The Intel Core Ultra 3 budget CPU leaked with 8-core configuration: Here's everything you need to know

When Intel launched the Arrow Lake processors under the new Core Ultra 200S series, a budget Intel Core Ultra 3 CPU was missing. The only models that launched were the Core Ultra 5, Ultra 7, and Ultra 9, which was a bit disappointing because previous leaks reported a possible Core Ultra 3 variant. This led some people to think that it might have been canceled.

However, a new leak has come forward, which sheds more light on the mysterious budget processor. It may not have been canceled after all.

Note: Some aspects of this article are subjective and solely reflect the writer's opinions. Also, please take the presented information with a grain of salt.

---

The Intel Core Ultra 3 205 has been leaked: Here's everything you need to know

Intel Core Ultra processor (Image via Intel)

X user @harukaze5719, has posted a new slide for Intel Core Ultra (non-K) CPUs, which surprisingly contained a new processor, the Core Ultra 3 205. This user has provided many Intel and AMD leaks accurately in the past, so this information holds some credibility.

Besides, this is not the first time we heard about this model. Previously, another credible leaker, OneRaichu on X, posted many details about the Intel Core Ultra 3 205, including its core configuration, clock speeds, and more. However, OneRaichu has since deleted his post, but eager users took a screenshot of it before its deletion.

Here's everything you need to know about the new Intel Core Ultra 3 processor:

Leaked specs

You will find the leaked specs of the Intel Core Ultra 3 205:

Specifications	Details
Architecture	Intel Arrow Lake-S
P-cores/threads	4/4
E-cores/threads	4/4
Total cores/threads	8/8
Max clock speed	4.8 GHz for P-cores and 4.2 GHz for E-cores
RAM support	DDR5
Thermal design power (TDP)	Likely 60 - 65W
Manufacturing node	3nm
Socket	LGA 1851

---

Estimated performance expectations

According to the old leaks, the Intel Core Ultra 3 205 will reportedly have an 8-core configuration with four P-cores and 4 E-cores. This should give it a significant advantage over the Intel Core i3-14100, a quad-core processor.

The higher core count combined with higher clock speeds and architectural improvements should boost the Core Ultra 3's performance in both gaming and productivity applications. However, you should wait for real-world performance improvements before making up your mind.

---

Expected pricing

Intel Core Ultra Arrow Lake processor (Image via Intel)

The Intel Core Ultra 3 205 is expected to have a decent performance uplift over its predecessor, but don't expect it to be that cheap. The Intel Core i3-14100 had an official MSRP of $134, so we should expect its successor to cost around the $150 mark.

If Intel manages to make it cheaper than this, the Core Ultra 3 205 could become the new de facto choice for budget gamers. However, a lot depends on the pricing and the real-world performance improvements.

---

When will the Intel Core Ultra 3 205 release?

Intel has an event at CES 2025, which is likely where the company might introduce the Core Ultra 3 205. However, Intel hasn't mentioned anything about it.