Core i7-620LM
CPU·Budget

Core i7-620LM

Intel

PassMark

1,463

MSRP

$300

7 January 2010 (15 years ago)
25 Watt
Arrandale (2010−2011)

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 i7-620LM is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 7 January 2010 (15 years ago). It is based on the Arrandale (2010−2011) architecture. It features 2 cores and 4 threads. Base frequency is 2 GHz, with boost up to 2.8 GHz. L3 cache: 4 MB (total). L2 cache: 256 kB (per core). Built on 32 nm process technology. Socket: BGA1288. Thermal design power (TDP): 25 Watt. Memory support: DDR3-800, DDR3-1066. Passmark benchmark score: 1,463 points. Launch price was $300.

Value Upgrade Path

This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Core i7-620LM is positioned at rank #1208 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 i7-620LM

#1196
Atom x5-Z8300
MSRP: $20|Avg: N/A
6012%
#1197
Atom Z3735G
MSRP: $17|Avg: N/A
5924%
#1198
Core i5-480M
MSRP: $81|Avg: $77
5439%
#1199
Core i5-460M
MSRP: $80|Avg: $129
5414%
#1200
Core i5-2540M
MSRP: $266|Avg: $10
5364%
#1202
Core i5-450M
MSRP: $32|Avg: $31
5180%
#1203
Core i3-380M
MSRP: $49|Avg: $25
4967%
#1204
Core i5-430M
MSRP: N/A|Avg: $33
4959%
#1205
Core 2 Duo T6600
MSRP: N/A|Avg: $4
4826%
#1208
Core i7-620LM
MSRP: $300|Avg: N/A
100%
#1209
Core i7-740QM
MSRP: $378|Avg: N/A
100%
#1211
Core 2 Solo SU3300
MSRP: $262|Avg: $50
98%
#1212
Celeron 540
MSRP: $86|Avg: $5
97%
#1213
Celeron U3600
MSRP: $134|Avg: $134
95%
#1216
Core 2 Quad Q9000
MSRP: $348|Avg: $15
94%
#1217
Core i5-2537M
MSRP: $250|Avg: N/A
94%
#1218
Core i7-720QM
MSRP: $364|Avg: N/A
93%
#1219
Pentium U5400
MSRP: $289|Avg: $214
91%
#1220
Pentium T2330
MSRP: $150|Avg: $7
91%
#1221
Z-01
MSRP: $50|Avg: $10
88%
#1222
Pentium T2310
MSRP: $150|Avg: $14
85%
#1223
Celeron SU2300
MSRP: $134|Avg: $134
83%
Based on actual market prices and performance synthetic scores.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of Core i7-620LM specifications and capabilities.

Processing Power

The Core i7-620LM is a 2-core / 4-thread processor based on the Arrandale (2010−2011) architecture, manufactured on a 32 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 2.8 GHz from a base frequency of 2 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 4 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 1,463, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product. Geekbench 6 single-core (the most relevant metric for gaming FPS) records 450, while multi-core reaches 900.

SpecificationCore i7-620LM
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units2C / 4T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost2.8 GHz
Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency2 GHz
ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture designArrandale (2010−2011)
Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient32 nm
L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores4 MB (total)
L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data256 kB (per core)
L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache64 kB (per core)
Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor81+144 mm2
Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities382+177 Million
Bus SpeedData bus frequency1 × 2.5 GT/s
Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax)105 °C
64-bit SupportYes
Windows 11 CompatibleNo
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score1,463
Geekbench 6 SingleSingle-core performance — most relevant for gaming450
Geekbench 6 MultiMulti-core parallel workload performance900
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Memory & Platform

The Core i7-620LM fits into the BGA1288 socket and supports PCIe 2.0 with 16 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR3-800, DDR3-1066 memory at speeds up to DDR3-1066 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 8 GB across 2 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). Integrated graphics: Intel HD Graphics — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.

SpecificationCore i7-620LM
TypeDesktop or Laptop processorLaptop
SeriesProduct familyIntel Core i7
SocketMotherboard socket requiredBGA1288
PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidthPCIe 2.0
PCIe LanesTotal available lanes for GPUs, NVMe drives, and expansion16
RAM TypeSupported memory standardDDR3-800, DDR3-1066
Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequencyDDR3-1066
Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory8 GB
RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel2
ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruptionNo
Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processorIntel HD Graphics
Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPUQM57,HM55
Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers1 (Uniprocessor)
🔧

Advanced Features

The Core i7-620LM is primarily designed for Budget. Virtualization: VT-x, VT-d — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads). Its primary market competitor is the Ryzen 5 3500U.

SpecificationCore i7-620LM
Primary Use CaseIntended workload categoryBudget
OverclockingWhether CPU clock can be manually increased🔒 Locked
AVX-512Advanced vector instructions for AI/ML workloads❌ Not Supported
VirtualizationHardware-assisted virtualization technologyVT-x, VT-d
Direct CompetitorMarket equivalent from rival manufacturerRyzen 5 3500U
🌡️

Power & Cooling

The Core i7-620LM has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 25 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: Tower 120mm.

SpecificationCore i7-620LM
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload25 Watt
Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax)105 °C
Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the boxNo
Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solutionTower 120mm
💰

Value Analysis

At an average price of $300, the Core i7-620LM delivers 5 PassMark points per dollar. It currently holds Rank #1208 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #2812 out of all indexed processors.

SpecificationCore i7-620LM
MSRPManufacturer's Suggested Retail Price$300
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch$300
Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking#1208
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking#2812
Release DateLaunch date7 January 2010 (15 years ago)
Release Year2010
DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD)Intel
ManufacturerFabrication foundry (e.g. TSMC)Intel

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