Intel Pentium G3450

The Intel Pentium G3450 is a dual-core desktop processor built on the Haswell architecture, fabricated on a 22 nm process. It runs at a fixed 3.30 GHz base clock with no boost, and its average benchmark score of 638 places it at the 15th percentile of all CPUs, meaning it outperforms only 15% of the processors tracked in the database. With two cores and two threads, it is an entry-level part that sits alongside a set of rivals separated by less than 0.2% in aggregate performance.

Single-Thread vs Multi-Thread Behavior

The G3450’s Cinebench results expose a stark contrast between single-thread and multi-thread throughput. In Cinebench R20, the single-core score is 109, while the multi-core score reaches 778. The R23 run repeats the pattern: 261 single-core and 1,854 multi-core. In both cases, the multi-core score is roughly seven times the single-core figure, a ratio that is unusual for a processor with only two physical cores and two threads. This suggests that the multi-core workload in Cinebench scales aggressively across the two available cores, but the absolute performance ceiling remains low because there is no Hyper-Threading to add extra logical processors. For real-world applications, the implication is clear: lightly threaded tasks, such as word processing, spreadsheet work, or legacy software, will rely on the 3.30 GHz clock and benefit from the modest single-core capability. Meanwhile, multi-threaded workloads like batch image processing or simple video transcoding will see some improvement from the second core, but the lack of additional threads means scaling stops at two cores. The data indicates that the G3450 is not a parallel-processing workhorse; its strength lies in predictable, single-threaded responsiveness rather than heavy multithreading.

Platform and Compatibility

The G3450 is designed for the Intel Socket 1150 platform, a socket that hosts a range of Haswell-generation processors. The CPU is built on a 22 nm process with a transistor count of 1,400 million and a die size of 177 mm². Memory support is limited to DDR3, arranged in a dual-channel configuration; ECC memory is not supported. The processor provides PCIe Gen 3 connectivity, which is sufficient for contemporary discrete graphics and NVMe storage when paired with a compatible chipset. Integrated graphics are included as Intel HD (Haswell), though the FACT PACK does not specify the number of execution units or the exact GPU model. The multiplier is locked, ruling out overclocking, and the production status is listed as active, with a release date of April 30, 2014. For users with an existing Socket 1150 motherboard, the G3450 can serve as a drop-in replacement, but the locked multiplier and dual-core design limit its appeal as an upgrade path. The platform also supports the same DDR3 memory and PCIe Gen 3 lanes as other Haswell parts, making it a straightforward component for basic desktop builds.

Benchmark Performance

In synthetic benchmarks, the G3450 delivers a Cinebench R15 multi-core score of 186, an R20 multi-core score of 778, and an R23 multi-core score of 1,854. Single-core scores are 109 in R20 and 261 in R23. These numbers place the processor at the 15th percentile of all CPUs, meaning it outperforms only 15% of the processors tracked. The average benchmark score is 638. Comparing to its nearest rivals, the G3450 is effectively tied with all of them. Against the AMD Phenom II X4 920, it is 0.1% ahead; against the Intel Core m3-6Y30, it is 0.2% ahead; against the Intel Core i3-3240T, it is 0.2% behind; and against the Intel Core i5-3437U, it is 0.2% behind. These deltas are so small that they fall within the noise of benchmark variation, indicating that the G3450 offers performance indistinguishable from these other low-end parts. The percentile figure reinforces the entry-level positioning: the G3450 is not a high-performance processor, but it holds its own among similarly aged and low-power rivals. The Cinebench scores, while modest, are consistent across versions, suggesting a stable, predictable performance profile.

How It Compares

AMD Phenom II X4 920

The Phenom II X4 920 has an average benchmark score of 637, which is 0.1% lower than the G3450’s 638. This puts the two processors on par in aggregate performance. Despite the Phenom’s older architecture, the G3450’s higher clock speed and newer 22 nm process compensate for its lower core count, resulting in a statistical tie.

Intel Core m3-6Y30

The Core m3-6Y30 scores 637, 0.2% behind the G3450. This is a low-power mobile chip, yet it matches the desktop Pentium in average performance. The G3450’s advantage is marginal, suggesting that the m3’s efficiency does not come at a significant performance cost, the two are effectively interchangeable in average workloads.

Intel Core i3-3240T

The i3-3240T scores 639, which is 0.2% ahead of the G3450. This rival is also a dual-core part, but it includes Hyper-Threading, allowing four threads. The G3450 manages to stay within 0.2% of its average score, meaning the extra logical threads do not translate into a meaningful lead in the aggregate benchmark. The i3’s slight edge likely stems from architectural refinements, but the difference is negligible.

Intel Core i5-3437U

The i5-3437U, a mobile dual-core with Hyper-Threading, also scores 639, 0.2% ahead of the G3450. The G3450 trails by the same margin. The i5’s turbo boost and higher cache may contribute to its edge, but again, the delta is within 0.2%. In practice, a user would be hard-pressed to notice any performance difference between these two CPUs in day-to-day tasks.

Power and Thermals

The G3450 has a thermal design power (TDP) of 54 watts. This is a modest figure for a desktop processor, indicating that it generates a relatively low amount of heat under load. A 54 W TDP typically allows for a small, quiet air cooler, though the FACT PACK does not specify a cooler requirement. The low power draw also makes the G3450 suitable for compact builds where thermal management is a concern. The 22 nm process and 1,400 million transistors contribute to this efficiency. For users upgrading from older, higher-TDP parts, the G3450 would be an easy swap without needing a robust cooling solution. The absence of a boost clock further simplifies thermal behavior, as the CPU runs at a constant 3.30 GHz under load, avoiding the transient power spikes associated with turbo modes.

FAQ

Q: What socket does the Intel Pentium G3450 use?

A: It uses the Intel Socket 1150.

Q: Does the G3450 support ECC memory?

A: No, ECC memory is not supported.

Q: What is the process node of the G3450?

A: It is built on a 22 nm process.

Q: What integrated graphics does the G3450 include?

A: It includes Intel HD (Haswell) integrated graphics.

Q: Is the multiplier unlocked for overclocking?

A: No, the multiplier is locked.

Q: What is the base clock speed?

A: The base clock is 3.30 GHz, with no boost clock.

Who Should Consider It

The G3450’s benchmark profile points to a specific set of use cases. With a single-core R20 score of 109 and a multi-core score of 778, it is adequate for basic office productivity, web browsing, and document editing. The 3.30 GHz base clock ensures responsive single-threaded performance for legacy applications. For gaming, the integrated Intel HD (Haswell) graphics are not designed for demanding titles, but the CPU itself could pair with a low-end discrete GPU for older or less demanding games. The 15th percentile ranking means it will struggle with modern multi-threaded workloads like video editing, 3D rendering, or software compilation. The dual-core, two-thread design limits its suitability for any task that scales beyond two threads. Users who already own a Socket 1150 motherboard and need a low-cost, low-power upgrade for a basic desktop would find the G3450 acceptable, but those seeking performance for creation or modern gaming should look to higher-core-count parts. The negligible performance differences among its nearest rivals suggest that the G3450 is interchangeable with those CPUs in average workloads, making it a safe choice for entry-level builds where the platform is already in place.