Intel Core i3-5020U socket: BGA 1168
The Intel Core i3-5020U uses the BGA 1168 package soldered to laptop boards. It is a dual core Broadwell-U part with four threads at 2.2 GHz and 15 W.
- Socket
- BGA 1168
- Launched
- March 2015
- Cores and threads
- 2 and 4
- Base power
- 15 W
- Codename
- Broadwell-U
- Segment
- Mobile (soldered)
- Family
- Intel Core i3
- Clocks
- 2.2 GHz
Intel Core i3-5020U specifications
| Cores | 2 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 4 |
| Core architecture | Broadwell cores on 14 nm |
| Clocks | 2.2 GHz (no boost) |
| Cache | 3 MB |
| Processor base power (TDP) | 15 W |
| Manufacturing process | 14 nm |
| Memory support | DDR3L-1333 and 1600 and LPDDR3, two channels, up to 16 GB |
| PCI Express | PCIe 2.0, 12 lanes |
| Integrated graphics | Intel HD Graphics 5500 (up to 900 MHz) |
| Package | FCBGA1168 (40 × 24 mm, soldered) |
Motherboard compatibility
Intel Core i3-5020U needs a motherboard with a BGA 1168 socket. Chipset by chipset data for this codename is not recorded yet. See the BGA 1168 chipset list and the board maker's CPU support list.
BGA 1168 at a glance
| Type | BGA, 1,168 contacts |
|---|---|
| Package size | 40 × 24 mm |
| Introduced | June 2013 |
| Memory | DDR3L-1333 and 1600 and LPDDR3-1333 and 1600, two channels, up to 16 GB |
| Cooler mounting holes | Not applicable (soldered) |
What the Core i3-5020U is
The Core i3-5020U tops fixed clock i3 Broadwell-U on BGA 1168 for mainstream thin laptops. Intel set two cores and four threads at 2.2 GHz with 3 MB of cache. Power is 15 W on 14 nm from March 2015. The 200 MHz lead over the 5005U is the reason to pick it.
Higher fixed clocks help single thread office apps without turbo complexity. Four threads keep conferencing smooth. Battery life matches other 15 W i3 parts. Soldered design means screen and keyboard decide satisfaction as much as clocks.
HD Graphics 5500 up to 900 MHz covers everyday displays. DDR3L and LPDDR3 over two channels feed the system. Buyers choose the 5020U where i5 turbo cost cannot fit but top i3 fixed speed can.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The 5020U solders to BGA 1168 with ultrabook cooling for 15 W. No swap exists. Common configs pair 8 GB RAM with 256 GB SSDs. Later SSD growth is the service path.
SoC PCH-LP integration keeps boards small. The LGA, PGA and BGA: CPU package types explained guide details soldered limits. Check port count on thin bodies, since dongles become daily tools.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
DDR3L and LPDDR3 to 16 GB over two channels cover mainstream study. Dual channel helps HD 5500. Eight gigabytes remains the sweet spot.
PCIe 2.0 with 12 lanes handles Wi-Fi and SATA storage. M.2 SATA upgrades are straightforward. Battery replacement often helps used ultrabooks more than CPU differences.
Cooling is a thin fan for 15 W. Fixed 2.2 GHz sustains well. Keep firmware updated for fan curves.
Upgrade paths
No soldered upgrade exists. Compare the Intel Core i3-5010U at 2.1 GHz below with the Intel Core i5-5200U adding turbo above. All share BGA-1168.
A new laptop is the only step up. The How to find your CPU socket type guide confirms U series soldering.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Intel Core i3-5020U use?
It uses BGA 1168, soldered.
How many cores does the Core i3-5020U have?
Two cores and four threads at 2.2 GHz.
What is the TDP of the Core i3-5020U?
15 W.
When did the Core i3-5020U launch?
March 2015.
Sources and verification
- Broadwell microarchitecture (Wikipedia, Broadwell-U specs)
- Intel Core i5-5200U Processor specifications (Intel, Broadwell-U family data)
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .