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Intel Core i3 9350K Review | 78 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£130
  • Avg. price in US: ~$90
  • PassMark benchmark result: 7596
  • N. of physical cores: 4
  • CPU boost clock speed: 4.6 GHz

Intel Core i3 9350K review. Compare 78 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among processors and if it is worth buying.

4.2

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the processor's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best processors on the market.

Score components:

90.0%

4.2

Technical Score

10.0%

?

User score

Poor
4.2

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the processor's technical performance, covering key areas such as processing performance, core configuration, efficiency, platform support, integrated features, and thermal behavior.

When it matters: When you want to compare processors based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

60.0%

3.4

Performance

18.0%

5.0

Cache & Architecture

10.0%

5.7

Memory & PCIe

7.0%

3.9

Power & Thermal

4.0%

7.8

Platform

1.0%

7.4

Integrated Graphics

Poor
?

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the processor.

When it matters: When you want to know how a processor performs in real workloads and how reliable it is for gaming, productivity, and efficiency according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

?

User reviews

30.0%

?

Popularity

  • 4.1
    Gaming

    Score components:

    30.0%

    4.7

    PassMark single-core benchmark score

    25.0%

    3.8

    Geekbench 6 single-core benchmark score

    20.0%

    6.4

    CPU boost clock speed

    17.0%

    2.1

    L3 cache

    8.0%

    1.8

    N. of physical cores

  • 1.6
    Video editing

    Score components:

    45.0%

    1.3

    Geekbench 6 multi-core benchmark score

    20.0%

    1.8

    N. of physical cores

    20.0%

    1.6

    CPU threads

    15.0%

    2.1

    L3 cache

  • No image
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?

Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Intel Core i3-9350K is a 9th-generation Coffee Lake Refresh desktop processor featuring 4 cores and 4 threads with a base clock of 4.0 GHz and a max turbo frequency of 4.6 GHz. Built on a 14nm process, it includes 8MB of Intel Smart Cache, a 91W TDP, and integrated Intel UHD Graphics 630 while supporting up to 64GB of DDR4-2400 memory on the LGA 1151 socket. Main pros include an unlocked multiplier for easy overclocking, high single-core performance for its class, and support for ECC memory. However, it lacks Hyper-Threading, which limits multi-threaded efficiency compared to modern alternatives, and its high power consumption requires a robust cooling solution not typically included in the box.

Technical Specifications of processor Intel Core i3 9350K

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the processor's technical performance, covering key areas such as processing performance, core configuration, efficiency, platform support, integrated features, and thermal behavior.

When it matters: When you want to compare processors based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

60.0%

?

Performance

18.0%

?

Cache & Architecture

10.0%

?

Memory & PCIe

7.0%

?

Power & Thermal

4.0%

?

Platform

1.0%

?

Integrated Graphics

4.2
Intel Core i3 9350K has a technical score of 4.17 points, which is lower than that of 76.1% of products in this category.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the processor.

When it matters: When you want to know how a processor performs in real workloads and how reliable it is for gaming, productivity, and efficiency according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

0.0

User reviews

30.0%

1.0

Popularity

?
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the processor.
When it matters: When you prefer to choose a processor reviewed and selected by many other buyers.
1.0
Intel Core i3 9350K has a popularity of 1 points, which is higher than 0% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the processor's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you are looking for a processor with a good balance between performance, efficiency, and price.

Score components:

60.0%

4.2

Overall score

40.0%

9.8

Price

5.9
Intel Core i3 9350K has a quality-to-price ratio of 5.9 points, which is lower than 69.8% of products in this category.
Brand name
What it is: The manufacturer or brand of the product.
When it matters: When you prefer a specific ecosystem, support network, or design philosophy.

Importance: MEDIUM

Intel
Processor type
What it is: The kind of system the processor is built for, such as desktop PCs, laptops, workstations, or servers.
When it matters: When you want a processor meant for the kind of machine you are actually building or buying, rather than a chip aimed at a different class of system.

Importance: HIGH

desktop
Intel Core i3 9350K belongs to the desktop processor class, which is more advanced than that of 56% of processors and equal to that of 37.9% of processors.
CPU socket
What it is: The physical socket the processor fits into on the motherboard.
When it matters: When you need to make sure the CPU can actually be installed on a specific motherboard.

Importance: HIGH

LGA1151
Intel Core i3 9350K uses the LGA1151 CPU socket, which is newer than that of 60.1% of processors and equal to that of 9.7% of processors.
Chipset
What it is: The motherboard chipset families officially meant to work with the processor.
When it matters: When you are checking whether a CPU will work with the motherboard features and platform you plan to use.

Importance: HIGH

Z390, Z370, Q370, H370, B365, B360, H310
Intel Core i3 9350K supports Z390, Z370, Q370, H370, B365, B360, H310 chipsets, which is broader compatibility than 57.1% of processors and equal to that of 4.4% of processors.
CPU architecture
What it is: The processor family or design generation behind the chip, such as Zen 4 or Raptor Lake.
When it matters: When you are comparing CPUs across generations and want a clearer sense of their design age, feature level, and expected performance class.

Importance: HIGH

x86-64
Intel Core i3 9350K uses the x86-64 architecture, which is more advanced than that of 1.7% of processors and equal to that of 98.3% of processors.
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N. of physical cores
What it is: The number of physical CPU cores on the processor.
When it matters: When you run workloads that benefit from more real cores.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: 8+

4
Intel Core i3 9350K has 4 CPU cores, which is fewer than 50.7% of processors and equal to 28.5% of processors.
CPU threads
What it is: The total number of processing threads the CPU can handle at once.
When it matters: When you run heavily threaded workloads or multitask a lot.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: 16+

4
Intel Core i3 9350K offers 4 CPU threads, which is fewer than 67.3% of processors and equal to 26.6% of processors.
Threads per core
What it is: The number of threads each physical core can handle at once.
When it matters: When you want to understand how much thread-level parallelism each core can provide in multitasking or heavily threaded work.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: 2

1
Intel Core i3 9350K offers 1 threads per core, which is fewer than 69.7% of processors and equal to 30.3% of processors.
CPU boost clock speed
What it is: The highest clock speed the processor can reach under boost conditions.
When it matters: When you care about peak speed in short bursts.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >4.7 GHz

4.6 GHz
Intel Core i3 9350K reaches a boost clock of 4.6 GHz which is higher than that of 62.4% of processors and equal to that of 4.5% of processors.
CPU base clock speed
What it is: The processor's normal all-core starting frequency before boost behavior raises clocks temporarily.
When it matters: When you care about steadier performance in longer workloads rather than short burst speed alone.

Importance: MEDIUM

4 x 4 GHz
Intel Core i3 9350K has a base clock of 4x4 GHz which is equal to that of 100% of processors.
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Semiconductor size
What it is: The manufacturing process node used to produce the processor, usually expressed in nanometers.
When it matters: When efficiency, heat, and the relative modernity of the chip-making process matter to your comparison.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <10 nm

14 nm
Intel Core i3 9350K uses a 14 nm process node, which is older than that of 50.8% of processors and equal to that of 33.7% of processors.
Foundry
What it is: The semiconductor manufacturer that physically fabricates the processor chip.
When it matters: When process source, manufacturing generation, or foundry differences matter to your comparison more than day-to-day performance alone.

Importance: MEDIUM

Intel 14 nm
Intel Core i3 9350K is built on the Intel 14 nm foundry process, which is less advanced than that of 55.2% of processors and equal to that of 29.3% of processors.
L3 cache
What it is: The total amount of L3 cache available on the processor.
When it matters: When you want better performance in cache-sensitive workloads and games.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=16 MB

8 MB
Intel Core i3 9350K has an L3 cache of 8 MB which is larger than that of 39.7% of processors and equal to that of 11.8% of processors.
L2 cache
What it is: The total amount of L2 cache available across the processor.
When it matters: When you want to compare CPU design efficiency and how much fast intermediate cache the cores have available.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=6 MB

1 MB
Intel Core i3 9350K has an L2 cache of 1 MB which is smaller than that of 67.1% of processors and equal to that of 17.6% of processors.
L1 cache
What it is: The total amount of L1 cache built into the processor, which sits closest to the cores.
When it matters: When you are comparing low-level CPU design details rather than the broader performance picture buyers usually notice first.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=512 KB

256 KB
Intel Core i3 9350K has an L1 cache of 256 KB which is smaller than that of 59.4% of processors and equal to that of 18.5% of processors.
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DDR memory version
What it is: The RAM generation the processor is designed to support, such as DDR4 or DDR5.
When it matters: When you need the CPU to match the kind of memory platform you want to buy or reuse.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: DDR5

DDR4
Intel Core i3 9350K supports DDR DDR4, which is newer than that of 26.3% of processors and equal to that of 31.7% of processors.
Maximum memory speed
What it is: The highest official memory speed supported by the processor.
When it matters: When you choose RAM and want to know the supported speed ceiling.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >=4800 MHz

2,400 MHz
Intel Core i3 9350K supports memory speeds up to 2400 MHz, which is lower than that of 63.2% of processors and equal to 12.4% of processors.
Max memory speed (JEDEC)
What it is: The highest official RAM speed the processor supports under standard JEDEC settings, before any memory overclocking profiles are applied.
When it matters: When officially supported stock RAM speed matters more than XMP, EXPO, or manual memory tuning.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5600 MHz

DDR4-2400 MHz
Intel Core i3 9350K supports JEDEC memory speeds up to DDR4-2400 MHz, which is lower than that of 63.4% of processors and equal to 10.6% of processors.
Max memory speed (XMP / EXPO)
What it is: The highest memory speed supported through XMP or EXPO profiles.
When it matters: When you want faster RAM through memory profiles.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5200 MHz

?
Maximum memory capacity
What it is: The largest total amount of memory officially supported by the processor.
When it matters: When you plan a system with very large RAM capacity.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >=128 GB

64 GB
Intel Core i3 9350K supports up to 64 GB of memory, which is more than 28.4% of processors and equal to 27.6% of processors.
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Integrated graphics
What it is: Includes built-in graphics, so the system can output video without a separate graphics card.
When it matters: When you want the PC to work without a dedicated GPU, or you are building an office, media, compact, or troubleshooting-friendly system.

Importance: HIGH

yes
Intel Core i3 9350K includes integrated graphics. 87.6% of processors include integrated graphics.
Integrated GPU model
What it is: The model name of the integrated graphics processor, if present.
When it matters: When you plan to use the CPU's built-in graphics.

Importance: MEDIUM

Intel UHD Graphics 630
Intel Core i3 9350K uses the Intel UHD Graphics 630 integrated GPU, which is more advanced than that in 44.3% of processors and equal to that in 8.3% of processors.
Integrated GPU execution units
What it is: The number of execution units available in the integrated graphics part of the processor.
When it matters: When you plan to rely on built-in graphics and want a better sense of its light gaming, display, or media capability.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=24

?
Integrated GPU base frequency
What it is: The base operating frequency of the integrated GPU.
When it matters: When integrated graphics performance matters to you.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=350 MHz

350 MHz
Intel Core i3 9350K has an integrated GPU clock of 350 MHz which is higher than that of 43.5% of processors and equal to that of 29.6% of processors.
Integrated media encoders/decoders
What it is: The hardware media formats the processor can encode or decode directly.
When it matters: When you stream, edit video, or rely on hardware media acceleration.

Importance: LOW

H.264 (HW decode/encode), H.265 (HW decode/encode), VP9 (HW decode), VC-1 (HW decode), JPEG (HW decode)
Intel Core i3 9350K supports H.264 (HW decode/encode), H.265 (HW decode/encode), VP9 (HW decode), VC-1 (HW decode), JPEG (HW decode) media codecs, which is broader support than 77.9% of processors and equal to 0.1% of processors.
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TDP (Thermal design power)
What it is: The rated thermal design power, which gives a general idea of cooling and power needs.
When it matters: When you choose a cooler or build in a tighter case.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <30 W

91 W
Intel Core i3 9350K has a TDP of 91 W which is higher than that of 88.2% of processors and equal to that of 0.5% of processors.
Base power (PL1)
What it is: The sustained power target used for longer CPU loads.
When it matters: When you choose cooling and power delivery for sustained workloads.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <30 W

91 W
Intel Core i3 9350K has a base power of 91 W which is higher than that of 88.4% of processors and equal to that of 0.5% of processors.
Boost power (PL2)
What it is: The short-term boost power limit the processor may draw under heavier turbo loads.
When it matters: When you size cooling and power delivery for peak turbo behavior.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <50 W

91 W
Intel Core i3 9350K has a boost power of 91 W which is higher than that of 66.4% of processors and equal to that of 0.5% of processors.
Tau (power duration limit)
What it is: The time limit the CPU can stay at higher boost power before dropping toward sustained power.
When it matters: When you want to understand turbo behavior under longer loads.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=28 s

8 seconds
Intel Core i3 9350K has a turbo duration of 8 seconds which is longer than that of 89.1% of processors and equal to that of 7.1% of processors.
Configurable TDP
What it is: Allows the processor to run in alternate power modes instead of being fixed to one default TDP target.
When it matters: When you want more control over heat, noise, and power draw in compact systems, quieter builds, or thermally limited machines.

Importance: LOW

no
Intel Core i3 9350K does not support configurable TDP. 52.9% of processors support configurable TDP.
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Intel Core i3 9350K vs the average processor

  • Unlocked for overclocking
    Intel Core i3 9350K has an unlocked multiplier, the average processor does not.
    What it is: Has an unlocked CPU multiplier, which makes manual CPU overclocking much easier on supported platforms.
    When it matters: When you plan to push clock speeds beyond stock settings instead of leaving the processor completely at default behavior.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Intel Core i3 9350K has an unlocked multiplier, the average processor does not.
  • Supports memory overclocking
    Intel Core i3 9350K supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
    What it is: Allows memory speeds beyond official stock settings through manual tuning or profile-based overclocking.
    When it matters: When you want to push RAM performance higher than stock support allows, especially in enthusiast or gaming builds.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Intel Core i3 9350K supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
  • Supports ECC memory
    Intel Core i3 9350K supports ECC memory, the average processor does not.
    What it is: Can work with ECC memory, which helps detect and correct certain memory errors on supported platforms.
    When it matters: When long-term stability, uptime, or data integrity matter more than a basic consumer-style setup.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Intel Core i3 9350K supports ECC memory, the average processor does not.
  • 29.2% smaller die size
    Intel Core i3 9350K has a lower die size than the average processor (126 mm² vs 178 mm²). The average processor has a die size of 178 mm².
    What it is: The physical area of the processor die, usually measured in square millimeters.
    When it matters: When you are comparing chip scale, packaging density, or broader design differences rather than direct user-visible performance.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: <150 mm²

    Intel Core i3 9350K has a lower die size than the average processor (126 mm² vs 178 mm²). The average processor has a die size of 178 mm².126 mm² vs 178 mm²
  • 7% higher boost clock
    Intel Core i3 9350K has a higher boost clock speed than the average processor (4.6 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.
    What it is: The highest clock speed the processor can reach under boost conditions.
    When it matters: When you care about peak speed in short bursts.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >4.7 GHz

    Intel Core i3 9350K has a higher boost clock speed than the average processor (4.6 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.4.6 GHz vs 4.3 GHz
  • 10% better single-core performance
    Intel Core i3 9350K has a higher PassMark single-core score than the average processor (2,731 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.
    What it is: A benchmark score that reflects single-core CPU performance.
    When it matters: When you care about responsiveness in lighter or older software.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >3200

    Intel Core i3 9350K has a higher PassMark single-core score than the average processor (2,731 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.2,731 vs 2,483
  • Modern CPU socket
    Intel Core i3 9350K uses a more modern CPU socket than the average processor (LGA1,151 vs FP2).
    What it is: The physical socket the processor fits into on the motherboard.
    When it matters: When you need to make sure the CPU can actually be installed on a specific motherboard.

    Importance: HIGH

    Intel Core i3 9350K uses a more modern CPU socket than the average processor (LGA1,151 vs FP2).LGA1151 vs FP2
  • 16.7% more L3 per core
    Intel Core i3 9350K has more L3 cache per core than the average processor (2 MB/core vs 1.714 MB/core). The average processor provides 1.714 MB/core of L3 cache per core.
    What it is: The amount of L3 cache effectively available per CPU core.
    When it matters: When you are comparing how much shared cache each core can draw on in deeper technical analysis.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=2 MB/core

    Intel Core i3 9350K has more L3 cache per core than the average processor (2 MB/core vs 1.714 MB/core). The average processor provides 1.714 MB/core of L3 cache per core.2 MB/core vs 1.714 MB/core
  • Modern CPU socket
    Intel Core i3 9350K uses a more modern CPU socket than the average processor (LGA1,151 vs FP2).
  • Unlocked for overclocking
    Intel Core i3 9350K has an unlocked multiplier, the average processor does not.
  • 7% higher boost clock
    Intel Core i3 9350K has a higher boost clock speed than the average processor (4.6 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.
  • 10% better single-core performance
    Intel Core i3 9350K has a higher PassMark single-core score than the average processor (2,731 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.
  • 12 higher clock multiplier
    Intel Core i3 9350K has a higher clock multiplier than the average processor (40 vs 28). The average processor has a clock multiplier of 28.
  • 29.2% smaller die size
    Intel Core i3 9350K has a lower die size than the average processor (126 mm² vs 178 mm²). The average processor has a die size of 178 mm².
  • 16.7% more L3 per core
    Intel Core i3 9350K has more L3 cache per core than the average processor (2 MB/core vs 1.714 MB/core). The average processor provides 1.714 MB/core of L3 cache per core.
  • More advanced microarchitecture
    Intel Core i3 9350K uses a more advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Coffee Lake Refresh vs Kaby Lake).
  • Supports memory overclocking
    Intel Core i3 9350K supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
  • Supports ECC memory
    Intel Core i3 9350K supports ECC memory, the average processor does not.

Total
Platform
Performance
Cache & Architecture
Memory & PCIe
  • No crypto acceleration
    Intel Core i3 9350K does not include crypto acceleration, the average processor does.
  • Narrower instruction support
    Intel Core i3 9350K supports a narrower instruction set than the average processor (MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES vs MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4A, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA).
  • 72% lower multi-core score
    Intel Core i3 9350K has a lower Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (1,344 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.
  • 2 fewer CPU cores
    Intel Core i3 9350K has fewer CPU cores than the average processor (4 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.
  • No multithreading support
    Intel Core i3 9350K does not support multithreading, the average processor does.
  • 34.1% weaker multi-core performance
    Intel Core i3 9350K has a lower multi-core performance than the average processor (1,833 vs 2,783). The average processor scores 2,783 in Cinebench R20 multi-core.
  • 4 fewer CPU threads
    Intel Core i3 9350K has fewer CPU threads than the average processor (4 vs 8). The average processor has 8 CPU threads.
  • 8.6% lower single-core score
    Intel Core i3 9350K has a lower Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (1,344 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.
  • 27.9% lower PassMark score
    Intel Core i3 9350K has a lower PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (7,596 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.
  • 1 fewer threads per core
    Intel Core i3 9350K has fewer threads per core than the average processor (1 vs 2). The average processor offers 2 threads per core.
  • 16.7% larger process node
    Intel Core i3 9350K has a higher process node than the average processor (14 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.
  • 60% smaller L2 cache
    Intel Core i3 9350K has a lower L2 cache than the average processor (1 MB vs 2.5 MB). The average processor has L2 cache of 2.5 MB.
  • 50% less L2 per core
    Intel Core i3 9350K has less L2 cache per core than the average processor (0.3 MB/core vs 0.5 MB/core). The average processor provides 0.5 MB/core of L2 cache per core.
  • 33.3% smaller L1 cache
    Intel Core i3 9350K has a lower L1 cache than the average processor (256 KB vs 384 KB). The average processor has L1 cache of 384 KB.
  • 18.1% lower memory bandwidth
    Intel Core i3 9350K has a lower memory bandwidth than the average processor (37.5 GB/s vs 45.8 GB/s). The average processor offers memory bandwidth of 45.8 GB/s.
  • 18.2% lower memory speed
    Intel Core i3 9350K has a lower maximum memory speed than the average processor (2,400 MHz vs 2,933 MHz). The average processor supports memory speed of 2,933 MHz.
  • 2.02x higher base power
    Intel Core i3 9350K has a higher base power draw than the average processor (91 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.
  • No configurable TDP
    Intel Core i3 9350K does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does.
  • 2.02x higher TDP
    Intel Core i3 9350K has a higher TDP than the average processor (91 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.
  • 42.2% higher boost power
    Intel Core i3 9350K has a higher boost power draw than the average processor (91 W vs 64 W). The average processor has a boost power draw of 64 W.
  • 20 seconds shorter turbo duration
    Intel Core i3 9350K has a lower turbo duration limit than the average processor (8 seconds vs 28 seconds). The average processor maintains turbo for 28 seconds.
  • 72% lower multi-core score
    Intel Core i3 9350K has a lower Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (1,344 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.
    What it is: A Geekbench 6 score that reflects multi-core CPU performance in mixed modern workloads.
    When it matters: When you want a quick picture of multi-core speed in everyday mixed workloads, multitasking, and broadly optimized software.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >8500

    Intel Core i3 9350K has a lower Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (1,344 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.1,344 vs 4,793
  • 2 fewer CPU cores
    Intel Core i3 9350K has fewer CPU cores than the average processor (4 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.
    What it is: The number of physical CPU cores on the processor.
    When it matters: When you run workloads that benefit from more real cores.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: 8+

    Intel Core i3 9350K has fewer CPU cores than the average processor (4 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.4 vs 6
  • No multithreading support
    Intel Core i3 9350K does not support multithreading, the average processor does.
    What it is: Lets each physical core run more than one thread at the same time, such as with Hyper-Threading or SMT.
    When it matters: When multitasking, rendering, compiling, virtualization, or other thread-heavy work benefits from more total processing threads.

    Importance: HIGH

    Intel Core i3 9350K does not support multithreading, the average processor does.
  • 2.02x higher base power
    Intel Core i3 9350K has a higher base power draw than the average processor (91 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.
    What it is: The sustained power target used for longer CPU loads.
    When it matters: When you choose cooling and power delivery for sustained workloads.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: <30 W

    Intel Core i3 9350K has a higher base power draw than the average processor (91 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.91 W vs 45 W
  • 34.1% weaker multi-core performance
    Intel Core i3 9350K has a lower multi-core performance than the average processor (1,833 vs 2,783). The average processor scores 2,783 in Cinebench R20 multi-core.
    What it is: A Cinebench R20 score that reflects how well the processor handles long, heavy rendering workloads across many cores.
    When it matters: When you care about sustained multi-core performance in rendering, compiling, heavy creation work, or productivity workloads that use many threads.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >4700

    Intel Core i3 9350K has a lower multi-core performance than the average processor (1,833 vs 2,783). The average processor scores 2,783 in Cinebench R20 multi-core.1,833 vs 2,783
  • 16.7% larger process node
    Intel Core i3 9350K has a higher process node than the average processor (14 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.
    What it is: The manufacturing process node used to produce the processor, usually expressed in nanometers.
    When it matters: When efficiency, heat, and the relative modernity of the chip-making process matter to your comparison.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: <10 nm

    Intel Core i3 9350K has a higher process node than the average processor (14 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.14 nm vs 12 nm
  • 4 fewer CPU threads
    Intel Core i3 9350K has fewer CPU threads than the average processor (4 vs 8). The average processor has 8 CPU threads.
    What it is: The total number of processing threads the CPU can handle at once.
    When it matters: When you run heavily threaded workloads or multitask a lot.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: 16+

    Intel Core i3 9350K has fewer CPU threads than the average processor (4 vs 8). The average processor has 8 CPU threads.4 vs 8
  • 50% less L2 per core
    Intel Core i3 9350K has less L2 cache per core than the average processor (0.3 MB/core vs 0.5 MB/core). The average processor provides 0.5 MB/core of L2 cache per core.
    What it is: The amount of L2 cache available to each CPU core.
    When it matters: When you are comparing per-core cache resources in deeper architectural analysis.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: >=1 MB/core

    Intel Core i3 9350K has less L2 cache per core than the average processor (0.3 MB/core vs 0.5 MB/core). The average processor provides 0.5 MB/core of L2 cache per core.0.25 MB/core vs 0.5 MB/core
Total
Overall
Platform
Performance
Cache & Architecture
Memory & PCIe
Power & Thermal

Graphic comparison of Intel Core i3 9350K and other processors

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Third-party reviews

What customers like about Intel Core i3 9350K?

  • Excellent single-core performance due to high base (4.0 GHz) and turbo (4.6 GHz) clock speeds.
  • Unlocked multiplier allows for easy overclocking, with some users reaching stable speeds up to 5.0-5.2 GHz.
  • Features Turbo Boost 2.0, a significant upgrade over previous i3 generations like the 8350K.
  • Efficient for legacy or poorly-threaded applications and games (e.g., CS:GO or Flight Simulator X) that prioritize raw speed over core count.
  • Includes integrated graphics (Intel UHD Graphics 630), which is useful for troubleshooting and budget builds without a dedicated GPU.
  • Supports ECC memory, making it a viable low-cost option for specialized home server builds.

What customers dislike about Intel Core i3 9350K?

  • Lacks Hyper-Threading, leaving it with only 4 cores and 4 threads, which causes bottlenecks in modern multi-threaded games.
  • Poor value for money compared to contemporary rivals like the Ryzen 5 3600 or Intel's own i5-9400F, which offer more cores/threads for a similar price.
  • Requires a more expensive Z-series motherboard to actually utilize its primary feature (overclocking).
  • Does not include a cooling device in the box, adding to the total platform cost.
  • Uses older polymer Thermal Interface Material (TIM) rather than solder, which can lead to higher temperatures when pushing high voltages.
  • Limited official memory support to DDR4-2400, whereas higher-tier 9th Gen chips support faster speeds.

Expert reviews

C
cpubenchmark.net
26/03/2026
Intel Core i3-9350K @ 4.00GHz - CPU Benchmarks

The Intel Core i3-9350K is a 14nm Coffee Lake Refresh desktop processor featuring four cores, four threads, and an unlocked multiplier for manual overclocking. Operating at a 4.0 GHz base clock with a 4.6 GHz boost, it delivers high single-threaded performance, yielding a CPU Mark score of approximately 7,596 and a strong single-thread rating of 2,731. Key advantages include...Read more

B
bit-tech.net
21/05/2019
Intel Core i3-9350KF Review

The Intel Core i3-9350KF introduces Turbo Boost 2.0 to the i3 lineup, featuring a 4GHz base and 4.6GHz boost, yet it remains a 4-core/4-thread processor lacking Hyper-Threading and integrated graphics. While the unlocked multiplier allows for overclocking, the chip uses traditional thermal paste rather than Solder Thermal Interface Material (STIM) and offers only moderate...Read more

T
tomshardware.com
18/12/2019
Intel Core i3-9350KF Review: Coffee Lake's Stagnant Waters

The Tom's Hardware review characterizes the Intel Core i3-9350KF as a stagnant, iterative 4-core/4-thread update that fails to compete effectively against AMD's Ryzen lineup. While it features a high 4.0 GHz base clock and hits 4.6 GHz via Turbo Boost 2.0, the chip suffers from poor value due to its high price, lack of integrated graphics, and requirement for an expensive Z-series...Read more

C
cpu.userbenchmark.com
15/03/2019
Intel Core i3-9350KF BX80684I39350KF - CPU UserBenchmarks

The Intel Core i3-9350KF is a 9th-gen, 4-core/4-thread, 14nm desktop processor featuring a high 4.0 GHz base clock and 4.6 GHz boost, requiring a discrete GPU as it lacks integrated graphics. A primary pro is its strong overclocking potential, often reaching 5.0 GHz with minimal cooling, allowing it to deliver competitive single-core performance suitable for gaming. However, the...Read more

H
hardwareluxx.de
15/09/2021
Power Consumption and Temperature Measurements

The Hardwareluxx review of the Ryzen 4700S Desktop Kit details a "Frankenstein" product utilizing repurposed, defective PlayStation 5 "Ariel" chips, featuring 8 Zen 2 cores with a fully disabled GPU. Key advantages include 16 GB of soldered GDDR6 memory providing high bandwidth and decent multi-threaded performance, often benchmarking between a Ryzen 7 1700 and 2700X. However,...Read more

(Translated)Show original
H
hardwareluxx.de
19/04/2020
Intel Core i5-9400F and 9600KF Review (featuring the i3-9350K as a comparison model)

The Hardwareluxx review of the Intel Core i5-9400F and i5-9600KF highlights these six-core processors as strong mid-range options, specifically noting the exclusion of integrated graphics and Hyper-Threading as key characteristics for budget and performance segmentation. While the i5-9600KF offers higher clocks (3.7-4.6 GHz) and an unlocked multiplier for enthusiasts, the i5-9400F...Read more

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H
hardwareluxx.de
21/11/2019
A Little Skylake Reaches for the Stars: Intel Core i3-9350K Review

The HardwareLuxx review evaluates the Intel Core i3-9350K, a 4-core/4-thread Coffee Lake Refresh CPU designed for high single-core performance with a 4.0 GHz base and 4.6 GHz boost clock. It is positioned for gaming scenarios, such as CS:GO, that favor frequency over multi-threading capabilities. Key advantages include impressive single-core speeds and an unlocked multiplier,...Read more

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C
chip.de
16/10/2019
Intel Core i3-9350KF Review - CHIP

The CHIP review highlights the Intel Core i3-9350KF as a high-performance, entry-level CPU featuring 4 cores/4 threads and high clock speeds (4.0–4.6 GHz) that offer exceptional single-threaded performance comparable to older i7 models. Key pros include an unlocked multiplier for overclocking, the addition of Turbo Boost 2.0, and a lower cost for builders needing a discrete GPU....Read more

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V
vonguru.fr
19/07/2019
Overclocking the i3-9350K at 0°C: What's the performance like?

VonGuru's review highlights the Intel Core i3-9350K's extreme overclocking potential, achieving a stable 5.2 GHz across all cores at near 0°C using specialized cooling. This high-frequency, 4-core, 4-thread processor demonstrates strong single-core performance in gaming and older applications, matching higher-tier CPUs in specific scenarios. However, the processor faces severe...Read more

(Translated)Show original
V
vonguru.fr
20/07/2019
Review: The Intel i3-9350K processor goes under extreme cooling", "Test: Intel i3-9350K CPU gets a sub-zero cooling run

Vonguru's review of the Intel Core i3-9350K highlights the processor as a 4.0 GHz quad-core chip with high-frequency, enthusiast-oriented overclocking potential (4.6 GHz+ Turbo). The main pros are its class-leading single-core performance, ideal for older titles like CS:GO, and excellent scaling under sub-zero cooling, where it can hit over 5.2 GHz. Conversely, the 4-thread...Read more

(Translated)Show original
L
laptopvision.nl
30/06/2026
What is the difference between an i3, i5, and i7 processor?

The Intel Core i3 functions as an affordable, energy-efficient processor ideal for basic daily tasks like web browsing and office applications, though it lacks the necessary speed for heavy multitasking or professional software. As the versatile "sweet spot," the Core i5 provides excellent performance for average users handling moderate multitasking and photo editing, despite...Read more

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