INTEL

Intel Core i3-2312M

Intel processor specifications and benchmark scores

2
Cores
4
Threads
—
GHz Boost
35W
TDP
🖥️Integrated GPU

Intel Core i3-2312M Specifications

⚙️

Core i3-2312M Core Configuration

Processing cores and threading

The Intel Core i3-2312M features 2 physical cores and 4 threads, which directly impacts multi-threaded performance in CPU benchmarks. More cores allow the processor to handle parallel workloads efficiently, improving performance in video editing, 3D rendering, and multitasking scenarios. Thread count determines how many simultaneous tasks the CPU can process, with higher thread counts benefiting productivity applications and content creation workflows.

Cores
2
Threads
4
SMP CPUs
1
⏱️

i3-2312M Clock Speeds

Base and boost frequencies

Clock speed is a critical factor in Core i3-2312M benchmark performance, measured in GHz. The base clock represents the guaranteed operating frequency, while the boost clock indicates maximum single-core performance under optimal conditions. Higher clock speeds translate to faster single-threaded performance, which is essential for gaming and applications that don't fully utilize multiple cores. The Core i3-2312M by Intel can dynamically adjust its frequency based on workload and thermal headroom.

Base Clock
2.1 GHz
Boost Clock
N/A
Multiplier
21x
đź’ľ

Intel's Core i3-2312M Cache Hierarchy

L1, L2, L3 cache sizes

Cache memory is ultra-fast storage built directly into the i3-2312M processor die. L1 cache provides the fastest access for frequently used data, while L2 and L3 caches offer progressively larger storage with slightly higher latency. Larger cache sizes significantly improve CPU benchmark scores by reducing memory access times. The Core i3-2312M's cache configuration is optimized for both gaming performance and productivity workloads, minimizing data fetch delays during intensive computations.

L1 Cache
64 KB (per core)
L2 Cache
256 KB (per core)
L3 Cache
3 MB (shared)
🏗️

Sandy Bridge Architecture & Process

Manufacturing and design details

The Intel Core i3-2312M is built on Intel's 32 nm manufacturing process, which determines power efficiency and thermal characteristics. Smaller process nodes allow for more transistors in the same space, enabling higher performance per watt. The architecture defines how the processor handles instructions and manages data flow, directly impacting benchmark results across different workload types. Modern CPU architectures like the one in i3-2312M incorporate advanced branch prediction and out-of-order execution for optimal performance.

Architecture
Sandy Bridge
Codename
Sandy Bridge
Process Node
32 nm
Foundry
Intel
Transistors
624 million
Die Size
149 mm²
Generation
Core i3 (Sandy Bridge)
🔢

Sandy Bridge Instruction Set Features

Supported CPU instructions and extensions

The Core i3-2312M by Intel supports various instruction set extensions that enable optimized performance for specific workloads. SIMD instructions like SSE and AVX accelerate multimedia, scientific computing, and AI workloads by processing multiple data points simultaneously. Features like AES-NI provide hardware-accelerated encryption, while AVX-512 (if supported) enables advanced vector processing for data centers and high-performance computing. These instruction sets are critical for software compatibility and performance in modern applications.

MMX
SSE
SSE2
SSE3
SSSE3
SSE4.1
SSE4.2
AVX
AES-NI
Intel 64
VT-x
VT-d
🔌

i3-2312M Power & Thermal

TDP and power specifications

The Intel Core i3-2312M has a TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 35W, indicating the cooling solution required for sustained operation. TDP affects both system power consumption and the type of cooler needed. Lower TDP processors are ideal for compact builds and laptops, while higher TDP chips typically offer better sustained performance in demanding CPU benchmarks. Understanding power requirements helps ensure your system can deliver consistent performance without thermal throttling.

TDP
35W
đź”§

Intel Socket G2 (988B) Platform & Socket

Compatibility information

The Core i3-2312M uses the Intel Socket G2 (988B) socket, which determines motherboard compatibility. Choosing the right platform is essential for building a system around this processor. The socket type also influences available features like PCIe lanes, memory support, and upgrade paths. When comparing CPU benchmarks, ensure you're looking at processors compatible with your existing or planned motherboard to make informed purchasing decisions.

Socket
Intel Socket G2 (988B)
Package
rPGA
DDR5

Intel Socket G2 (988B) Memory Support

RAM compatibility and speeds

Memory support specifications for the i3-2312M define which RAM types and speeds are compatible. Faster memory can significantly improve CPU benchmark performance, especially in memory-intensive applications and gaming. The memory controller integrated into the Core i3-2312M determines maximum supported speeds and channels. Dual-channel or quad-channel memory configurations can double or quadruple memory bandwidth, providing noticeable performance gains in content creation and scientific workloads.

Memory Type
DDR3
Memory Bus
Dual-channel
🖥️

Intel's Core i3-2312M Integrated Graphics

Built-in GPU specifications

The Intel Core i3-2312M includes integrated graphics, eliminating the need for a dedicated GPU in basic computing scenarios. Integrated graphics are ideal for office productivity, video playback, and light gaming. While not designed for demanding GPU benchmarks, the iGPU in the i3-2312M provides hardware video encoding and decoding capabilities. This makes the processor suitable for compact builds, HTPCs, and systems where power efficiency is prioritized over gaming performance.

iGPU
Intel HD 3000
Graphics Model
Intel HD 3000
📦

Core i3-2312M Product Information

Release and pricing details

The Intel Core i3-2312M is manufactured by Intel and represents their commitment to delivering competitive CPU performance. Understanding the release date and pricing helps contextualize benchmark comparisons with other processors from the same generation. Launch pricing provides a baseline for evaluating value, though street prices often differ. Whether you're building a new system or upgrading, the Core i3-2312M by Intel offers a specific balance of performance, features, and cost within Intel's product lineup.

Manufacturer
Intel
Release Date
Mar 2011
Market
Mobile
Status
End-of-life
Part Number
SR04PSR09S

Core i3-2312M Benchmark Scores

cinebench_cinebench_r15_multicoreSource

Cinebench R15 multi-core renders a complex 3D scene using all CPU threads simultaneously. This test reveals how Intel Core i3-2312M performs in parallel rendering workloads like video production and 3D animation. The R15 version remains useful for comparing against older hardware benchmarks. Higher scores directly correlate with faster render times in Cinema 4D and similar 3D applications.

cinebench_cinebench_r15_multicore #1746 of 1788
101
1%
Max: 14,978
Compare with other CPUs

cinebench_cinebench_r20_multicoreSource

Cinebench R20 multi-core uses a scene requiring 4x more computational power than R15. This test better reflects modern CPU capabilities for professional rendering on Intel Core i3-2312M. The more demanding workload provides better differentiation between current-generation processors.

cinebench_cinebench_r20_multicore #1746 of 1788
424
1%
Max: 62,412
Compare with other CPUs

cinebench_cinebench_r20_singlecoreSource

Cinebench R20 single-core tests one thread against a more demanding scene than R15. This reveals the true single-thread rendering capability of Intel Core i3-2312M. The increased complexity provides more accurate performance differentiation between modern CPUs.

cinebench_cinebench_r20_singlecore #1750 of 1784
59
1%
Max: 8,811

cinebench_cinebench_r23_multicoreSource

Cinebench R23 multi-core is the current standard for CPU rendering benchmarks with a 10-minute minimum runtime. This extended test reveals sustained performance of Intel Core i3-2312M after thermal limits kick in. The longer duration exposes cooling limitations that shorter benchmarks miss.

cinebench_cinebench_r23_multicore #1746 of 1788
1,010
1%
Max: 148,601
Compare with other CPUs

🏆 Top 5 Performers

cinebench_cinebench_r23_singlecoreSource

Cinebench R23 single-core measures sustained single-thread performance over 10 minutes. This reveals how Intel Core i3-2312M maintains boost clocks under continuous load. The extended runtime shows whether thermal throttling affects single-core performance.

cinebench_cinebench_r23_singlecore #1746 of 1788
142
1%
Max: 20,979
Compare with other CPUs

About Intel Core i3-2312M

As a gamer who also streams Netflix and chats on Discord, you wonder if a dual‑core chip can keep up. The Intel i3-2312M delivers 2.10 GHz of base clock speed, which feels modest but surprisingly snappy for web browsing and office apps. Its 4‑thread design lets you run multiple tabs, a music player, and a voice chat without the dreaded stutter. With a 35 W TDP, the heat stays low enough that you can stick it in a thin‑and‑light laptop and still game for a couple of hours. But does it handle the occasional indie title at 1080p? In real‑world tests the Cinebench scores hover around 1,010 points in multi‑core, proving it can push a few frames when the game isn’t GPU‑bound.

When you switch to a content‑creation workflow, you start asking if the Core i3-2312M can survive Photoshop layers and light video renders. The 3 MB shared L3 cache and Sandy Bridge architecture still hold up surprisingly well for a 2011 part. In Cinebench R23 single‑core it scores 142 points, which translates to decent responsiveness in Premiere’s timeline for 720p edits. Multi‑core performance hits 1,010 points, meaning modest acceleration when you enable background rendering. Compared to newer chips, the numbers look tiny, but for a budget workstation they’re enough to keep the UI fluid and the compile times acceptable. So, can you rely on this processor for daily design tasks without feeling constantly throttled?

The big question for gamers on a budget is whether the i3-2312M offers enough bang for the buck. Because it’s an older Sandy Bridge model, you can often find it in refurbished laptops for a fraction of the price of a modern quad‑core. Its 32 nm process and low power draw keep the total cost of ownership down, especially when you pair it with a modest SSD. While you won’t break 60 fps in AAA titles, you’ll still enjoy smooth gameplay in eSports hits like CS:GO or Rocket League. The trade‑off is obvious: you sacrifice raw horsepower for a wallet‑friendly price tag. Yet, if you combine it with a decent GPU, the overall system can punch above its weight without emptying your savings.

Wondering which boards will actually accept the Intel I3-2312M? It uses the Intel Socket G2 (988B), a socket that was common on many mid‑range mobile motherboards back in the day. Look for chipsets like the HM65, HM67 or HM70, which expose the full 4‑thread capability and the necessary PCIe lanes for a discrete GPU. Compatibility isn’t limited to laptops; some small‑form‑factor desktops also shipped with this socket, giving you upgrade paths you might have missed. Here are three key things to verify before buying:

  1. BIOS version supports the Intel i3-2312M and other Sandy Bridge CPUs.
  2. Power delivery can handle a 35 W TDP plus any added graphics load.
  3. Available RAM slots support up to 16 GB DDR3 at 1333 MHz.
If those boxes are ticked, you’ll have a solid, cost‑effective platform that still feels responsive for everyday gaming and light creative work.

The AMD Equivalent of Core i3-2312M

Looking for a similar processor from AMD? The AMD Ryzen 3 PRO 1200 offers comparable performance and features in the AMD lineup.

AMD Ryzen 3 PRO 1200

AMD • 4 Cores

View Specs Compare

Popular Intel Core i3-2312M Comparisons

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