Intel Core i3-8121U
Intel Core i3-8121U: Overview and Relevance in 2025
Who is this processor suitable for, and is it worth considering today?
Introduction
The Intel Core i3-8121U processor, released in 2018 under the codename Cannon Lake, was one of Intel's first chips produced using a 10 nm manufacturing process. However, due to production issues and limited distribution, it remained relatively unknown. By 2025, laptops featuring this CPU can be found in the budget segment (new devices cost between $500 and $700). Let's explore its capabilities today and who would benefit from it.
Architecture and Manufacturing Process
Cannon Lake: The First Step to 10 nm
The i3-8121U processor is part of the Cannon Lake family, which was expected to be revolutionary due to the transition to 10 nm technology (in comparison, AMD competitors in 2018 were using 12–14 nm). However, due to challenges in mastering the new manufacturing process, Intel released a limited batch, focusing on hybrid solutions (Ice Lake, Tiger Lake).
- Cores and Threads: 2 cores, 4 threads (Hyper-Threading).
- Frequencies: Base frequency — 2.2 GHz, turbo mode — up to 3.2 GHz.
- Cache: 4 MB L3.
- Integrated Graphics: Absent. This is a unique feature — most Intel U-series mobile CPUs come with integrated GPUs (for example, UHD Graphics), but this one requires a discrete graphics card.
Technology Support:
- AVX-512 — useful for specialized tasks (encryption, AI).
- DDR4-2400, LPDDR4X-2400 (up to 32 GB).
Power Consumption and TDP
TDP 15 W: A typical figure for ultrabooks. However, actual power consumption depends on the workload:
- In idle mode: ~3–5 W.
- Under maximum load (rendering, gaming): up to 25 W.
Heat Dissipation: Due to the early 10 nm process, cooling efficiency is lower than that of later generations (e.g., Ice Lake). The turbo mode works for a brief period (20–30 seconds), after which the frequency drops to 2.6–2.8 GHz to prevent overheating.
Performance in Real Tasks
Office Work and Multimedia
- Geekbench 6: 1065 (single-core), 2250 (multi-core).
- Examples:
- Chrome with 15 tabs + Zoom + Word: Latency is minimal, but launching heavy applications simultaneously may cause stutters.
- 4K video: Playback via VLC or YouTube works smoothly (depends on discrete graphics).
Gaming
Without built-in GPU, gaming is only possible with an external graphics card (for example, NVIDIA MX150 in some laptop models). Results (at low settings):
- CS:GO: 40–50 FPS.
- Fortnite: 30–35 FPS.
- Modern AAA titles (2025): Not recommended.
Turbo Mode: Pros and Cons
The brief boost to 3.2 GHz helps with "bursty" tasks (opening large files, launching applications), but for sustained workloads (video editing), the processor falls behind even budget Ryzen 3 7300U (4 cores/8 threads).
Use Scenarios
Who is the i3-8121U relevant for in 2025?
1. Office Workers and Students: Document work, web surfing, online courses.
2. Users of "Light" Systems: Linux distributions (e.g., Ubuntu), office suites.
3. Budget Multimedia Devices: Video watching, streaming.
Who it may not be suitable for:
- Gamers: A discrete graphics card is needed, which is often not included in ultrabooks.
- Designers and Editors: 2 cores are insufficient for rendering in Blender or Premiere Pro.
Battery Life
Battery Operating Time:
- Under load (watching YouTube): 4–5 hours.
- In reading/office mode: 6–7 hours.
Power Saving Technologies:
- Intel Speed Shift: Dynamic frequency management.
- C-states: Disabling unused cores.
Issue: The absence of an iGPU increases dependence on discrete graphics, which reduces battery life. For example, a laptop with an NVIDIA MX150 would operate 1–2 hours less than counterparts with integrated GPUs.
Comparison with Competitors
AMD Ryzen 3 4300U (2020)
- 4 cores/4 threads, 15 W, 7 nm.
- Geekbench 6: 1150 (single-core), 2800 (multi-core).
- Integrated Vega 5 graphics: Can handle light gaming without a discrete card.
- Laptop price range: $550–750.
Conclusion: The Ryzen 3 4300U performs better in multitasking and graphics.
Apple M1 (2020)
- 4+4 cores, 5 nm.
- Geekbench 6: 2300 (single-core), 7500 (multi-core).
- Battery Life: Up to 15 hours.
- Price: Laptops starting from $800 (new models in 2025 are already on M3/M4, but M1 is still available).
Conclusion: The i3-8121U falls short in all areas except price.
Pros and Cons
Strengths:
- Support for AVX-512 for niche tasks.
- Compatibility with Windows 10/11 and Linux.
- Low price of laptops ($500–700).
Weaknesses:
- Only 2 cores.
- No integrated graphics.
- Outdated architecture (2025).
Recommendations for Choosing a Laptop
1. Type of Device: Ultrabook with a 13–14 inch display (e.g., Lenovo IdeaPad 3).
2. Required Components:
- SSD 256+ GB (NVMe preferred).
- 8+ GB RAM.
- Full HD display (IPS panel).
3. Additionally: Check for at least basic discrete graphics (MX150, Radeon 610M).
Examples of 2025 models:
- Acer Aspire 5 (i3-8121U, 8 GB, MX150): $600–650.
- HP 15s-fq2000 (i3-8121U, 8 GB, no dGPU): $520.
Final Conclusion
The Intel Core i3-8121U in 2025 is a choice for those looking for the cheapest new laptop for basic tasks. Its advantages are a low price and support for modern operating systems, while its disadvantages are weak multitasking and reliance on discrete graphics.
Who it is suitable for:
- Students for studying.
- Office workers.
- Users who need a second laptop for simple tasks.
Alternatives: If the budget allows for over $700, it is better to choose a laptop with Ryzen 5 7500U or Intel Core i5-1235U — they will provide a performance reserve for the future.
Conclusion: Cannon Lake remains an interesting technological experiment, but in 2025, the i3-8121U is only relevant in the budget segment. It is worth considering if price is the primary criterion and performance requirements are minimal.