Intel Core Ultra 5 226V vs AMD Ryzen AI 5 340

The new Intel Core Ultra 5 226V and AMD Ryzen AI 5 340 processors are now appearing more frequently in laptops. HP, for instance, offers them in its upper mid-range models, such as the HP OmniBook X FlipNGAI 14-fk0750ng with AMD Ryzen™ AI 5 340 or the HP OmniBook X FlipNGAI 16-as0750ng with Intel® Core™ Ultra 5 226V. Both systems cost around €1,000, with the AMD model typically priced slightly lower, as is often the case. But which processor is better or faster?

Both chips are designed for laptops and offer not only traditional CPU and GPU performance but also an NPU to accelerate AI applications.

Architecture and Manufacturing of Intel Core Ultra 5 226V and AMD Ryzen AI 5 340

The Intel Core Ultra 5 226V is based on Intel’s “Lunar Lake” architecture and built on a modern 3 nm process. It uses a hybrid design with 8 cores (4 P-cores and 4 E-cores).

The AMD Ryzen AI 5 340 belongs to the “Krackan Point” family and leverages the Zen 5 architecture, manufactured on a 4 nm process. It features 6 cores with SMT (Simultaneous Multithreading), allowing for 12 threads. Its configuration consists of 3 Zen 5 and 3 Zen 5c cores.

Performance Intel Core Ultra 5 226V vs. AMD Ryzen AI 5 340

In terms of raw CPU power, benchmarks show a mixed picture. In multi-thread tests (CPU Mark), the AMD Ryzen AI 5 340 performs slightly ahead of the Intel Core Ultra 5 226V, while single-thread performance is considered comparable. It’s important to note that actual performance depends heavily on implementation and cooling within each laptop.

Integrated Graphics

The Intel Core Ultra 5 226V is equipped with Intel Arc 130V graphics, suitable for casual gaming and multimedia tasks. The AMD Ryzen AI 5 340 uses AMD Radeon 840M graphics based on the RDNA 3.5 architecture, with 4 CUs (256 shaders). The exact performance depends on clock speeds and GPU configuration.

AI Capabilities (NPU)

A major highlight of both processors is their integrated NPU for accelerating AI workloads. Intel specifies up to 40 TOPS for the Core Ultra 5 226V’s NPU. AMD equips the Ryzen AI 5 340 with an XDNA 2 NPU offering up to 50 INT8 TOPS, and potentially up to 59 TOPS when combining CPU and GPU resources. This suggests the Ryzen AI 5 340 could be more powerful in AI-specific tasks.

Power Consumption (TDP)

The Intel Core Ultra 5 226V has a TDP of 17W, with a maximum turbo power of 37W. The AMD Ryzen AI 5 340 offers a configurable TDP between 15W and 54W, often set around 28W, with turbo peaks up to 54W. This indicates Intel may be more energy-efficient at lower loads, while AMD can draw more power for higher performance when needed.

Memory Support

The Intel Core Ultra 5 226V supports LPDDR5x-8533 memory up to 16 GB (often integrated in-package). The AMD Ryzen AI 5 340 supports DDR5-5600 and LPDDR5x-8000, with capacities up to 256 GB, offering greater flexibility for system configurations.

Conclusion: Intel Core Ultra 5 226V vs. AMD Ryzen AI 5 340

Both processors deliver strong performance with a focus on AI acceleration. The Intel Core Ultra 5 226V stands out with lower TDP, solid all-round performance, and capable graphics and NPU. The AMD Ryzen AI 5 340 counters with stronger multi-threading, a potentially more powerful NPU, and broader memory support, albeit at the cost of higher power draw.

Ultimately, the choice depends on your needs and the laptop’s implementation. If maximum battery life and efficient AI acceleration matter most, the Intel Core Ultra 5 226V is appealing. If you prioritize raw multi-threading and AI performance and can accept slightly reduced battery life, the AMD Ryzen AI 5 340 may be the better option.