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Intel Core i3-7360X

Intel Core i3-7360X

Intel Core i3-7360X: Comprehensive Review for 2025

Architecture, Features, and Relevance in the Modern World

Key Specifications: Kaby Lake in Detail

The Intel Core i3-7360X processor, released in 2017, belongs to the Kaby Lake-X line. Despite its age, it remains an interesting specimen for enthusiasts.

Architecture and Technology Process

- Codename: Kaby Lake-X.

- Process Technology: 14 nm - an outdated standard for 2025, where 5–7 nm solutions dominate.

- Cores and Threads: 2 cores / 4 threads thanks to Hyper-Threading.

- Clock Speed: 4.3 GHz (without Turbo Boost).

- Cache: L3 - 4 MB.

- TDP: 112 W - abnormally high for a dual-core CPU.

Key Features

- Supports DDR4-2666 memory.

- Compatible with the LGA 2066 platform (X299 chipset) which was initially designed for HEDT systems.

- Unlocked multiplier for overclocking - a rare feature for an i3.

Performance

In single-threaded tasks, the i3-7360X shows decent performance due to its high base frequency. For example, in older games like CS:GO or Skyrim, it can deliver 120+ FPS. However, in multi-threaded scenarios (rendering, streaming), it significantly lags behind even budget processors from 2025.

Compatible Motherboards: Selection Nuances

Socket and Chipsets

The processor uses LGA 2066, which limits the selection of motherboards to chipset Intel X299. Examples of models:

- ASUS ROG Rampage VI Apex (price in 2025: $250–300, if you can find a new one).

- MSI X299 Gaming Pro Carbon AC ($200–250).

Features

- X299 motherboards support quad-channel memory, but the i3-7360X activates only 2 channels.

- For overclocking, a motherboard with a reliable VRM system is needed, such as the ASUS Prime X299-Deluxe.

- Many X299 motherboards are out of production by 2025, so new units are rare and often repurposed for collectors.

Supported Memory: DDR4 and Limitations

The i3-7360X works only with DDR4:

- Maximum Frequency: 2666 MHz (without overclocking).

- Capacity: Up to 128 GB (though this is excessive for a dual-core CPU).

Recommendations

- The optimal option is 2 modules of 8 GB DDR4-2666 to activate dual-channel mode.

- Popular kits: Corsair Vengeance LPX ($50–70 for 16 GB).

Power Supply: Power Calculation

With a TDP of 112 W, the processor requires serious cooling and a quality power supply unit (PSU).

Recommendations

- Power: PSU rated from 450 W (e.g., Corsair CX450M, $60).

- Load with Graphics Cards: For systems with GPU around the level of NVIDIA RTX 3050, choose a PSU rated at 550–600 W (EVGA 600 GD, $70).

Important!

Due to high thermal output, do not skimp on the PSU — cheap models may operate unstably under load.

Pros and Cons: Is it Worth Buying in 2025?

Advantages

- High single-threaded performance for older games and light tasks.

- Overclocking potential (a rarity for i3).

- Compatibility with powerful X299 motherboards supporting multi-core CPUs (upgrade without changing the motherboard).

Disadvantages

- Only 2 cores - multitasking is limited.

- TDP 112 W - unjustifiably high power consumption.

- Outdated platform: new processors for LGA 2066 are not being released.

Usage Scenarios: Where the i3-7360X is Still Relevant

1. Office PCs: Working with documents, browsers, Zoom.

2. Retro Gaming: Running games from the 2010s at high FPS.

3. Entry-Level Servers: For example, a home NAS based on X299 with the possibility of upgrading to Xeon.

4. Test Benches: For experimentation with overclocking.

Real Experience

A user from a Reddit forum built a media center on the i3-7360X with a GTX 1650 GPU. It handles 4K video, but simultaneous Twitch streaming caused lags due to a lack of cores.

Comparison with Competitors

1. AMD Ryzen 3 1200 (2017):

- 4 cores / 4 threads, TDP 65 W.

- Cheaper ($50–70 in 2025), but lower frequency (3.1–3.4 GHz).

2. Intel Core i3-12100F (2023):

- 4 cores / 8 threads, 12th generation.

- Price $100–120, supports DDR5.

Conclusion: In 2025, the i3-7360X falls behind even budget newcomers. Its only advantage is compatibility with X299 for enthusiasts.

Practical Assembly Tips

1. Cooling: A cooler with a TDP dissipation of at least 130 W (e.g., Noctua NH-U12S, $70).

2. Motherboard: Look for X299 with warranty or refurbished models.

3. Graphics Card: Do not install a GPU stronger than the RTX 3060 - the processor will become a bottleneck.

4. Storage: Use NVMe SSDs (e.g., Samsung 970 EVO Plus) to reduce CPU load.

Final Verdict: Who is the i3-7360X Suitable For?

This processor should be considered only in two cases:

1. Upgrading an Old X299 System: If you already have a motherboard and want a temporary solution before buying a Xeon or Core i9.

2. Enthusiasts and Collectors: For experimenting with overclocking or retro builds.

Alternative

For most users in 2025, it is more beneficial to buy a modern Intel Core i3-14100 ($150) or AMD Ryzen 5 7500F ($180), which offer more cores, DDR5 support, and PCIe 5.0.

The i3-7360X is a relic of the past, serving as a reminder of how quickly technology evolves. But even today, it can find its niche in the hands of a skilled enthusiast.

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Basic

Label Name
Intel
Platform
Desktop
Launch Date
October 2017
Model Name
?
The Intel processor number is just one of several factors - along with processor brand, system configurations, and system-level benchmarks - to be considered when choosing the right processor for your computing needs.
Core i3-7360X
Code Name
Kaby Lake
Generation
Core i3 (Kaby Lake)

CPU Specifications

Total Cores
?
Cores is a hardware term that describes the number of independent central processing units in a single computing component (die or chip).
2
Total Threads
?
Where applicable, Intel® Hyper-Threading Technology is only available on Performance-cores.
4
Basic Frequency
4.3 GHz
Max Turbo Frequency
?
Max Turbo Frequency is the maximum single-core frequency at which the processor is capable of operating using Intel® Turbo Boost Technology and, if present, Intel® Turbo Boost Max Technology 3.0 and Intel® Thermal Velocity Boost. Frequency is typically measured in gigahertz (GHz), or billion cycles per second.
N/A
L1 Cache
64 KB (per core)
L2 Cache
256 KB (per core)
L3 Cache
4 MB (shared)
Multiplier Unlocked
Yes
CPU Socket
?
The socket is the component that provides the mechanical and electrical connections between the processor and motherboard.
Intel Socket 2066
Bus Frequency
100 MHz
Multiplier
43.0x
Technology
?
Lithography refers to the semiconductor technology used to manufacture an integrated circuit, and is reported in nanometer (nm), indicative of the size of features built on the semiconductor.
14 nm
TDP
112 W
PCI Express Version
?
PCI Express Revision is the supported version of the PCI Express standard. Peripheral Component Interconnect Express (or PCIe) is a high-speed serial computer expansion bus standard for attaching hardware devices to a computer. The different PCI Express versions support different data rates.
Gen 3

Memory Specifications

Memory Type
?
Intel® processors come in four different types: Single Channel, Dual Channel, Triple Channel, and Flex Mode. Maximum supported memory speed may be lower when populating multiple DIMMs per channel on products that support multiple memory channels.
DDR4
Memory Channels
?
The number of memory channels refers to the bandwidth operation for real world application.
Quad-channel
ECC Memory
No

GPU Specifications

Integrated Graphics Model
?
An integrated GPU refers to the graphics core that is integrated into the CPU processor. Leveraging the processor's powerful computational capabilities and intelligent power efficiency management, it delivers outstanding graphics performance and a smooth application experience at a lower power consumption.
N/A