Chinese Brand PowerLeader Unveils Reskinned Intel Core i3-10105(F) Comet Lake CPU

When it comes to new tech products from China, it’s always wise to approach with caution. There is often a lot of uncertainty surrounding the origin and quality of the components, with some being smuggled into the country with varying levels of success. Furthermore, there is a considerable risk of sneaky rebranding, where a product is touted as something new and innovative but is, in reality, just a reskinned import. Brands like PowerLeader are known for trying hard to convince consumers otherwise, but are they successful?

PowerLeader’s New Powerstar P3-01105 CPU

PowerLeader recently launched its new Powerstar P3-01105 CPU, which boasts a new storm architecture. However, it has been found that the chip is, in fact, an Intel Core i3-10105(F) Comet Lake CPU, which was initially released back in 2021. The CPU is a dead ringer for the i3, with the same heat spreader and substrate design, and the same print format on the IHS. They are also incredibly similar in terms of specs, both claiming to have a 3.70GHz base clock. Additionally, there is the lazy reshuffling of Intel’s 10105 code to 01105 for the Powerstar.

When PowerLeader announced the new CPU, it also showed off a tower PC that packed the Powerstar P3-01105 CPU. However, this reveal might have slipped up, as it was stated that the tower PC “has extremely high performance, which is several times higher than that of the domestic CPU.” This admission is a clear sign of a rebranded import. The final nail in the coffin is the claim that the QR code on the Powerstar’s PCB matches Intel’s. While there is no proof of this yet, the evidence against PowerLeader is quite compelling.

The suspected answer to this rebranding is to receive Chinese subsidies for developing and selling domestic tech products. However, this could be more about fooling the government than about any consumer. In any case, it is unlikely that many gamers will rush out to get their hands on a 2-year-old i3. Therefore, it is a good idea to give these CPUs a wide berth if they are ever seen for sale outside of China.