Intel Core i5-655K socket: LGA 1156
The Intel Core i5-655K uses the LGA 1156 socket. It is a 73 W dual core Clarkdale desktop part at 3.2 GHz with Turbo Boost to 3.466 GHz, Hyper-Threading, 4 MB of L3 cache and an unlocked multiplier.
- Socket
- LGA 1156
- Launched
- May 2010
- Cores and threads
- 2 and 4
- Base power
- 73 W
- Codename
- Clarkdale
- Segment
- Desktop
- Family
- Intel Core i5
- Clocks
- 3.2 / 3.47 GHz
Intel Core i5-655K specifications
| Cores | 2 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 4 |
| Core architecture | Clarkdale cores on 32 nm |
| Clocks | 3.2 GHz base, 3.466 GHz Turbo Boost |
| Cache | 512 KB L2 (2 × 256 KB), 4 MB shared L3 |
| Processor base power (TDP) | 73 W |
| Manufacturing process | 32 nm CPU, 45 nm graphics |
| Memory support | DDR3-1333, two channels |
| PCI Express | PCIe 2.0 x16 from the package |
| Integrated graphics | HD Graphics (on package) |
| Multiplier | Unlocked (K series) |
| Package | LGA1156 |
Motherboard and chipset compatibility
Intel Core i5-655K needs a motherboard with a LGA 1156 socket. The table shows which chipset series accept it.
| Series | Chipsets | Support |
|---|---|---|
| 5 series with graphics | H55, H57, Q57 | Works out of the box |
| P55 performance | P55 | Works out of the box Onboard video ports stay dark on P55. Use a separate graphics card. |
Board makers publish a CPU support list for every model. Check it for your exact board before buying. Chipset details for LGA 1156.
LGA 1156 at a glance
| Type | LGA, 1,156 contacts |
|---|---|
| Package size | n/a |
| Introduced | September 2009 |
| Memory | DDR3-1066 and 1333, two channels, up to 16 GB |
| Cooler mounting holes | 75 × 75 mm |
What the Core i5-655K is
The Intel Core i5-655K is a dual core Clarkdale desktop processor from May 2010. It matches the i5-650 at 3.2 GHz base with Turbo Boost to 3.466 GHz and 4 MB of shared L3 cache, adding an unlocked multiplier for ratio overclocking. Power is rated at 73 W.
The K suffix marks unlocked tuning like the Lynnfield 875K. Against the locked 650 it runs identical stock speeds with tuning headroom on P55 boards. HD Graphics cover office displays.
Memory is DDR3-1333 in two channels.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The Core i5-655K fits LGA 1156 with 1156 lands. H55, H57 and P55 boards boot it natively with a mid 2010 BIOS.
The Socket vs chipset: what decides whether a CPU works guide covers pairing rules, and the Intel Pentium G6950 page shows the Pentium alternative.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
Memory is DDR3-1333 in two channels up to 16 GB.
PCIe 2.0 x16 comes from the package.
Cooling is the stock 73 W sink, with a tower advised for overclocking.
Upgrade paths
On LGA 1156 the upgrade is a Lynnfield quad on P55 boards. Beyond LGA 1156 a move to Sandy Bridge K parts needs a new board.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Core i5-655K use?
LGA 1156, the 1156-land package on 5 series boards.
How many cores does the Core i5-655K have?
Two cores and four threads at 3.2 GHz base with Turbo Boost to 3.466 GHz, with 256 KB of L2 per core and 4 MB of shared L3 cache.
What memory works with the Core i5-655K?
DDR3-1333 in two channels.
Can the Core i5-655K be overclocked?
Yes. K series means the multiplier is unlocked for ratio tuning on capable boards.
Sources and verification
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .