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 i3-2332M is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 1 September 2011 (14 years ago). It is based on the Sandy Bridge (2011−2013) architecture. It features 2 cores and 4 threads. Base frequency is 2.2 GHz, with boost up to 2.2 GHz. L3 cache: 3 MB (total). L2 cache: 256K (per core). Built on 32 nm process technology. Socket: G2. Thermal design power (TDP): 35 Watt. Memory support: DDR3. Passmark benchmark score: 1,353 points. Launch price was $69.

Value Upgrade Path

This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Core i3-2332M is positioned at rank #284 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 i3-2332M

#82

Core i7-11700B

MSRP: $323|Avg: $311

99%

#83

Core i7-13700HX

MSRP: $485|Avg: N/A

98%

#272

Atom x5-Z8300

MSRP: $20|Avg: N/A

434%

#273

Atom Z3735G

MSRP: $17|Avg: N/A

427%

#274

Core i5-480M

MSRP: $81|Avg: $77

392%

#275

Core i5-460M

MSRP: $80|Avg: $129

391%

#276

Core i5-2540M

MSRP: $266|Avg: $10

387%

#278

Core i5-450M

MSRP: $32|Avg: $31

374%

#279

Core i3-380M

MSRP: $49|Avg: $25

358%

#280

Core i5-430M

MSRP: N/A|Avg: $33

358%

#281

Core 2 Duo T6600

MSRP: N/A|Avg: $4

348%

#284

Core i3-2332M

MSRP: N/A|Avg: N/A

100%

Based on actual market prices and performance synthetic scores.

FPS Benchmarks

Predicted performance for Core i3-2332M across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of Core i3-2332M specifications and capabilities.

⚡

Processing Power

The Core i3-2332M 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 2.2 GHz from a base frequency of 2.2 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 1,353, 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 369.

Specification	Core i3-2332M
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units	2C / 4T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost	2.2 GHz
Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency	2.2 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
64-bit Support	Yes
Windows 11 Compatible	No
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score	1,353
Geekbench 6 SingleSingle-core performance — most relevant for gaming	369

🧠

Memory & Platform

The Core i3-2332M fits into the G2 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 i3-2332M
TypeDesktop or Laptop processor	Laptop
SeriesProduct family	Intel Core i3
SocketMotherboard socket required	G2
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	HM65,HM67,QM67,HM75,HM76,HM77
Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers	1 (Uniprocessor)

🔧

Advanced Features

The Core i3-2332M is primarily designed for Budget Laptop. Virtualization: VT-x, EPT — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads). Its primary market competitor is the A6-3400M.

Specification	Core i3-2332M
Primary Use CaseIntended workload category	Budget Laptop
OverclockingWhether CPU clock can be manually increased	🔒 Locked
AVX-512Advanced vector instructions for AI/ML workloads	❌ Not Supported
VirtualizationHardware-assisted virtualization technology	VT-x, EPT
Direct CompetitorMarket equivalent from rival manufacturer	A6-3400M

🌡️

Power & Cooling

The Core i3-2332M 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: None.

Specification	Core i3-2332M
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload	35 Watt
Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the box	No
Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solution	None

💰

Value Analysis

It currently holds Rank #284 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #2859 out of all indexed processors.

Specification	Core i3-2332M
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch	$69
Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking	#284
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking	#2859
Release DateLaunch date	1 September 2011 (14 years ago)
Release Year	2011
DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD)	Intel
ManufacturerFabrication foundry (e.g. TSMC)	Intel