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 i7-3720QM is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 29 April 2012 (13 years ago). It is based on the Ivy Bridge (2012−2013) architecture. It features 4 cores and 8 threads. Base frequency is 2.6 GHz, with boost up to 3.6 GHz. L3 cache: 6 MB (total). L2 cache: 256K (per core). Built on 22 nm process technology. Socket: PGA988. Thermal design power (TDP): 45 Watt. Memory support: DDR3. Passmark benchmark score: 5,591 points. Launch price was $378.

Value Upgrade Path

This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Core i7-3720QM is positioned at rank #50 in our cost-efficiency ranking, representing a Great 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 i7-3720QM

#13

Ryzen 3 210

MSRP: $99|Avg: $99

95%

#38

Atom x5-Z8300

MSRP: $20|Avg: N/A

210%

#39

Atom Z3735G

MSRP: $17|Avg: N/A

207%

#40

Core i5-480M

MSRP: $81|Avg: $77

190%

#41

Core i5-460M

MSRP: $80|Avg: $129

189%

#42

Core i5-2540M

MSRP: $266|Avg: $10

187%

#44

Core i5-450M

MSRP: $32|Avg: $31

181%

#45

Core i3-380M

MSRP: $49|Avg: $25

173%

#46

Core i5-430M

MSRP: N/A|Avg: $33

173%

#47

Core 2 Duo T6600

MSRP: N/A|Avg: $4

168%

#50

Core i7-3720QM

MSRP: N/A|Avg: N/A

100%

#51

Celeron N2807

MSRP: $107|Avg: $60

100%

#65

Core i5-3320M

MSRP: $225|Avg: N/A

95%

Based on actual market prices and performance synthetic scores.

FPS Benchmarks

Predicted performance for Core i7-3720QM across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of Core i7-3720QM specifications and capabilities.

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Processing Power

The Core i7-3720QM is a 4-core / 8-thread processor based on the Ivy Bridge (2012−2013) architecture, manufactured on a 22 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 3.6 GHz from a base frequency of 2.6 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 5,591, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.

Specification	Core i7-3720QM
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units	4C / 8T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost	3.6 GHz
Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency	2.6 GHz
ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design	Ivy Bridge (2012−2013)
Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient	22 nm
L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores	6 MB (total)
L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data	256K (per core)
L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache	64K (per core)
Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor	160 mm2
Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities	1,400 million
Bus SpeedData bus frequency	5 GT/s
Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax)	105 °C
64-bit Support	Yes
Windows 11 Compatible	No
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score	5,591

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Memory & Platform

The Core i7-3720QM fits into the PGA988 socket and supports PCIe 3.0. It supports DDR3 memory.

Specification	Core i7-3720QM
TypeDesktop or Laptop processor	Laptop
SeriesProduct family	Intel Core i7
SocketMotherboard socket required	PGA988
PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth	PCIe 3.0
RAM TypeSupported memory standard	DDR3
Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers	1

🌡️

Power & Cooling

The Core i7-3720QM 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 i7-3720QM
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload	45 Watt
Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax)	105 °C

💰

Value Analysis

It currently holds Rank #50 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #1783 out of all indexed processors.

Specification	Core i7-3720QM
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch	$378
Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking	#50
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking	#1783
Release DateLaunch date	29 April 2012 (13 years ago)
Release Year	2012
DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD)	Intel
ManufacturerFabrication foundry (e.g. TSMC)	Intel