Intel launches new entry-level Core i3 N-series mobile CPUs
These all-new Intel processors replace Pentium and Celeron.
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What you need to know
Intel unveils its latest line of entry-level processors atCES 2023in Las Vegas, the N-Series, to replace the Pentium and Celeron branding. These CPUs have been specifically designed with the education sector in mind to create affordable laptops in schools, alongside other scenarios requiring low-power computers with support for IoT (Internet of things) edge native applications.
The N-Series chips offerup to 8 efficient coresbuilt on Intel 7 process tech and feature improved graphics capabilities without affecting laptop battery life, making them well-suited to help students and teachers immerse themselves in the classroom or elsewhere. Improvements included with Intel’sIPU 6(image processing unit) support higher-resolution webcams with post-processing effects, such as noise suppression, at a lower cost to improve the videoconferencing experience.
In addition to their focus on energy efficiency, Intel’s new N-Series processors also support modernWi-Fi 6E(Gig+) wireless networking for more reliable connections on devices in the classroom and at home, withup to 3x faster speeds than Wi-Fi 5. Divided into two categories, the Intel Processor and Core i3 range of N-Series chips feature across-the-board improvements over their previous-generation counterparts.
With their newGracemontmicroarchitecture, these low-power CPUs allow Intel to offer raised standards for collaborative learning with fantastic value for money. Revealing specifications for all four processor variants, the affordable Intel Processor N100 and N200 chips can clockup to 3.7GHzboost frequency while usingonly 6Wpower. Scaling up to the i3 Core N-Series requires more power,up to 15W for the i3-N-305chip, but all variants include support for modernDDR5or low-power LPDDR5 RAM, plusprevious-generation DDR4memory support.
Choosing the highest-model Core i3 N-Series chip allowsup to 42% overall performance improvementsfor general application use andup to 24% faster web browsing, perfect for remote learning. HDMI 2.0b support, alongside DisplayPort 1.4, allows 4K videos with HDR over up to 3 simultaneous displays, with 10-bit HEVC and VP9 encoding/decoding and AV1 decoding for higher color depth. Intel claims HD video presentations can lastup to 10 hoursbefore needing to recharge a laptop battery.
Over 50 OEM model designs featuring the N-Series CPUs from manufacturers, including Acer, ASUS, Dell, HP, and Lenovo, are expected to launch within 2023 on mobile machines runningWindows and ChromeOS. Supporting affordable storage, such aseMMC solid-statedrives, alongside memory offering lower power draw or cheaper prices in the previous DDR4 generation means the N-Series chips should enjoy a long-lasting footprint in the entry-level PC category.
Windows Central take
Maximum energy efficiency is critical when targeting the education sector since you can’t expect a class full of students to be permanently hard-wired into AC power. The modern teaching environment has extended into a hybrid of at-home and collaborative conferencing scenarios, so any boost to battery life and wireless networking will help tremendously with video presentations and remote work. Expanding to Core i3 chips is an exciting prospect for the entry-level Intel category, but time will tell if 15W on the N305 is low enough to provide the promised all-day power.
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Ben is a Senior Editor at Windows Central, covering everything related to technology hardware and software. He regularly goes hands-on with the latest Windows laptops, components inside custom gaming desktops, and any accessory compatible with PC and Xbox. His lifelong obsession with dismantling gadgets to see how they work led him to pursue a career in tech-centric journalism after a decade of experience in electronics retail and tech support.
