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 i7-2637M is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 3 January 2011 (14 years ago). It is based on the Sandy Bridge (2011−2013) architecture. It features 2 cores and 4 threads. Base frequency is 1.7 GHz, with boost up to 2.8 GHz. L3 cache: 4 MB. L2 cache: 512 kB. Built on 32 nm process technology. Socket: BGA1023. Thermal design power (TDP): 17 Watt. Memory support: DDR3-1066, DDR3-1333. Passmark benchmark score: 1,889 points. Launch price was $289.

Value Upgrade Path

This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Core i7-2637M is positioned at rank #1176 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 i7-2637M

#1164

Atom x5-Z8300

MSRP: $20|Avg: N/A

4486%

#1165

Atom Z3735G

MSRP: $17|Avg: N/A

4420%

#1166

Core i5-480M

MSRP: $81|Avg: $77

4058%

#1167

Core i5-460M

MSRP: $80|Avg: $129

4040%

#1168

Core i5-2540M

MSRP: $266|Avg: $10

4003%

#1170

Core i5-450M

MSRP: $32|Avg: $31

3865%

#1171

Core i3-380M

MSRP: $49|Avg: $25

3706%

#1172

Core i5-430M

MSRP: N/A|Avg: $33

3700%

#1173

Core 2 Duo T6600

MSRP: N/A|Avg: $4

3601%

#1176

Core i7-2637M

MSRP: $289|Avg: N/A

100%

#1177

Core 2 Duo SL9600

MSRP: $316|Avg: N/A

99%

#1178

Athlon PRO 3045B

MSRP: $426|Avg: $180

99%

#1179

Core 2 Duo T5600

MSRP: $241|Avg: N/A

99%

#1180

Pentium N3510

MSRP: $161|Avg: $161

99%

#1181

Core i7-7Y75

MSRP: $393|Avg: $285

99%

#1183

Core i7-4500U

MSRP: $398|Avg: N/A

96%

#1185

Athlon Neo X2 L325

MSRP: $100|Avg: $5

94%

#1186

Core i3-2370M

MSRP: $225|Avg: N/A

93%

#1187

Core i3-3217UE

MSRP: $225|Avg: $35

93%

#1188

Celeron T3000

MSRP: $150|Avg: $54

92%

#1189

Core m7-6Y75

MSRP: $393|Avg: $393

92%

#1190

Core M-5Y10

MSRP: $281|Avg: $20

89%

Based on actual market prices and performance synthetic scores.

FPS Benchmarks

Predicted performance for Core i7-2637M across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of Core i7-2637M specifications and capabilities.

⚡

Processing Power

The Core i7-2637M is a 2-core / 4-thread processor based on the Sandy Bridge (2011−2013) architecture, manufactured on a 32 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 2.8 GHz from a base frequency of 1.7 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 4 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 1,889, 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 350, while multi-core reaches 628.

Specification	Core i7-2637M
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units	2C / 4T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost	2.8 GHz
Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency	1.7 GHz
ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design	Sandy Bridge (2011−2013)
Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient	32 nm
L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores	4 MB
L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data	512 kB
L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache	128 kB
Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor	149 mm2
Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities	624 Million
Bus SpeedData bus frequency	4 × 5 GT/s
Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax)	100 °C
64-bit Support	Yes
Windows 11 Compatible	No
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score	1,889
Geekbench 6 SingleSingle-core performance — most relevant for gaming	350
Geekbench 6 MultiMulti-core parallel workload performance	628

🧠

Memory & Platform

The Core i7-2637M fits into the BGA1023 socket and supports PCIe 2.0 with 16 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR3-1066, DDR3-1333 memory at speeds up to 1333 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 8 across 2 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). Integrated graphics: Intel HD Graphics 3000 — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.

Specification	Core i7-2637M
TypeDesktop or Laptop processor	Laptop
SeriesProduct family	Intel Core i7
SocketMotherboard socket required	BGA1023
PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth	PCIe 2.0
PCIe LanesTotal available lanes for GPUs, NVMe drives, and expansion	16
RAM TypeSupported memory standard	DDR3-1066, DDR3-1333
Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency	1333
Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory	8
RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel	2
ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruption	No
Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processor	Intel HD Graphics 3000
Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPU	HM65,HM67,QM67
Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers	1 (Uniprocessor)

🔧

Advanced Features

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

Specification	Core i7-2637M
OverclockingWhether CPU clock can be manually increased	🔒 Locked
AVX-512Advanced vector instructions for AI/ML workloads	❌ Not Supported
VirtualizationHardware-assisted virtualization technology	true

🌡️

Power & Cooling

The Core i7-2637M has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 17 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed. It ships with the false stock cooler. Recommended cooling: Laptop Grade.

Specification	Core i7-2637M
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload	17 Watt
Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax)	100 °C
Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the box	false
Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solution	Laptop Grade

💰

Value Analysis

At an average price of $289, the Core i7-2637M delivers 7 PassMark points per dollar. It currently holds Rank #1176 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #2633 out of all indexed processors.

Specification	Core i7-2637M
MSRPManufacturer's Suggested Retail Price	$289
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch	$289
Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking	#1176
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking	#2633
Release DateLaunch date	3 January 2011 (14 years ago)
Release Year	2011
DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD)	Intel