Core i3-9100HL

The Core i3-9100HL is a 4-core / 4-thread processor based on the Coffee Lake (2017−2019) architecture, manufactured on a 14 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 2.9 GHz from a base frequency of 1.6 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 6 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 3,454, 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 1,037, while multi-core reaches 2,373.

The Core i3-9100HL fits into the BGA1440 socket and supports PCIe 3.0 with 16 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR4-2666 memory at speeds up to DDR4 2666 MHz (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: Intel UHD Graphics 630 — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.

The Core i3-9100HL is primarily designed for Embedded. Virtualization: true — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads).

The Core i3-9100HL has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 25 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed.

At an average price of $100 (MSRP: $225), the Core i3-9100HL delivers 35 PassMark points per dollar. Performance ranking position: #2124 out of all indexed processors.