Intel Core Ultra 5 250K Plus Appears on Geekbench Ahead of Launch

The upcoming Intel Core Ultra 5 250K Plus is already generating buzz in the PC hardware community. Just weeks before its expected launch, the processor has surfaced in the Geekbench benchmark database, giving us an early glimpse into its potential performance and positioning within Intel’s mid-range lineup.

While early benchmark leaks should always be taken with caution, these first numbers provide valuable insight into what Intel is preparing for mainstream desktop users.

Intel Core Ultra 5 250K Plus: 18 Hybrid Cores for the Mid-Range

The Core Ultra 5 250K Plus is built around Intel’s hybrid architecture, combining 6 performance cores (P-cores) with 12 efficiency cores (E-cores). That brings the total core count to 18 cores, a notable upgrade over the current Core Ultra 5 245K, which features a 6P + 8E configuration.

By adding four additional E-cores, Intel is clearly strengthening multi-threaded performance in the mid-range segment—an important move for workloads such as content creation, multitasking, and modern gaming engines.

Clock speeds have also been increased. The processor reportedly runs at a 4.2 GHz base frequency, with a maximum boost of up to 5.3 GHz. Compared to the 245K, the P-cores gain around 100 MHz in turbo mode, while the E-cores are expected to top out at 4.7 GHz.

In terms of cache, the Core Ultra 5 250K Plus is said to feature 6 MB of L2 cache and 30 MB of L3 cache, which aligns well with its positioning and core count.

Same Power Limits, More Performance

One of the more interesting aspects of this processor is its power configuration. Intel is expected to retain the same power limits as the Core Ultra 5 245K, with a 125 W base power (PBP) and a 159 W maximum turbo power (MTP).

This suggests improved efficiency, as Intel is delivering more cores and slightly higher frequencies without increasing the official TDP. If confirmed, this could make the 250K Plus an attractive option for users looking to maximize performance without stepping into higher thermal or power requirements.

Early Geekbench Scores Look Encouraging

According to Geekbench listings, the Core Ultra 5 250K Plus was tested on an ASUS PRIME Z890-P WIFI motherboard, paired with 32 GB of system memory.

The leaked benchmark results show:

• Single-core score: 3,113 points
• Multi-core score: 15,251 points

These numbers indicate solid gains in both single-threaded and multi-threaded workloads compared to the current Core Ultra 5 models. That said, early benchmark results often reflect pre-release firmware, BIOS versions, and microcode.

Final retail performance may improve further once Intel and motherboard manufacturers roll out optimized BIOS updates, drivers, and finalized silicon.

Expected Pricing and Market Position

Intel is expected to price the Core Ultra 5 250K Plus below $300, placing it clearly above the Core Ultra 5 245K, which currently sells in the $200–$215 range.

This pricing strategy positions the 250K Plus as a strong mid-range option for gamers and power users who want higher core counts and better multi-threaded performance—without jumping into premium Core Ultra 7 territory.

Final Thoughts: A Strong Mid-Range Contender in the Making

Based on the early Geekbench data, the Intel Core Ultra 5 250K Plus looks like a meaningful upgrade rather than a minor refresh. With more cores, higher clock speeds, unchanged power limits, and competitive pricing, it has the potential to become one of the most compelling mid-range desktop CPUs in Intel’s upcoming lineup.

As always, real-world performance and value will depend on final reviews, pricing, and competition—but early signs suggest Intel is taking the mid-range segment very seriously this generation.