What is a computer processor?
A processor (also called a CPU) is like the engine of your computer. It helps your computer run programs, open web pages, and download files quickly.
Which processor is right for you?
| Processor | Best for... | Key features |
|---|---|---|
| Overclockable – Intel® K Series | Top-level performance in gaming, streaming, and recording. Can be pushed beyond standard speeds (overclocked). | Up to 24 cores, 32 threads, and 5.4 GHz max turbo frequency |
| Intel® Core™ Ultra 9 | Gaming on the go with smooth, high frame rates and smart AI features. | Up to 16 cores, 5.1 GHz max turbo frequency |
| Intel® Core™ Ultra 7 | AI-enhanced gaming, streaming, and multitasking. | Up to 16 cores, 4.8 GHz max turbo frequency |
| Intel® Core™ Ultra 5 | Smooth gaming with built-in AI support. | Up to 14 cores, 4.5 GHz max turbo frequency. |
| Intel® Core™ i9 | Top-tier performance for gaming, live streaming, and advanced content creation. | Up to 16 cores, 24 threads, 5.8 GHz max turbo frequency |
| Intel® Core™ 7 Intel® Core™ i7 |
High-end gaming, creating content, using VR, and multitasking. | Up to 16 cores, 24 threads, 5.4 GHz max turbo frequency |
| Intel® Core™ 5 Intel® Core™ i5 |
Reliable gaming, basic content creation, and everyday use. | Up to 12 cores, 16 threads, 5.1 GHz max turbo frequency |
Within each series, performance improves as you go from 5 to 7 to 9.
What is an NPU?
NPU stands for Neural Processing Unit. It runs AI features like generative AI, voice recognition, background blur, and real-time translation faster and more efficiently than a CPU or GPU alone. Any Intel Core Ultra processor includes an NPU.
A modern AI PC typically uses all three together:
What is an NPU?
NPU stands for Neural Processing Unit. It runs AI features like generative AI, voice recognition, background blur, and real-time translation faster and more efficiently than a CPU or GPU alone. Any Intel Core Ultra processor includes an NPU.
A modern AI PC typically uses all three together:
- CPU for logic and control
- GPU for heavy multitasking or 3D rendering
- NPU for real-time, efficient AI features
What else should you know?
A processor’s performance depends on:
- Bandwidth
- Clock speed
- Number of cores
- Cache memory
Some Dell computers use platforms co-engineered with Intel®, which combine powerful processors with added features for a better experience. For example, the Intel® Evo™ platform is made for multitasking, long battery life, and fast Wi-Fi.
Learn more about Intel processors for gaming.