Intel Core i3-N305 socket: BGA 1264
The Intel Core i3-N305 uses BGA 1264, a soldered BGA for Alder Lake-N processors with DDR4, DDR5 or LPDDR5 memory. The 8-core chip at 15 W with UHD graphics cannot be replaced.
- Socket
- BGA 1264
- Launched
- January 2023
- Cores and threads
- 8 and 8
- Base power
- 15 W
- Codename
- Alder Lake-N
- Segment
- Mobile (soldered)
- Family
- Intel Core i3
- Clocks
- n/a
Intel Core i3-N305 specifications
| Cores | 8 (8 Efficient-cores, no Performance-cores) |
|---|---|
| Threads | 8 |
| Core architecture | Gracemont E-cores (Alder Lake-N) |
| Clocks | Up to 3.8 GHz turbo (base not published in opened sources) |
| Cache | 6 MB Intel Smart Cache (L3) |
| Processor base power (TDP) | 15 W (9 W configurable down) |
| Manufacturing process | Intel 7 |
| Memory support | DDR4-3200, DDR5-4800 or LPDDR5-4800, single channel, up to 16 GB |
| PCI Express | PCIe Gen3 lanes from the CPU |
| Integrated graphics | Intel UHD Graphics, 32 execution units |
| Multiplier | Locked |
| Package | BGA 1264 soldered |
| Cooler in the box | None (thin laptop cooling) |
Motherboard compatibility
Intel Core i3-N305 needs a motherboard with a BGA 1264 socket. Chipset by chipset data for this codename is not recorded yet. See the BGA 1264 chipset list and the board maker's CPU support list.
BGA 1264 at a glance
| Type | BGA, 1,264 contacts |
|---|---|
| Package size | 35 × 24 mm |
| Introduced | October 2025 |
| Memory | DDR4, DDR5 and LPDDR5, single channel, up to 4800 MT/s, up to 32 GB |
| Cooler mounting holes | Not applicable (soldered) |
What the Core i3-N305 is
The Core i3-N305 is the 8-core flagship of the Alder Lake-N N-series for thin laptops from the first quarter of 2023. Eight Gracemont Efficient-cores without hyperthreading boost to 3.8 GHz turbo, backed by 6 MB of Smart Cache. The Intel 7 die targets 15 W with 9 W configurable down for thin bodies that need threads without Performance-cores. It is the most powerful N-series part for low-power multitasking.
UHD Graphics with 32 execution units cover classroom displays and video playback. Single channel DDR4-3200, DDR5-4800 or LPDDR5-4800 to 16 GB feeds 8 threads for browsing and docs. Eight cores keep many tabs and apps moving where 4-core N parts stall.
Entry buyers land here for maximum N-series threads at 15 W. Eight cores suit web-heavy schoolwork, while Core i3 U parts add Performance-cores for interactive bursts. Boards that support Alder Lake-N cover the family with the same firmware. The How to find your CPU socket type guide helps confirm BGA 1264 fit.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The N305 solders to BGA 1264 on thin laptop boards with no socketed path. Board makers set memory type and power limits. BGA 1264 does not cross to BGA 1493 Elkhart Lake boards. ARK lists Alder Lake-N as the codename with mobile positioning.
Platform IO comes from the SoC plus board wiring, with storage, wireless and display outputs from the design. Factory firmware carries Alder Lake-N support.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
Single channel DDR4-3200, DDR5-4800 or LPDDR5-4800 to 16 GB is fixed by board wiring. Soldered LPDDR5 suits sealed thin clients, while SODIMM suits serviceable laptops. Capacity is modest by design for entry workloads.
PCIe Gen3 lanes wire storage and radios on compact boards. Cooling is a spreader or small fan for 15 W with 9 W cTDP-down for fanless modes.
Upgrade paths
No CPU change is possible on soldered BGA 1264. Storage moves depend on the M.2 slot where makers open it. Display accessories add more value than internal work.
The N305 already tops Alder Lake-N threads, so the next step is Core U parts on BGA 1744 with Performance-cores. For N305 owners the value order is memory configuration, then SSD.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Core i3-N305 use?
BGA 1264 as a soldered BGA for Alder Lake-N processors. It cannot be removed or upgraded.
Does the N305 have Performance-cores?
No. Eight Gracemont Efficient-cores with 8 threads boost to 3.8 GHz at 15 W.
What graphics does the N305 include?
Intel UHD Graphics with 32 execution units.
What is the configurable TDP of the N305?
15 W base with 9 W configurable down for fanless modes.
Sources and verification
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .