 sandy bridge for HT)
-Does not make chocolate chip cookies or sing "Soft Kitty" to cheer you up when you are sick.

Bottom line:

Click the order button and make this baby yours. Unless you want the i7 for the hyper-threading capability (recommended for intense video editing, taxing multi-tasking and encoding). Kudos to Intel- this is a great architecture and worthy successor to their previous lines....
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A Note About the Meaning of the Intel i5 Core 2500K Model Number:

Intel: The Brand
i5: The Modifier
500: The Chip Series SKU
k: Unlocked Cores (for overclocking)
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My Sandy Bridge System Specs:

CPU: Sandy Bridge Core i5 2500k, Overclocked to 4.4ghz, Antec Kuhler 620 H2O CPU cooler.

Motherboard: Asus Sabertooth P67

GPU: (2x SLI) MSI N560GTX-TI Twin Frozr II/OC GeForce GTX 560 Ti (Fermi) 1GB 256-bit GDDR5 PCI Express 2.0 x16 HDCP Ready SLI Support Video Card

MEMORY: G-Skillz 8GB (2 x 4GB) 240-Pin DDR3 SDRAM DDR3 1600 (PC3 12800) Desktop Memory (overclocked)

PSU: Antec Truepower 23754 TP-750 BLUE LED 750-Watt PSU NVIDIA SLI Certified 80 Plus Bronze Advanced Hybrid Cable Management Power Supply

CASE: Silverstone Raven-02EW
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If you have any questions feel free to ask I will try to respond ASAP. Read more ›

86 of 91 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars You're going to love this!!!! September 11, 2011

By L2MICRO

Amazon Verified Purchase

Greetings and welcome to the ultimate review; written by: L2MICRO! (CPU Code name: Sandy Bridge)
This chip handles everything! It is great for gaming, photo editing, video streaming, etc.

First Things First
(IMPORTANT!!!) This chip does not go into an H55 motherboard. I can't stress this enough! The 1156 sockets are not compatible with this chip. If you want to get this chip, you need to either upgrade to a P67/H67 or Z68 motherboard first. The socket you need is a LGA 1155. This is you're only major requirement.

This chip is EXTREMELY similar to the i7 2600k, but at 100 dollars cheaper, the single most major difference between an i5 2500k and an i7 2600k, is the Hyper Threading feature that the i7 2600k has. The i5 2500k does not have it. If you're in the market for an Intel processor and all you do is game, some photo editing with Photoshop, or stream, than get your hands on an i5 2500k (The k means overclock-able. no K means the core speed is locked and won't overclock). Gaming, in general, does not support and may even decrease your gaming performances with a hyper threaded enabled Intel core processor, which means, you can compromise with confidence. Most (if not all) games only use about 1 to 2 cores on your processor anyway. For $100 cheaper, Hyper Threading does not make a difference in gaming performance, but if you do many different things and run many different programs at once, Hyper Threading might just be what you are looking.

The stocked clock speeds for the i5 2500k is 3.3ghz. The i7 2600k has 3.4ghz speed. Not a huge difference, right? Especially when you can overclock your i5 2500k a little to reach the 3.4ghz speed, easily. The i5 2500k processor has slightly upgraded Intel HD graphics (3000 engine) VS the i7 2600k (2000 engine).... This feature only applies to Z68 motherboards users, as these users have integrated vedio on the motherboard or "on board graphics". All this means is if you don't have a Z68 motherboard, you won't be able to overclock this processor and use the HD Graphics 3000 engine at the same time. Add a graphics card to you system and you don't need to worry about this factor. This core processor works just as good with H67 or P67 motherboards perfectly. That is pretty much it. Perfect for gamers.

Differences in a nut shell!

- i7 2600k 8mb cache (very little performance increase for the price)
-> i5 2500k 6mb cache

- i7 2600k Hyper Threading feature
-> i5 2500k None

- i7 2600k 3.40ghz speed
-> i5 2500k 3.30ghz speed (Easily overclocked to 3.40ghz or higher)

Things you should know!

- These chips work best with ram at 8gb or 12gb on a x64 bit systems. This CPU loves RAM modules STOCKED/CLOCKED to 1.5 volts and no less than 1333mhz of speed. These chips also prefer timings of 9-9-9-24 timings. However, 8-8-8-24 timings are viable.

- i5 2500k is easily overclocked to 4.1ghz with BIOS tweaks or third party software. Anything higher than than a core speed of 4.1ghz, will cause a hotter CPU. I would suggest switching to a water cooled system setup, because you may run into a 60 degrees Celsius increase without water heat removal. Stock or fan operated heat-sinks are only good to a certain point.

- When you buy an Intel processor, it will come with a case badge to place on your PC case to show your friends. It'll be on the back of your Intel manual booklet.

- The i5 Intel processor also comes with stock heat-sink that you may or may not use. I prefer after market heat-sinks, because the stock heat-sinks don't cool all that well and, from my experience, after market heat-sinks perform better and last longer; Especially, if you're going to overclock your CPU. I would also suggest picking up an after market cooler if you are planning to overclock this CPU.

Thermal Paste & You

- There is an applied application of thermal paste compound on your Intel i5 2500K stock heat-sink already. I would suggest removing and applying a new application from paste you purchased. If you have or bought an after market heat-sink, that I explained above, please use only a PEA SIZED amount of thermal compound for best, even spread, as well as, better heat transference. Remember, Less is more! Keep in mind when purchasing and allying thermal paste to your CPU that lower viscosity thermal compounds require more than a pea sized amount, because they don't spread as easily compared to higher viscosity pastes. Arctic Silver 5, MX-4, and OCZ freeze are better brands to consider for a best application.

Testing results!

I tested this CPU with Prime95 for 20 hours without any errors. Buying the right memory also factors into these tests and errors. When you do test, using Prime95 or a different program, RAM does contribute to errors/blue screens and can easily be mistaken for a CPU issue. My solution to this would be to run a memory diagnoses test first, as well as, test the CPU with Prime95 after.

That is pretty much it.
Thank you for reading my review! Hope you enjoy your new processor! Read more ›

21 of 23 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars Best bang for the buck! January 13, 2011

By J. Goodier

I got the i5 2500k at launch (1/9/2011) and I'm blown away by the performance. I'm upgrading from a core 2 duo 2.66. This gets a 7.5 in the Windows Experience Index (not over-clocked).

This thing runs cool with the stock fan and my standard $80 case with 3 fans. I have an ASUS mobo and used the OC wizard to get the turbo boost to 4.43ghz. Ran prime95 for 10 minutes with no issues, the cores got up to 50c on the hottest core. Even at that temp, I could barely hear the stock cpu fan at 2,000 rpm. The case fans run at 800 rpm.

My advice: save your money and buy this instead of i7 2600k. Use that money to get an SSD. Even a cheap kingston value series ssd will blow away your 7200rpm disk.