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 i7-3930K is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 14 November 2011 (14 years ago). It is based on the Sandy Bridge-E (2011−2013) architecture. It features 6 cores and 12 threads. Base frequency is 3.2 GHz, with boost up to 3.8 GHz. L3 cache: 12 MB (total). L2 cache: 256 kB (per core). Built on 32 nm process technology. Socket: LGA2011. Thermal design power (TDP): 130 Watt. Memory support: DDR3. Passmark benchmark score: 8,204 points. Launch price was $611.

Value Upgrade Path

This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Core i7-3930K is positioned at rank #917 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 i7-3930K

Ryzen 9 7950X

MSRP: $194|Avg: $20

22155%

Core i9-10900T

MSRP: $120|Avg: $5

20934%

Ryzen 3 PRO 4355GE

MSRP: $423|Avg: $5

15200%

Ryzen Threadripper 3960X

MSRP: $1399|Avg: $85

4579%

Ryzen 9 9950X

MSRP: $649|Avg: $129

3627%

Ryzen 5 8400F

MSRP: $303|Avg: $55

3173%

Ryzen 7 PRO 2700

MSRP: $299|Avg: $60

1817%

Ryzen 5 2600X

MSRP: $229|Avg: $55

1794%

Ryzen 3 PRO 5350G

MSRP: $150|Avg: $60

1633%

#10

Core Ultra 5 245KF

MSRP: $294|Avg: $189

1633%

#11

Ryzen 5 5500

MSRP: $159|Avg: $85

1615%

#12

Ryzen 5 3600

MSRP: $199|Avg: $80

1571%

#13

Core i3-9100E

MSRP: $202|Avg: $30

1549%

#14

Core Ultra 5 245K

MSRP: $319|Avg: $200

1543%

#15

Core i3-8300T

MSRP: $138|Avg: $25

1529%

#302

Core i7-6900K

MSRP: $1089|Avg: $1089

96%

#395

Ryzen Threadripper 3970X

MSRP: $4491|Avg: $4491

100%

#917

Core i7-3930K

MSRP: $583|Avg: $150

100%

#919

Core i7-4930K

MSRP: $670|Avg: $100

100%

#920

Sempron LE-1250

MSRP: N/A|Avg: $20

100%

#921

Pentium E6500

MSRP: $84|Avg: $10

99%

#922

Core i5-2500

MSRP: $294|Avg: $69

99%

#923

Athlon II X4 605e

MSRP: $143|Avg: $25

98%

#925

Athlon II X4 610e

MSRP: $143|Avg: $20

97%

#926

Core i5-2390T

MSRP: $182|Avg: $182

97%

#927

Phenom II X4 910e

MSRP: $157|Avg: $69

97%

#928

FX-8100

MSRP: $300|Avg: $50

97%

#930

Celeron E1400

MSRP: $53|Avg: $63

96%

#932

Pentium E6800

MSRP: $86|Avg: $10

95%

Based on actual market prices and performance synthetic scores.

FPS Benchmarks

Predicted performance for Core i7-3930K across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of Core i7-3930K specifications and capabilities.

⚡

Processing Power

The Core i7-3930K is a 6-core / 12-thread processor based on the Sandy Bridge-E (2011−2013) architecture, manufactured on a 32 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 3.8 GHz from a base frequency of 3.2 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 12 MB (total) of L3 cache, plus 256 kB (per core) of L2 cache and 64 kB (per core) of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 8,204, placing it in the Budget performance tier as a Legacy generation product. Geekbench 6 single-core (the most relevant metric for gaming FPS) records 731.

Specification	Core i7-3930K
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units	6C / 12T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost	3.8 GHz
Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency	3.2 GHz
ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design	Sandy Bridge-E (2011−2013)
Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient	32 nm
L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores	12 MB (total)
L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data	256 kB (per core)
L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache	64 kB (per core)
Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor	435 mm2
Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities	2,270 million
Bus SpeedData bus frequency	5 GT/s
64-bit Support	Yes
Windows 11 Compatible	No
Unlocked MultiplierWhether the CPU can be overclocked	Yes (Overclockable)
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score	8,204
Geekbench 6 SingleSingle-core performance — most relevant for gaming	731

🧠

Memory & Platform

The Core i7-3930K fits into the LGA2011 socket and supports PCIe 2.0 with 40 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR3 memory at speeds up to DDR3-1600 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 64 GB across 4 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). Integrated graphics: None — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.

Specification	Core i7-3930K
TypeDesktop or Laptop processor	desktop
SocketMotherboard socket required	LGA2011
PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth	PCIe 2.0
PCIe LanesTotal available lanes for GPUs, NVMe drives, and expansion	40
RAM TypeSupported memory standard	DDR3
Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency	DDR3-1600
Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory	64 GB
RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel	4
ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruption	No
Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processor	None
Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPU	X79
Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers	1

🔧

Advanced Features

The Core i7-3930K is primarily designed for HEDT Desktop. It features an unlocked multiplier, allowing enthusiasts to overclock beyond stock frequencies for additional performance. Virtualization: VT-x, VT-d, EPT — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads). Its primary market competitor is the FX-8350.

Specification	Core i7-3930K
Primary Use CaseIntended workload category	HEDT Desktop
OverclockingWhether CPU clock can be manually increased	✅ Unlocked
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	FX-8350

🌡️

Power & Cooling

The Core i7-3930K has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 130 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: Aftermarket.

Specification	Core i7-3930K
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload	130 Watt
Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the box	No
Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solution	Aftermarket

💰

Value Analysis

At an average price of $150 (MSRP: $583), the Core i7-3930K delivers 55 PassMark points per dollar. It currently holds Rank #917 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #1436 out of all indexed processors.

Specification	Core i7-3930K
MSRPManufacturer's Suggested Retail Price	$583
Avg Price (30d)Average market price over the last 30 days	$150
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch	$611
Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking	#917
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking	#1436
Release DateLaunch date	14 November 2011 (14 years ago)
Release Year	2011
DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD)	Intel
ManufacturerFabrication foundry (e.g. TSMC)	Intel