Intel’s budget-friendly Core Ultra 5 CPUs, specifically the Ultra 5 225 and Ultra 5 225F, are now more affordable across major retailers in the US and EU.
Earlier this year at CES 2025, Intel unveiled its Arrow Lake-S “Core Ultra” Non-K Desktop CPUs. These new models target budget-tier PCs, including the Core Ultra 5 225 and 235 series. However, a true Core i3 replacement, like the Core Ultra 3, is notably absent. Although there’s buzz about a Core Ultra 3 205 variant, it’s yet to debut, possibly due to lukewarm reception towards Arrow Lake CPUs.
Now, the Core Ultra 5 225 and 225F models have seen price reductions in the US and EU. Initially priced at $246 and $231, respectively, these CPUs are now available at more competitive rates. The Core Ultra 5 225 is priced at $211.24, a 14.1% drop, while the 225F, without an iGPU, is $193.79, a 16.1% decrease in the US.
In the EU and Korea, prices have dropped even further. The 225F is approximately 230K Korean Won (around $170 US), and in the EU, the 225 is about 185 Euros with the “F” variant at 175 Euros. These cuts make the CPUs more enticing compared to their launch prices.
However, despite these reductions, the Intel Core Ultra 5 CPUs still face stiff competition. Previous-gen models like the Ryzen 5 7500F and Core i5-14400F offer better value, priced around $110-$120 US. Additionally, older CPUs are compatible with existing motherboards, while Arrow Lake necessitates new ones. Although the price cuts are welcome, Arrow Lake-S may struggle to captivate most budget-conscious builders.
