Name: Intel Core i7 3840QM
Brand: Intel

Technical Specifications of processor Intel Core i7 3840QM

Overall score

5.0

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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.

Platform

6.9

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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

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

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

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

Performance

4.7

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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+

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+

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

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

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

Cache & Architecture

4.2

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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

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

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

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

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

Memory & PCIe

3.5

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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

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

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

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

Integrated Graphics

6.7

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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

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

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

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

Power & Thermal

5.6

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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

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

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

Intel Core i7 3840QM vs the average processor

Why is Intel Core i7 3840QM better than the average processor?

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5 °C higher TJ Max
Intel Core i7 3840QM 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 3840QM 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
76.7% more popular
Intel Core i7 3840QM is more popular than the average processor (1.77 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 3840QM is more popular than the average processor (1.77 vs 1,000).1.77 vs 1
7.14x cheaper
Intel Core i7 3840QM is cheaper than the average processor (£35 vs £250).
Intel Core i7 3840QM is cheaper than the average processor (£35 vs £250).£35 vs £250
16.7% more L3 per core
Intel Core i7 3840QM 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 3840QM 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 3840QM 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 3840QM 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
16.7% more L3 per core
Intel Core i7 3840QM 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.
85.7% higher GPU clock speed
Intel Core i7 3840QM 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.
5 °C higher TJ Max
Intel Core i7 3840QM has a higher TJ Max than the average processor (105 °C vs 100 °C). The average processor has a TJ Max of 100 °C.

Why is Intel Core i7 3840QM worse than the average processor?

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8 year/s older release date
Intel Core i7 3840QM has an older release date than the average processor (2012 vs 2020).
September 2,012
Narrower instruction support
Intel Core i7 3840QM 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 3840QM does not include crypto acceleration, the average processor does.
57.9% lower single-core score
Intel Core i7 3840QM has a lower Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (620 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.
23% weaker single-core performance
Intel Core i7 3840QM has a lower PassMark single-core score than the average processor (1,911 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.
11.6% lower boost clock
Intel Core i7 3840QM has a lower boost clock speed than the average processor (3.8 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.
2 fewer CPU cores
Intel Core i7 3840QM has fewer CPU cores than the average processor (4 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.
44.6% lower PassMark score
Intel Core i7 3840QM has a lower PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (5,838 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.
37.5% lower bus transfer rate
Intel Core i7 3840QM 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 3840QM 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 3840QM 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 3840QM 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 3840QM 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 3840QM uses a less advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Ivy Bridge vs Kaby Lake).
33.3% smaller L1 cache
Intel Core i7 3840QM 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 3840QM 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 3840QM uses a less advanced foundry process than the average processor (Intel 22 nm vs Intel 14 nm).
Older DDR support
Intel Core i7 3840QM supports an older DDR generation than the average processor (DDR3 vs DDR4).
44.1% lower memory bandwidth
Intel Core i7 3840QM 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 3840QM 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 3840QM 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 3840QM 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 3840QM uses an inferior integrated GPU to the average processor (Intel HD Graphics 4,000 vs Intel UHD Graphics 630).
No configurable TDP
Intel Core i7 3840QM does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does.
5 °C higher CPU temperature
Intel Core i7 3840QM 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.
57.9% lower single-core score
Intel Core i7 3840QM has a lower Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (620 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 3840QM has a lower Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (620 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.620 vs 1,471
83.3% larger process node
Intel Core i7 3840QM 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 3840QM 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
23% weaker single-core performance
Intel Core i7 3840QM has a lower PassMark single-core score than the average processor (1,911 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 3840QM has a lower PassMark single-core score than the average processor (1,911 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.1,911 vs 2,483
11.6% lower boost clock
Intel Core i7 3840QM has a lower boost clock speed than the average processor (3.8 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 i7 3840QM has a lower boost clock speed than the average processor (3.8 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.3.8 GHz vs 4.3 GHz
2 fewer CPU cores
Intel Core i7 3840QM 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 3840QM has fewer CPU cores than the average processor (4 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.4 vs 6
Older DDR support
Intel Core i7 3840QM 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 3840QM supports an older DDR generation than the average processor (DDR3 vs DDR4).DDR3 vs DDR4
44.1% lower memory bandwidth
Intel Core i7 3840QM 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 3840QM 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
45.4% lower memory speed
Intel Core i7 3840QM 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.
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
Intel Core i7 3840QM 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.1,600 MHz vs 2,933 MHz

Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

5 Reviews

1 Reviews

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

What customers like about Intel Core i7 3840QM?

High multitasking performance due to 4 physical cores and 8 threads via Hyper-threading
Capable of handling demanding applications and modern operating systems like Windows 11
Significant performance boost over standard dual-core or lower-tier quad-core Ivy Bridge mobile CPUs
Considered one of the 'best value' high-end upgrade options for compatible older laptops like the ThinkPad T430
Reliable desktop-like performance in a mobile form factor for its generation
Includes 8MB of L3 cache which aids in faster data processing for media and professional workloads

What customers dislike about Intel Core i7 3840QM?

High power consumption (45W TDP) leads to shorter battery life compared to 35W alternatives
Prone to high operating temperatures (reaching 90°C+) in laptops with inadequate or non-modded cooling systems
Locked multiplier prevents easy overclocking for enthusiasts seeking extra performance
Integrated graphics (Intel HD 4000) are outdated and not suitable for modern gaming or heavy GPU tasks
Significant cost-to-performance gap when compared to newer, more efficient CPU generations
May require thermal management modifications (like beefier heatsinks or copper tape mods) to prevent thermal throttling

Expert reviews

openbenchmarking.org

Q2 2013

Intel Core I7-3840QM Benchmarks, Linux Performance

The Intel Core i7-3840QM is a 22nm Ivy Bridge quad-core mobile processor, featuring 4 cores, 8 threads, a 2.8 GHz base clock, and a 3.8 GHz boost. Key advantages include its 8 MB L3 cache, support for AES/AVX instructions, and integrated Intel HD Graphics 4000, serving as a capable "workhorse" for legacy laptops. However, the 45W TDP requires substantial cooling, limiting its use to...Read more

browser.geekbench.com

01/09/2012

Intel Core i7-3840QM Benchmarks - Geekbench Browser

The Intel Core i7-3840QM is a high-performance quad-core mobile processor from the Ivy Bridge generation, launched in late 2012 with a 2.8 GHz base clock and 3.8 GHz Turbo boost. Built on a 22nm process, it features 8 MB of L3 cache and supports Hyper-Threading, handling eight threads for improved multitasking, suited for larger 15-inch or greater laptops due to its 45W TDP. Key...Read more

cpubenchmark.net

Q3 2012

Intel Core i7-3840QM @ 2.80GHz - CPU Benchmarks

The Intel Core i7-3840QM is a 22nm Ivy Bridge quad-core mobile processor, featuring a 2.8 GHz base clock, 3.8 GHz turbo, and 8 MB L3 cache, providing strong, high-end, multi-threaded performance for 2012-era laptops. Key pros include high clock speeds and integrated Intel HD Graphics 4000, allowing for solid productivity, media editing, and 3D rendering capabilites within a 45W TDP....Read more

cpu.userbenchmark.com

01/07/2013

Intel Core i7-3840QM - CPU UserBenchmarks

The Intel Core i7-3840QM is a high-performance quad-core mobile processor from late 2012 based on the Ivy Bridge architecture, featuring a 2.8 GHz base clock and 3.8 GHz Turbo boost. It boasts 4 physical cores and 8 threads, backed by an 8 MB L3 cache and integrated Intel HD Graphics 4000, making it robust for older, demanding applications. Key advantages include strong...Read more

notebookcheck.com

30/09/2012

Review: Intel Ivy Bridge Quad-Core Refresh

The Notebookcheck review of the Intel Ivy Bridge Quad-Core (3rd Generation Core) highlights a transition to 22nm 3D Tri-Gate technology, focusing on a 5-15% performance increase and roughly 30 watts lower power consumption compared to Sandy Bridge. Key advantages include superior energy efficiency, native USB 3.0/PCIe 3.0 support, and improved thermal management in laptops. The...Read more

notebookcheck.nl

26/04/2013

Intel Core i7-3840QM Laptop Processor Review

The Intel Core i7-3840QM is a high-end, 22nm Ivy Bridge quad-core processor designed for large 15-inch or bigger laptops, featuring 3D transistors for improved efficiency. Operating at a base of 2.8 GHz with Turbo Boost up to 3.8 GHz, this processor supports Hyper-Threading, PCIe 3.0, and 8 MB of L3 cache, positioning it as a powerful, slightly faster successor to the i7-3820QM. It...Read more

dubbelgaaf.nl

30/03/2026

Lenovo ThinkPad W530 Product Specifications with Intel Core i7-3840QM

The Lenovo ThinkPad W530, featured on Dubbelgaaf, is a durable, MIL-SPEC tested 15.6-inch mobile workstation designed for high-performance computing, featuring 3rd Gen Intel Core i7 processors and NVIDIA Quadro graphics. Key advantages include an industry-leading keyboard, efficient thermal management, versatile connectivity, and an optional 95% Adobe RGB color gamut screen for...Read more

Intel Core i7 3840QM Review | 78 Data compared

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Verdict

Technical Specifications of processor Intel Core i7 3840QM

Intel Core i7 3840QM vs the average processor

Why is Intel Core i7 3840QM better than the average processor?

Why is Intel Core i7 3840QM worse than the average processor?

Graphic comparison of Intel Core i7 3840QM and other processors

Third-party reviews

What customers like about Intel Core i7 3840QM?

What customers dislike about Intel Core i7 3840QM?

Expert reviews

Best alternatives

Compare Intel Core i7 3840QM with other processors