Intel Pentium 967

Benchmark Performance

The Intel Pentium 967 is a mobile processor from Intel, released in October 2011 as part of the Sandy Bridge architecture. It pairs two cores with two threads, a fixed base clock of 1300 MHz, and a 17W TDP, positioning it as a low-power solution for portable computing. The dataset for this processor contains no benchmark scores and no nearest rivals, but it holds a 50th percentile ranking against all CPUs in the database, indicating a median performance level. The part number SR0EXSR0FC identifies this specific engineering sample.

The benchmark array for the Pentium 967 is empty, and the average benchmark score is recorded as 0. The sole quantitative performance metric available is the percentile ranking, which is 50. This places the processor exactly at the median of the database's CPU population, meaning half of all tracked processors outperform it and half underperform. The absence of a boost clock means the 1300 MHz base clock is the absolute maximum operating frequency. This fixed clock rate eliminates transient performance spikes, resulting in predictable but modest throughput. The dual-core, dual-thread configuration allows only two simultaneous execution threads. For single-threaded workloads, the 1.3 GHz clock provides basic responsiveness, but for multi-threaded tasks, the lack of additional cores or threads will bottleneck performance. The cache hierarchy includes 64 KB of L1 and 256 KB of L2 per core, plus a shared 2 MB L3 cache. This is a small L3 by modern standards, but it is adequate for the light workloads this processor targets. The 32nm process node, with 504 million transistors on a 131 mm² die, reflects an older manufacturing generation, which contributes to the modest performance ceiling. The processor uses the Intel BGA 1023 socket, indicating a soldered, non-upgradeable mobile design. The memory support for DDR3 in a dual-channel configuration provides sufficient bandwidth for basic tasks, though the lack of ECC support limits its use in error-sensitive environments. The integrated Intel HD (Sandy Bridge) graphics shares the same die, and its performance is constrained by the low clock and limited execution resources, though the dataset does not specify those details. The 50th percentile ranking, combined with the empty benchmark array, suggests that the processor was not widely tested or that its performance was too low to warrant recording, but the percentile itself is a valid data point. The Sandy Bridge architecture, while dated, introduced significant improvements over previous generations, but the Pentium 967's low clock speed negates most of those gains. The 2 MB shared L3 cache is shared between the two cores, which can cause contention in multi-threaded scenarios, but the small core count limits this issue.

Who Should Consider It

Given its mobile segment designation and 17W TDP, the Pentium 967 is designed for basic portable computing. Users who primarily engage in office productivity—word processing, spreadsheet management, email, and web browsing—will find the 1300 MHz base clock sufficient for these largely single-threaded tasks. The integrated Intel HD (Sandy Bridge) graphics provides display output without the need for a discrete GPU, making it suitable for everyday notebooks. However, for content creation workloads such as video editing, 3D rendering, or photo manipulation, the dual-core, dual-thread configuration is a severe limitation. The lack of a boost clock means the processor cannot dynamically increase its frequency to handle short bursts of heavy load, so applications that require sustained CPU performance will run slowly. For gaming, the integrated graphics and low clock speed place it well below the threshold for modern titles. The end-of-life production status indicates that this processor is not intended for new system builds. Instead, it is relevant for legacy systems, industrial embedded applications, or users seeking a low-power secondary machine. The 50th percentile ranking suggests it is a middle-of-the-road part in the database, but its fixed clock and dual-core design limit its appeal to light-duty scenarios. The 2 MB shared L3 cache is sufficient for small working sets, but larger datasets will cause frequent memory accesses to the DDR3 memory bus. The locked multiplier prevents any overclocking, so users cannot extract additional performance. The dual-channel memory support is a positive feature, as it provides better bandwidth than single-channel configurations, which is beneficial for integrated graphics performance. The absence of a boost clock is particularly noticeable in interactive applications, where short bursts of CPU activity are common. Users who frequently switch between applications may perceive sluggishness, but for a dedicated single-task workflow, the processor holds its own.

Power and Thermals

The 17W TDP is a defining characteristic of the Pentium 967. This ultra-low-power envelope allows for compact thermal solutions, often passive heatsinks or low-profile fans in thin mobile chassis. The 32nm process node from Intel, with 504 million transistors on a 131 mm² die, contributes to the low power draw. The absence of a boost clock means the processor operates at a constant 1300 MHz, avoiding power spikes that would require more robust cooling. This consistent power profile simplifies thermal design, making the processor easy to cool in constrained spaces. The memory support for DDR3 in a dual-channel configuration adds minimal power overhead. The integrated Intel HD (Sandy Bridge) graphics also operates within the same 17W envelope, meaning the entire package remains cool under typical loads. Overall, the thermal requirements are minimal, and the processor is well-suited for fanless or low-noise designs. The soldered BGA 1023 socket further reduces thermal resistance by eliminating the socket interface, allowing heat to transfer directly to the cooling solution. The 17W TDP is notably lower than many desktop processors, but it is typical for mobile parts of this era. The lack of a boost clock also means the processor does not experience thermal throttling due to power limits, as the constant frequency keeps power draw steady. The 17W TDP also makes the Pentium 967 suitable for passively cooled tablets or ultra-thin notebooks, where fan noise is undesirable.

FAQ

Q: What is the base clock speed of the Intel Pentium 967?

A: The base clock is 1300 MHz (1.3 GHz).

Q: Does the Pentium 967 have a boost clock?

A: No, the boost clock field is null, meaning the processor does not support dynamic frequency scaling.

Q: What is the thermal design power (TDP) of this processor?

A: The TDP is 17 watts.

Q: What type of memory does the Pentium 967 support?

A: It supports DDR3 memory in a dual-channel configuration.

Q: Does the processor include integrated graphics?

A: Yes, it features Intel HD (Sandy Bridge) integrated graphics.

Q: Is the multiplier unlocked for overclocking?

A: No, the multiplier is locked, and the processor does not support overclocking.

How It Compares

The FACT PACK lists no nearest rivals for the Pentium 967. As a result, a direct comparative analysis against specific competing models is not available from this dataset. The only quantitative reference point is the 50th percentile ranking against all CPUs in the database. This indicates that the Pentium 967 sits at the median performance level, meaning it is neither a standout performer nor a bottom-tier part. Without rival scores or deltas, any comparison would rely on speculation, which is outside the scope of this analysis. The lack of rival data underscores the processor's position as an entry-level mobile part, overshadowed by higher-performing contemporaries in the same generation. Its 2-core, 2-thread configuration and 1.3 GHz base clock place it in the lower echelon of the database's mobile processors, yet the 50th percentile suggests it is not entirely obsolete. The end-of-life status further cements its legacy position, with no modern software optimizations expected. The part number SR0EXSR0FC is the only unique identifier, and the release date of October 2011 places it in the early Sandy Bridge era. Without rival data, the percentile remains the only comparative metric, and it indicates a balanced, mid-range performance profile within the database. The lack of nearest rival data in the FACT PACK means that any claims about its performance relative to specific Intel or AMD processors would be unsubstantiated. The 50th percentile is the only anchor point, and it places the processor in the middle of the distribution.