Core i3-12100
Intel
PassMark
12,315
MSRP
$122
AVG Price
$180
Performance Spectrum - CPU
About PassMark
PassMark CPU Mark evaluates processor speed through complex mathematical computations. It provides a reliable metric to compare multi-core performance, where higher scores indicate faster processing for multitasking, gaming, and heavy workloads.
Overview
The Core i3-12100 is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 4 January 2022 (3 years ago). It is based on the Alder Lake-S (2022) architecture. It features 4 cores and 8 threads. Base frequency is 3.3 GHz, with boost up to 4.3 GHz. L3 cache: 12 MB (total). L2 cache: 1.25 MB (per core). Built on Intel 7 nm process technology. Socket: LGA1700. Thermal design power (TDP): 60 Watt. Memory support: DDR5-4800, DDR4-3200. Passmark benchmark score: 12,315 points. Launch price was $149.
Value Upgrade Path
This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. Components placed above yours deliver better value for money.
Avg price is the current average price collected from markets across the web.
Performance Per Dollar Core i3-12100
FPS Benchmarks
Predicted performance for Core i3-12100 across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.
Counter-Strike 2
League of Legends
Path of Exile 2
Valorant
Technical Analysis
Detailed breakdown of Core i3-12100 specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The Core i3-12100 is a 4-core / 8-thread processor based on the Alder Lake-S (2022) architecture, manufactured on a Intel 7 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 4.3 GHz from a base frequency of 3.3 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 12 MB (total) of L3 cache, plus 1.25 MB (per core) of L2 cache and 80K (per core) of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 12,315, placing it in the Budget performance tier as a Aging generation product. Geekbench 6 single-core (the most relevant metric for gaming FPS) records 2,157.
| Specification | Core i3-12100 |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 4C / 8T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 4.3 GHz |
| Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency | 3.3 GHz |
| ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design | Alder Lake-S (2022) |
| Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient | Intel 7 nm |
| L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores | 12 MB (total) |
| L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data | 1.25 MB (per core) |
| L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache | 80K (per core) |
| Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor | 163 mm2 |
| Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax) | 100 °C |
| 64-bit Support | Yes |
| Windows 11 Compatible | Yes |
| PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score | 12,315 |
| Geekbench 6 SingleSingle-core performance — most relevant for gaming | 2,157 |
Memory & Platform
The Core i3-12100 fits into the LGA1700 socket and supports PCIe 5.0 with 20 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR5-4800, DDR4-3200 memory at speeds up to DDR5-4800 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 128 GB across 2 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). Integrated graphics: UHD Graphics 730 — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.
| Specification | Core i3-12100 |
|---|---|
| TypeDesktop or Laptop processor | desktop |
| SocketMotherboard socket required | LGA1700 |
| PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth | PCIe 5.0 |
| PCIe LanesTotal available lanes for GPUs, NVMe drives, and expansion | 20 |
| RAM TypeSupported memory standard | DDR5-4800, DDR4-3200 |
| Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency | DDR5-4800 |
| Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory | 128 GB |
| RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel | 2 |
| ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruption | No |
| Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processor | UHD Graphics 730 |
| Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPU | H610,B660,H670,Z690,B760,Z790 |
| Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers | 1 |
Advanced Features
The Core i3-12100 is primarily designed for Budget Gaming Desktop. Virtualization: VT-x, VT-d, EPT — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads). Its primary market competitor is the Ryzen 5 5500.
| Specification | Core i3-12100 |
|---|---|
| Primary Use CaseIntended workload category | Budget Gaming Desktop |
| OverclockingWhether CPU clock can be manually increased | 🔒 Locked |
| AVX-512Advanced vector instructions for AI/ML workloads | ❌ Not Supported |
| VirtualizationHardware-assisted virtualization technology | VT-x, VT-d, EPT |
| Direct CompetitorMarket equivalent from rival manufacturer | Ryzen 5 5500 |
Power & Cooling
The Core i3-12100 has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 60 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed. It ships with the Yes stock cooler. Recommended cooling: Stock.
| Specification | Core i3-12100 |
|---|---|
| TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload | 60 Watt |
| Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax) | 100 °C |
| Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the box | Yes |
| Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solution | Stock |
Value Analysis
At an average price of $180 (MSRP: $122), the Core i3-12100 delivers 68 PassMark points per dollar. Performance ranking position: #1179 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | Core i3-12100 |
|---|---|
| MSRPManufacturer's Suggested Retail Price | $122 |
| Avg Price (30d)Average market price over the last 30 days | $180 |
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $149 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #1179 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 4 January 2022 (3 years ago) |
| Release Year | 2022 |
| DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD) | Intel |
| ManufacturerFabrication foundry (e.g. TSMC) | Intel |
Similar Performance
Processors with benchmark scores closest to the current hardware, grouped by manufacturer.
Intel (12)
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Our Recommendation for Core i3-12100
Suggested pairings based on performance balance
Minimum (Avoid Bottleneck) (12)
Recommended (Balanced) (12)
High-End (Max Performance) (12)
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