Core i7-2840QM
CPU·Budget

Core i7-2840QM

Intel

PassMark

3,842

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 i7-2840QM 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.

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 i7-2840QM

#299
Atom x5-Z8300
MSRP: $20|Avg: N/A
458%
#300
Atom Z3735G
MSRP: $17|Avg: N/A
452%
#301
Core i5-480M
MSRP: $81|Avg: $77
414%
#302
Core i5-460M
MSRP: $80|Avg: $129
413%
#303
Core i5-2540M
MSRP: $266|Avg: $10
409%
#305
Core i5-450M
MSRP: $32|Avg: $31
395%
#306
Core i3-380M
MSRP: $49|Avg: $25
379%
#307
Core i5-430M
MSRP: N/A|Avg: $33
378%
#308
Core 2 Duo T6600
MSRP: N/A|Avg: $4
368%
#311
Core i7-2840QM
MSRP: N/A|Avg: N/A
100%
Based on actual market prices and performance synthetic scores.

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.

SpecificationCore i7-2840QM
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units4C / 8T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost2.4 GHz
ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture designSandy Bridge (2011−2013)
Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient32 nm
L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores8 MB
L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data1 MB
L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache256 kB
Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor216 mm2
Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities1160 Million
Bus SpeedData bus frequency4 × 5 GT/s
64-bit SupportYes
Windows 11 CompatibleNo
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score3,842
🧠

Memory & Platform

The Core i7-2840QM fits into the G2 socket and supports PCIe 2.0.

SpecificationCore i7-2840QM
TypeDesktop or Laptop processorLaptop
SeriesProduct familyIntel Core i7
SocketMotherboard socket requiredG2
PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidthPCIe 2.0
Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers1 (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.

SpecificationCore i7-2840QM
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload45 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.

SpecificationCore 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 date4 September 2011 (14 years ago)
Release Year2011
DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD)Intel

Our Recommendation for Core i7-2840QM

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