Intel Core i5-3470T
Intel processor specifications and benchmark scores
Integrated GPUAt a Glance
IntelIntel Core i5-3470T Specifications
Core i5-3470T Core Configuration
Processing cores and threading
The Intel Core i5-3470T 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.
i5-3470T Clock Speeds
Base and boost frequencies
Clock speed is a critical factor in Core i5-3470T 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 i5-3470T by Intel can dynamically adjust its frequency based on workload and thermal headroom.
Intel's Core i5-3470T Cache Hierarchy
L1, L2, L3 cache sizes
Cache memory is ultra-fast storage built directly into the i5-3470T 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 i5-3470T's cache configuration is optimized for both gaming performance and productivity workloads, minimizing data fetch delays during intensive computations.
Ivy Bridge Architecture & Process
Manufacturing and design details
The Intel Core i5-3470T is built on Intel's 22 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 i5-3470T incorporate advanced branch prediction and out-of-order execution for optimal performance.
Ivy Bridge Instruction Set Features
Supported CPU instructions and extensions
The Core i5-3470T 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.
i5-3470T Power & Thermal
TDP and power specifications
The Intel Core i5-3470T 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 i5-3470T 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 i5-3470T 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 i5-3470T 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 i5-3470T Integrated Graphics
Built-in GPU specifications
The Intel Core i5-3470T 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 i5-3470T 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 i5-3470T Product Information
Release and pricing details
The Intel Core i5-3470T 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 i5-3470T by Intel offers a specific balance of performance, features, and cost within Intel's product lineup.
Core i5-3470T 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 i5-3470T 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.
Top 5 Performers
Top 5 PerformersNearby Performers
Nearby Performerscinebench_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 i5-3470T. The more demanding workload provides better differentiation between current-generation processors.
Top 5 Performers
Nearby Performers
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 i5-3470T. The increased complexity provides more accurate performance differentiation between modern CPUs.
Top 5 Performers
Nearby Performers
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 i5-3470T after thermal limits kick in. The longer duration exposes cooling limitations that shorter benchmarks miss.
Top 5 Performers
Nearby Performers
cinebench_cinebench_r23_singlecoreSource
Cinebench R23 single-core measures sustained single-thread performance over 10 minutes. This reveals how Intel Core i5-3470T maintains boost clocks under continuous load. The extended runtime shows whether thermal throttling affects single-core performance.
Top 5 Performers
Nearby Performers
geekbench_multicoreSource
Geekbench multi-core tests Intel Core i5-3470T 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.
Top 5 Performers
Nearby Performers
geekbench_singlecoreSource
Geekbench single-core measures how fast one thread of Intel Core i5-3470T 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.
Top 5 Performers
Nearby Performers
About Intel Core i5-3470T
The Intel Core i5-3470T is a desktop processor from Intel's Ivy Bridge generation, built on a 22 nm process with a 93.6 mm² die. It packs two physical cores with four threads, clocked at 2.90 GHz base and 3.60 GHz boost. Released on 2012-05-31 and carrying the part number SR0RJ, this Socket 1155 chip was designed for the desktop market segment with an emphasis on power efficiency rather than raw performance. Its 35 W TDP places it in the low-power tier of the Core i5 lineup, and its benchmark profile confirms a processor built for everyday workloads rather than heavy compute.
Platform and Compatibility
The i5-3470T is built for Intel Socket 1155. The architecture is Ivy Bridge, fabricated on Intel's 22 nm process, and the die measures 93.6 mm². Memory support is DDR3, arranged in a dual-channel configuration. There is no ECC memory support, which positions the chip in the consumer desktop space rather than workstation territory.
For expansion and graphics, the i5-3470T provides PCIe Gen 3 with 16 lanes from the CPU. The integrated graphics solution is Intel HD 2500, a modest iGPU sufficient for basic display output and light media playback. The multiplier is locked, so overclocking is not an option. The chip was released on 2012-05-31, and its part number is SR0RJ.
The upgrade path on Socket 1155 is defined by the platform's support for processors from the same architecture generation. Since the i5-3470T is a low-power dual-core part, users on the same socket could potentially move to higher-core-count or higher-clock parts from the same era, though specific compatibility depends on the motherboard's BIOS and power delivery. The dual-channel DDR3 memory controller and PCIe Gen 3 connectivity mean the platform is adequate for its time, but the 22 nm process and 2012 launch date place it firmly in an older generation of computing.
Power and Thermals
The defining characteristic of the i5-3470T is its 35 W TDP. This is a remarkably low power envelope for a desktop processor, especially one with a 3.60 GHz boost clock. The 22 nm process node is the key enabler, allowing Intel to deliver competitive clocks within a constrained thermal budget. The implication for cooling is straightforward: a modest, compact air cooler is sufficient. The chip does not require elaborate liquid cooling or large tower heatsinks.
The low TDP also has implications for system design. A 35 W processor can be paired with small-form-factor cases and low-noise cooling solutions, making the i5-3470T a candidate for quiet, space-constrained builds. However, the trade-off is visible in benchmark scores. The chip's average benchmark score of 865 places it at the 22nd percentile of all CPUs, reflecting the performance ceiling imposed by its dual-core configuration and modest power budget. In workloads that scale with core count, the i5-3470T's two cores and four threads limit throughput, as seen in its Cinebench R23 multi-core score of 2552.
Who Should Consider It
The i5-3470T is not a processor for demanding modern workloads. Its 22nd percentile ranking among all CPUs and its Cinebench R23 multi-core score of 2552 indicate limited headroom for multi-threaded applications such as video rendering, 3D modeling, or large-scale compilation. The Geekbench multi-core score of 1102 reinforces this picture. Users whose workloads scale across many cores will find the dual-core design a bottleneck.
However, for basic office productivity, web browsing, document editing, and light media consumption, the i5-3470T remains serviceable. The single-core performance, as measured by Geekbench single-core at 560 and Cinebench R23 single-core at 360, is adequate for responsive everyday use. The integrated Intel HD 2500 graphics handle display output and video playback, though they are not suited for gaming beyond the most casual titles.
The chip's 35 W TDP makes it attractive for users building or upgrading low-power, small-form-factor systems where thermal and acoustic constraints are priorities. It also suits legacy Socket 1155 motherboards that need a capable, efficient processor for secondary duties. The locked multiplier is a minor drawback for enthusiasts, but for the target audience of efficiency-focused builds, the i5-3470T's balance of clocks and power is the primary selling point.
FAQ
Q: What socket does the Intel Core i5-3470T use?
A: The i5-3470T uses Intel Socket 1155.
Q: Does the i5-3470T support ECC memory?
A: No, ECC memory is not supported.
Q: What is the TDP of the i5-3470T?
A: The TDP is 35 W.
Q: Is the multiplier unlocked on the i5-3470T?
A: No, the multiplier is locked.
Q: What integrated graphics does the i5-3470T include?
A: It includes Intel HD 2500 integrated graphics.
Q: When was the i5-3470T released?
A: It was released on 2012-05-31.
Q: How many cores and threads does the i5-3470T have?
A: It has 2 cores and 4 threads.
Benchmark Performance
The i5-3470T's average benchmark score of 865 places it at the 22nd percentile of all CPUs, a reflection of its dual-core Ivy Bridge architecture and 35 W power envelope. Its nearest rivals form a tight cluster around this score, with differences of less than one percent separating them.
The Intel Core i7-4500U scores 862, putting the i5-3470T 0.3% ahead. This is a narrow margin, essentially a statistical tie, and it highlights how close the performance of low-power dual-core parts was across Intel's lineup of that era. The Intel Core i7-3540M scores 869, placing the i5-3470T 0.4% behind. The Intel Xeon X3460 also scores 869, leaving the i5-3470T 0.5% behind. The AMD A8-7650K scores 860, with the i5-3470T 0.5% ahead.
These sub-one-percent deltas tell a clear story: the i5-3470T sits in a performance band where generation, core count, and power envelope largely cancel out. Despite having only two cores, it trades blows with parts from the same era, thanks to its 3.60 GHz boost clock and Ivy Bridge efficiency.
In specific workloads, the picture is more nuanced. The Cinebench R23 multi-core score of 2552 and single-core score of 360 show a processor that is comparatively stronger in single-threaded tasks, as expected from a high-clocked dual-core design. The Geekbench results follow the same pattern: multi-core 1102, single-core 560. Cinebench R20 yields 1071 multi-core and 151 single-core, while Cinebench R15 multi-core comes in at 257.
The benchmark data indicates that the i5-3470T is best suited to workloads that favor single-thread performance or lightly threaded applications. Its multi-core scores, while low in absolute terms, are competitive with its immediate rivals, and the 22nd percentile ranking reflects the broader CPU landscape rather than a specific deficiency within its peer group. For a 35 W desktop part from 2012, the i5-3470T delivers a balanced, if modest, performance profile.
The AMD Equivalent of Core i5-3470T
Looking for a similar processor from AMD? The AMD Ryzen 5 1400 offers comparable performance and features in the AMD lineup.
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