Core Ultra 5 245K Processor
Arrow Lake · 14C/14T · LGA 1851
MSRP
M3 Pro Processor
Apple Silicon · 12C/12T
MSRP
Our verdict
The M3 Pro Processor takes the performance lead with a 3% higher overall score, driven by its 12 shader cores, 0 MB of memory, and 4,100 MHz TFLOPS of compute power. In gaming benchmarks at 1440p, it delivers roughly 45% more frames per second across demanding titles like Counter-Strike 2 1080p and Cyberpunk 2077 1080p.
However, the Core Ultra 5 245K Processor tells a compelling value story. At $309 versus the M3 Pro Processor's $1599 price tag, it costs 417% less while delivering performance that's only 3% behind. Its 24 MB of memory is still more than enough for 1440p and even 4K gaming in most titles.
Our recommendation: for the majority of gamers targeting 1440p or even 4K with upscaling enabled, the Core Ultra 5 245K Processor is the smarter purchase. The M3 Pro Processor only makes sense if you need the absolute maximum performance for native 4K ray tracing, professional 3D rendering, or AI workloads where the extra VRAM and compute power provide a tangible advantage.
Performance winner
M3 Pro Processor
3% faster overall
Best value for money
Core Ultra 5 245K Processor
116% better value per dollar
Core Ultra 5 245K Processor best for
Raw performance
116% better value per dollar
Memory
Performance
platform
Power
Gaming benchmarks (avg FPS at 1080p)
Synthetic & compute benchmarks
Frequently asked questions
Is the M3 Pro Processor worth $1290 more than the Core Ultra 5 245K Processor?
It depends on your needs. The M3 Pro Processor scores 74 overall vs 72 for the Core Ultra 5 245K Processor. If you need the extra performance for demanding tasks, the premium is justified. For most users gaming at 1440p or below, the Core Ultra 5 245K Processor offers better value.
Which GPU is better for 1440p gaming, the Core Ultra 5 245K Processor or M3 Pro Processor?
The M3 Pro Processor delivers higher frame rates at 1440p, but both GPUs handle 1440p gaming well. The M3 Pro Processor provides more headroom for ray tracing and future titles, while the Core Ultra 5 245K Processor still maintains smooth gameplay in current games.
Can the Core Ultra 5 245K Processor handle 4K gaming?
The Core Ultra 5 245K Processor can handle 4K gaming in less demanding titles and with upscaling technologies like DLSS or FSR. For native 4K at ultra settings in demanding games, the M3 Pro Processor is the better choice with its higher performance ceiling.
Which should I buy, the Core Ultra 5 245K Processor or M3 Pro Processor?
Choose the Core Ultra 5 245K Processor if you want the best value for money and primarily game at 1080p or 1440p. Choose the M3 Pro Processor if you need maximum performance, play at 4K, or do professional workloads like video editing and 3D rendering.
Related comparisons
Core Ultra 5 245K Processor VS Ryzen 7 7700X Processor
Score 72 VS 72
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Score 74 VS 72
Core Ultra 5 245K Processor VS Core i5-14600K Processor
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M3 Pro Processor VS Core i5-14600K Processor
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Core Ultra 5 245K Processor VS Core i5-13600K Processor
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M3 Pro Processor VS Core i5-13600K Processor
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Core Ultra 5 245K Processor VS Ryzen 5 9600X Processor
Score 72 VS 70
M3 Pro Processor VS Ryzen 5 9600X Processor
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