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 N3160 is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 15 January 2016 (9 years ago). It is based on the Braswell (2015−2016) architecture. It features 4 cores and 4 threads. Base frequency is 1.6 GHz, with boost up to 2.24 GHz. L3 cache: 0 kB. L2 cache: 2 MB. Built on 14 nm process technology. Socket: FCBGA1170. Thermal design power (TDP): 6 Watt. Memory support: DDR3. Passmark benchmark score: 1,195 points. Launch price was $107.

Value Upgrade Path

This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. 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

Based on actual market prices and performance synthetic scores.

FPS Benchmarks

Predicted performance for Celeron N3160 across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of Celeron N3160 specifications and capabilities.

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Processing Power

The Celeron N3160 is a 4-core / 4-thread processor based on the Braswell (2015−2016) architecture, manufactured on a 14 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 2.24 GHz from a base frequency of 1.6 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 0 kB of L3 cache, plus 2 MB of L2 cache. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 1,195, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.

Specification	Celeron N3160
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units	4C / 4T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost	2.24 GHz
Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency	1.6 GHz
ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design	Braswell (2015−2016)
Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient	14 nm
L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores	0 kB
L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data	2 MB
Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax)	90 °C
64-bit Support	Yes
Windows 11 Compatible	No
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score	1,195

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Memory & Platform

The Celeron N3160 fits into the FCBGA1170 socket and supports PCIe 3.0 with 4 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR3 memory at speeds up to 1600 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 8 across 2 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). Integrated graphics: Intel HD Graphics 400 — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.

Specification	Celeron N3160
TypeDesktop or Laptop processor	Laptop
SeriesProduct family	Intel Celeron
SocketMotherboard socket required	FCBGA1170
PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth	PCIe 3.0
PCIe LanesTotal available lanes for GPUs, NVMe drives, and expansion	4
RAM TypeSupported memory standard	DDR3
Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency	1600
Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory	8
RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel	2
ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruption	No
Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processor	Intel HD Graphics 400
Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPU	FCBGA1170
Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers	1 (Uniprocessor)

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Advanced Features

Virtualization: true — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads). Its primary market competitor is the AMD E2-9010.

Specification	Celeron N3160
OverclockingWhether CPU clock can be manually increased	🔒 Locked
AVX-512Advanced vector instructions for AI/ML workloads	❌ Not Supported
VirtualizationHardware-assisted virtualization technology	true
Direct CompetitorMarket equivalent from rival manufacturer	AMD E2-9010

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Power & Cooling

The Celeron N3160 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. It ships with the false stock cooler. Recommended cooling: Passive Heatsink.

Specification	Celeron N3160
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload	6 Watt
Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax)	90 °C
Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the box	false
Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solution	Passive Heatsink

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Value Analysis

Performance ranking position: #2952 out of all indexed processors.

Specification	Celeron N3160
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch	$107
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking	#2952
Release DateLaunch date	15 January 2016 (9 years ago)
Release Year	2016
DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD)	Intel

Specifications Reference

Raw spec sheet for quick lookup. The analysis cards above explain what these fields mean in practice.

4 categories

General Information

7 specs

Type	Laptop
Series	Intel Celeron
Designer	Intel
Launch Price	$107
Release Date	15 January 2016 (9 years ago)
Architecture Codename	Braswell (2015−2016)
Performance Ranking Position	2952

Technical Specifications

11 specs

Cores	4
Threads	4
Bus Type	IDI
L2 Cache	2 MB
L3 Cache	0 kB
Max Frequency	2.24 GHz
64-Bit Support	+
Base Frequency	1.6 GHz
Process Technology	14 nm
Max Core Temperature	90 °C
Windows 11 Compatible	-