Intel Core i3-4360
Intel Core i3-4360: Review and Relevance in 2025
Haswell architecture, 2 cores, 4 threads, and HD 4600 — is it worth considering this processor today?
1. Key Specifications: The Legacy of Haswell
The Intel Core i3-4360 processor, released in 2014, is based on the Haswell microarchitecture (4th generation Core). Despite its age, it remains relevant for basic tasks due to several features:
- 22 nm process technology: At the time of release, this was a cutting-edge standard, but today it lags behind modern 7-10 nm solutions.
- 2 cores / 4 threads: Hyper-Threading allows for more efficient task distribution, but the two physical cores limit multi-threaded performance.
- Integrated graphics HD 4600: Supports DirectX 11.1 and resolutions up to 4096x2304, which is sufficient for office monitors and less demanding games.
- TDP of 54 W: Low power consumption simplifies the choice of cooling systems and power supply.
- Geekbench 6 scores: 1128 (Single-Core) and 2033 (Multi-Core) — results are close to modern budget CPUs, like the Intel Celeron G6900 (around 1200/2400).
Key Features:
- Support for Intel Quick Sync Video technology (video encoding acceleration) and Virtualization.
- Ability to work with three monitors simultaneously via DisplayPort, HDMI, and DVI.
2. Compatible Motherboards: Searching the Secondary Market
The processor uses the LGA 1150 socket, which is no longer in production. Compatible chipsets include:
- H81/B85: Budget boards with basic functionality (USB 3.0, SATA III). Example: ASUS H81M-K ($50-70 in 2025, if any new units remain).
- H87/Z87: Boards with RAID support and additional ports. Z87 allows overclocking of CPUs with a "K" index, but the i3-4360 is not unlocked.
Selection Tips:
- Look for boards with HDMI/DisplayPort if planning to use integrated graphics.
- Check the condition of capacitors on used boards — age may affect reliability.
3. Supported Memory: Only DDR3
The i3-4360 works with DDR3-1333/1600 (up to 32 GB). DDR4 and DDR5 are not supported.
- Recommendations:
- Use dual-channel mode (2x4 GB or 2x8 GB) to enhance performance.
- Avoid memory with a voltage higher than 1.5 V — it could damage the controller.
Example: Kingston HyperX Fury 16 GB kit (2x8 GB) DDR3-1600 — about $45-55 (new modules are rare but still available).
4. Power Supply Units: Minimum Cost
With a TDP of 54 W and low energy demands, even a modest power supply rated at 300-400 W will be sufficient. However, if adding a discrete graphics card (e.g., GTX 1650), choose models rated at 450-500 W.
- Tips:
- EVGA 500 BR (80+ Bronze, $50) — a reliable option for a build with a GPU.
- For systems without a dedicated graphics card, the Be Quiet! System Power 10 350W ($40) is suitable.
5. Pros and Cons: Who is it Relevant For?
Pros:
- Low price (used — $30-50, new — rare).
- Energy efficiency.
- Integrated graphics for basic tasks.
Cons:
- Only 2 cores — weak multi-threaded performance.
- Outdated platform (no NVMe support, USB 3.1, Wi-Fi 6).
6. Usage Scenarios: Where is the Power Sufficient?
- Office Tasks: Document editing, browsing, Zoom — the processor handles these without lag.
- Multimedia: 4K video playback (via HDMI 1.4), streaming on YouTube in 1080p.
- Gaming: CS:GO, Dota 2, Minecraft on low settings (60 FPS). With a discrete graphics card (GTX 1050 Ti) — GTA V on medium settings.
Real Experience: A user on Reddit built a PC with the i3-4360 and GTX 1650 for a child — Roblox and Fortnite (720p) run smoothly.
7. Comparison with Competitors
- AMD Athlon X4 860K (2015): 4 cores without Hyper-Threading. Better for multi-threaded tasks but worse for single-threaded ones (Geekbench 6 Single-Core ~900).
- Intel Pentium Gold G6400 (2020): 2 cores/4 threads, but based on the Comet Lake architecture. Geekbench 6 ~1300/2500. Newer models are preferable but more expensive ($70-80).
Conclusion: The i3-4360 falls short compared to modern budget CPUs but wins on the second-hand market for price.
8. Practical Assembly Tips
- SSD is a Must: Kingston A400 240 GB ($25) will reduce boot times.
- Don't Overpay for a Motherboard: H81 is the optimal choice.
- Cooling: The stock cooler is sufficient, but for quieter operation, replace it with a Deepcool GAMMAXX 400 ($20).
9. Conclusion: Who is the i3-4360 Suitable For in 2025?
This processor is an option for:
- Budget Builds: If you need a PC for $150-200 (considering used components).
- Office Stations: For text, spreadsheet work, and video conferencing.
- Media Centers: Connecting to a TV for streaming video.
Why not to buy: If you plan to use demanding applications (Photoshop, video editing) or modern games. In such cases, it's better to choose 10th generation Intel processors or AMD Ryzen 3.
Final Assessment: The Intel Core i3-4360 is an outdated yet durable processor for specific scenarios. Its main strengths are price and minimalism. In 2025, it remains a niche solution, but for the right tasks, it is justified.