Core i7-875K vs Core i3-6100TE

The Core i7-875K packs 4 cores / 8 threads, while the Core i3-6100TE offers 2 cores / 4 threads — the Core i7-875K has 2 more cores. Boost clocks reach 3.6 GHz on the Core i7-875K versus 2.7 GHz on the Core i3-6100TE — a 28.6% clock advantage for the Core i7-875K. The Core i7-875K uses the Lynnfield (2009−2010) architecture (45 nm), while the Core i3-6100TE uses Skylake (2015−2016) (14 nm). In PassMark, the Core i7-875K scores 3,177 against the Core i3-6100TE's 3,152 — a 0.8% lead for the Core i7-875K. L3 cache: 8 MB (total) on the Core i7-875K vs 4 MB on the Core i3-6100TE.

The Core i7-875K uses the LGA1156 socket (PCIe 2.0), while the Core i3-6100TE uses LGA1151 (PCIe 3.0) — making them incompatible on the same motherboard. Maximum memory speed reaches DDR3-1333 on the Core i7-875K versus DDR4-2133 on the Core i3-6100TE — 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.

Only the Core i7-875K has an unlocked multiplier for overclocking — a significant advantage for enthusiasts seeking extra performance. Virtualization support: VT-x (Core i7-875K) vs VT-x, VT-d (Core i3-6100TE). The Core i3-6100TE includes integrated graphics (HD Graphics 530), while the Core i7-875K requires a dedicated GPU. Primary use case: Core i7-875K targets Desktop, Core i3-6100TE targets Embedded.

The Core i7-875K launched at $353 MSRP, while the Core i3-6100TE debuted at $250. At current prices ($175 vs $90), the Core i3-6100TE is $85 cheaper. In terms of value (PassMark points per dollar), the Core i7-875K delivers 18.2 pts/$ vs 35.0 pts/$ for the Core i3-6100TE — making the Core i3-6100TE the 63.4% better value option.