Intel Celeron N3350
Intel Celeron N3350: A Budget Processor for Basic Tasks — 2025 Overview
Introduction
In an era when even budget laptops are equipped with Intel Core i3 or AMD Ryzen 3 processors, the Intel Celeron N3350 remains a niche solution. Released back in 2016, this chip is still found in ultra-budget devices priced between $200 and $300. But who would it suit in 2025? Let's delve into the details.
Architecture and Process Technology: Apollo Lake on 14 nm
Cores, Threads, and Frequencies
The Celeron N3350 is based on the Goldmont microarchitecture (code-named Apollo Lake) with a 14 nm process technology. It is a dual-core processor without hyper-threading support — providing just 2 threads. The base frequency is 1.1 GHz, and in Turbo Boost 2.0 mode, it can boost to 2.4 GHz for a single core. However, due to passive cooling in most laptops, the turbo mode does not last long.
Integrated Graphics
The chip features Intel HD Graphics 500 with 12 execution units (EUs) and a frequency up to 650 MHz. This solution is adequate for basic tasks: it can decode 4K video through VP9 and H.265, but not much beyond that. For gaming, it is only suitable for browser-based games or classics like Half-Life 2 at low settings.
Power Consumption and TDP: 6W for Compact Devices
The processor’s TDP is 6W, making it suitable for thin laptops without active cooling. This is a key advantage of the N3350: it hardly heats up and does not require a large heatsink. However, the low power consumption comes at the cost of modest performance.
Energy-Saving Technologies
- Intel Speed Shift: Automatically adjusts frequency for quick transitions between power-saving states.
- C-states: Deep sleep for the cores during idle periods.
- Dynamic Tuning: Adaptive power management based on load.
Performance: Minimum for Survival
Office Work and Multimedia
- Office Applications: Microsoft Office, Google Docs — operate without lag, but with 3-5 browser tabs open, the system may start to stutter.
- Video: Streaming 1080p (YouTube, Netflix) and local playback of 4K (via hardware decoding) — works fine.
- Photo Editors: Only basic operations in Canva or GIMP. Photoshop CC 2025 will be painfully slow.
Gaming
- Minecraft (minimum settings, 720p) — 25-30 FPS.
- CS:GO (720p, low settings) — around 20 FPS.
- Modern games like Fortnite or Apex Legends — will not run.
Turbo Mode: An Illusion of Power
The maximum frequency of 2.4 GHz is activated only under load on a single core (for example, when launching a browser). In multi-threaded scenarios (e.g., unpacking an archive), the frequency drops to 1.6-1.8 GHz due to TDP limitations.
Use Cases: Who is the N3350 Suitable for in 2025?
1. Students — for lectures, text work, and Zoom.
2. Seniors — surfing the web, online banking, photo viewing.
3. Temporary Device — as a spare laptop for travel.
4. Specialized Tasks — terminals for POS systems, digital photo frames.
Who It’s Not Suitable For:
- Gamers.
- Designers, programmers, video editors.
- Users working with "heavy" web applications (Figma, Miro).
Battery Life: Up to 10 Hours — Reality or Myth?
In laptops with the N3350 and a 40-45 Wh battery (like the ASUS VivoBook L203MA), the working time can reach 8-10 hours with:
- Screen brightness at 50%.
- Working in Chrome with 2-3 tabs open.
- LTE/5G module turned off.
However, with active use (video calls, multitasking), battery life drops to 4-5 hours.
Comparison with Competitors
1. AMD A6-9220e (2 cores/2 threads, 1.6–2.4 GHz, TDP 6W):
- Better graphics (Radeon R4), but similar CPU performance.
- Often found in devices costing $250.
2. Intel Pentium Silver N6000 (4 cores/4 threads, 1.1–3.3 GHz, TDP 6W):
- 30-50% faster in multitasking.
- Laptops with this chip start at $350.
3. Apple M1 (in used MacBook Air):
- 5-7 times higher performance, but prices start at $500.
Conclusion: The N3350 falls behind even modern budget chips but wins on price.
Pros and Cons
Strengths:
- Record low price of laptops ($200-$300).
- Silent operation (passive cooling).
- Supports 4K video via HDMI 2.0.
Weaknesses:
- No upgrade options: RAM and SSD are often soldered to the board.
- Slow eMMC storage in basic models.
- No support for Wi-Fi 6 and Thunderbolt.
Laptop Selection Recommendations
1. Type of Device: Ultrabook or convertible with a screen size of 11-14 inches (e.g., Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 11).
2. RAM Size: At least 4 GB, but 8 GB is better for Windows 11.
3. Storage: Avoid eMMC — choose models with at least 128 GB SSD.
4. Display: Full HD (1920x1080) is preferable over HD (1366x768).
5. Ports: USB-C with Power Delivery support simplifies charging.
Examples of Models for 2025:
- HP Stream 11 Pro: $229, 4 GB RAM, 128 GB eMMC, 11.6" HD.
- Acer Chromebook Spin 311: $279, 8 GB RAM, 64 GB SSD, Chrome OS.
Final Verdict
The Intel Celeron N3350 is a processor for those seeking the cheapest device for basic tasks. It is suitable for:
- Document work and browsing.
- As a secondary laptop for travel.
- For teaching children or the elderly.
Key Benefits:
- Cost under $300.
- Compact and quiet operation.
- Sufficient battery life for undemanding users.
However, if your budget allows for $400-$500, it’s better to choose a laptop with Intel Pentium Silver or AMD Ryzen 3 — their performance will last for the next 3-4 years.