Core i3-7300

The Core i3-7300 is a 2-core / 4-thread processor based on the Kaby Lake (2016−2019) architecture, manufactured on a 14 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 4 GHz from a base frequency of 4 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 4 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 4,519, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.

The Core i3-7300 fits into the LGA1151 socket and supports PCIe 3.0 with 16 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR4 memory at speeds up to DDR4-2400 (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 630 — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.

The Core i3-7300 is primarily designed for Desktop. Virtualization: VT-x, VT-d — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads).

The Core i3-7300 has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 51 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed.

At an average price of $46 (MSRP: $184), the Core i3-7300 delivers 98 PassMark points per dollar. It currently holds Rank #695 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #1936 out of all indexed processors.