Core i3-6100E
Intel
PassMark
3,315
MSRP
$225
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 i3-6100E is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 12 October 2015 (10 years ago). It is based on the Skylake (2015−2016) architecture. It features 2 cores and 4 threads. Max frequency: 2.7 GHz. L3 cache: 3 MB. L2 cache: 512 kB. Built on 14 nm process technology. Thermal design power (TDP): 35 Watt. Memory support: LPDDR3-1866. Passmark benchmark score: 3,315 points. Launch price was $225.
Value Upgrade Path
This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Core i3-6100E is positioned at rank #902 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 i3-6100E
FPS Benchmarks
Predicted performance for Core i3-6100E 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 i3-6100E specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The Core i3-6100E is a 2-core / 4-thread processor based on the Skylake (2015−2016) architecture, manufactured on a 14 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 2.7 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 3 MB of L3 cache, plus 512 kB of L2 cache and 128 kB of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 3,315, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.
| Specification | Core i3-6100E |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 2C / 4T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 2.7 GHz |
| ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design | Skylake (2015−2016) |
| Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient | 14 nm |
| L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores | 3 MB |
| L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data | 512 kB |
| L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache | 128 kB |
| Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor | 98.57 mm2 |
| Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities | 1750 Million |
| Bus SpeedData bus frequency | 4 × 8 GT/s |
| 64-bit Support | Yes |
| Windows 11 Compatible | No |
| PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score | 3,315 |
Memory & Platform
It supports LPDDR3-1866 memory at speeds up to 2133 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 64 across 2 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). It supports ECC memory, providing error-correcting capabilities — essential for mission-critical workloads and servers. Integrated graphics: Intel HD Graphics 530 — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.
| Specification | Core i3-6100E |
|---|---|
| TypeDesktop or Laptop processor | Laptop |
| SeriesProduct family | Intel Core i3 |
| 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 | LPDDR3-1866 |
| Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency | 2133 |
| Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory | 64 |
| RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel | 2 |
| ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruption | Yes |
| Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processor | Intel HD Graphics 530 |
| Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPU | Intel 100 Series,Intel C230 Series |
| Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers | 1 (Uniprocessor) |
Advanced Features
Virtualization: true — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads).
| Specification | Core i3-6100E |
|---|---|
| AVX-512Advanced vector instructions for AI/ML workloads | ❌ Not Supported |
| VirtualizationHardware-assisted virtualization technology | true |
Power & Cooling
The Core i3-6100E 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.
| Specification | Core i3-6100E |
|---|---|
| TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload | 35 Watt |
Value Analysis
At an average price of $50 (MSRP: $225), the Core i3-6100E delivers 66 PassMark points per dollar. It currently holds Rank #902 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #2159 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | Core i3-6100E |
|---|---|
| MSRPManufacturer's Suggested Retail Price | $225 |
| Avg Price (30d)Average market price over the last 30 days | $50 |
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $225 |
| Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking | #902 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #2159 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 12 October 2015 (10 years ago) |
| Release Year | 2015 |
| 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 i3-6100E
Suggested pairings based on performance balance
Minimum (Avoid Bottleneck) (12)
Recommended (Balanced) (12)
High-End (Max Performance) (12)
Popular Comparisons
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