Core i3-3225

The Core i3-3225 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 3.3 GHz from a base frequency of 3.3 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 3 MB (total) of L3 cache, plus 256 kB (per core) of L2 cache and 64 kB (per core) of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 2,276, 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 558, while multi-core reaches 1,142.

The Core i3-3225 fits into the LGA1155 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: HD Graphics 4000 — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.

The Core i3-3225 is primarily designed for Budget. Virtualization: VT-x, EPT — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads). Its primary market competitor is the Phenom II X4 965 BE (125W).

The Core i3-3225 has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 55 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed. It ships with the Yes stock cooler. Recommended cooling: Stock.

At an average price of $167 (MSRP: $172), the Core i3-3225 delivers 14 PassMark points per dollar. It currently holds Rank #937 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #2473 out of all indexed processors.