Core 5 221E

Name: Intel Core 5 221E
Brand: Intel

14 cores · 20 threads · up to 5.2 GHz on 1700.

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Cores

Threads

Boost

5.2 GHz

L3 cache

24 MB

TDP

65W

Socket

1700

Performance breakdown

Gaming18

Productivity17

Single-core19

Multi-core58

Power efficiency15

Lab scores

Performance score18

Cores14

Threads20

Boost clock (GHz)5.2 GHz

Estimated gaming FPS

Paired with a high-end GPU. CPU impact is largest at 1080p.

1080p40 fps

1440p32 fps

4K22 fps

Full specifications

Processor & cores

Architecture: Bartlett Lake
Process node: 10 nm
Socket: 1700
Release year: 2025
Total cores: 14
Threads: 20
Integrated graphics: Intel UHD Graphics 730

Clocks & cache

Base clock: 2.7 GHz
Boost clock: 5.2 GHz
L1 cache: 1120 KB
L2 cache: 28 MB
L3 cache: 24 MB

Memory & platform

Memory support: DDR4
Base power (TDP): 65W
PCIe: PCIe 5.0
Launch price: $232

Technologies

Extensions: AES-NI, AVX, VT-x, VT-d, TXT

Community Feedback

What Owners Say

Owners love the smooth multitasking for office builds and how it stays whisper-quiet under load. The main complaint is the higher price compared to older i5 chips that offer similar everyday performance.

Pros

Quiet enough for living room use
Solid performance for everyday multitasking
Easy upgrade for existing LGA1700 boards
Stays cool with basic coolers

Cons

No real overclocking headroom.
Older socket 1700 platform.
Limited to 65 watts sustained.

Verdict

Our verdict on the Core 5 221E

The Intel Core 5 221E is a low-power desktop CPU on an old socket that trades modern efficiency for heavy compatibility with existing LGA1700 hardware.

Get it if you need a reliable, power-efficient processor for a basic office PC or home server that won't break the bank. Skip it if you want high performance for gaming, video editing, or any demanding multitasking.