Intel Core i5-2500 socket: LGA 1155
The Intel Core i5-2500 uses the LGA 1155 socket. It is a 95 W quad core Sandy Bridge desktop part at 3.3 GHz with turbo to 3.7 GHz.
- Socket
- LGA 1155
- Launched
- January 2011
- Cores and threads
- 4 and 4
- Base power
- 95 W
- Codename
- Sandy Bridge
- Segment
- Desktop
- Family
- Intel Core i5
- Clocks
- 3.3 / 3.7 GHz
Intel Core i5-2500 specifications
| Cores | 4 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 4 |
| Core architecture | Sandy Bridge cores on 32 nm |
| Clocks | 3.3 GHz base, 3.7 GHz turbo |
| Cache | 6 MB Intel Smart Cache (L3) |
| Processor base power (TDP) | 95 W |
| Manufacturing process | 32 nm |
| Memory support | DDR3-1066 and 1333, two channels, up to 32 GB |
| PCI Express | 16 lanes from the CPU, PCIe 2.0 |
| Integrated graphics | Intel HD Graphics 2000 (850 MHz to 1100 MHz) |
| Multiplier | Locked |
| Package | FCLGA1155 (37.5 × 37.5 mm) |
Motherboard and chipset compatibility
Intel Core i5-2500 needs a motherboard with a LGA 1155 socket. The table shows which chipset series accept it.
| Series | Chipsets | Support |
|---|---|---|
| 7 series | Z77, Z75, H77, B75, Q77, Q75 | Works out of the box |
| 6 series: H61, H67, P67, Z68 | Z68, P67, H67, H61 | Works out of the box |
| 6 series business: B65, Q65, Q67 | Q67, Q65, B65 | Works out of the box |
Board makers publish a CPU support list for every model. Check it for your exact board before buying. Chipset details for LGA 1155.
LGA 1155 at a glance
| Type | LGA, 1,155 contacts |
|---|---|
| Package size | 37.5 × 37.5 mm |
| Introduced | January 2011 |
| Memory | DDR3 |
| Cooler mounting holes | 75 × 75 mm |
What the Core i5-2500 is
Intel Core i5-2500 is a quad core Sandy Bridge desktop processor that Intel released in January 2011 for office and home towers. It runs at 3.3 GHz base with turbo to 3.7 GHz and has no Hyper-Threading, so 4 cores give 4 threads. Cache is 6 MB Intel Smart Cache. Power is 95 W on a 32 nm process.
The i5-2500 sat one step below the unlocked 2500K on clocks and tuning. Reviews noted strong value for mainstream towers at launch. Threaded work runs well on four real cores.
Graphics are Intel HD Graphics 2000 at 850 MHz to 1100 MHz. The block runs office monitors at native resolution. A discrete card is only needed for extra outputs or 3D tasks.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The Core i5-2500 fits LGA 1155 in FCLGA1155 form. Every 6 series and 7 series board boots Sandy quads directly. H61 and B75 suit office builds, while P67 and Z68 add tuning that this locked part does not use.
Check that the board exposes the display outputs needed for the integrated block. P67 boards skip onboard video entirely. The Socket vs chipset: what decides whether a CPU works guide details that split.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
Memory support is DDR3-1066 and 1333, two channels, up to 32 GB. Retail boards commonly run DDR3-1333 with this chip. ECC is not supported.
PCI Express is 16 lanes from the CPU at PCIe 2.0. A basic discrete card can add outputs or 3D speed where needed.
Cooling is the stock 95 W heatsink on 75 × 75 mm spacing. Aftermarket towers for this pattern are common and quiet.
Upgrade paths
On LGA 1155 the 2500 sits near the top of the locked Sandy i5 range, so the next step is an i7-2600 for Hyper-Threading with 8 threads. DDR3 and drives carry over. A same socket unlocked reference is Intel Core i5-2500K.
A move to a DDR4 platform needs a new board and RAM. Keep the 2500 tower for office spare use.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Intel Core i5-2500 use?
It uses LGA 1155. All 6 series and 7 series boards boot it directly.
How is the Core i5-2500 different from the 2500K?
The 2500 is locked. The 2500K is unlocked for multiplier tuning.
What memory does the Core i5-2500 use?
DDR3-1066 and 1333, two channels, up to 32 GB.
Does the Core i5-2500 have Hyper-Threading?
No. Four cores give 4 threads.
Sources and verification
- Intel Core i5-2000 Series (CPU Grade, i5-2500 3.3 to 3.7 GHz 95 W HD2000)
- Sandy Bridge i5 2500 3.3 GHz turbo 3.7 GHz (TechSpot lineup, Jan 2011)
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .