It’s safe to say that Intel’s latest Arrow Lake desktop processors haven’t been the most desirable. A newer socket (LGA 1851) means buying a newer motherboard, and a loss of confidence following degradation and instability issues on the prior 13th and 14th gen chips doesn’t help. That being said, these chips are still an excellent choice if you’re putting together a new PC, whether it be for gaming or productivity.

We’ve reviewed numerous SKUs from the Arrow Lake line-up, otherwise known as the Intel Core Ultra 200S series. These include the Intel Core Ultra 9 285K, Core Ultra 7 265K, and Core Ultra 5 245K. And now, we’re happy to say that the middle-of-the-pack option has been getting some massive price drops lately; hopefully, the other models follow suit.

Intel Core Ultra 7 265K

Cores

20 (8P/12E)

Threads

20

Boost clock speed

5.5GHz

Base clock speed

3.9GHz P-core/3.3GHz E-core

L3 cache

30MB

TDP

125W base/250W max

Platform

LGA 1851 (Arrow Lake)

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Intel Core Ultra 7 processor price plummets

The Intel Core Ultra 7 265K and KF have dropped below $300 for the first time, according to price tracking site Camelcamelcamel (for Amazon US). This sudden price slash comes as a surprise, especially since the other models in the Arrow Lake line-up are yet to enjoy the same kind of discount.

• Intel Core Ultra 7 265K – $294.99 on Amazon
• Intel Core Ultra 7 265KF – $294.99 on Amazon
• Intel Core Ultra 7 265K – $309.99 on Newegg (w/ Intel CPU Spring Bundle)
• Intel Core Ultra 7 265KF – $294.99 on Newegg (w/ Intel CPU spring Bundle)

Amazon and Newegg are two great retailers for the Ultra 7 chip if you’re looking to upgrade this May. Keep in mind that the KF variant lacks integrated graphics. Both models are otherwise the same and are unlocked for overclocking. If you buy from Newegg, you’re also eligible to get Intel’s CPU Spring Bundle, featuring Civilization VII & Dying Light: The Beast, which are valued at $159.99.

These price cuts aren’t just in the US

In addition to price cuts for US customers, the 265KF has also seen massive price drops in Europe. According to tech blogger TechEpiphany, the price has been “in free fall” in Germany, dropping below the €300 mark. Reaction has been positive, with users commenting that it is finally “finding the right price point”. In our 256K review, we listed the expense (especially with a new LGA 1851 motherboard) as be reason to avoid the new chip.

About the Author

Jack Goodall

At PC Guide, Jack is mostly responsible for reporting on hardware deals. He also specializes in monitors, TVs, and headsets and can be found putting his findings together in a review or best-of guide.