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 i3-3110M is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 1 June 2012 (13 years ago). It is based on the Ivy Bridge (2012−2013) architecture. It features 2 cores and 4 threads. Base frequency is 2.4 GHz, with boost up to 2.4 GHz. L3 cache: 3 MB (total). L2 cache: 256K (per core). Built on 22 nm process technology. Socket: PGA988. Thermal design power (TDP): 35 Watt. Memory support: DDR3. Passmark benchmark score: 1,656 points. Launch price was $225.

Value Upgrade Path

This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Core i3-3110M is positioned at rank #917 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 i3-3110M

#905

Atom x5-Z8300

MSRP: $20|Avg: N/A

1595%

#906

Atom Z3735G

MSRP: $17|Avg: N/A

1571%

#907

Core i5-480M

MSRP: $81|Avg: $77

1442%

#908

Core i5-460M

MSRP: $80|Avg: $129

1436%

#909

Core i5-2540M

MSRP: $266|Avg: $10

1423%

#911

Core i5-450M

MSRP: $32|Avg: $31

1374%

#912

Core i3-380M

MSRP: $49|Avg: $25

1317%

#913

Core i5-430M

MSRP: N/A|Avg: $33

1315%

#914

Core 2 Duo T6600

MSRP: N/A|Avg: $4

1280%

#917

Core i3-3110M

MSRP: N/A|Avg: N/A

100%

#919

Core i5-8365UE

MSRP: $297|Avg: $297

99%

#921

A6 Pro-7050B

MSRP: $100|Avg: $15

99%

#923

Athlon II N370

MSRP: $60|Avg: $10

98%

#928

A8-6410

MSRP: $100|Avg: $40

96%

Based on actual market prices and performance synthetic scores.

FPS Benchmarks

Predicted performance for Core i3-3110M across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of Core i3-3110M specifications and capabilities.

⚡

Processing Power

The Core i3-3110M is a 2-core / 4-thread processor based on the Ivy Bridge (2012−2013) architecture, manufactured on a 22 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 2.4 GHz from a base frequency of 2.4 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 1,656, 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 424, while multi-core reaches 846.

Specification	Core i3-3110M
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units	2C / 4T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost	2.4 GHz
Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency	2.4 GHz
ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design	Ivy Bridge (2012−2013)
Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient	22 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	118 mm2
Bus SpeedData bus frequency	5 GT/s
Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax)	90C (PGA); 105C (BGA)
64-bit Support	Yes
Windows 11 Compatible	No
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score	1,656
Geekbench 6 SingleSingle-core performance — most relevant for gaming	424
Geekbench 6 MultiMulti-core parallel workload performance	846

🧠

Memory & Platform

The Core i3-3110M fits into the PGA988 socket and supports PCIe 3.0 with 16 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR3 memory at speeds up to DDR3-1600 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 32 GB across 2 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). Integrated graphics: Intel HD Graphics 4000 — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.

Specification	Core i3-3110M
TypeDesktop or Laptop processor	Laptop
SeriesProduct family	Intel Core i3
SocketMotherboard socket required	PGA988
PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth	PCIe 3.0
PCIe LanesTotal available lanes for GPUs, NVMe drives, and expansion	16
RAM TypeSupported memory standard	DDR3
Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency	DDR3-1600
Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory	32 GB
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 4000
Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPU	HM75,HM76,HM77,QM77
Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers	1

🔧

Advanced Features

The Core i3-3110M is primarily designed for Legacy Laptop. Virtualization: VT-x — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads). Its primary market competitor is the AMD A8-4500M.

Specification	Core i3-3110M
Primary Use CaseIntended workload category	Legacy 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
Direct CompetitorMarket equivalent from rival manufacturer	AMD A8-4500M

🌡️

Power & Cooling

The Core i3-3110M 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: Laptop Cooling.

Specification	Core i3-3110M
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload	35 Watt
Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax)	90C (PGA); 105C (BGA)
Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the box	None
Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solution	Laptop Cooling

💰

Value Analysis

It currently holds Rank #917 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #2725 out of all indexed processors.

Specification	Core i3-3110M
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch	$225
Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking	#917
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking	#2725
Release DateLaunch date	1 June 2012 (13 years ago)
Release Year	2012
DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD)	Intel
ManufacturerFabrication foundry (e.g. TSMC)	Intel