Core i7-2760QM
CPU·Budget

Core i7-2760QM

Intel

PassMark

4,313

4 September 2011 (14 years ago)
45 Watt
Sandy Bridge (2011−2013)

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 i7-2760QM is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 4 September 2011 (14 years ago). It is based on the Sandy Bridge (2011−2013) architecture. It features 4 cores and 8 threads. Base frequency is 2.4 GHz, with boost up to 3.5 GHz. L3 cache: 6 MB (total). L2 cache: 256K (per core). Built on 32 nm process technology. Socket: PGA988. Thermal design power (TDP): 45 Watt. Memory support: DDR3-1066, DDR3-1333, DDR3-1600. Passmark benchmark score: 4,313 points. Launch price was $378.

Value Upgrade Path

This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Core i7-2760QM is positioned at rank #249 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 i7-2760QM

#237
Atom x5-Z8300
MSRP: $20|Avg: N/A
408%
#238
Atom Z3735G
MSRP: $17|Avg: N/A
402%
#239
Core i5-480M
MSRP: $81|Avg: $77
369%
#240
Core i5-460M
MSRP: $80|Avg: $129
368%
#241
Core i5-2540M
MSRP: $266|Avg: $10
364%
#243
Core i5-450M
MSRP: $32|Avg: $31
352%
#244
Core i3-380M
MSRP: $49|Avg: $25
337%
#245
Core i5-430M
MSRP: N/A|Avg: $33
337%
#246
Core 2 Duo T6600
MSRP: N/A|Avg: $4
328%
#249
Core i7-2760QM
MSRP: N/A|Avg: N/A
100%
Based on actual market prices and performance synthetic scores.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of Core i7-2760QM specifications and capabilities.

Processing Power

The Core i7-2760QM is a 4-core / 8-thread processor based on the Sandy Bridge (2011−2013) architecture, manufactured on a 32 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 3.5 GHz from a base frequency of 2.4 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 4,313, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.

SpecificationCore i7-2760QM
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units4C / 8T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost3.5 GHz
Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency2.4 GHz
ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture designSandy Bridge (2011−2013)
Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient32 nm
L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores6 MB (total)
L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data256K (per core)
L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache64K (per core)
Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor216 mm2
Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities1,160 million
Bus SpeedData bus frequency4 × 5 GT/s
Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax)100 °C
64-bit SupportYes
Windows 11 CompatibleNo
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score4,313
🧠

Memory & Platform

The Core i7-2760QM fits into the PGA988 socket and supports PCIe 2.0 with 16 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR3-1066, DDR3-1333, DDR3-1600 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 3000 — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.

SpecificationCore i7-2760QM
TypeDesktop or Laptop processorLaptop
SeriesProduct familyIntel Core i7
SocketMotherboard socket requiredPGA988
PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidthPCIe 2.0
PCIe LanesTotal available lanes for GPUs, NVMe drives, and expansion16
RAM TypeSupported memory standardDDR3-1066, DDR3-1333, DDR3-1600
Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency1600
Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory32
RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel2
ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruptionNo
Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processorIntel HD Graphics 3000
Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPUHM65,HM67,QM67,QS67
Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers1 (Uniprocessor)
🔧

Advanced Features

Virtualization: true — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads). Its primary market competitor is the AMD A8-3510MX.

SpecificationCore i7-2760QM
OverclockingWhether CPU clock can be manually increased🔒 Locked
AVX-512Advanced vector instructions for AI/ML workloads❌ Not Supported
VirtualizationHardware-assisted virtualization technologytrue
Direct CompetitorMarket equivalent from rival manufacturerAMD A8-3510MX
🌡️

Power & Cooling

The Core i7-2760QM has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 45 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 Integrated.

SpecificationCore i7-2760QM
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload45 Watt
Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax)100 °C
Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the boxfalse
Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solutionLaptop Integrated
💰

Value Analysis

It currently holds Rank #249 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #1971 out of all indexed processors.

SpecificationCore i7-2760QM
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch$378
Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking#249
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking#1971
Release DateLaunch date4 September 2011 (14 years ago)
Release Year2011
DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD)Intel
ManufacturerFabrication foundry (e.g. TSMC)Intel

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