Intel Core i3-4170
Intel Core i3-4170: Review of an Outdated but Resilient Processor for Budget PCs (April 2025)
Key Features: Haswell Architecture and Modest Performance
The Intel Core i3-4170, released in 2014, is based on the Haswell microarchitecture (4th generation Core). Despite its age, it maintains niche popularity due to its low cost and sufficient performance for basic tasks. Here are its key specifications:
- Manufacturing Process: 22 nm (old standard—modern processors use 5–7 nm);
- Cores/Threads: 2 cores, 4 threads (Hyper-Threading);
- Frequency: 3.7 GHz (without Turbo Boost);
- Cache: 3 MB L3;
- TDP: 54 W;
- Integrated Graphics: Intel HD Graphics 4400 (not listed in user specifications—possibly an error);
- Geekbench 6: 1001 (single-core), 1938 (multi-core).
Key Features of Haswell:
- Support for AVX2 instructions, which speeds up certain calculations;
- Energy efficiency for its time;
- Built-in DDR3 controller.
However, by 2025, the Haswell architecture appears outdated. For instance, even budget processors like the Intel Core i3-13100 (13th generation) show 2–3 times higher results in Geekbench 6 at a similar price ($120–150).
Compatible Motherboards: Hunting for Rarities
The processor uses the LGA 1150 socket, which is no longer in production. Compatible chipsets include:
- H81, B85 — basic models without overclocking;
- H87, H97, Z87, Z97 — extended features (RAID, more SATA/USB 3.0 ports).
Selection Considerations in 2025:
- New motherboards are no longer being made. Prices for remaining stock: $40–80 (e.g., ASUS H81M-K is $45);
- Check the condition of capacitors and the socket when buying used;
- Look for models with HDMI/DVI if using integrated graphics;
- M.2 NVMe support is absent, but SSDs can be installed via SATA III (6 Gbps).
Tip: If building a PC from scratch, it’s better to choose a modern platform (LGA 1700 or AM5). LGA 1150 is only justified if you have the processor for free or at a very low cost.
Memory: DDR3 as a Limitation
The Core i3-4170 supports DDR3-1333/1600 in dual-channel mode. Recommendations:
- Minimum 8 GB (2×4 GB) — for Windows 10/11 and browsing;
- Maximum capacity: 32 GB (depends on the motherboard);
- Cost of new DDR3: $25–40 for 8 GB (but in 2025, it can be hard to find in stores).
Problem: DDR3 is slower than DDR4/DDR5 and consumes more power. This will be a bottleneck for gaming or video editing.
Power Supply: Modest Requirements
With a TDP of 54 W, the processor does not require a powerful PSU. Recommendations:
- Without a discrete graphics card: 300–400 W (e.g., be quiet! Pure Power 11 400W — $60);
- With a GTX 1650-level graphics card: 450–500 W (Corsair CX550 — $70).
Important: Older PSUs with a 4-pin CPU connector may not be compatible with some LGA 1150 motherboards (an 8-pin is required). Check compatibility!
Pros and Cons: Who is the i3-4170 for?
Pros:
- Low price: $10–30 on the secondary market;
- Energy efficiency (suitable for low-power builds);
- Sufficient for office tasks and HD video.
Cons:
- Only 2 cores — multitasking is limited;
- No support for DDR4, PCIe 4.0, USB 3.2;
- Obsolete platform with no upgrade path.
Real Experience: A Reddit user built a PC on the i3-4170 in 2024 for their parents. The system with an SSD and 8 GB DDR3 runs Windows 11, a browser with 10 tabs, and office applications without lag. However, trying to run Chrome + Zoom + antivirus caused some stuttering.
Use Cases: Where is the Power Sufficient?
1. Office and Study: Document work, email, video conferencing (but no more than 2–3 apps concurrently).
2. Multimedia: Viewing Full HD video, streaming (Netflix, YouTube).
3. Retro Gaming: Skyrim, GTA V on low settings (30–40 FPS with a GTX 1050 Ti-level graphics card).
4. Home Server: NAS or media center based on Linux.
2025 Games? Not realistic. For example, even "Cyberpunk 2077" on the lowest settings requires at least 4 cores.
Competitors: Comparison with Alternatives
- AMD Athlon 3000G (Zen, 2 cores/4 threads): Newer (2019), supports DDR4 and Vega graphics. On the secondary market — $35–50. The best choice for a budget build.
- Intel Pentium Gold G7400 (Alder Lake, 2 cores/4 threads): A new processor ($75) with DDR4 and UHD 710. Twice as fast in single-threaded tasks.
- Used Intel Core i5-4570: 4 cores without Hyper-Threading, but 40% better multi-threaded performance (price: $25–40).
Conclusion: The i3-4170 lags behind even budget modern CPUs but could be beneficial if obtained for free.
Building Tips: How to Avoid Problems
1. SSD is essential: Kingston A400 240 GB ($25) will reduce system boot time.
2. Cooling: The stock cooler is sufficient, but replace the thermal paste (Arctic MX-4 — $6).
3. Graphics Card: If gaming is required, add a GTX 1650 (used — $80) or RX 6400 (new — $130).
4. Check BIOS: Update the motherboard firmware for Windows 11 compatibility (if needed).
5. Don’t overpay: The entire build (without a graphics card) should not exceed $100–150.
Summary: Who is this Processor for?
The Intel Core i3-4170 in 2025 is suitable for:
- Enthusiasts looking to assemble PCs from spare parts;
- Owners of old systems needing to revive a computer for basic tasks;
- Budget projects: digital signage, terminals, simple servers.
Why you shouldn’t get it? If you plan to use modern applications, game, or multitask, it’s better to spend an extra $50–100 for a new Ryzen 3 or Core i3 from the 12th generation. However, as a temporary solution or a nostalgic build element, the i3-4170 can still serve.