Core i3-4100E

The Core i3-4100E is a 2-core / 4-thread processor based on the Haswell (2013−2015) 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 1,848, 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 550.

The Core i3-4100E fits into the BGA1364 socket and supports PCIe 3.0 with 16 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR3 memory at speeds up to DDR3L-1600 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 16 GB across 2 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). It supports ECC memory, providing error-correcting capabilities — essential for mission-critical workloads and servers. Integrated graphics: HD Graphics 4600 — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.

The Core i3-4100E is primarily designed for Embedded. Virtualization: VT-x, VT-d, EPT — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads). Its primary market competitor is the Embedded R-Series.

The Core i3-4100E has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 512 kB + 3 MB — 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.

At an average price of $30 (MSRP: $225), the Core i3-4100E delivers 62 PassMark points per dollar. Performance ranking position: #2653 out of all indexed processors.