Intel Core i7 3770S Review | 78 Data compared

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  • Avg. price: ~£90
  • PassMark benchmark result: 6177
  • N. of physical cores: 4
  • CPU boost clock speed: 3.9 GHz

Intel Core i7 3770S review. Compare 78 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among processors and if it is worth buying.

4.5

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%

7.0

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%

3.7

Performance

18.0%

4.2

Cache & Architecture

10.0%

4.4

Memory & PCIe

7.0%

6.6

Power & Thermal

4.0%

7.4

Platform

1.0%

6.7

Integrated Graphics

Poor
7.0

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%

8.6

User reviews

30.0%

3.4

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.2
(28)
amazon
5.0
(2)
amazon
5.0
(1)

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

Very good
  • 2.7
    Gaming

    Score components:

    30.0%

    3.1

    PassMark single-core benchmark score

    25.0%

    1.7

    Geekbench 6 single-core benchmark score

    20.0%

    4.3

    CPU boost clock speed

    17.0%

    2.1

    L3 cache

    8.0%

    1.8

    N. of physical cores

  • 2.0
    Video editing

    Score components:

    45.0%

    1.7

    Geekbench 6 multi-core benchmark score

    20.0%

    1.8

    N. of physical cores

    20.0%

    2.8

    CPU threads

    15.0%

    2.1

    L3 cache

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Best rankings

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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 i7-3770S is a third-generation Ivy Bridge quad-core processor featuring 8 threads, a 3.1 GHz base clock speed, and a max turbo frequency of 3.9 GHz. Built on a 22nm process for the LGA 1155 socket, it includes 8 MB of Intel Smart Cache and integrated Intel HD Graphics 4000. Its main advantages are high energy efficiency with a low 65W TDP—making it ideal for slim or low-heat desktops—and reliable multitasking performance for standard office and light creative work. However, its primary drawbacks include a lower base clock compared to the standard i7-3770, a locked multiplier that prevents traditional overclocking, and an aging architecture that lacks support for modern features like Windows 11 or DDR4 memory.

Technical Specifications of processor Intel Core i7 3770S

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%

3.7

Performance

18.0%

4.2

Cache & Architecture

10.0%

4.4

Memory & PCIe

7.0%

6.6

Power & Thermal

4.0%

7.4

Platform

1.0%

6.7

Integrated Graphics

4.2
Intel Core i7 3770S has a technical score of 4.21 points, which is lower than that of 75.1% 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%

8.6

User reviews

30.0%

3.4

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.2
(28)
amazon
5.0
(2)
amazon
5.0
(1)

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

7.0
Intel Core i7 3770S has a user score of 7.01 points, which is lower than that of 95.1% of products in this category.
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.
3.4
Intel Core i7 3770S has a popularity of 3.4 points, which is higher than 79.3% 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%

4.5

Overall score

40.0%

10

Price

6.1
Intel Core i7 3770S has a quality-to-price ratio of 6.1 points, which is lower than 61% 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 i7 3770S 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

LGA1155
Intel Core i7 3770S uses the LGA1155 CPU socket, which is newer than that of 53.9% of processors and equal to that of 2.1% 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

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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 i7 3770S 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 i7 3770S 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+

8
Intel Core i7 3770S offers 8 CPU threads, which is more than 35.3% of processors and equal to 19% 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 i7 3770S 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

3.9 GHz
Intel Core i7 3770S reaches a boost clock of 3.9 GHz which is lower than that of 65% of processors and equal to that of 3.5% 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 3.1 GHz
Intel Core i7 3770S has a base clock of 4x3.1 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 i7 3770S 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 i7 3770S 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

8 MB
Intel Core i7 3770S 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 i7 3770S 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 i7 3770S 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

DDR3
Intel Core i7 3770S 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 i7 3770S 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

1,600 MHz
Intel Core i7 3770S supports JEDEC memory speeds up to 1600 MHz, which is lower than that of 96.6% of processors and equal to 2.1% 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

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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 i7 3770S 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 i7 3770S 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 i7 3770S 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 i7 3770S 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

650 MHz
Intel Core i7 3770S has an integrated GPU clock of 650 MHz which is higher than that of 83.9% of processors and equal to that of 5.3% 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 i7 3770S 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

65 W
Intel Core i7 3770S has a TDP of 65 W which is higher than that of 70% of processors and equal to that of 16.1% 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

65 W
Intel Core i7 3770S has a base power of 65 W which is higher than that of 70.3% of processors and equal to that of 16.4% 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

?
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 i7 3770S does not support configurable TDP. 52.9% of processors support configurable TDP.
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Intel Core i7 3770S vs the average processor

  • Includes stock cooler
    Intel Core i7 3770S includes a stock cooler, the average processor does not.
    What it is: A stock CPU cooler is included in the box with the processor.
    When it matters: When total build cost matters and you need to know whether separate cooling must be bought right away.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Intel Core i7 3770S includes a stock cooler, the average processor does not.
  • Supports memory overclocking
    Intel Core i7 3770S 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 i7 3770S supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
  • 5 °C higher TJ Max
    Intel Core i7 3770S 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 i7 3770S 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
  • Supports HMP
    Intel Core i7 3770S supports HMP, the average processor does not.
    What it is: Uses heterogeneous multi-processing to coordinate different core types together.
    When it matters: When hybrid-core scheduling behavior matters for efficiency, workload balancing, or lower-level software behavior.

    Importance: LOW

    Intel Core i7 3770S supports HMP, the average processor does not.
  • 3.42x more popular
    Intel Core i7 3770S is more popular than the average processor (3.42 vs 1.000).
    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.
    Intel Core i7 3770S is more popular than the average processor (3.42 vs 1.000).3.42 vs 1
  • 16.7% more L3 per core
    Intel Core i7 3770S 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 i7 3770S 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
  • 85.7% higher GPU clock speed
    Intel Core i7 3770S has a higher integrated GPU frequency than the average processor (650 MHz vs 350 MHz). The average processor has integrated GPU frequency of 350 MHz.
    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

    Intel Core i7 3770S has a higher integrated GPU frequency than the average processor (650 MHz vs 350 MHz). The average processor has integrated GPU frequency of 350 MHz.650 MHz vs 350 MHz
  • 2.78x cheaper
    Intel Core i7 3770S is cheaper than the average processor (£90 vs £250).
    Intel Core i7 3770S is cheaper than the average processor (£90 vs £250).£90 vs £250
  • Supports HMP
    Intel Core i7 3770S supports HMP, the average processor does not.
  • 16.7% more L3 per core
    Intel Core i7 3770S 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.
  • Supports memory overclocking
    Intel Core i7 3770S supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
  • 85.7% higher GPU clock speed
    Intel Core i7 3770S has a higher integrated GPU frequency than the average processor (650 MHz vs 350 MHz). The average processor has integrated GPU frequency of 350 MHz.
  • Includes stock cooler
    Intel Core i7 3770S includes a stock cooler, the average processor does not.
  • 5 °C higher TJ Max
    Intel Core i7 3770S has a higher TJ Max than the average processor (105 °C vs 100 °C). The average processor has a TJ Max of 100 °C.
  • 8 year/s older release date
    Intel Core i7 3770S has an older release date than the average processor (2,012 vs 2,020).
    April 2012
  • Narrower instruction support
    Intel Core i7 3770S 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).
  • No crypto acceleration
    Intel Core i7 3770S does not include crypto acceleration, the average processor does.
  • 55.4% lower single-core score
    Intel Core i7 3770S has a lower Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (656 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.
  • 17.8% weaker single-core performance
    Intel Core i7 3770S has a lower PassMark single-core score than the average processor (2,041 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.
  • 2 fewer CPU cores
    Intel Core i7 3770S has fewer CPU cores than the average processor (4 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.
  • 53.3% lower multi-core score
    Intel Core i7 3770S has a lower Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (2,237 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.
  • 9.3% lower boost clock
    Intel Core i7 3770S has a lower boost clock speed than the average processor (3.9 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.
  • 41.4% lower PassMark score
    Intel Core i7 3770S has a lower PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (6,177 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.
  • 37.5% lower bus transfer rate
    Intel Core i7 3770S 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 i7 3770S 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.
  • 83.3% larger process node
    Intel Core i7 3770S has a higher process node than the average processor (22 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.
  • 60% smaller L2 cache
    Intel Core i7 3770S 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 i7 3770S 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 i7 3770S uses a less advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Ivy Bridge vs Kaby Lake).
  • 33.3% smaller L1 cache
    Intel Core i7 3770S has a lower L1 cache than the average processor (256 KB vs 384 KB). The average processor has L1 cache of 384 KB.
  • 71.7% fewer transistors
    Intel Core i7 3770S 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 i7 3770S uses a less advanced foundry process than the average processor (Intel 22 nm vs Intel 14 nm).
  • Older DDR support
    Intel Core i7 3770S supports an older DDR generation than the average processor (DDR3 vs DDR4).
  • 44.1% lower memory bandwidth
    Intel Core i7 3770S 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 i7 3770S 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.
  • 50% less memory capacity
    Intel Core i7 3770S 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 i7 3770S 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 i7 3770S uses an inferior integrated GPU to the average processor (Intel HD Graphics 4,000 vs Intel UHD Graphics 630).
  • 44.4% higher base power
    Intel Core i7 3770S has a higher base power draw than the average processor (65 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.
  • No configurable TDP
    Intel Core i7 3770S does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does.
  • 5 °C higher CPU temperature
    Intel Core i7 3770S 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.
  • 44.4% higher TDP
    Intel Core i7 3770S has a higher TDP than the average processor (65 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.
  • 55.4% lower single-core score
    Intel Core i7 3770S has a lower Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (656 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 i7 3770S has a lower Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (656 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.656 vs 1,471
  • 83.3% larger process node
    Intel Core i7 3770S 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 i7 3770S 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
  • 2 fewer CPU cores
    Intel Core i7 3770S 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 i7 3770S has fewer CPU cores than the average processor (4 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.4 vs 6
  • 17.8% weaker single-core performance
    Intel Core i7 3770S has a lower PassMark single-core score than the average processor (2,041 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 i7 3770S has a lower PassMark single-core score than the average processor (2,041 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.2,041 vs 2,483
  • 53.3% lower multi-core score
    Intel Core i7 3770S has a lower Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (2,237 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 i7 3770S has a lower Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (2,237 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.2,237 vs 4,793
  • 9.3% lower boost clock
    Intel Core i7 3770S has a lower boost clock speed than the average processor (3.9 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 i7 3770S has a lower boost clock speed than the average processor (3.9 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.3.9 GHz vs 4.3 GHz
  • Older DDR support
    Intel Core i7 3770S supports an older DDR generation than the average processor (DDR3 vs DDR4).
    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

    Intel Core i7 3770S supports an older DDR generation than the average processor (DDR3 vs DDR4).DDR3 vs DDR4
  • 44.1% lower memory bandwidth
    Intel Core i7 3770S 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.
    What it is: The maximum theoretical memory bandwidth the processor can support.
    When it matters: When memory-heavy workloads matter to you.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >75 GB/s

    Intel Core i7 3770S 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.25.6 GB/s vs 45.8 GB/s

Graphic comparison of Intel Core i7 3770S and other processors

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Third-party reviews

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

What customers like about Intel Core i7 3770S?

  • Excellent energy efficiency with a low 65W TDP, making it ideal for low-power or compact builds
  • Solid multitasking performance due to 4 cores and 8 threads (Hyper-threading)
  • Capable of handling general computing, office tasks, and HD media playback with ease
  • Remains a cost-effective upgrade for older LGA 1155 socket systems
  • Impressive thermal performance, often maintaining healthy temperatures even with stock cooling
  • Integrated Intel HD 4000 graphics are sufficient for standard desktop applications and older games

What customers dislike about Intel Core i7 3770S?

  • Starting to show its age in modern, highly demanding AAA games and high-end creative software
  • Locked multiplier limits overclocking potential compared to the 'K' series variant
  • Lack of AVX2 support can prevent some modern applications (like newer Adobe suites) from running
  • Resale value is relatively low as a legacy 3rd Gen Ivy Bridge processor
  • Limited to older DDR3 memory speeds (typically 1333/1600 MHz)

Expert reviews

C
cpubenchmark.net
29/03/2026

The Intel Core i7-3770S is a 3rd-generation "Ivy Bridge" 65W quad-core processor released in 2012, offering 3.10 GHz base and 3.90 GHz turbo speeds with a CPU Mark of around 6,174. Pros include superior energy efficiency over standard 77W models and strong single-thread performance, while cons include a lower 3.10 GHz base clock and a locked multiplier that restricts overclocking....Read more

F
forums.anandtech.com
07/06/2012

An AnandTech forum review of the Intel Core i7-3770S (Ivy Bridge) highlights its efficiency, positioning the 65W TDP processor as an ideal choice for high-performance, low-power, and quiet computing. The CPU delivers 4 cores/8 threads with HD 4000 graphics, offering comparable performance to the standard 95W 3770 in typical scenarios despite a lower 3.1 GHz base clock. Key...Read more

B
browser.geekbench.com
30/03/2026

The Intel Core i7-3770S is a 3rd-gen "Ivy Bridge" processor (4 cores/8 threads, 3.1-3.9 GHz) designed for power efficiency, featuring a lower 65W TDP that makes it ideal for small form factor systems. While delivering solid, capable performance for its era, the chip’s primary limitation is its locked multiplier, preventing overclocking compared to "K" variants. Currently, it remains...Read more

H
hardware-mag.de
23/04/2012

The Intel Core i7-3770K introduces the 22nm manufacturing process with 3D Tri-Gate transistors, offering slightly higher performance than the i7-2700K while lowering the TDP to 77W. It provides strong multi-threaded performance, supports DDR3-1600 memory, and includes native PCI-Express 3.0, making it an efficient, faster option for LGA 1155 systems. Key pros highlighted include the...Read more

H
hardwareluxx.de
23/04/2012

Intel's 22nm Ivy Bridge processors, specifically the Core i7-3770K and various i5 models, represent a "tick+" transition to a 160mm² die utilizing Tri-Gate (3D) transistors, achieving a 77W TDP and roughly 4–6% higher IPC over Sandy Bridge. Performance improvements include significantly enhanced HD Graphics 4000 with DirectX 11, alongside native USB 3.0, PCIe 3.0, and faster...Read more

A
au-ja.de
23/04/2012

The Intel Core i7-3770K (Ivy Bridge) introduced the 22nm manufacturing process and "3D" tri-gate transistors, resulting in a 77W TDP and improved power efficiency over Sandy Bridge. It features the upgraded HD Graphics 4000, offering a 50% performance boost for media tasks, along with native USB 3.0 and PCI Express 3.0 support on the Z77 platform. While providing a 5–15% CPU...Read more

C
clubic.com
13/12/2012

The late 2012 21.5-inch iMac features an ultra-slim design, tapering to 5mm at the edges, achieved by removing the internal optical drive and utilizing full lamination to reduce screen glare. Performance is driven by Intel "Ivy Bridge" processors and NVIDIA graphics, offering notable speed improvements over previous models, especially with the optional Fusion Drive. However, the...Read more

T
tomshardware.fr
23/04/2012

The Intel Core i7-3770K "Ivy Bridge" review highlights the transition to a 22nm 3D Tri-Gate transistor manufacturing process, allowing for 1.4 billion transistors on a smaller 160mm² die compared to the previous generation. While raw CPU performance gains over the i7-2600K are modest (4% to 7%), the architecture features enhanced integrated HD Graphics 4000 with DirectX 11 support,...Read more

K
karyajurnalis.com
25/03/2026

The Intel Core i3-12100 is a budget-focused 12th Gen "Alder Lake" CPU featuring 4 high-performance "Golden Cove" cores, 8 threads, and a 12MB L3 cache that operates efficiently at 3.3 GHz to 4.3 GHz. Praised as a "budget gaming champion," it offers exceptional value by delivering performance close to higher-end models at a lower price point while remaining cool with a 60W base power...Read more

I
id.nl
10/02/2013

The late 2012 21.5-inch iMac features a significantly thinner, tapered aluminum design with a laminated display that reduces reflections by 75%, alongside a new, modern, and refined unibody construction. Performance is described as fast and responsive due to Ivy Bridge processors and dedicated NVIDIA graphics, though the slim profile required removing the optical drive. Pros include...Read more

H
hardware.info
11/04/2013

The Dell XPS One 27 (2710) is a premium All-in-One PC designed for multimedia, featuring a high-quality 27-inch IPS display with a 2560x1440 resolution that offers exceptional sharpness and color reproduction. The system boasts strong performance with an Intel Core i7-3770S processor and a 32GB mSATA SSD cache for responsiveness, though the NVIDIA GeForce GT 640M GPU is limited for...Read more

H
hardware.info
28/01/2013

The Dell OptiPlex 9010 All-in-One is a durable, enterprise-focused 23-inch desktop designed for business environments, featuring a highly adjustable dual-hinge stand for ergonomic touch interaction. Performance is strong for office tasks due to 3rd Gen Intel Core processors, although the system is hindered by weak integrated graphics and a high price point compared to competitors....Read more

H
hardware.info
09/08/2012

The Intel Core i5-3470 is a 22nm Ivy Bridge quad-core processor offering 3.2 GHz base and 3.6 GHz Turbo speeds, aimed at budget-conscious users as a cost-effective alternative to the i5-3570K. It delivers solid, efficient mainstream performance with a 77W TDP, providing slight performance gains over Sandy Bridge predecessors, though it lacks Hyper-Threading. Key disadvantages...Read more

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