Intel Core Ultra 5 235A, 235TA & 235UA Launch (March 2026) Complete Guide
Intel quietly expanded its Core Ultra 5 processor lineup in July 2026 with three new Arrow Lake variants designed for power-conscious systems.
The Core Ultra 5 235A, 235TA, and 235UA processors target entry-level desktops and ultra-low power mobile devices, filling crucial gaps in Intel’s 2026 processor portfolio.
I’ve analyzed the official specifications and industry reports to help you understand what makes these processors different and who should care about them.
What Are the Core Ultra 5 235A, 235TA, and 235UA?
The Core Ultra 5 235A, 235TA, and 235UA are power-efficient Arrow Lake processors launching in Q3 2026, featuring 14-core desktop variants (235A/235TA) and a 10-core mobile option (235UA).
The 235A serves as the standard desktop variant with traditional power profiles.
The 235TA brings lower TDP options for thermally constrained desktop builds.
The 235UA targets ultra-thin laptops and mobile workstations with aggressive power limits.
⚠️ Important: These processors use Intel’s hybrid architecture with both Performance cores (P-cores) and Efficiency cores (E-cores) for balanced performance.
Detailed Specifications Breakdown
All three processors feature 6 P-cores and either 8 E-cores (desktop) or 4 E-cores (mobile), with clock speeds ranging from 3.5 to 5.1 GHz.
Core Ultra 5 235A – Standard Desktop
The 235A delivers 6 P-cores and 8 E-cores for 14 cores and 14 threads total.
Base frequency starts at 3.5 GHz with turbo speeds reaching 5.1 GHz on P-cores.
Standard TDP sits at 65W with configurable options up to 125W for demanding workloads.
Core Ultra 5 235TA – Power-Efficient Desktop
The 235TA matches the 235A’s 14-core configuration but optimizes for lower power consumption.
TDP ranges from 35W to 54W, making it ideal for small form factor builds.
Clock speeds adjust dynamically to maintain thermal efficiency while preserving responsiveness.
Core Ultra 5 235UA – Ultra-Mobile
The 235UA scales down to 6 P-cores and 4 E-cores for mobile efficiency.
Ultra-low 15W base TDP extends battery life in thin laptops.
Turbo capability up to 57W enables performance bursts when plugged in.
| Model | Cores/Threads | Base/Turbo Clock | TDP Range | Target Market |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Core Ultra 5 235A | 14C/14T | 3.5/5.1 GHz | 65-125W | Standard Desktop |
| Core Ultra 5 235TA | 14C/14T | 3.5/5.1 GHz | 35-54W | SFF Desktop |
| Core Ultra 5 235UA | 10C/10T | 3.0/4.9 GHz | 15-57W | Ultra-Mobile |
Arrow Lake Architecture and Manufacturing
These processors combine TSMC’s advanced N3B process for compute tiles with Intel 3 technology for I/O components, maximizing efficiency through strategic manufacturing choices.
The compute tile uses TSMC’s cutting-edge 3nm N3B process node.
This advanced manufacturing enables higher transistor density and improved power efficiency compared to older nodes.
Intel 3 technology handles the I/O tile, leveraging Intel’s expertise in connectivity and peripheral management.
✅ Pro Tip: The hybrid manufacturing approach allows Intel to optimize each component using the most suitable process technology.
Arrow Lake’s disaggregated design separates compute, graphics, and I/O into distinct tiles.
This modular approach improves yields and allows flexible configurations across different market segments.
If you’re building a system with these processors, consider pairing them with the best laptops for coding with Intel Core Ultra processors to maximize productivity.
Market Strategy and Competition
Intel positions these processors for OEM partners seeking power-efficient options in the entry-level segment, competing directly with AMD’s Ryzen 5 series.
The silent launch strategy reflects Intel’s OEM-first approach for these variants.
System integrators gain flexibility with three distinct power profiles from the same architecture.
Budget laptop manufacturers particularly benefit from the 235UA’s ultra-low power capabilities.
Small form factor PC builders find the 235TA’s 35W option attractive for compact designs.
The processors compete against AMD’s Ryzen 5 8500G and 8600G in the desktop space.
Mobile variants challenge AMD’s Ryzen 5 8540U and upcoming Strix Point processors.
⏰ Time Saver: OEMs can use the same motherboard designs across 235A and 235TA variants, reducing development costs.
Availability and Pricing
Intel targets Q3 2026 for OEM availability, with consumer systems expected in late 2026 at price points between $200-300.
OEM partners receive first allocation for integration into pre-built systems.
Retail availability typically follows 2-3 months after OEM launch.
Expected pricing positions these processors below the Core Ultra 5 245K at approximately $250-280.
For creative professionals, these processors could power systems like the best laptops for Fusion 360 with Intel processors at more accessible price points.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between Core Ultra 5 235A and 235TA?
The Core Ultra 5 235TA operates at lower TDP levels (35-54W) compared to the 235A (65-125W), making it better suited for small form factor builds while maintaining the same 14-core configuration.
When will the Core Ultra 5 235UA be available in laptops?
Intel targets Q3 2026 for OEM availability, with consumer laptops featuring the 235UA expected to launch in late 2026 or early next year through major manufacturers.
Does the Core Ultra 5 235UA support Thunderbolt 4?
Yes, the 235UA includes integrated Thunderbolt 4 support as part of the Arrow Lake mobile platform, enabling high-speed connectivity for external displays and storage.
How does Arrow Lake manufacturing differ from previous Intel processors?
Arrow Lake uses a disaggregated tile design with TSMC N3B for compute tiles and Intel 3 for I/O, unlike previous monolithic designs, improving efficiency and manufacturing flexibility.
Are these processors good for gaming?
The 235A and 235TA can handle mainstream gaming when paired with a dedicated graphics card, while the 235UA targets productivity tasks and light gaming in ultra-portable laptops.
Final Thoughts
Intel’s Core Ultra 5 235A, 235TA, and 235UA processors demonstrate a strategic focus on power efficiency and market segmentation.
The three variants provide OEMs with flexible options across desktop and mobile platforms without sacrificing Arrow Lake’s architectural advantages.
Watch for these processors in budget-friendly systems and ultra-portable laptops launching later in 2026.