Intel Core i5-3340M vs Intel Core 2 Extreme QX9300

Intel Core i5-3340M

The Intel Core i5-3340M is a fast dual-core processor for laptops based on the Ivy Bridge architecture. Due to Hyperthreading, the two cores can handle up to four threads in parallel leading to better utilization of the CPU. Each core offers a base speed of 2.7 GHz but can dynamically increase clock rates with Turbo Boost up to 3.2 GHz (for 2 active cores) and 3.4 GHz (for 1 active core). As its predecessor Core i5-3320M, it offers a 3 MB L3-Cache.

Ivy Bridge is an enhanced die shrink of the Sandy Bridge architecture with improvements on both GPU and CPU performance. The CPUs are produced in 22nm (versus 32nm Sandy Bridge CPUs) and are the first to introduce 3D transistors for increased energy efficiency when compared to similarly clocked Sandy Bridge processors. Other new features are integrated PCI Express 3.0 and  DDR3(L)-1600 support.

The performance of the Core i5-3340M is slightly above a similarly clocked Sandy Bridge processor due to slight architectural improvements. As a result, overall performance is above the old i7-2640M.

The integrated Intel HD Graphics 4000 offers 16 Execution Units (EUs) clocked at 650 MHz up to 1250 MHz with Turbo Boost, making it one of the faster variants.

Just like most other Ivy Bridge dual-cores, the i5-3340M is rated at a TDP of 35 W. Therefore, even smaller laptops can use the Core i5.

Intel Core 2 Extreme QX9300