Core i7-860S
Intel
PassMark
2,324
MSRP
$299
AVG Price
$96
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 i7-860S is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 7 January 2010 (15 years ago). It is based on the Lynnfield (2009−2010) architecture. It features 4 cores and 8 threads. Base frequency is 2.53 GHz, with boost up to 3.46 GHz. L3 cache: 8 MB (total). L2 cache: 256 kB (per core). Built on 45 nm process technology. Socket: LGA1156. Thermal design power (TDP): 82 Watt. Memory support: DDR3. Passmark benchmark score: 2,324 points. Launch price was $422.
Value Upgrade Path
This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Core i7-860S is positioned at rank #1033 in our cost-efficiency ranking, representing a Lower cost-benefit for your build. Components placed above yours deliver better value for money.
Avg price is the current average price collected from markets across the web.
Performance Per Dollar Core i7-860S
Technical Analysis
Detailed breakdown of Core i7-860S specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The Core i7-860S is a 4-core / 8-thread processor based on the Lynnfield (2009−2010) architecture, manufactured on a 45 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 3.46 GHz from a base frequency of 2.53 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 8 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 2,324, 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 451, while multi-core reaches 1,332.
| Specification | Core i7-860S |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 4C / 8T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 3.46 GHz |
| Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency | 2.53 GHz |
| ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design | Lynnfield (2009−2010) |
| Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient | 45 nm |
| L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores | 8 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 |
| 64-bit Support | Yes |
| Windows 11 Compatible | No |
| PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score | 2,324 |
| Geekbench 6 SingleSingle-core performance — most relevant for gaming | 451 |
| Geekbench 6 MultiMulti-core parallel workload performance | 1,332 |
Memory & Platform
The Core i7-860S fits into the LGA1156 socket and supports PCIe 2.0 with 16 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR3 memory at speeds up to DDR3-1333 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 16 GB across 2 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth).
| Specification | Core i7-860S |
|---|---|
| TypeDesktop or Laptop processor | desktop |
| SocketMotherboard socket required | LGA1156 |
| 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 |
| Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency | DDR3-1333 |
| Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory | 16 GB |
| RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel | 2 |
| ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruption | No |
| Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processor | No |
| Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPU | P55,H55,H57,Q57 |
| Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers | 1 |
Advanced Features
Virtualization: Yes — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads).
| Specification | Core i7-860S |
|---|---|
| AVX-512Advanced vector instructions for AI/ML workloads | ❌ Not Supported |
| VirtualizationHardware-assisted virtualization technology | Yes |
Power & Cooling
The Core i7-860S has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 82 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed. It ships with the Yes stock cooler.
| Specification | Core i7-860S |
|---|---|
| TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload | 82 Watt |
| Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the box | Yes |
Value Analysis
At an average price of $96 (MSRP: $299), the Core i7-860S delivers 24 PassMark points per dollar. It currently holds Rank #1033 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #2454 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | Core i7-860S |
|---|---|
| MSRPManufacturer's Suggested Retail Price | $299 |
| Avg Price (30d)Average market price over the last 30 days | $96 |
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $422 |
| Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking | #1033 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #2454 |
| 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 |
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Our Recommendation for Core i7-860S
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