Core i3-6100TE vs Core i7-870

The Core i3-6100TE packs 2 cores / 4 threads, while the Core i7-870 offers 4 cores / 8 threads — the Core i7-870 has 2 more cores. Boost clocks reach 2.7 GHz on the Core i3-6100TE versus 3.6 GHz on the Core i7-870 — a 28.6% clock advantage for the Core i7-870. The Core i3-6100TE uses the Skylake (2015−2016) architecture (14 nm), while the Core i7-870 uses Lynnfield (2009−2010) (45 nm). In PassMark, the Core i3-6100TE scores 3,152 against the Core i7-870's 3,164 — a 0.4% lead for the Core i7-870. L3 cache: 4 MB on the Core i3-6100TE vs 8 MB (total) on the Core i7-870.

The Core i3-6100TE uses the LGA1151 socket (PCIe 3.0), while the Core i7-870 uses LGA1156 (PCIe 2.0) — making them incompatible on the same motherboard. Maximum memory speed reaches DDR4-2133 on the Core i3-6100TE versus DDR3-1333 on the Core i7-870 — the Core i3-6100TE supports 28.6% faster memory, which can translate to measurable gains in memory-sensitive workloads. The Core i3-6100TE supports up to 64 GB of RAM compared to 16 GB — 120% more capacity for professional workloads. Both feature 2-channel memory with ECC support. Both provide 16 PCIe lanes.

Neither processor supports overclocking. Both support VT-x, VT-d virtualization. The Core i3-6100TE includes integrated graphics (HD Graphics 530), while the Core i7-870 requires a dedicated GPU. Primary use case: Core i3-6100TE targets Embedded, Core i7-870 targets Legacy Desktop.

The Core i3-6100TE launched at $250 MSRP, while the Core i7-870 debuted at $300. At current prices ($90 vs $80), the Core i7-870 is $10 cheaper. In terms of value (PassMark points per dollar), the Core i3-6100TE delivers 35.0 pts/$ vs 39.5 pts/$ for the Core i7-870 — making the Core i7-870 the 12.1% better value option.