Intel Core i5-2500K socket: LGA 1155
The Intel Core i5-2500K 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 and an unlocked multiplier.
- 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 i5-2500K 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 3000 (850 MHz to 1100 MHz) |
| Multiplier | Unlocked |
| Package | FCLGA1155 (37.5 × 37.5 mm) |
Motherboard and chipset compatibility
Intel Core i5-2500K 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 i5-2500K is
Intel Core i5-2500K is a quad core Sandy Bridge desktop processor that Intel released in January 2011 for tuned 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 K suffix marks an unlocked multiplier. Owners raise clocks on P67 and Z68 boards with suitable cooling. At stock it matches the i5-2500 on speed while adding tuning headroom.
Graphics are Intel HD Graphics 3000 at 850 MHz to 1100 MHz. The stronger block helps video playback on board outputs. Memory is DDR3 in two channels.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The Core i5-2500K fits LGA 1155 in FCLGA1155 form. Multiplier tuning needs a P67, Z68, Z77 or Z75 board. H61, H67, B75 and H77 boot the chip at stock but do not unlock tuning.
Z68 pairs tuning with integrated graphics, while P67 tunes without onboard video. Pick the chipset for the planned use. The Socket vs chipset: what decides whether a CPU works guide maps these splits.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
Memory support is DDR3-1066 and 1333, two channels, up to 32 GB. Tuned builds often run faster DDR3 where the board allows it. ECC is not supported.
PCI Express is 16 lanes from the CPU at PCIe 2.0. The x16 slot takes a discrete card for gaming builds.
Cooling needs headroom above the stock 95 W unit when tuning. The 75 × 75 mm pattern accepts many tower coolers. The CPU cooler compatibility by socket guide lists shared patterns.
Upgrade paths
On LGA 1155 the 2500K already tops the Sandy i5 range for tuning, so the next step is an i7-2600K for Hyper-Threading plus tuning. DDR3 and drives carry over. A locked quad reference on the same socket is Intel Core i5-2500.
A platform move to DDR4 needs a new board and RAM. Keep the 2500K tower for gaming after a GPU refresh.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Intel Core i5-2500K use?
It uses LGA 1155. Tuning needs P67, Z68, Z77 or Z75.
Is the Core i5-2500K unlocked?
Yes. The K suffix marks an unlocked multiplier for P67 and Z boards.
What memory does the Core i5-2500K use?
DDR3-1066 and 1333, two channels, up to 32 GB.
What is the upgrade path from a Core i5-2500K?
An i7-2600K for Hyper-Threading plus tuning on the same board.
Sources and verification
- Intel Core i5-2500K Benchmarks (Geekbench, 3.3 GHz, turbo 3.7 GHz, HD3000, LGA1155)
- Sandy Bridge i5 2500K unlocked HD3000 (TechSpot lineup, Jan 2011)
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .