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 i7-640UM 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 1.2 GHz, with boost up to 2.27 GHz. L3 cache: 4 MB (total). L2 cache: 256 kB (per core). Built on 32 nm process technology. Socket: BGA1288. Thermal design power (TDP): 18 Watt. Memory support: DDR3-800. Passmark benchmark score: 1,168 points. Launch price was $305.

Value Upgrade Path

This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Core i7-640UM is positioned at rank #1229 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 i7-640UM

#1217

Atom x5-Z8300

MSRP: $20|Avg: N/A

7661%

#1218

Atom Z3735G

MSRP: $17|Avg: N/A

7548%

#1219

Core i5-480M

MSRP: $81|Avg: $77

6930%

#1220

Core i5-460M

MSRP: $80|Avg: $129

6898%

#1221

Core i5-2540M

MSRP: $266|Avg: $10

6835%

#1223

Core i5-450M

MSRP: $32|Avg: $31

6601%

#1224

Core i3-380M

MSRP: $49|Avg: $25

6329%

#1225

Core i5-430M

MSRP: N/A|Avg: $33

6319%

#1226

Core 2 Duo T6600

MSRP: N/A|Avg: $4

6149%

#1229

Core i7-640UM

MSRP: N/A|Avg: N/A

100%

#1230

Celeron 570

MSRP: $134|Avg: $15

98%

#1232

Core i7-820QM

MSRP: $546|Avg: N/A

87%

#1233

Core Duo T2700

MSRP: $663|Avg: N/A

73%

#1235

Pentium SU4100

MSRP: $289|Avg: $15

62%

#1236

Core Solo T1400

MSRP: $200|Avg: $5

56%

#1237

Core i7-940XM

MSRP: $1096|Avg: N/A

54%

#1238

Core Solo T1350

MSRP: $200|Avg: $70

53%

#1240

Core Solo T1300

MSRP: $209|Avg: $10

48%

#1241

Core Solo T1200

MSRP: $209|Avg: $10

44%

Based on actual market prices and performance synthetic scores.

FPS Benchmarks

Predicted performance for Core i7-640UM across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of Core i7-640UM specifications and capabilities.

⚡

Processing Power

The Core i7-640UM 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 2.27 GHz from a base frequency of 1.2 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 1,168, 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 226, while multi-core reaches 590.

Specification	Core i7-640UM
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units	2C / 4T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost	2.27 GHz
Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency	1.2 GHz
ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design	Arrandale (2010−2011)
Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient	32 nm
L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores	4 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	81+114 mm2
Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities	382+177 Million
Bus SpeedData bus frequency	1 × 2.5 GT/s
Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax)	105 °C
64-bit Support	Yes
Windows 11 Compatible	No
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score	1,168
Geekbench 6 SingleSingle-core performance — most relevant for gaming	226
Geekbench 6 MultiMulti-core parallel workload performance	590

🧠

Memory & Platform

The Core i7-640UM fits into the BGA1288 socket and supports PCIe 2.0 with 16 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR3-800 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 (Ironlake) — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.

Specification	Core i7-640UM
TypeDesktop or Laptop processor	Laptop
SeriesProduct family	Intel Core i7
SocketMotherboard socket required	BGA1288
PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth	PCIe 2.0
PCIe LanesTotal available lanes for GPUs, NVMe drives, and expansion	16
RAM TypeSupported memory standard	DDR3-800
Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency	DDR3-1066
Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory	8 GB
RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel	2
ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruption	No
Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processor	Intel HD Graphics (Ironlake)
Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPU	HM55,QM57
Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers	1 (Uniprocessor)

🔧

Advanced Features

The Core i7-640UM is primarily designed for Legacy Laptop. Virtualization: VT-x, VT-d — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads). Its primary market competitor is the Core 2 Duo SU9600.

Specification	Core i7-640UM
Primary Use CaseIntended workload category	Legacy Laptop
OverclockingWhether CPU clock can be manually increased	🔒 Locked
AVX-512Advanced vector instructions for AI/ML workloads	❌ Not Supported
VirtualizationHardware-assisted virtualization technology	VT-x, VT-d
Direct CompetitorMarket equivalent from rival manufacturer	Core 2 Duo SU9600

🌡️

Power & Cooling

The Core i7-640UM has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 18 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: Laptop Cooling.

Specification	Core i7-640UM
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload	18 Watt
Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax)	105 °C
Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the box	None
Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solution	Laptop Cooling

💰

Value Analysis

It currently holds Rank #1229 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #2966 out of all indexed processors.

Specification	Core i7-640UM
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch	$305
Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking	#1229
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking	#2966
Release DateLaunch date	7 January 2010 (15 years ago)
Release Year	2010
DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD)	Intel
ManufacturerFabrication foundry (e.g. TSMC)	Intel