Core i3-3245
Intel
PassMark
2,412
MSRP
$120
AVG Price
$50
Performance Spectrum - CPU
About PassMark
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 i3-3245 is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 1 April 2013 (12 years ago). It features 2 cores and 4 threads. Base frequency: 3.4 GHz. L3 cache: 3 MB Intel® Smart Cache. Built on 22 nm process technology. Socket: LGA1155. Thermal design power (TDP): 55 Watt. Memory support: DDR3-1333, DDR3-1600. Passmark benchmark score: 2,412 points. Launch price was $69.
Value Upgrade Path
This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Core i3-3245 is positioned at rank #794 in our cost-efficiency ranking, representing a Lower cost-benefit for your build. Components placed above yours deliver better value for money.
Avg price is the current average price collected from markets across the web.
Performance Per Dollar Core i3-3245
FPS Benchmarks
Predicted performance for Core i3-3245 across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.
Path of Exile 2
Counter-Strike 2
League of Legends
Valorant
Technical Analysis
Detailed breakdown of Core i3-3245 specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The Core i3-3245 is a 2-core / 4-thread processor, manufactured on a 22 nm process node. It carries 3 MB Intel® Smart Cache of L3 cache. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 2,412, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.
| Specification | Core i3-3245 |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 2C / 4T |
| Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency | 3.4 GHz |
| Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient | 22 nm |
| L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores | 3 MB Intel® Smart Cache |
| Bus SpeedData bus frequency | 5 GT/s |
| Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax) | 65 °C |
| 64-bit Support | Yes |
| Windows 11 Compatible | No |
| PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score | 2,412 |
Memory & Platform
The Core i3-3245 fits into the LGA1155 socket and supports PCIe 3.0 with 16 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR3-1333, DDR3-1600 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.
| Specification | Core i3-3245 |
|---|---|
| TypeDesktop or Laptop processor | desktop |
| SocketMotherboard socket required | LGA1155 |
| 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 | DDR3-1333, DDR3-1600 |
| 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 | HD Graphics 4000 |
| Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers | 1 |
Advanced Features
The Core i3-3245 is primarily designed for Desktop. Virtualization: VT-x — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads).
| Specification | Core i3-3245 |
|---|---|
| Primary Use CaseIntended workload category | Desktop |
| OverclockingWhether CPU clock can be manually increased | 🔒 Locked |
| AVX-512Advanced vector instructions for AI/ML workloads | ❌ Not Supported |
| VirtualizationHardware-assisted virtualization technology | VT-x |
Power & Cooling
The Core i3-3245 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.
| Specification | Core i3-3245 |
|---|---|
| TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload | 55 Watt |
| Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax) | 65 °C |
Value Analysis
At an average price of $50 (MSRP: $120), the Core i3-3245 delivers 48 PassMark points per dollar. It currently holds Rank #794 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #2426 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | Core i3-3245 |
|---|---|
| MSRPManufacturer's Suggested Retail Price | $120 |
| Avg Price (30d)Average market price over the last 30 days | $50 |
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $69 |
| Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking | #794 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #2426 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 1 April 2013 (12 years ago) |
| Release Year | 2013 |
| DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD) | Intel |
Similar Performance
Processors with benchmark scores closest to the current hardware, grouped by manufacturer.
Intel (12)
AMD (12)
Our Recommendation for Core i3-3245
Suggested pairings based on performance balance
Minimum (Avoid Bottleneck) (12)
Recommended (Balanced) (12)
High-End (Max Performance) (12)
Popular Comparisons
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