Core i7-2657M
Intel
PassMark
3,491
Performance Spectrum - CPU
About PassMark
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 i7-2657M 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 1.6 GHz, with boost up to 2.7 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: 3,491 points. Launch price was $317.
Value Upgrade Path
This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. Components placed above yours deliver better value for money.
Avg price is the current average price collected from markets across the web.
Performance Per Dollar
FPS Benchmarks
Predicted performance for Core i7-2657M across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.
Counter-Strike 2
Deadlock
Destiny 2
Dota 2
League of Legends
Left 4 Dead 2
Path of Exile 2
Phasmophobia
Rust
Starfield
Technical Analysis
Detailed breakdown of Core i7-2657M specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The Core i7-2657M 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 2.7 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 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 3,491, 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 535.
| Specification | Core i7-2657M |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 2C / 4T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 2.7 GHz |
| Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency | 1.6 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 | 3,491 |
| Geekbench 6 SingleSingle-core performance — most relevant for gaming | 535 |
Memory & Platform
The Core i7-2657M 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 DDR3-1333 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 8 GB across 2 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). Integrated graphics: HD Graphics 3000 — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.
| Specification | Core i7-2657M |
|---|---|
| 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 | DDR3-1333 |
| Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory | 8 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 3000 |
| Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPU | HM65,HM67,QM67,QS67,UM67 |
| Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers | 1 (Uniprocessor) |
Advanced Features
The Core i7-2657M is primarily designed for Ultrabook. Virtualization: VT-x, VT-d, EPT — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads). Its primary market competitor is the A6-3420M.
| Specification | Core i7-2657M |
|---|---|
| Primary Use CaseIntended workload category | Ultrabook |
| OverclockingWhether CPU clock can be manually increased | 🔒 Locked |
| AVX-512Advanced vector instructions for AI/ML workloads | ❌ Not Supported |
| VirtualizationHardware-assisted virtualization technology | VT-x, VT-d, EPT |
| Direct CompetitorMarket equivalent from rival manufacturer | A6-3420M |
Power & Cooling
The Core i7-2657M 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. No stock cooler is included — you will need to purchase an aftermarket cooler separately. Recommended cooling: None.
| Specification | Core i7-2657M |
|---|---|
| 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 | No |
| Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solution | None |
Value Analysis
Performance ranking position: #2765 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | Core i7-2657M |
|---|---|
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $317 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #2765 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 3 January 2011 (14 years ago) |
| Release Year | 2011 |
| DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD) | Intel |
Specifications Reference
Raw spec sheet for quick lookup. The analysis cards above explain what these fields mean in practice.
4 categories
General Information
7 specs
General Information
7 specs
| Type | Laptop |
| Series | Intel Core i7 |
| Designer | Intel |
| Launch Price | $317 |
| Release Date | 3 January 2011 (14 years ago) |
| Architecture Codename | Sandy Bridge (2011−2013) |
| Performance Ranking Position | 2765 |
Technical Specifications
16 specs
Technical Specifications
16 specs
| Cores | 2 |
| Threads | 4 |
| Bus Type | DMI 2.0 |
| Die Size | 149 mm2 |
| L1 Cache | 128 kB |
| L2 Cache | 512 kB |
| L3 Cache | 4 MB |
| Bus Speed | 4 × 5 GT/s |
| Multiplier | 16 |
| Max Frequency | 2.7 GHz |
| 64-Bit Support | + |
| Base Frequency | 1.6 GHz |
| Transistor Count | 624 Million |
| Process Technology | 32 nm |
| Max Core Temperature | 100 °C |
| Windows 11 Compatible | - |
Compatibility
4 specs
Compatibility
4 specs
| Socket | BGA1023 |
| PCIe Generation | PCIe 2.0 |
| Power Consumption (TDP) | 17 Watt |
| Max Processors In Config | 1 (Uniprocessor) |
Memory
4 specs
Memory
4 specs
| RAM Types | DDR3-1066, DDR3-1333 |
| Memory Channels | 2 |
| Memory Bandwidth | 21.335 GB/s |
| Max Memory Capacity | 8.01 GB |
Similar Performance
Processors with benchmark scores closest to the current hardware, grouped by manufacturer.
Intel (12)
AMD (12)
Our Recommendation for Core i7-2657M
Suggested pairings based on performance balance
Minimum (Avoid Bottleneck) (12)
Recommended (Balanced) (12)
High-End (Max Performance) (12)
Popular Comparisons
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