Core i5-3450

The Core i5-3450 is a 4-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 3.5 GHz from a base frequency of 3.1 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. With a massive 6144 kB (total) L3 cache (3D V-Cache technology), this processor has a significant gaming advantage — the large cache drastically reduces memory latency in game engines., plus 256 kB (per core) of L2 cache and 64 kB (per core) of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 4,517, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.

The Core i5-3450 fits into the LGA1155 socket and supports PCIe 3.0 with 16 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR3 memory at speeds up to 1600 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 32 across 2 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). Integrated graphics: Intel HD Graphics 2500 — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.

Virtualization: true — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads).

The Core i5-3450 has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 77 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed.

At an average price of $95 (MSRP: $184), the Core i5-3450 delivers 48 PassMark points per dollar. It currently holds Rank #696 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #1938 out of all indexed processors.