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 i5-3439Y is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 8 January 2013 (12 years ago). It is based on the Ivy Bridge (2012−2013) architecture. It features 2 cores and 4 threads. Base frequency is 1.5 GHz, with boost up to 2.3 GHz. L3 cache: 3 MB (total). L2 cache: 256K (per core). Built on 22 nm process technology. Socket: BGA1023. Thermal design power (TDP): 13 Watt. Memory support: DDR3. Passmark benchmark score: 1,957 points. Launch price was $69.

Value Upgrade Path

This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Core i5-3439Y is positioned at rank #1077 in our cost-efficiency ranking, representing a Lower cost-benefit for your build. Components placed above yours deliver better value for money.

MSRP is the manufacturer's suggested retail price.•
Avg price is the current average price collected from markets across the web.

Performance Per Dollar Core i5-3439Y

#1065

Atom x5-Z8300

MSRP: $20|Avg: N/A

2893%

#1066

Atom Z3735G

MSRP: $17|Avg: N/A

2851%

#1067

Core i5-480M

MSRP: $81|Avg: $77

2617%

#1068

Core i5-460M

MSRP: $80|Avg: $129

2606%

#1069

Core i5-2540M

MSRP: $266|Avg: $10

2582%

#1071

Core i5-450M

MSRP: $32|Avg: $31

2493%

#1072

Core i3-380M

MSRP: $49|Avg: $25

2391%

#1073

Core i5-430M

MSRP: N/A|Avg: $33

2387%

#1074

Core 2 Duo T6600

MSRP: N/A|Avg: $4

2322%

#1077

Core i5-3439Y

MSRP: N/A|Avg: N/A

100%

#1078

A9-9425

MSRP: $150|Avg: $30

100%

#1080

Core i5-4402E

MSRP: $266|Avg: $100

99%

#1081

A6-7000

MSRP: $100|Avg: $15

99%

#1083

Core i5-2520M

MSRP: $225|Avg: N/A

98%

#1084

Core i7-2710QE

MSRP: $378|Avg: $40

98%

#1089

Core i5-3610ME

MSRP: $276|Avg: $22

95%

#1090

Core m3-7Y32

MSRP: $281|Avg: $281

95%

#1092

Celeron B720

MSRP: $70|Avg: $10

94%

Based on actual market prices and performance synthetic scores.

FPS Benchmarks

Predicted performance for Core i5-3439Y across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of Core i5-3439Y specifications and capabilities.

⚡

Processing Power

The Core i5-3439Y is a 2-core / 4-thread processor based on the Ivy Bridge (2012−2013) architecture, manufactured on a 22 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 2.3 GHz from a base frequency of 1.5 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 1,957, 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 472, while multi-core reaches 966.

Specification	Core i5-3439Y
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units	2C / 4T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost	2.3 GHz
Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency	1.5 GHz
ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design	Ivy Bridge (2012−2013)
Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient	22 nm
L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores	3 MB (total)
L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data	256K (per core)
L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache	64K (per core)
Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor	160 mm2
Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities	1,400 million
Bus SpeedData bus frequency	5 GT/s
Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax)	105 °C
64-bit Support	Yes
Windows 11 Compatible	No
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score	1,957
Geekbench 6 SingleSingle-core performance — most relevant for gaming	472
Geekbench 6 MultiMulti-core parallel workload performance	966

🧠

Memory & Platform

The Core i5-3439Y fits into the BGA1023 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 32 GB across 2 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). Integrated graphics: HD Graphics 4000 — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.

Specification	Core i5-3439Y
TypeDesktop or Laptop processor	Laptop
SeriesProduct family	Intel Core i5
SocketMotherboard socket required	BGA1023
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	DDR3
Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency	DDR3L-1600
Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory	32 GB
RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel	2
ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruption	No
Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processor	HD Graphics 4000
Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPU	7-series
Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers	1

🔧

Advanced Features

The Core i5-3439Y is primarily designed for Budget. Virtualization: VT-x — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads). Its primary market competitor is the Athlon Silver 3050U.

Specification	Core i5-3439Y
Primary Use CaseIntended workload category	Budget
OverclockingWhether CPU clock can be manually increased	🔒 Locked
AVX-512Advanced vector instructions for AI/ML workloads	❌ Not Supported
VirtualizationHardware-assisted virtualization technology	VT-x
Direct CompetitorMarket equivalent from rival manufacturer	Athlon Silver 3050U

🌡️

Power & Cooling

The Core i5-3439Y has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 13 Watt — 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: Tower 120mm.

Specification	Core i5-3439Y
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload	13 Watt
Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax)	105 °C
Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the box	No
Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solution	Tower 120mm

💰

Value Analysis

It currently holds Rank #1077 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #2602 out of all indexed processors.

Specification	Core i5-3439Y
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch	$69
Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking	#1077
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking	#2602
Release DateLaunch date	8 January 2013 (12 years ago)
Release Year	2013
DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD)	Intel
ManufacturerFabrication foundry (e.g. TSMC)	Intel