
Core i7-2840QM
Intel
PassMark
3,842
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 i7-2840QM 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. Max frequency: 2.4 GHz. L3 cache: 8 MB. L2 cache: 1 MB. Built on 32 nm process technology. Socket: G2. Thermal design power (TDP): 45 Watt. Passmark benchmark score: 3,842 points. Launch price was $69.
Value Upgrade Path
This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Core i7-2840QM is positioned at rank #311 in our cost-efficiency ranking, representing a Lower cost-benefit for your build. 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 Core i7-2840QM
FPS Benchmarks
Predicted performance for Core i7-2840QM across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.

Path of Exile 2

Counter-Strike 2

League of Legends

Valorant
Technical Analysis
Detailed breakdown of Core i7-2840QM specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The Core i7-2840QM 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 2.4 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 8 MB of L3 cache, plus 1 MB of L2 cache and 256 kB of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 3,842, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.
| Specification | Core i7-2840QM |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 4C / 8T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 2.4 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 | 8 MB |
| L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data | 1 MB |
| L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache | 256 kB |
| Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor | 216 mm2 |
| Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities | 1160 Million |
| Bus SpeedData bus frequency | 4 × 5 GT/s |
| 64-bit Support | Yes |
| Windows 11 Compatible | No |
| PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score | 3,842 |
Memory & Platform
The Core i7-2840QM fits into the G2 socket and supports PCIe 2.0.
| Specification | Core i7-2840QM |
|---|---|
| TypeDesktop or Laptop processor | Laptop |
| SeriesProduct family | Intel Core i7 |
| SocketMotherboard socket required | G2 |
| PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth | PCIe 2.0 |
| Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers | 1 (Uniprocessor) |
Power & Cooling
The Core i7-2840QM 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.
| Specification | Core i7-2840QM |
|---|---|
| TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload | 45 Watt |
Value Analysis
It currently holds Rank #311 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #2039 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | Core i7-2840QM |
|---|---|
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $69 |
| Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking | #311 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #2039 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 4 September 2011 (14 years ago) |
| Release Year | 2011 |
| DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD) | Intel |
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Our Recommendation for Core i7-2840QM
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