Intel Core i3-3240
Intel Core i3-3240: Review and Relevance in 2025
Ivy Bridge Architecture for Budget Systems
Key Specifications: What Does the i3-3240 Offer?
The Intel Core i3-3240 processor, released in 2012, is based on the Ivy Bridge microarchitecture (the third generation of Core). This 22nm chip features two physical cores and supports Hyper-Threading, allowing it to handle up to four threads simultaneously. The base frequency is 3.4 GHz, with an L3 cache of 3 MB and a TDP of 55 W.
Key Features:
- Hyper-Threading: Increases performance in multi-threaded scenarios (e.g., working with office applications).
- Integrated Intel HD Graphics 2500: Supports basic video and simple games, but is insufficient for modern tasks.
- Energy Efficiency: Low thermal output allows for compact cooling systems.
Performance:
According to Geekbench 6 tests (2025):
- Single-thread score — 577 points — acceptable for basic tasks, but significantly lags behind modern budget CPUs (e.g., Celeron G5920 scores ~1200).
- Multi-thread score — 1186 points — a poor rating for multitasking.
Compatible Motherboards: What to Choose?
The processor uses the LGA1155 socket, which limits motherboard options to older models. Suitable chipsets include:
- H61, B75, H77, Z75, Z77 — all discontinued, but still occasionally available for sale as new (price: $60-100, e.g., ASUS P8B75-M).
Selection Features:
1. BIOS: Ensure the board supports Ivy Bridge (not all models on H61 work without a firmware update).
2. Ports: Many boards only have SATA II and USB 2.0, limiting SSD speeds.
3. PCIe Slots: Version 3.0 is only available on Z75/Z77 chipsets, but this is still inadequate for modern graphics cards (e.g., RTX 3050 requires PCIe 4.0).
Tip: If building a system from scratch in 2025, consider modern platforms — even budget LGA1700 or AM5 will offer better prospects.
Supported Memory: DDR3 and Its Limitations
The i3-3240 only works with DDR3-1333/1600 MHz. The maximum volume is theoretically 32 GB, but in practice, most boards support 16 GB.
Recommendations:
- Use a dual-channel configuration (2x4 GB or 2x8 GB) to boost performance.
- DDR3 will be hard to find in new condition by 2025. Prices for an 8 GB module are $25-35 (new, e.g., Kingston HyperX Fury).
Important: No support for DDR4/DDR5 — this is critical for modern games and applications that require high bandwidth.
Power Supply: How Much Wattage Do You Need?
With a TDP of 55W, the i3-3240 does not require a powerful PSU. However, when assembling a system with a discrete graphics card, consider its power requirements:
- Integrated Graphics: A 300-400W PSU is sufficient (for example, be quiet! System Power 10 400W — $45).
- Discrete Graphics Card: For a GTX 1650 (TDP 75W), a PSU of 450-500W is necessary (Corsair CX450 — $55).
Tip: Don’t skimp on the PSU — older models often degrade. Choose units with an 80+ Bronze certification.
Pros and Cons of the i3-3240 in 2025
Pros:
- Low Cost: A used processor can be found for $15-25.
- Energy Efficiency: Suitable for compact PCs or home servers.
- Compatibility with Windows 10/11: Works with current OS (with limitations).
Cons:
- Outdated Architecture: Lags in IPC by 40-50% compared to modern Core i3s.
- No NVMe or USB 3.1 Support: Limits peripheral speeds.
- Weak Multi-threading Potential: Struggles with rendering or streaming.
Use Cases: Where is the i3-3240 Still Relevant?
1. Office Tasks: Working with documents, browsers, Zoom.
2. Multimedia: Watching videos in 1080p (4K not supported).
3. Retro Gaming: Running games from the 2010s (e.g., Skyrim, GTA V on low settings).
4. Home Server: File storage or media center based on Linux.
Practical Example: A user built a PC using the i3-3240 + 8 GB DDR3 + 240 GB SSD for their parents — the system quickly launches the browser and office applications.
Comparison with Competitors
AMD Phenom II X4 965 (2010):
- Pros: 4 physical cores.
- Cons: Higher TDP (125 W), weaker in single-threaded tasks (Geekbench 6 Single Core ~350).
Modern Counterparts (2025):
- Intel Celeron G5920 (LGA1200): 2 cores, 4 threads, Geekbench 6 Single Core ~1200, priced at $50 (new).
- AMD Athlon 3000G (AM4): 2 cores, Vega 3 GPU, DDR4 support — a better choice for budget builds ($60).
Conclusion: The i3-3240 falls behind even new budget CPUs but has an advantage in price on the used market.
Practical Assembly Tips
1. Use an SSD: A SATA SSD (e.g., Kingston A400 480 GB — $35) will speed up system performance.
2. Check the BIOS: Update the motherboard firmware for stability.
3. Don't Overpay for Memory: DDR3 is more expensive than DDR4 due to scarcity — better to buy used.
4. Choose a Graphics Card: If gaming is needed, look for a GTX 1050 Ti (used, $80) — it doesn’t require additional power.
Important: Building with the i3-3240 is justified only if free/cheap components are available.
Final Conclusion: Who Is This Processor Suitable For?
The Intel Core i3-3240 in 2025 is a niche solution for:
- Upgrading Old PCs: If the motherboard and memory are already in place.
- Building Ultra-Budget Systems: When the budget is tight at $100-150.
- Retro Computer Enthusiasts: For experimenting with old hardware.
Why Not Use It for a New Build? Modern processors priced at $50-70 offer double the performance, support for DDR4, and NVMe.
If you're looking for a temporary solution or want to revive an old computer — the i3-3240 can still serve you. However, for future upgrades, plan to transition to modern platforms.