Intel Core i5 3427U Review | 78 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£160
  • Avg. price in US: ~$230
  • PassMark benchmark result: 2251
  • N. of physical cores: 2
  • CPU boost clock speed: 2.8 GHz

Intel Core i5 3427U review. Compare 78 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among processors and if it is worth buying.

3.0

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%

3.0

Technical Score

10.0%

?

User score

Poor
3.0

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%

2.0

Performance

18.0%

3.9

Cache & Architecture

10.0%

3.3

Memory & PCIe

7.0%

6.0

Power & Thermal

4.0%

6.5

Platform

1.0%

6.2

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

  • 1.2
    Gaming

    Score components:

    30.0%

    1.5

    PassMark single-core benchmark score

    25.0%

    1.0

    Geekbench 6 single-core benchmark score

    20.0%

    1.0

    CPU boost clock speed

    17.0%

    1.4

    L3 cache

    8.0%

    1.0

    N. of physical cores

  • 1.2
    Video editing

    Score components:

    45.0%

    1.0

    Geekbench 6 multi-core benchmark score

    20.0%

    1.0

    N. of physical cores

    20.0%

    1.6

    CPU threads

    15.0%

    1.4

    L3 cache

  • No image
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Best prices in UK

    N/A~ £160

Best rankings

?

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

Verdict

The Intel Core i5-3427U is a dual-core, ultra-low-voltage (ULV) mobile processor based on the 22nm Ivy Bridge architecture, featuring 4 threads via Hyper-Threading, a 1.8 GHz base clock that boosts up to 2.8 GHz, and a 3 MB L3 cache. Its primary strengths include a very low 17W TDP that enables thin ultrabook designs and excellent energy efficiency, alongside support for advanced features like VT-x/VT-d virtualization, AES-NI hardware encryption, and integrated Intel HD Graphics 4000. However, its performance is limited by a locked multiplier that prevents overclocking, and as a legacy 3rd-generation chip, it lacks the multi-core power and modern instruction sets required for demanding contemporary gaming or heavy content creation.

Technical Specifications of processor Intel Core i5 3427U

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

3.0
Intel Core i5 3427U has a technical score of 2.98 points, which is lower than that of 99.3% 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 i5 3427U 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%

3.0

Overall score

40.0%

9.7

Price

5.0
Intel Core i5 3427U has a quality-to-price ratio of 5 points, which is lower than 96.5% 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

mobile
Intel Core i5 3427U belongs to the mobile processor class, which is more advanced than that of 7.3% of processors and equal to that of 48.6% 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

FCBGA1023
Intel Core i5 3427U uses the FCBGA1023 CPU socket, which is older than that of 97.4% of processors and equal to that of 0.7% 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

QM77, QS77, HM77, HM76, HM75
Intel Core i5 3427U supports QM77, QS77, HM77, HM76, HM75 chipsets, which is narrower compatibility than 54.2% of processors and equal to that of 1.6% 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 i5 3427U 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+

2
Intel Core i5 3427U has 2 CPU cores, which is fewer than 79.3% of processors and equal to 20.6% 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 i5 3427U 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

2
Intel Core i5 3427U offers 2 threads per core, which is more than 30.4% of processors and equal to 69.6% 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

2.8 GHz
Intel Core i5 3427U reaches a boost clock of 2.8 GHz which is lower than that of 94.9% of processors and equal to that of 1.1% 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

2 x 1.8 GHz
Intel Core i5 3427U has a base clock of 2x1.8 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

22 nm
Intel Core i5 3427U uses a 22 nm process node, which is older than that of 84.6% of processors and equal to that of 10.1% 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 22 nm
Intel Core i5 3427U is built on the Intel 22 nm foundry process, which is less advanced than that of 84.6% of processors and equal to that of 10.1% 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

3 MB
Intel Core i5 3427U has an L3 cache of 3 MB which is smaller than that of 84.8% of processors and equal to that of 5.6% 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

0.5 MB
Intel Core i5 3427U has an L2 cache of 0.5 MB which is smaller than that of 84.8% of processors and equal to that of 15.2% 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

128 KB
Intel Core i5 3427U has an L1 cache of 128 KB which is smaller than that of 83.1% of processors and equal to that of 14.9% 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

DDR3
Intel Core i5 3427U supports DDR DDR3, which is older than that of 86.3% of processors and equal to that of 13.7% 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

1,600 MHz
Intel Core i5 3427U supports memory speeds up to 1600 MHz, which is lower than that of 87.3% of processors and equal to 11.3% 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

DDR3-1600 MHz
Intel Core i5 3427U supports JEDEC memory speeds up to DDR3-1600 MHz, which is lower than that of 87.6% of processors and equal to 8.1% 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

N/A
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

32 GB
Intel Core i5 3427U supports up to 32 GB of memory, which is less than 71.9% of processors and equal to 19.5% 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 i5 3427U 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 HD Graphics 4000
Intel Core i5 3427U uses the Intel HD Graphics 4000 integrated GPU, which is less advanced than that in 69.5% of processors and equal to that in 2.9% 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

16
Intel Core i5 3427U has 16 GPU execution units, which is fewer than 56.5% of processors and equal to 6.2% of processors.
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 i5 3427U 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), MPEG-2 (HW decode/encode), VC-1 (HW decode)
Intel Core i5 3427U supports H.264 (HW decode/encode), MPEG-2 (HW decode/encode), VC-1 (HW decode) media codecs, which is narrower support than 53% of processors and equal to 4.9% 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

17 W
Intel Core i5 3427U has a TDP of 17 W which is lower than that of 76.1% of processors and equal to that of 1.4% 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

17 W
Intel Core i5 3427U has a base power of 17 W which is lower than that of 75.7% of processors and equal to that of 1.4% 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

?
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

28 seconds
Intel Core i5 3427U has a turbo duration of 28 seconds which is longer than that of 3.8% of processors and equal to that of 85% 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 i5 3427U does not support configurable TDP. 52.9% of processors support configurable TDP.
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Intel Core i5 3427U vs the average processor

  • 33.7% smaller die size
    Intel Core i5 3427U has a lower die size than the average processor (118 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 i5 3427U has a lower die size than the average processor (118 mm² vs 178 mm²). The average processor has a die size of 178 mm².118 mm² vs 178 mm²
  • 62.2% lower base power
    Intel Core i5 3427U has a lower base power draw than the average processor (17 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 i5 3427U has a lower base power draw than the average processor (17 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.17 W vs 45 W
  • 5 °C higher TJ Max
    Intel Core i5 3427U has a higher TJ Max than the average processor (105 °C vs 100 °C). The average processor has a TJ Max of 100 °C.
    What it is: The highest safe operating junction temperature before the CPU starts throttling or protecting itself.
    When it matters: When you tune cooling or monitor thermals under load.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: >=100 °C

    Intel Core i5 3427U has a higher TJ Max than the average processor (105 °C vs 100 °C). The average processor has a TJ Max of 100 °C.105 °C vs 100 °C
  • 62.2% lower TDP
    Intel Core i5 3427U has a lower TDP than the average processor (17 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.
    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

    Intel Core i5 3427U has a lower TDP than the average processor (17 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.17 W vs 45 W
  • 33.7% smaller die size
    Intel Core i5 3427U has a lower die size than the average processor (118 mm² vs 178 mm²). The average processor has a die size of 178 mm².
  • 62.2% lower base power
    Intel Core i5 3427U has a lower base power draw than the average processor (17 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.
  • 5 °C higher TJ Max
    Intel Core i5 3427U has a higher TJ Max than the average processor (105 °C vs 100 °C). The average processor has a TJ Max of 100 °C.
  • 62.2% lower TDP
    Intel Core i5 3427U has a lower TDP than the average processor (17 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.
  • 8 year/s older release date
    Intel Core i5 3427U has an older release date than the average processor (2,012 vs 2,020).
    June 2012
  • Narrower instruction support
    Intel Core i5 3427U supports a narrower instruction set than the average processor (MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, F16C, AES vs MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4A, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA).
  • Older CPU socket
    Intel Core i5 3427U uses an older CPU socket than the average processor (FCBGA1,023 vs FP2).
  • No crypto acceleration
    Intel Core i5 3427U does not include crypto acceleration, the average processor does.
  • Older TPM support
    Intel Core i5 3427U supports an older TPM version than the average processor (TPM 1.2 vs PTT 2.0).
  • 70.3% lower single-core score
    Intel Core i5 3427U has a lower Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (437 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.
  • 34.9% lower boost clock
    Intel Core i5 3427U has a lower boost clock speed than the average processor (2.8 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.
  • 45.4% weaker single-core performance
    Intel Core i5 3427U has a lower PassMark single-core score than the average processor (1,356 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.
  • 84.5% weaker multi-core performance
    Intel Core i5 3427U has a lower multi-core performance than the average processor (432 vs 2,783). The average processor scores 2,783 in Cinebench R20 multi-core.
  • 4 fewer CPU cores
    Intel Core i5 3427U has fewer CPU cores than the average processor (2 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.
  • 90.9% lower multi-core score
    Intel Core i5 3427U has a lower Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (437 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.
  • 78.6% lower PassMark score
    Intel Core i5 3427U has a lower PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (2,251 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.
  • 4 fewer CPU threads
    Intel Core i5 3427U has fewer CPU threads than the average processor (4 vs 8). The average processor has 8 CPU threads.
  • 37.5% lower bus transfer rate
    Intel Core i5 3427U has a lower bus transfer rate than the average processor (5 GT/s vs 8 GT/s). The average processor offers bus transfer rate of 8 GT/s.
  • 37.5% lower bus speed
    Intel Core i5 3427U has a lower bus speed than the average processor (5 GT/s vs 8 GT/s). The average processor runs at bus speed of 8 GT/s.
  • 10 lower clock multiplier
    Intel Core i5 3427U has a lower clock multiplier than the average processor (18 vs 28). The average processor has a clock multiplier of 28.
  • 83.3% larger process node
    Intel Core i5 3427U has a higher process node than the average processor (22 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.
  • 80% smaller L2 cache
    Intel Core i5 3427U has a lower L2 cache than the average processor (0.5 MB vs 2.5 MB). The average processor has L2 cache of 2.5 MB.
  • 62.5% smaller L3 cache
    Intel Core i5 3427U has a lower L3 cache than the average processor (3 MB vs 8 MB). The average processor has L3 cache of 8 MB.
  • 66.7% smaller L1 cache
    Intel Core i5 3427U has a lower L1 cache than the average processor (128 KB vs 384 KB). The average processor has L1 cache of 384 KB.
  • 50% less L2 per core
    Intel Core i5 3427U 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.
  • Less advanced microarchitecture
    Intel Core i5 3427U uses a less advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Ivy Bridge vs Kaby Lake).
  • 12.5% less L3 per core
    Intel Core i5 3427U has less L3 cache per core than the average processor (1.5 MB/core vs 1.714 MB/core). The average processor provides 1.714 MB/core of L3 cache per core.
  • 71.7% fewer transistors
    Intel Core i5 3427U has fewer transistors than the average processor (1.4 billion vs 4.95 billion). The average processor has 4.95 billion transistors.
  • Less advanced foundry
    Intel Core i5 3427U uses a less advanced foundry process than the average processor (Intel 22 nm vs Intel 14 nm).
  • Older DDR support
    Intel Core i5 3427U supports an older DDR generation than the average processor (DDR3 vs DDR4).
  • 44.1% lower memory bandwidth
    Intel Core i5 3427U has a lower memory bandwidth than the average processor (25.6 GB/s vs 45.8 GB/s). The average processor offers memory bandwidth of 45.8 GB/s.
  • 45.4% lower memory speed
    Intel Core i5 3427U has a lower maximum memory speed than the average processor (1,600 MHz vs 2,933 MHz). The average processor supports memory speed of 2,933 MHz.
  • Older PCIe version
    Intel Core i5 3427U supports an older PCIe version than the average processor (2 vs 3.0).
  • 50% less memory capacity
    Intel Core i5 3427U has fewer maximum memory capacity than the average processor (32 GB vs 64 GB). The average processor supports 64 GB of memory.
  • 75% less memory per DIMM
    Intel Core i5 3427U has fewer memory per DIMM than the average processor (8 GB vs 32 GB). The average processor supports 32 GB of memory per DIMM.
  • Inferior integrated GPU
    Intel Core i5 3427U uses an inferior integrated GPU to the average processor (Intel HD Graphics 4,000 vs Intel UHD Graphics 630).
  • No configurable TDP
    Intel Core i5 3427U does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does.
  • 5 °C higher CPU temperature
    Intel Core i5 3427U has a higher CPU temperature than the average processor (105 °C vs 100 °C). The average processor runs at a CPU temperature of 100 °C.
  • 70.3% lower single-core score
    Intel Core i5 3427U has a lower Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (437 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.
    What it is: A Geekbench 6 score that reflects single-core CPU performance in mixed modern workloads.
    When it matters: When you care about snappy everyday performance in lighter apps, browsing, office work, or tasks that do not scale well across many cores.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >2000

    Intel Core i5 3427U has a lower Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (437 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.437 vs 1,471
  • 34.9% lower boost clock
    Intel Core i5 3427U has a lower boost clock speed than the average processor (2.8 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 i5 3427U has a lower boost clock speed than the average processor (2.8 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.2.8 GHz vs 4.3 GHz
  • 84.5% weaker multi-core performance
    Intel Core i5 3427U has a lower multi-core performance than the average processor (432 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 i5 3427U has a lower multi-core performance than the average processor (432 vs 2,783). The average processor scores 2,783 in Cinebench R20 multi-core.432 vs 2,783
  • 45.4% weaker single-core performance
    Intel Core i5 3427U has a lower PassMark single-core score than the average processor (1,356 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 i5 3427U has a lower PassMark single-core score than the average processor (1,356 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.1,356 vs 2,483
  • 4 fewer CPU cores
    Intel Core i5 3427U has fewer CPU cores than the average processor (2 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 i5 3427U has fewer CPU cores than the average processor (2 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.2 vs 6
  • 90.9% lower multi-core score
    Intel Core i5 3427U has a lower Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (437 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 i5 3427U has a lower Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (437 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.437 vs 4,793
  • 78.6% lower PassMark score
    Intel Core i5 3427U has a lower PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (2,251 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.
    What it is: A benchmark score that gives a broad idea of overall processor performance.
    When it matters: When you want a quick overall performance comparison.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >19000

    Intel Core i5 3427U has a lower PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (2,251 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.2,251 vs 10,532.5
  • 83.3% larger process node
    Intel Core i5 3427U has a higher process node than the average processor (22 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 i5 3427U has a higher process node than the average processor (22 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.22 nm vs 12 nm

Graphic comparison of Intel Core i5 3427U and other processors

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Third-party reviews

What customers like about Intel Core i5 3427U?

  • Excellent power efficiency for its time with a low 17W TDP
  • Strong single-core performance and multitasking via Hyper-Threading
  • Improved energy efficiency over Sandy Bridge predecessors due to 22nm 3D transistors
  • Capable of driving high-resolution (HD) monitors and acting as a portable workstation
  • Supports advanced features like Hardware Virtualization (VT-x) and AES-NI encryption
  • Near-silent operation in compact systems like the Intel NUC

What customers dislike about Intel Core i5 3427U?

  • No longer competitive with modern processors for demanding tasks or gaming
  • Integrated HD Graphics 4000 is limited and struggles with modern games
  • Locked multiplier prevents any overclocking to boost performance
  • Thermal throttling can occur in thin ultrabook form factors with poor cooling
  • Performance is significantly lower than standard-voltage mobile i5 counterparts

Expert reviews

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browser.geekbench.com
29/03/2026

The Intel Core i5-3427U is a 2012 Ivy Bridge-based dual-core ULV processor designed for thin-and-light ultrabooks and small form-factor devices, featuring 4 threads, a 1.8 GHz base clock, and 2.8 GHz Turbo Boost. It operates within a 17-watt TDP, prioritizing energy efficiency and mobility over high-performance computing. Pros include improved IPC over older generations and robust...Read more

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cpubenchmark.net
29/03/2026

The Intel Core i5-3427U is a 2012 Ivy Bridge dual-core processor with a 1.80 GHz base frequency, 2.80 GHz turbo, and a 17W TDP designed for ultrabooks. The chip, featuring integrated HD Graphics 4000, offers solid power efficiency and respectable performance for its era, outperforming older generations while maintaining low thermal levels. Pros include excellent power efficiency for...Read more

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servethehome.com
07/05/2014

The ServeTheHome review evaluates the Intel DC53427HYE NUC (Core i5-3427U) as a compact, energy-efficient solution suitable for virtualization and high-end home lab nodes, offering competitive performance for its form factor. Key advantages include support for essential virtualization technologies (VT-x, VT-d, AES-NI, vPro) and low power consumption, measured at 14.8W idle and 28.2W...Read more

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pcper.com
31/05/2012

The PC Perspective review of the Intel Core i5-3427U highlights the 22nm Ivy Bridge architecture, which delivers a 30-50% performance increase over previous Sandy Bridge, dual-core processors, making it a strong, efficient option for 17W Ultrabooks. While the chip provides significant gains in CPU-intensive tasks, a notable drawback is its $225 price, which limits the ability of...Read more

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hothardware.com
31/05/2012

HotHardware's 2012 review of the 17W Intel Core i5-3427U highlights its 22nm Ivy Bridge architecture as a major, efficient upgrade for Ultrabooks, featuring integrated HD 4000 graphics with DirectX 11 support and a 45% performance boost over previous generations. Key advantages include impressive multimedia performance via Quick Sync video encoding, strong productivity benchmarks...Read more

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almaghribtoday.net
31/05/2012

The Intel Core i5-3427U processor, based on the 3rd-gen Ivy Bridge architecture, drives the expansion of ultrabooks by providing a low-voltage, 1.8GHz solution for ultra-thin laptops aimed at matching premium portability standards. Its primary advantages lie in this specialized design, which allows for thin profiles while updating previous generations with improved efficiency for...Read more

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valid.x86.fr
N/A

The AMD Ryzen 9 7900X3D (Validation ID: z3kchq) is a 12-core, 24-thread Zen 4 processor that, according to CPU-Z benchmarks, achieves a single-thread score of 725 and a multi-thread score of 11,052. Positioned between the 7800X3D and 7950X3D, this chip leverages 3D V-Cache technology to deliver high-end, efficient gaming performance while utilizing the long-lasting AM5 socket. Key...Read more

C
clubic.com
21/06/2013

The 2013 13-inch MacBook Air (Mid-2013) brings significant internal updates via Intel’s 4th-generation "Haswell" processors, resulting in improved energy efficiency, 802.11ac Wi-Fi, and faster PCIe-based flash storage. A key pro is the exceptional battery life, often exceeding 14 hours in testing, alongside enhanced graphics performance from the Intel HD 5000. Conversely, the lack...Read more

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tomshardware.fr
05/02/2014

A Tom’s Hardware FR review of seven mini PCs highlights their ability to deliver strong desktop-class performance, featuring AMD Ryzen or Intel Core processors suitable for 4K streaming, productivity, and light gaming. These compact units boast excellent versatility and portability, often including VESA mounts and extensive connectivity options. However, the analysis notes...Read more

C
clubic.com
09/07/2012

The 13-inch MacBook Air (M3) is positioned as a premier ultraportable, balancing a fanless, lightweight design with significantly improved performance via the M3 chip and exceptional battery life. Key advantages include the return of MagSafe, support for dual external displays with the lid closed, and a high-quality Liquid Retina display, making it ideal for daily productivity....Read more

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tweakers.net
12/02/2013

The Lenovo ThinkPad Twist is a Windows 8 hybrid combining a 12.5-inch IPS touchscreen with a traditional, sturdy rotating hinge design suitable for business use. It features excellent input options, including a superior keyboard and a TrackPoint, alongside robust connectivity with Gigabit Ethernet, though it is considered heavy for tablet use. Major drawbacks include a...Read more

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tweakers.net
16/10/2013

The Tweakers.net review highlights the Samsung ATIV Book 9 Plus for its industry-leading 13.3-inch 3200 x 1800 touchscreen, offering extreme sharpness and vibrant, though highly reflective, color reproduction. While the display shines, Windows 8 scaling limitations of the era often made legacy applications difficult to read, marking a significant software-related drawback....Read more

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tweakers.net
30/04/2013

The Tweakers review characterizes the Samsung ATIV Book 7 (730U3E) as a premium, sturdy ultrabook with a brushed aluminium chassis and a high-quality 13.3-inch Full HD touchscreen capable of 350 nits brightness. Performance is driven by an Intel Core i5-3337U processor, suitable for daily tasks but limited for gaming, while boasting a strong battery life exceeding 6 hours in...Read more

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tweakers.net
23/02/2013

The Dell XPS 12 is praised as a successful, high-quality "hybrid" ultrabook featuring a premium carbon fiber/magnesium build and a 12.5-inch Full HD IPS display. Its standout "easel" hinge allows the screen to flip within the frame, serving as a functional laptop-to-tablet design pro. The device delivers strong performance with Core i5/i7 processors, coupled with a comfortable...Read more

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tweakers.net
13/08/2013

The Sony VAIO Duo 13 is a 13.3-inch hybrid Ultrabook featuring a refined "Surf Slider" mechanism that improves upon the Duo 11 with a larger screen, lighter 1.3kg chassis, and a highly praised Triluminos IPS display. Key pros include exceptional battery life and a precise digitizer pen, although the design suffers from a fixed screen angle, a very small touchpad, and shallow key...Read more

T
tweakers.net
19/04/2013

The 2013 Google Chromebook Pixel is described by Tweakers as a "laptop of extremes," functioning as a high-end showcase for ChromeOS rather than a mainstream device. Pros include exceptional build quality, a 3:2 touchscreen with 2560x1700 resolution, and an excellent keyboard. Significant cons highlighted include a high $1,299 starting price, limited 32GB/64GB storage, and a short...Read more

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hardware.info
21/06/2013

The Intel NUC DC53427HYE serves as a capable, business-oriented mini PC featuring an Intel Core i5-3427U processor that provides significant performance, moving beyond the "niche" status of earlier, underpowered models. Key strengths include an impressive power-to-size ratio, Intel vPro support for remote management, and three display outputs (one HDMI, two Mini DisplayPorts)....Read more

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