Core i3-6100T

The Core i3-6100T 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 3.2 GHz from a base frequency of 3.2 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 3,641, 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 1,041, while multi-core reaches 2,071. Cinebench R23 multi-core (measuring sustained rendering workload performance) scores 2,500.

The Core i3-6100T fits into the LGA1151 socket and supports PCIe 3.0 with 16 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR4-1866/2133, DDR3L-1333/1600 memory at speeds up to DDR4-2133 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 64 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 530 — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.

The Core i3-6100T is primarily designed for Budget. Virtualization: VT-x, VT-d — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads).

The Core i3-6100T 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. It ships with the Stock stock cooler. Recommended cooling: Stock.

At an average price of $20 (MSRP: $117), the Core i3-6100T delivers 182 PassMark points per dollar. Performance ranking position: #2082 out of all indexed processors.