Celeron 3965Y
CPU·Budget

Celeron 3965Y

Intel

PassMark

1,201

2007-01-01
6 Watt
Kaby Lake (2016−2019)

Performance Spectrum - CPU

About PassMark

PassMark CPU Mark evaluates processor speed through complex mathematical computations. It provides a reliable metric to compare multi-core performance, where higher scores indicate faster processing for multitasking, gaming, and heavy workloads.

Overview

The Celeron 3965Y is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 2007-01-01. It is based on the Kaby Lake (2016−2019) architecture. It features 2 cores and 2 threads. Base frequency is 1.5 GHz, with boost up to 1.3 GHz. L3 cache: 2 MB. L2 cache: 512 kB. Built on 14 nm process technology. Socket: FCBGA1515. Thermal design power (TDP): 6 Watt. Memory support: DDR3. Passmark benchmark score: 1,201 points. Launch price was $69.

Value Upgrade Path

This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Celeron 3965Y is positioned at rank #198 in our cost-efficiency ranking, representing a Lower cost-benefit for your build. Components placed above yours deliver better value for money.

MSRP is the manufacturer's suggested retail price.
Avg price is the current average price collected from markets across the web.

Performance Per Dollar Celeron 3965Y

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366%
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#190
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327%
#192
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316%
#193
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303%
#194
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302%
#195
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#198
Celeron 3965Y
MSRP: N/A|Avg: N/A
100%
Based on actual market prices and performance synthetic scores.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of Celeron 3965Y specifications and capabilities.

Processing Power

The Celeron 3965Y is a 2-core / 2-thread processor based on the Kaby Lake (2016−2019) architecture, manufactured on a 14 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 1.3 GHz from a base frequency of 1.5 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 2 MB of L3 cache, plus 512 kB of L2 cache and 128 kB of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 1,201, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product. Geekbench 6 single-core (the most relevant metric for gaming FPS) records 372, while multi-core reaches 708.

SpecificationCeleron 3965Y
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units2C / 2T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost1.3 GHz
Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency1.5 GHz
ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture designKaby Lake (2016−2019)
Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient14 nm
L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores2 MB
L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data512 kB
L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache128 kB
Bus SpeedData bus frequency4 GT/s
Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax)100 °C
64-bit SupportYes
Windows 11 CompatibleNo
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score1,201
Geekbench 6 SingleSingle-core performance — most relevant for gaming372
Geekbench 6 MultiMulti-core parallel workload performance708
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Memory & Platform

The Celeron 3965Y fits into the FCBGA1515 socket and supports PCIe 3.0 with 10 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR3 memory at speeds up to LPDDR3-1866 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 16 GB across 2 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). Integrated graphics: Intel HD Graphics 615 — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.

SpecificationCeleron 3965Y
TypeDesktop or Laptop processorLaptop
SeriesProduct familyIntel Celeron
SocketMotherboard socket requiredFCBGA1515
PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidthPCIe 3.0
PCIe LanesTotal available lanes for GPUs, NVMe drives, and expansion10
RAM TypeSupported memory standardDDR3
Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequencyLPDDR3-1866
Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory16 GB
RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel2
ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruptionNo
Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processorIntel HD Graphics 615
Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPUSoC
Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers1 (Uniprocessor)
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Advanced Features

The Celeron 3965Y is primarily designed for Low Power. Virtualization: VT-x, VT-d — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads). Its primary market competitor is the Pentium Gold 4415Y.

SpecificationCeleron 3965Y
Primary Use CaseIntended workload categoryLow Power
OverclockingWhether CPU clock can be manually increased🔒 Locked
AVX-512Advanced vector instructions for AI/ML workloads❌ Not Supported
VirtualizationHardware-assisted virtualization technologyVT-x, VT-d
Direct CompetitorMarket equivalent from rival manufacturerPentium Gold 4415Y
🌡️

Power & Cooling

The Celeron 3965Y has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 6 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed. No stock cooler is included — you will need to purchase an aftermarket cooler separately. Recommended cooling: Passive / Low Profile.

SpecificationCeleron 3965Y
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload6 Watt
Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax)100 °C
Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the boxNo
Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solutionPassive / Low Profile
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Value Analysis

It currently holds Rank #198 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #2948 out of all indexed processors.

SpecificationCeleron 3965Y
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch$69
Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking#198
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking#2948
Release DateLaunch date2007-01-01
Release Year2017
DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD)Intel

Our Recommendation for Celeron 3965Y

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