Ken's Corner - Intel Ultra Cores Explained

Intel introduced the Ultra Core series just over two years ago, and the 3rd generation of those processors is being released now. A common question I get is “What’s the difference between an Intel Core and an Intel Ultra Core?” To answer that, we first have to step into the Wayback Machine to 2002.

Up until 2002, computers had single-core processors with a single logic core (thread), meaning each core could do one process at a time. Intel developed Hyperthreading (A concept first idealized in 1973), which allowed a core to do tasks at once and increased the speed of the process by 15 to 20% on average. Hyperthreading processors kicked out a bit more heat and required more power, but Intel defended the process, saying the benefits outweighed the potential problems.

AMD’s version of the process, SMT (Simultaneous Multithreading), came out in 2017 for mainstream computers. Ryzen processors allowed AMD to become much more competitive with Intel, to the point a slight majority of laptops carry AMD Ryzen processors.

Time and tinkering have improved the technology of Hyperthreading, with each generation of processor becoming a bit more efficient, although still using more energy and radiating more heat than single logic core chips. The ability to use multiple threads seemed like the best technology.

But with new technology, comes new ideas, or perhaps in this case, old ideas.

The first of the Ultra chips were a new sort of hybrid chip, incorporating both single thread and multi-thread cores for a more efficient model. The 1^st generation chips produced less heat, and since heat hampers electrical processes, Ultra chips needed less power.

With the new 3^rd generation chips, Intel has completely walked away from Hyperthreading technology by using three different levels of single logic cores, each designed for a different level of usage. The heart of the chip is composed of Efficiency-Cores, which perform most of the processes the processor does. Low Power Efficiency-Cores run background operations, the type of things the computer does without direct commands. Finally, Performance-Core handles the heavy loads, especially high graphics applications that require a little extra power. Ultra processors also have a Neural Processing Unit to maximize the use of Artificial Intelligence processes.

While thread ratings for the latest generation of Ultras are higher than similar Ryzen chips, whether or not Intel’s new chips will outperform AMD’s latest Ryzen generation is still up in the air.

If you have questions about Intel Ultra Cores Explained | Core vs Ultra Comparison, please give us a call at 815-223-1052 and ask for Ken.

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Published: February 25, 2026

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