[CES 2025] New Intel Core Ultra 200HX/200H nerfs NPU performance in exchange for more general clock speeds for gaming

Intel has unveiled its latest Core Ultra 200HX and Core Ultra 200H processors, introducing six and five SKUs, respectively, in their initial lineup. Designed to elevate laptop computing, these chips bring a balance between performance and power efficiency.

While the Core Ultra 200V series focused heavily on power efficiency and performed admirably, the Core Ultra 200HX and 200H processors mark a return to Intel’s “performance roots.” By slightly dialing back the NPU module’s power, these chips prioritize robust performance for gaming and demanding productivity applications.

The Core Ultra 200H processors feature the Lion Cove P-core and Skymont E-core architectures, delivering up to 15% improved single- and multi-threaded performance over their predecessors. Equipped with Intel Arc-based iGPUs featuring Xe LPG+ cores, these chips offer enhanced graphical capabilities tailored for thin and light laptops. The series supports DDR5-6400 and LPDDR5x-8400 memory speeds, though maximum memory capacity is reduced from 192GB to 96GB.

Targeting peak performance, the Core Ultra 200HX processors achieve impressive clock speeds of 5.4 GHz for P-cores and 2.8 GHz for E-cores. This series is optimized for gaming laptops and high-performance scenarios.

Unlike the Core Ultra 200V series, the 200HX and 200H chips feature reduced NPU performance, with TOPS ratings between 10-13. As a result, these chips may lack AI-focused features such as CoPilot+ support typically found in devices with higher NPU performance.

Below is a summarized specifications table for both series.