In terms of processor core, code-named Lynnfield, the Core i5 with 45nm process will have four cores, does not support hyper-threading technology, and only provides 4 threads in total. In terms of L2 cache memory, each core has its own independent 256KB and shares an 8MB L3 cache memory. In terms of chipset, Intel P55 (codename: IbexPeak) will be used. In addition to supporting Lynnfield, it will also support Havendale processors. Although the latter has only two processor cores, it integrates a display core. P55 will adopt a single-chip design, similar in function to the traditional South Bridge, and supports SLI and Crossfire technologies. However, unlike the high-end X58 chipset, the P55 will not use the newer QPI connection, but will use traditional DMI technology. In terms of interface, it can be compatible with other 5 series chipsets. It will replace the P45 chipset.

With the support of turbo frequency technology, the i5 processor leads the i3 processor by about 400 to 600 points in the evaluation results under the same main frequency. Of course, what we are talking about here is that in the case of the same main frequency, the i3 processor with the same main frequency as the i5 is generally priced very close to the i5, which does not reflect the cost-effective advantage very well.

What kind of technology is turbo frequency? In simple terms, turbo frequency can be considered as a built-in active overclocking technology of the processor, which can automatically increase the running speed when processing complex programs, thereby improving work efficiency. For example, the Core i5-430M with the lowest main frequency, when the Turbo Boost function is activated during use, the processor speed can be increased from the original 2.26GHz to a maximum of 2.53GHz. However, in order to ensure stability, when turbo frequency is accelerated, it will automatically stop the calculation of other cores, that is to say, turbo frequency is actually a single-core overclocking technology. But this trick alone is enough to make the performance of i5 surpass that of i3.

In June 2009, Bill Calder, director of Intel's public relations department, described in detail the brand system of Intel's consumer-grade desktop processors, and announced two sub-brands, CORE I5 and CORE I3.