Core i3-7101TE
Intel
PassMark
3,956
MSRP
$117
AVG Price
$60
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 i3-7101TE is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 3 January 2017 (8 years ago). It is based on the Kaby Lake (2016−2019) architecture. It features 2 cores and 4 threads. Base frequency is 3.4 GHz, with boost up to 3.4 GHz. L3 cache: 3 MB. L2 cache: 512 kB. Built on 14 nm process technology. Socket: LGA1151. Thermal design power (TDP): 35 Watt. Memory support: DDR3L-1600, DDR4-2400. Passmark benchmark score: 3,956 points. Launch price was $117.
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 i3-7101TE
FPS Benchmarks
Predicted performance for Core i3-7101TE 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 i3-7101TE specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The Core i3-7101TE is a 2-core / 4-thread processor based on the Kaby Lake (2016−2019) architecture, manufactured on a 14 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 3.4 GHz from a base frequency of 3.4 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 3 MB of L3 cache, plus 512 kB of L2 cache and 128 kB of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 3,956, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product. Geekbench 6 single-core (the most relevant metric for gaming FPS) records 1,188, while multi-core reaches 2,368.
| Specification | Core i3-7101TE |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 2C / 4T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 3.4 GHz |
| Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency | 3.4 GHz |
| ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design | Kaby Lake (2016−2019) |
| Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient | 14 nm |
| L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores | 3 MB |
| L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data | 512 kB |
| L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache | 128 kB |
| Bus SpeedData bus frequency | 8 GT/s |
| Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax) | 88 °C |
| 64-bit Support | Yes |
| Windows 11 Compatible | No |
| PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score | 3,956 |
| Geekbench 6 SingleSingle-core performance — most relevant for gaming | 1,188 |
| Geekbench 6 MultiMulti-core parallel workload performance | 2,368 |
Memory & Platform
The Core i3-7101TE fits into the LGA1151 socket and supports PCIe 3.0 with 16 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR3L-1600, DDR4-2400 memory at speeds up to DDR4-2400 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 64 GB across 2 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). It supports ECC memory, providing error-correcting capabilities — essential for mission-critical workloads and servers. Integrated graphics: Intel HD Graphics 630 — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.
| Specification | Core i3-7101TE |
|---|---|
| TypeDesktop or Laptop processor | desktop |
| SeriesProduct family | Intel Core i3 |
| SocketMotherboard socket required | LGA1151 |
| PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth | PCIe 3.0 |
| PCIe LanesTotal available lanes for GPUs, NVMe drives, and expansion | 16 |
| RAM TypeSupported memory standard | DDR3L-1600, DDR4-2400 |
| Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency | DDR4-2400 |
| Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory | 64 GB |
| RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel | 2 |
| ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruption | Yes |
| Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processor | Intel HD Graphics 630 |
| Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPU | H110,B150,H170,Z170,B250,H270,Z270 |
| Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers | 1 (Uniprocessor) |
Advanced Features
Virtualization: Yes — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads).
| Specification | Core i3-7101TE |
|---|---|
| AVX-512Advanced vector instructions for AI/ML workloads | ❌ Not Supported |
| VirtualizationHardware-assisted virtualization technology | Yes |
Power & Cooling
The Core i3-7101TE has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 35 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed. No stock cooler is included — you will need to purchase an aftermarket cooler separately.
| Specification | Core i3-7101TE |
|---|---|
| TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload | 35 Watt |
| Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax) | 88 °C |
| Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the box | No |
Value Analysis
At an average price of $60 (MSRP: $117), the Core i3-7101TE delivers 66 PassMark points per dollar. Performance ranking position: #2020 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | Core i3-7101TE |
|---|---|
| MSRPManufacturer's Suggested Retail Price | $117 |
| Avg Price (30d)Average market price over the last 30 days | $60 |
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $117 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #2020 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 3 January 2017 (8 years ago) |
| Release Year | 2017 |
| DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD) | Intel |
Similar Performance
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Our Recommendation for Core i3-7101TE
Suggested pairings based on performance balance
Minimum (Avoid Bottleneck) (12)
Recommended (Balanced) (12)
High-End (Max Performance) (12)
Popular Comparisons
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