If you’re looking for a powerful desktop CPU for under $300, the Intel Core Ultra 7 265K is currently one of the most attractive options available. Retailer Newegg has discounted the processor to $299.99, down from $328.99, and the deal also includes a free PC game through Intel’s promotional bundle.
A powerful Arrow Lake processor
The Core Ultra 7 265K sits near the top of Intel’s Arrow Lake desktop lineup. It features a 20-core hybrid design consisting of:
- 8 performance cores (P-cores)
- 12 efficiency cores (E-cores)
This configuration makes the chip well suited for gamers who also run demanding workloads like streaming, video editing, or heavy multitasking.
The processor is built using TSMC’s 3nm N3B manufacturing process, giving it modern efficiency and performance improvements. It carries a 125W base power rating, placing it firmly in the enthusiast desktop category rather than low-power or compact PC builds.
Strong cache and integrated graphics
The CPU includes a large amount of cache to help speed up demanding workloads:
- 30MB of L3 cache
- 36MB of L2 cache
This large cache pool helps applications that repeatedly access the same data, improving performance in games and productivity tasks. The processor also includes integrated Intel graphics, which can be useful for troubleshooting or running a system without a dedicated GPU.
At this price level, it’s hard to find another current-generation CPU offering a similar combination of core count, cache size, and modern platform support.
New platform with upgrade potential
One thing to keep in mind is that Arrow Lake introduces the new LGA1851 socket. This means buyers will need a compatible motherboard, but the platform is designed with future upgrade paths in mind rather than short-term use.
Free games and software bundle
A major part of the value comes from Intel’s Holiday Bundle 2025, which is included with the purchase. The bundle is worth about $60 and lets buyers choose one full game from the following titles:
- Battlefield 6
- Assassin’s Creed Shadows
- Dying Light: The Beast
- Sid Meier’s Civilization VII
Additional bonuses included in the bundle are:
- In-game items for Marvel Rivals
- XSplit Premium Suite
- Canvid
- Vegas Pro Edit 365 subscription
The promotion runs until January 31, 2026, with game redemption available until March 15, 2026.
Warranty and return policy
Intel backs the processor with a three-year limited warranty covering both parts and labor.
Meanwhile, Newegg is also extending its holiday return window. Purchases made between November 1 and December 31, 2025 can be returned until January 31, 2026, giving buyers additional flexibility if their plans change.
