Intel’s Core Ultra 7 265KF CPU is currently down to an unbeatable price of $209 at Micro Center, marking the lowest price ever for this chip. For anyone looking to build a powerful Arrow Lake system, this deal offers incredible value. While price drops are common for CPUs, this particular discount feels like more than just a regular sale – it’s a real steal. Typically priced around $300, with a launch price of $380, this deal saves you nearly $170 off the regular retail price.
At just $209, the Intel Core Ultra 7 265KF is an exceptional choice for productivity, delivering impressive performance with its 20-core architecture. 
Despite the discounts, it still stands as a powerhouse in its class. With 8 Performance cores and 12 Efficient cores, this CPU is built for multitasking and demanding workloads, offering a significant edge in productivity. However, when it comes to gaming, the Intel Core Ultra 7 may lag slightly behind Ryzen 9000 series chips.
Part of Intel’s Arrow Lake-S series, the Core Ultra 7 265KF uses the LGA 1851 socket and is compatible with 800-series motherboards. It was initially designed to compete with the Ryzen 7 9700X, which features just 8 cores and 16 threads. For those looking to build a high-performance workstation or gaming rig, the Intel Core Ultra 7 265KF provides a better all-around solution with its higher core count. The CPU can boost up to 5.5 GHz and operates with a TDP range of 125-250W, depending on the workload.
What sets this CPU apart is its hybrid architecture, featuring a combination of Performance and Efficient cores for optimized performance across different tasks. It also integrates an NPU (Neural Processing Unit) for entry-level AI workloads. However, for gaming or display output, a discrete GPU is still required. This is a key factor that helps keep the price of the 265KF lower than its sibling, the 265K, which includes integrated graphics.
If you’re considering overclocking, the Intel Core Ultra 7 265KF can offer a noticeable performance boost, but it’s important to invest in a quality CPU cooler to prevent overheating. For optimal performance, pairing it with a Z890 motherboard is highly recommended. With the current price tag of $209, this CPU offers exceptional value, especially for those already planning to use a discrete GPU for gaming.
Deals like this one tend to sell out quickly, so it’s worth grabbing it while it lasts. Also, you can check for similar discounts on Amazon, but don’t expect them to stay in stock for long.