Intel Core i7-3689Y
Intel processor specifications and benchmark scores
Intel Core i7-3689Y Specifications
Core i7-3689Y Core Configuration
Processing cores and threading
The Intel Core i7-3689Y 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.
i7-3689Y Clock Speeds
Base and boost frequencies
Clock speed is a critical factor in Core i7-3689Y 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 i7-3689Y by Intel can dynamically adjust its frequency based on workload and thermal headroom.
Intel's Core i7-3689Y Cache Hierarchy
L1, L2, L3 cache sizes
Cache memory is ultra-fast storage built directly into the i7-3689Y 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 i7-3689Y'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 i7-3689Y 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 i7-3689Y incorporate advanced branch prediction and out-of-order execution for optimal performance.
Ivy Bridge Instruction Set Features
Supported CPU instructions and extensions
The Core i7-3689Y 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.
i7-3689Y Power & Thermal
TDP and power specifications
The Intel Core i7-3689Y has a TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 13W, 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 BGA 1023 Platform & Socket
Compatibility information
The Core i7-3689Y uses the Intel BGA 1023 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 BGA 1023 Memory Support
RAM compatibility and speeds
Memory support specifications for the i7-3689Y 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 i7-3689Y 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.
Core i7-3689Y Product Information
Release and pricing details
The Intel Core i7-3689Y 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 i7-3689Y by Intel offers a specific balance of performance, features, and cost within Intel's product lineup.
Core i7-3689Y 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 i7-3689Y performs in parallel rendering workloads.
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 i7-3689Y. The more demanding workload provides better differentiation between current-generation processors. Content creators and 3D artists use this benchmark to estimate real-world render performance.
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 i7-3689Y. The increased complexity provides more accurate performance differentiation between modern CPUs. Single-thread performance remains critical for gaming and applications with serial bottlenecks.
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 i7-3689Y after thermal limits kick in. The longer duration exposes cooling limitations that shorter benchmarks miss. Professional users rely on R23 scores to predict real-world rendering performance under sustained workloads.
cinebench_cinebench_r23_singlecoreSource
Cinebench R23 single-core measures sustained single-thread performance over 10 minutes. This reveals how Intel Core i7-3689Y maintains boost clocks under continuous load. The extended runtime shows whether thermal throttling affects single-core performance. This score is particularly important for understanding real-world responsiveness beyond initial boost behavior.
About Intel Core i7-3689Y
The Intel Core i7-3689Y, built on the 22 nm Ivy Bridge architecture, delivers modest real-world performance suitable for light productivity and mobile computing scenarios. With a base clock of 1.50 GHz and a turbo boost up to 2.60 GHz, this dual-core, quad-thread processor is engineered for ultraportable devices where thermal efficiency trumps raw power. Users can expect smooth performance in everyday tasks like web browsing, document editing, and HD video playback, but heavier workloads such as video rendering or modern gaming will expose its limitations. The 13W TDP ensures low heat output and extended battery life, making it ideal for fanless or compact designs. While not built for sustained high-intensity work, the i7-3689Y handles multitasking with moderate efficiency thanks to Hyper-Threading and 4 MB of shared L3 cache. Real-world responsiveness benefits from fast storage pairing, though CPU bottlenecks emerge under load. As a low-power mobile chip from 2013, it remains relevant only in niche embedded or legacy systems. Performance today is comparable to entry-level modern Celeron chips in single-threaded tasks. The i7-3689Y was never meant to dominate benchmarks it was designed to balance capability and power in constrained environments.
Benchmark data confirms the i7-3689Yβs positioning as a lightweight performer. In Cinebench R23, it scores 1,671 points in multicore and 236 in single-core tests, figures that align with basic office workloads and light content creation. The R20 equivalents 701 (multicore) and 99 (single-core) highlight limited throughput by todayβs standards. These numbers place it well below modern mid-tier processors, but respectable for its era and thermal envelope. Productivity tasks like spreadsheet calculations, PDF rendering, and email management execute without lag, assuming adequate RAM and SSD support. However, compiling large files or running virtual machines will test its 2-core architecture to the limit. The Core i7-3689Y manages parallelized applications better than expected thanks to four threads, but thermal throttling can hinder sustained output. Its benchmark profile suggests suitability for digital signage, kiosks, or low-duty-cycle business tablets. While not a performance leader, its consistency in low-load scenarios keeps it functional in specific use cases.
- Low 13W TDP ideal for passive cooling and silent operation
- Supports up to 8GB DDR3L-1333/1600 in dual-channel configuration
- Integrated Intel HD Graphics 4000 handles basic display output up to 2560x1600
- PCIe 2.0 support limits modern NVMe SSD compatibility without adapters
- BGA 1023 socket means CPU is soldered no upgrades possible
- Lacks support for DDR4, PCIe 3.0+, and modern AI/instruction sets
When evaluating the value proposition of this Ivy Bridge-era chip, context is critical. The i7-3689Y was never a cost-effective performer it targeted premium ultrabooks and industrial systems where size and power mattered more than speed. Today, its value lies almost exclusively in repair, replacement, or maintenance of legacy hardware. You wonβt find competitive performance per dollar against modern Celeron or Ryzen 3 chips. However, for organizations maintaining custom hardware fleets, the Core i7-3689Y offers a known, stable platform with predictable behavior. It avoids the driver instability sometimes seen in newer architectures within closed ecosystems. For enthusiasts restoring vintage ultraportables, it represents a snapshot of Intelβs low-power engineering in 2013. While not future-proof, it delivers just enough compute for niche applications. The real value isnβt in speed itβs in compatibility and longevity within its intended ecosystem.
The AMD Equivalent of Core i7-3689Y
Looking for a similar processor from AMD? The AMD Ryzen 7 1700 offers comparable performance and features in the AMD lineup.
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