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 Core i3-2310M is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 1 February 2011 (14 years ago). It is based on the Sandy Bridge (2011−2013) architecture. It features 2 cores and 4 threads. Base frequency is 2.1 GHz, with boost up to 2.1 GHz. L3 cache: 3 MB (total). L2 cache: 256K (per core). Built on 32 nm process technology. Socket: PGA988. Thermal design power (TDP): 35 Watt. Memory support: DDR3. Passmark benchmark score: 1,222 points. Launch price was $225.

Value Upgrade Path

This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Core i3-2310M is positioned at rank #1032 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 Core i3-2310M

#1019

Atom x5-Z8300

MSRP: $20|Avg: N/A

2401%

#1020

Atom Z3735G

MSRP: $17|Avg: N/A

2366%

#1021

Core i5-480M

MSRP: $81|Avg: $77

2172%

#1022

Core i5-460M

MSRP: $80|Avg: $129

2162%

#1023

Core i5-2540M

MSRP: $266|Avg: $10

2142%

#1025

Core i5-450M

MSRP: $32|Avg: $31

2069%

#1026

Core i3-380M

MSRP: $49|Avg: $25

1984%

#1027

Core i5-430M

MSRP: N/A|Avg: $33

1980%

#1028

Core 2 Duo T6600

MSRP: N/A|Avg: $4

1927%

#1031

Core i5-4400E

MSRP: $266|Avg: $50

100%

#1032

Core i3-2310M

MSRP: N/A|Avg: N/A

100%

#1033

Pentium Dual Core T4400

MSRP: $107|Avg: $5

98%

#1036

Core i7-8665UE

MSRP: $409|Avg: $409

97%

#1037

Celeron T3300

MSRP: $86|Avg: $15

96%

#1038

Celeron Dual-Core T3300

MSRP: $86|Avg: $30

96%

#1041

Core i7-3612QE

MSRP: $426|Avg: $50

95%

#1042

A10-7300

MSRP: $150|Avg: $50

95%

#1043

Pentium Dual Core T4200

MSRP: $100|Avg: $10

94%

#1044

A6 Micro-6500T

MSRP: $100|Avg: $15

94%

#1045

Pentium N3520

MSRP: $100|Avg: $10

94%

#1046

E2-3800

MSRP: $100|Avg: $20

93%

Based on actual market prices and performance synthetic scores.

FPS Benchmarks

Predicted performance for Core i3-2310M across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of Core i3-2310M specifications and capabilities.

⚡

Processing Power

The Core i3-2310M is a 2-core / 4-thread processor based on the Sandy Bridge (2011−2013) architecture, manufactured on a 32 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 2.1 GHz from a base frequency of 2.1 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 3 MB (total) of L3 cache, plus 256K (per core) of L2 cache and 64K (per core) of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 1,222, 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 350, while multi-core reaches 658.

Specification	Core i3-2310M
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units	2C / 4T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost	2.1 GHz
Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency	2.1 GHz
ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design	Sandy Bridge (2011−2013)
Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient	32 nm
L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores	3 MB (total)
L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data	256K (per core)
L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache	64K (per core)
Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor	149 mm2
Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities	624 million
Bus SpeedData bus frequency	4 × 5 GT/s
Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax)	85C (PGA); 100C (BGA)
64-bit Support	Yes
Windows 11 Compatible	No
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score	1,222
Geekbench 6 SingleSingle-core performance — most relevant for gaming	350
Geekbench 6 MultiMulti-core parallel workload performance	658

🧠

Memory & Platform

The Core i3-2310M fits into the PGA988 socket and supports PCIe 2.0 with 16 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR3 memory at speeds up to DDR3-1333 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 16 GB across 2 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). Integrated graphics: HD Graphics 3000 — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.

Specification	Core i3-2310M
TypeDesktop or Laptop processor	Laptop
SeriesProduct family	Intel Core i3
SocketMotherboard socket required	PGA988
PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth	PCIe 2.0
PCIe LanesTotal available lanes for GPUs, NVMe drives, and expansion	16
RAM TypeSupported memory standard	DDR3
Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency	DDR3-1333
Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory	16 GB
RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel	2
ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruption	No
Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processor	HD Graphics 3000
Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPU	Sandy Bridge
Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers	1 (Uniprocessor)

🔧

Advanced Features

The Core i3-2310M is primarily designed for Budget. Virtualization: VT-x — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads). Its primary market competitor is the Athlon Silver 3050U.

Specification	Core i3-2310M
Primary Use CaseIntended workload category	Budget
OverclockingWhether CPU clock can be manually increased	🔒 Locked
AVX-512Advanced vector instructions for AI/ML workloads	❌ Not Supported
VirtualizationHardware-assisted virtualization technology	VT-x
Direct CompetitorMarket equivalent from rival manufacturer	Athlon Silver 3050U

🌡️

Power & Cooling

The Core i3-2310M has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 35 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: Tower 120mm.

Specification	Core i3-2310M
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload	35 Watt
Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax)	85C (PGA); 100C (BGA)
Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the box	No
Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solution	Tower 120mm

💰

Value Analysis

It currently holds Rank #1032 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #2933 out of all indexed processors.

Specification	Core i3-2310M
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch	$225
Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking	#1032
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking	#2933
Release DateLaunch date	1 February 2011 (14 years ago)
Release Year	2011
DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD)	Intel
ManufacturerFabrication foundry (e.g. TSMC)	Intel