The Core M CPU from Intel sets a new benchmark

The Core M from Intel is their first really low-power “Core” series CPU, at only 4.5 W. It uses the latest 14-nm FinFET process and will be powering thin, light tablets, such as Microsoft’s Surface Pro. Benchmarks have shown the new Core M to be about 20% slower than a desktop Core i3-3225 that requires 55 W. Yes, I said slower , but remember — 4.5 W. And performance should be nearly three times that of the latest Atom CPU. The processor package is also about 48% smaller than the last version. The IC's new GPU provides a big graphics performance jump of about 40% over recent versions. 

The point is that tablets will now be able to have about the same performance as a desktop/laptop. And this at a reasonable price of $281, meaning the tablets should be way under $900.

What will that mean to us tablet/laptop/desktop computer users? It will be interesting to see. It’s an interesting trend you can see in other Product of the Year Award winners — tablets may become the user interface method.