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 i7-720QM is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 23 September 2009 (16 years ago). It is based on the Clarksfield (2009−2010) architecture. It features 4 cores and 8 threads. Base frequency is 1.6 GHz, with boost up to 2.8 GHz. L3 cache: 6 MB (total). L2 cache: 256 kB (per core). Built on 45 nm process technology. Socket: PGA988. Thermal design power (TDP): 45 Watt. Memory support: DDR3-1066, DDR3-1333. Passmark benchmark score: 1,658 points. Launch price was $546.

Value Upgrade Path

This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. 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 i7-720QM

#378

Core i7-4500U

MSRP: $398|Avg: N/A

138%

#379

Core i3-2370M

MSRP: $225|Avg: N/A

134%

#380

Core m7-6Y75

MSRP: $393|Avg: $393

132%

#381

Pentium U5400

MSRP: $289|Avg: $214

132%

#382

Core Solo T1350

MSRP: $200|Avg: $70

127%

#383

Atom N475

MSRP: $75|Avg: N/A

119%

#384

Core i3-2312M

MSRP: $225|Avg: N/A

116%

#385

Celeron 925

MSRP: $100|Avg: $100

115%

#386

Core 2 Duo SU7300

MSRP: $289|Avg: N/A

114%

#387

Core Duo T2400

MSRP: $294|Avg: N/A

111%

#388

Pentium M 735

MSRP: $294|Avg: N/A

109%

#389

Core i7-620LM

MSRP: $300|Avg: N/A

107%

#390

Core i7-740QM

MSRP: $378|Avg: N/A

107%

#391

Celeron U3600

MSRP: $134|Avg: $134

102%

#392

Core i5-2537M

MSRP: $250|Avg: N/A

101%

#393

Core i7-720QM

MSRP: $364|Avg: N/A

100%

#394

Celeron SU2300

MSRP: $134|Avg: $134

89%

#395

Core i5-560UM

MSRP: $250|Avg: N/A

89%

#396

Core i7-660UM

MSRP: $317|Avg: N/A

89%

#397

Core i7-620UM

MSRP: $278|Avg: N/A

86%

#398

Core i7-820QM

MSRP: $546|Avg: N/A

73%

#399

Core Duo T2700

MSRP: $663|Avg: N/A

62%

#400

Core 2 Extreme X9100

MSRP: $851|Avg: N/A

53%

#401

Core i7-940XM

MSRP: $1096|Avg: N/A

45%

Based on actual market prices and performance synthetic scores.

FPS Benchmarks

Predicted performance for Core i7-720QM across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of Core i7-720QM specifications and capabilities.

⚡

Processing Power

The Core i7-720QM is a 4-core / 8-thread processor based on the Clarksfield (2009−2010) architecture, manufactured on a 45 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 2.8 GHz from a base frequency of 1.6 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 6 MB (total) of L3 cache, plus 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 1,658, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.

Specification	Core i7-720QM
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units	4C / 8T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost	2.8 GHz
Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency	1.6 GHz
ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design	Clarksfield (2009−2010)
Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient	45 nm
L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores	6 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	296 mm2
Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities	774 million
Bus SpeedData bus frequency	2.5 GT/s
Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax)	100 °C
64-bit Support	Yes
Windows 11 Compatible	No
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score	1,658

🧠

Memory & Platform

The Core i7-720QM fits into the PGA988 socket and supports PCIe 2.0 with 16 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR3-1066, DDR3-1333 memory at speeds up to 1333 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 8 across 2 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). Integrated graphics: None — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.

Specification	Core i7-720QM
TypeDesktop or Laptop processor	Laptop
SeriesProduct family	Intel Core i7
SocketMotherboard socket required	PGA988
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	DDR3-1066, DDR3-1333
Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency	1333
Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory	8
RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel	2
ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruption	No
Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processor	None
Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPU	PM55,HM55,QM57
Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers	1 (Uniprocessor)

🔧

Advanced Features

Virtualization: true — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads). Its primary market competitor is the Core 2 Quad Q9000.

Specification	Core i7-720QM
OverclockingWhether CPU clock can be manually increased	🔒 Locked
AVX-512Advanced vector instructions for AI/ML workloads	❌ Not Supported
VirtualizationHardware-assisted virtualization technology	true
Direct CompetitorMarket equivalent from rival manufacturer	Core 2 Quad Q9000

🌡️

Power & Cooling

The Core i7-720QM 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. It ships with the false stock cooler. Recommended cooling: Laptop Integrated.

Specification	Core i7-720QM
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload	45 Watt
Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax)	100 °C
Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the box	false
Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solution	Laptop Integrated

💰

Value Analysis

At an average price of $364, the Core i7-720QM delivers 5 PassMark points per dollar. Performance ranking position: #2724 out of all indexed processors.

Specification	Core i7-720QM
MSRPManufacturer's Suggested Retail Price	$364
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch	$546
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking	#2724
Release DateLaunch date	23 September 2009 (16 years ago)
Release Year	2009
DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD)	Intel
ManufacturerFabrication foundry (e.g. TSMC)	Intel

Specifications Reference

Raw spec sheet for quick lookup. The analysis cards above explain what these fields mean in practice.

4 categories

General Information

8 specs

Type	Laptop
Series	Intel Core i7
Designer	Intel
Launch Price	$546
Manufacturer	Intel
Release Date	23 September 2009 (16 years ago)
Architecture Codename	Clarksfield (2009−2010)
Performance Ranking Position	2724

Technical Specifications

16 specs

Cores	4
Threads	8
Bus Type	DMI 1.0
Die Size	296 mm2
L1 Cache	64 kB (per core)
L2 Cache	256 kB (per core)
L3 Cache	6 MB (total)
Bus Speed	2.5 GT/s
Multiplier	12
Max Frequency	2.8 GHz
64-Bit Support	+
Base Frequency	1.6 GHz
Transistor Count	774 million
Process Technology	45 nm
Max Core Temperature	100 °C
Windows 11 Compatible	-