Intel Core i5-655K

The Intel Core i5 655K is based on Intel's 32nm Clarkdale core with integrated graphics, the dual-core processor can handle four simultaneous threads using Hyper-Threading, it has 4MB of Level 3 cache and a TDP of 73W. As well as the unlocked multiplier, both chips still feature Intel's Turbo Boost technology, which automatically adjusts core frequency based on the CPU's workload.
2
Cores
4
Threads
3.2 GHz
Base Clock
3.46 GHz
Boost Clock
Socket LGA 1156
Socket
73 W
TDP
Intel HD Graphics
Integrated Graphics
Release date:Jun 1, 2010Price at Launch:$216
Cores:2Threads:4
Base Clock:3.2 GHzBoost Clock:3.46 GHz
Type:DesktopMultithreading:Yes
L2 Cache:512 KBL3 Cache:4 MB
Box Cooler:YesTDP:73 W
Socket:Socket LGA 1156Memory Support:DDR3-1333
Codename:ClarkdaleProcess Size:32 nm
Integrated Graphics:YesiGPU Model:Intel HD Graphics
NPU:NoPCIe Support:PCIe 2.0, 16 Lanes

Reviews and Ratings

81

Average Score

Based on 15 reviews

Reviewers Liked

  • Highly overclockable out of the box
  • Good performance
  • Power efficient
  • Unlocked CPU multiplier and RAM dividers
  • Efficient 32nm process
  • Includes Intel GMA HD 45nm graphics unit
  • AES instructions update made it at least 10x faster

Reviewers Didn't Like

  • Pricing could have been a bit more aggressive
  • Costs $30 more than the Core i5 650
  • At stock settings, can't match performance of certain less costly Intel/AMD CPUs
90

The Intel Core i5 655K processor is a phenomenal product with easy and high overclockablilty out of the box. The beauty of the processor is that you can easily overclock it without much of a hassle, thanks to its unlocked multiplier. The good thing is...

By TechTree on
100

With its unlocked multiplier the 655K can be easily overclocked on even standard motherboards....

By ITP.net on
80

Intel’s reign of dominance in the CPU market hasn’t skipped a beat this year, and now two more processors from the Californian chip maker enter the fray aiming to catch the eye of both system builders and overclockers – namely the Core i5 655K and...

By PCWorld New Zealand on
78

A nice dual-core, too expensive for what it...

By Atomic MPC on
90

The Core i5 655K performed decently against other CPUs. Thanks to features like Turbo Boost and Hyper-Threading, this sample was able to outperform the Athlon II X3 in nearly all the tests when they were targeted at multi-core solutions. Of course,...

By Benchmark Reviews on
70

The Extreme Edition CPUs from Intel are the real performance daddies of the desktop world. Costing over £800 for a little slab of silicon though they really should be. So what is it about these Extreme chips that makes them so damned fast? It's the...

By TechRadar on
70

You could argue that the unlocked multiplier allows for better overclocks on motherboards that can't hit a 200MHz Base Clock (cheap boards, in other words), but whether you overclock via the Base Clock or the CPU multiplier, you'll still have to add...

By Bit-tech.net on
80

Although nothing to write home about architecturally, Intel is making a play for AMD’s favorite audience, the cost-conscious overclocker crowd. Enthusiasts, meet Intel’s latest take on fast and...

By ComputerPowerUser on
70

i7-875KIt's a curious set of results that aren't too easy to read much into. Some tests it came out looking very good at stock speeds, and others it really struggled with.The thing that makes this hardest to understand is that to all intents and...

By Overclock3D on
90

It’s nice to see some unlocked processors coming from Intel again that don’t carry the Extreme Edition price tag. The $220 Core i5-655K and $190 Core i5-650 are currently about $30 different between price tags which we feel is well worth the extra...

By FutureLooks on
83

A great addition to the range; this level of performance has never been so affordable...

By PC Pro on
60

Intel's Core i7 875K and Core i5 655K are semi-interesting chips that may tickle the fancy of a few enthusiasts. The inescapable problem they face lies with the quality of sub-£200 full-retail CPUs from both Intel and...

By HEXUS.net on