Intel Core i5-2390T
Intel processor specifications and benchmark scores
Intel Core i5-2390T Specifications
Core i5-2390T Core Configuration
Processing cores and threading
The Intel Core i5-2390T 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.
i5-2390T Clock Speeds
Base and boost frequencies
Clock speed is a critical factor in Core i5-2390T 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 i5-2390T by Intel can dynamically adjust its frequency based on workload and thermal headroom.
Intel's Core i5-2390T Cache Hierarchy
L1, L2, L3 cache sizes
Cache memory is ultra-fast storage built directly into the i5-2390T 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 i5-2390T's cache configuration is optimized for both gaming performance and productivity workloads, minimizing data fetch delays during intensive computations.
Sandy Bridge Architecture & Process
Manufacturing and design details
The Intel Core i5-2390T 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 i5-2390T incorporate advanced branch prediction and out-of-order execution for optimal performance.
Sandy Bridge Instruction Set Features
Supported CPU instructions and extensions
The Core i5-2390T 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.
i5-2390T Power & Thermal
TDP and power specifications
The Intel Core i5-2390T 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.
Intel Socket 1155 Platform & Socket
Compatibility information
The Core i5-2390T uses the Intel Socket 1155 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.
Intel Socket 1155 Memory Support
RAM compatibility and speeds
Memory support specifications for the i5-2390T 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 i5-2390T 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.
Intel's Core i5-2390T Integrated Graphics
Built-in GPU specifications
The Intel Core i5-2390T 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 i5-2390T 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.
Core i5-2390T Product Information
Release and pricing details
The Intel Core i5-2390T 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 i5-2390T by Intel offers a specific balance of performance, features, and cost within Intel's product lineup.
Core i5-2390T 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 i5-2390T 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_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 i5-2390T. The more demanding workload provides better differentiation between current-generation processors.
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 i5-2390T. The increased complexity provides more accurate performance differentiation between modern CPUs.
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 i5-2390T after thermal limits kick in. The longer duration exposes cooling limitations that shorter benchmarks miss.
cinebench_cinebench_r23_singlecoreSource
Cinebench R23 single-core measures sustained single-thread performance over 10 minutes. This reveals how Intel Core i5-2390T maintains boost clocks under continuous load. The extended runtime shows whether thermal throttling affects single-core performance.
geekbench_multicoreSource
Geekbench multi-core tests Intel Core i5-2390T across real-world workloads including image processing, machine learning, and data compression. All available threads are utilized to measure parallel performance. Higher scores indicate better capability in multitasking and content creation.
geekbench_singlecoreSource
Geekbench single-core measures how fast one thread of Intel Core i5-2390T can process tasks like web browsing and document editing. This score correlates with how snappy the system feels during normal use. Many applications still depend primarily on single-thread performance.
About Intel Core i5-2390T
Engineered on Intel's 32 nm process and built around the Sandy Bridge microarchitecture, the Intel Core i5-2390T delivers efficient chip design with a balance of performance and power economy, making it a smart choice for compact gaming rigs and home theater PCs. The dual-core, quad-thread configuration paired with 3 MB of shared L3 cache ensures solid multitasking capabilities, while the 35W TDP keeps thermal output low for sustained workloads. Utilizing Intel Socket 1155, the i5-2390T supports DDR3 memory and integrates Intel HD Graphics 2000 for basic visual processing, ideal for systems where discrete GPUs handle the heavy lifting. Its base clock of 2.70 GHz and turbo boost up to 3.50 GHz provide responsive performance for older titles and background tasks without excessive power draw. Designed during an era of transition in CPU optimization, the Intel Core i5-2390T reflects a time when thermal efficiency began gaining priority alongside clock speeds. Even today, its architecture remains relevant for retro builds and low-power gaming setups seeking reliability over raw power. The chipβs design philosophy still holds value for enthusiasts building budget-conscious or silent-running systems.
Performance metrics from modern benchmarks illustrate the capabilities of the Intel Core i5-2390T in both single-threaded and multi-threaded workloads, offering a clear picture of its position in todayβs landscape. In Geekbench, it scores 468 points in single-core and 935 in multi-core tests, while Cinebench R23 results show 300 and 2,130 points respectively, confirming its limitations by current standards. Though these numbers fall short compared to modern mid-range CPUs, they remain sufficient for lightweight gaming, emulation of older consoles, and running indie or 2D titles smoothly. The i5-2390T handles multitasking with modest efficiency thanks to Hyper-Threading, but struggles with CPU-intensive modern games or streaming workloads. When paired with a capable GPU, it can still deliver playable frame rates in titles from the early 2010s at 1080p with lowered settings. Benchmark data positions the Intel Core i5-2390T as a functional but outdated option, best suited for secondary systems or basic gaming use. Its performance envelope reflects the expectations of its 2011 release era, where dual-core designs with turbo flexibility were on the rise.
Priced historically in the budget to mid-range bracket at launch, the Intel Core i5-2390T now trades almost exclusively in the used and surplus market, appealing to builders focused on cost-effective retro systems. Todayβs availability typically comes from refurbished channels, with prices reflecting its age and technological constraints, often under $30 USD. This makes the i5-2390T an attractive option for hobbyists restoring older machines or constructing low-power media and gaming hybrids on a tight budget. While it lacks the muscle for AAA gaming in 2024, its value lies in compatibility, low heat output, and proven stability in legacy builds. For users upgrading from even older Pentium or Celeron systems, the i5-2390T offers a noticeable leap in responsiveness and gaming capability. Its enduring presence in niche builds underscores a practical price-to-performance ratio for specific retro or lightweight computing scenarios. Gamers seeking an affordable entry point into vintage hardware will find the Intel Core i5-2390T a viable candidate within its narrow scope.
When considering upgrades, users should weigh the Intel Core i5-2390Tβs Socket 1155 limitations against the gains offered by newer platforms and architectures. Direct CPU upgrades are constrained to other Sandy Bridge or Ivy Bridge chips, with the best viable successor being the i5-3570K, offering higher clocks and better gaming performance. Motherboard compatibility narrows future expansion, as newer chipsets and DDR4/DDR5 memory are inaccessible without a full platform shift. Pairing the i5-2390T with faster RAM or an SSD can improve system responsiveness, but wonβt overcome its inherent core and IPC limitations. Gamers hitting performance walls should consider full platform jumps to modern dual-core minimum standards or embrace compact mini-ITX builds with low-TDP APUs. While the i5-2390T can be refreshed with better cooling or storage, its upgrade ceiling is firmly capped by 2011-era technology. For those holding onto legacy systems, maximizing the Intel Core i5-2390Tβs potential means optimizing around its constraints rather than expecting modern performance.
The AMD Equivalent of Core i5-2390T
Looking for a similar processor from AMD? The AMD Ryzen 5 1400 offers comparable performance and features in the AMD lineup.
Popular Intel Core i5-2390T Comparisons
See how the Core i5-2390T stacks up against similar processors from the same generation and competing brands.
Compare Core i5-2390T with Other CPUs
Select another CPU to compare specifications and benchmarks side-by-side.
Browse CPUs