i3 processors: Top 10 picks of 2023

An i3 processor ensures efficient computing and gaming experience.

You need a strong CPU when you want to achieve the highest possible framerates while running. The greatest option for users on a tight budget who want the maximum productivity from their PC is an i3 processor. These processors are made to deliver outstanding performance while remaining affordable.

For optimum performance, most people will advise choosing an Intel i5 or i7 processor. If you're just getting started, though, you can enjoy good functionality and many other CPU games just effortlessly using an Intel i3 processor.

Choosing the best processor for you can be challenging with so many alternatives available. By creating a list of the top Intel Core i3 Processors currently available, we've eliminated the element of guesswork.

Product list

1. Intel® Core™ i3-10320

The Core i3-10320 is a i3 10th gen processor that can operate and multitask a broad variety of demanding programs thanks to its support for 400 series chipset-based motherboards and a maximum turbo frequency of 4. 6 GHz. It is possible to enhance performance by overclocking this processor. The Core i3-10320 performs well when playing games as well. The inbuilt Intel UHD Graphic 630 chipset, which has a minimum frequency of 350 MHz and a peak frequency of 1.15 GHz, is used effectively by the Core i3-10320.

Specifications

• ‎ 4 Cores / 8 Threads
• Socket Type LGA 1200
• Up to 4. 6 GHz
• Cooler Included

2. Intel Core i3-12100F

The 12th Generation Alder Lake i3 12100F processor has 12MB of cache memory. It includes an extra cooling fan unit. The most recent LGA1700 Socket is suitable for this processor. According to particular chipset compatibility, both DDR5 RAM up to 4800 MHz and DDR4 RAM up to 3200 MHz are supported. With this processor, Windows 11 operates without any hiccups. It utilizes 58W of base power and 89W of maximum power. One of the best CPUs produced by Intel in the I3 range to date is this one.

Specifications

• ‎Speed 4.3 GHz
• Socket LGA1700
• ‎DDR4 SDRAM
• 4 Performance Cores

3.Intel Core i3-8100

The Intel Core i3-8100 is designed for budget-conscious gamers. Although there are more affordable i3 variants, this one offers a lot of power for the money. The i3-8100 only has 4 cores and 4 threads, making multi-threading impossible. It offers high-definition graphics and steady fps, making it a suitable option for playing video games on low or medium settings. Because of its inbuilt graphics and fluid performance, this Intel i3 processor is one of the finest for gaming overall.

Specifications

• Intel UHD Graphics 630
• Compatibility: Motherboards built on Intel 300 Series Chipsets
• Cores: 4, Threads: 4

4. Intel Core i3-7350K

The organization's first affordable CPU with unlocking is the i3-7350K. Despite being slightly more expensive for a Core i3 processor, it offers fantastic overclocking possibilities for gaming. The Intel Core i3-7350K is capable of overclocking to 4.20 GHz, multiple threading, and playing current video games at least in midrange settings. The Core i3-7350K is unique among Core i3 CPUs from the 7th generation. It is the only CPU in the same price bracket as the Core i5-7400 that has a 60W thermal design point. The 4.20 GHz clock power of this core increases its allure.

Specifications

• 4.20GHz Operating Frequency
• Kaby Lake series
• Core i3-7350K with 4MB cache
• 2 cores and 4 threads

5. Intel Core i3-10100

The finest i3 processor right now for gaming is the Intel Core i3-10100. Generally speaking, the Core i3-10100 rivals the AMD Ryzen 5 or Core i5 chips from previous generations in terms of efficiency for the majority of applications. It's an excellent option for players. If you have the right graphics card, you can count on every game to perform at least sixty frames per second.

Specifications

• ‎ 4 Cores / 8 Threads
• Socket Type LGA 1200
• Up to 4.3 GHz
• Intel Optane Memory Support

6. Intel Core i3-12100

The 12th Generation Alder Lake Intel Core i3 12100 processor has 12MB of cache memory. Four cores and eight threads make up the 12100. It includes an extra cooling system unit. The most recent LGA1700 Socket is suitable for the Intel Core i3 12100. Its CPU operates at 4.3 GHz. The 600 series motherboard is compatible with this processor. It is better than 11th generation i3 processors like HP 15 11th gen intel core i3 laptop.

Specifications

• CPU Speed 4.3 GHz
• CPU Socket LGA1700
• DDR4 SDRAM
• 4 Performance Core

7. Intel Core i3-6100

A dual-core CPU with Hyper-Threading capabilities, the Intel Core i3-6100 considerably boosts multi-threaded productivity. For players who don't want to spend lots of money on a quad-core processor to get a 3.70 GHz speed, this CPU is ideal. It has a silicon modification that boosts performance while reducing the CPU's energy usage. The Core i3-6100 is more of a powerhouse for offices than a dynamo for games. Set the settings as minimal as feasible to avoid freezing while testing its abilities.

Specifications

• DDR4/DDR3L memory
• Intel HD Graphics 530
• Socket FCLGA-1151
• 4K supported

8. Intel Core i3-10105

Intel core i3 – 10105 is a 10th-generation processor with a 6M cache and speed availability up to 4.40 GHz. This processor is supported by LGA 1200 socket. i3-10105 has UHD 630 graphics, you can easily use this processor without using a graphics card. It comprises a stock fan which makes the processor efficient for heavy performance.

Specifications

• ‎DDR4 RAM supported
• CPU socket LGA 1200
• UHD 630 graphics

9. Intel Core i3-9100F

A chipset with four virtual and physical cores is the Intel Core i3-9100F. Its basic clock speed is 3.60 GHz, but thanks to Intel's turbo boost technology, it can reach 4.20 GHz. Having the identical amount of cores, thread, and clock rate as the Intel Core i3-9100, it is a variant of that processor. Even so, the Intel Core i3-9100F is a competent processor in and of itself. These days, a quad-core CPU may seem inadequate, but a quick and capable machine will really wow you.

Specifications

• ‎4 Cores with 4 Threads
• Up to 4.2 GHz
• Compatible with 300 series Chipset Motherboard
• LGA 1151 socket

10. Intel i3 3220 Processor

The Intel Ivy Bridge design, which powers the third-generation Intel Core CPU, represents a revolution in power and performance management. With Intel Hyper-Threading technologies, Turbo Boosting Technology 2.0, and Intelligent Cache, the Ivy Bridge design, which builds on the highly esteemed previous-generation Sandy Bridge design, not only retains outstanding performance across the board but also adds new features.

Specifications

• CPU speed 3.3GHz
• LGA 1155
• 55 watt

Three best features for consumers:

Best overall product

The best i3 processor for efficient productivity is without a doubt the i3 12100F which features a 4.3 GHz speed with a 12MB cache. It has an additional cooling fan device. This CPU is compatible with the newest LGA1700 Socket. The two DDR5 RAM up to 4800 MHz and DDR4 RAM up to 3200 MHz are allowed, depending on the chipset compatibility. It uses the highest power of 89W and base power of 58W. This is one of the best i3-range CPUs that Intel has yet to create.

Best value for money

There are various types of Intel Corei3 processors. These processors' ability to provide high functionality while remaining affordable is one of their biggest advantages. For people on a tight budget who want their computer to run at its peak efficiency, Intel CoreI3 processors are excellent options. Among the aforementioned processors, the Intel Core i3-9100F offers the greatest value for money thanks to its four virtual and physical cores. Intel's turbo boost technology allows it to reach a clock speed of 4.20 GHz even though its basic clock speed is 3.60 GHz. It has become a modification of the IntelCore i3-9100, with an identical number of cores, threads, and clock rates. The Intel Core i3-9100F is a competent CPU despite everything. These days, a quad-core CPU may seem not enough, but a quick and capable machine will impress you.

How to find a perfect i3 processor?

Various factors to take into account when selecting the best processor for your needs. You should start by checking the processor's clock speed. This gauges how quickly the CPU can carry out operations. In general, a processor will be quicker the greater the clock speed. To make sure the CPU gives the functionality you require, check its characteristics. Next, you should think about how much CPU cache memory there is. The processor can store data in memory space for rapid access. The CPU will be able to gather information more quickly more the cache memory it has. In the end, you should consider the processor's core count.