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 i3-370M is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 20 June 2010 (15 years ago). It is based on the Arrandale (2010−2011) 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 32 nm process technology. Socket: PGA988. Thermal design power (TDP): 35 Watt. Memory support: DDR3. Passmark benchmark score: 1,170 points. Launch price was $245.

Value Upgrade Path

This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Core i3-370M is positioned at rank #570 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 i3-370M

#178

Core i7-1360P

MSRP: $480|Avg: $280

99%

#179

Core i7-1260P

MSRP: $432|Avg: $432

98%

#558

Atom x5-Z8300

MSRP: $20|Avg: N/A

752%

#559

Atom Z3735G

MSRP: $17|Avg: N/A

741%

#560

Core i5-480M

MSRP: $81|Avg: $77

681%

#561

Core i5-460M

MSRP: $80|Avg: $129

677%

#562

Core i5-2540M

MSRP: $266|Avg: $10

671%

#564

Core i5-450M

MSRP: $32|Avg: $31

648%

#565

Core i3-380M

MSRP: $49|Avg: $25

622%

#566

Core i5-430M

MSRP: N/A|Avg: $33

621%

#567

Core 2 Duo T6600

MSRP: N/A|Avg: $4

604%

#570

Core i3-370M

MSRP: N/A|Avg: N/A

100%

#572

A10-9600P

MSRP: $128|Avg: $50

100%

#583

Processor N100

MSRP: $128|Avg: $100

98%

Based on actual market prices and performance synthetic scores.

FPS Benchmarks

Predicted performance for Core i3-370M across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of Core i3-370M specifications and capabilities.

⚡

Processing Power

The Core i3-370M is a 2-core / 4-thread processor based on the Arrandale (2010−2011) architecture, manufactured on a 32 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 1,170, 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 315, while multi-core reaches 700.

Specification	Core i3-370M
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	Arrandale (2010−2011)
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	81+114 mm2
Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities	382+177 Million
Bus SpeedData bus frequency	1 × 2.5 GT/s
Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax)	90 °C for rPGA, 105 °C for BGA
64-bit Support	Yes
Windows 11 Compatible	No
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score	1,170
Geekbench 6 SingleSingle-core performance — most relevant for gaming	315
Geekbench 6 MultiMulti-core parallel workload performance	700

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Memory & Platform

The Core i3-370M 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 DDR3-1066 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 8 GB across 2 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). Integrated graphics: Intel HD Graphics — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.

Specification	Core i3-370M
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	DDR3-1066
Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory	8 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
Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPU	HM55
Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers	1 (Uniprocessor)

🔧

Advanced Features

The Core i3-370M is primarily designed for Mainstream Laptop. Virtualization: VT-x, VT-d, EPT — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads). Its primary market competitor is the AMD Athlon II P320.

Specification	Core i3-370M
Primary Use CaseIntended workload category	Mainstream 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, VT-d, EPT
Direct CompetitorMarket equivalent from rival manufacturer	AMD Athlon II P320

🌡️

Power & Cooling

The Core i3-370M 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 i3-370M
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload	35 Watt
Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax)	90 °C for rPGA, 105 °C for BGA
Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the box	None
Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solution	Laptop Cooling

💰

Value Analysis

It currently holds Rank #570 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #2965 out of all indexed processors.

Specification	Core i3-370M
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch	$245
Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking	#570
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking	#2965
Release DateLaunch date	20 June 2010 (15 years ago)
Release Year	2010
DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD)	Intel
ManufacturerFabrication foundry (e.g. TSMC)	Intel