Intel Pentium G2130

Intel Pentium G2130: Budget Processor for Basic Tasks in 2025
April 2025
1. Key Specifications: Architecture and Performance
The Intel Pentium G2130, released in 2013, belongs to the Ivy Bridge generation (codename - Ivi Bridge). This is a dual-core CPU without Hyper-Threading support (2 cores / 2 threads), built on a 22nm process. Its base clock speed is 3.2 GHz, and it has a TDP of 55W.
Key Features:
- High single-threaded performance for its time (Geekbench 6 Single Core: 548).
- Energy efficiency: 55W TDP makes it suitable for compact systems.
- Integrated graphics Intel HD Graphics 2500 (basic video support and simple tasks).
Limitations:
- No Turbo Boost and no support for AVX2.
- No unlocked multiplier for overclocking.
2. Compatible Motherboards
The Pentium G2130 uses the LGA 1155 socket. Compatible chipsets include:
- H61, B75, H77, Z75, Z77 (for example, ASUS P8B75-M, Gigabyte GA-H77-DS3H).
Considerations in 2025:
- Most compatible boards are used, as new models have long been discontinued.
- Prices for new ones (if any remain available) range from $50-$80.
- Check for DDR3 support and availability of SATA III for SSDs.
3. Supported Memory
The processor works with DDR3-1333/1600 MHz.
- Maximum capacity: 32GB (depends on the motherboard).
- DDR4/DDR5 is not supported.
Sample Configuration:
2x4GB DDR3-1600 (cost in 2025 - $25-$35 for a used set, new modules are nearly unavailable).
4. Power Supply Recommendations
With a TDP of 55W and no discrete graphics card, a 300-400W PSU will suffice (for example, be quiet! System Power 10 400W, $45).
Scenarios with Graphics Card:
- For a GPU like NVIDIA GTX 1650 (TDP 75W), choose a PSU in the 450-500W range (Corsair CX550, $60).
5. Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Low price: used processor costs $15-$25.
- Energy efficiency.
- Reliability for basic tasks.
Cons:
- Outdated platform (LGA 1155).
- No support for modern standards (PCIe 3.0, USB 3.1).
- Weak iGPU: not suitable for gaming or rendering.
6. Use Cases
Office Tasks:
- Working with documents, browsers (up to 10 tabs), Zoom.
Multimedia:
- Streaming video in 1080p (but 4K will be laggy without hardware decoding).
Gaming:
- Older games: CS:GO on low settings (~40-50 FPS), Minecraft.
- Emulators up to PS2 (PCSX2 with Speedhacks settings).
Practical Example:
A user built a PC with G2130 + 8GB DDR3 + 240GB SSD for a home theater. The system handles streaming video and light applications.
7. Comparison with Competitors
AMD A8-5600K (2012):
- Pros: Better graphics (Radeon HD 7560D).
- Cons: Higher TDP (100W), weaker in single-threaded tests (Geekbench 6 Single Core: ~400).
Intel Celeron G5920 (2020):
- Pros: Supports DDR4, PCIe 3.0.
- Cons: Price ($50-$60 for new), similar performance in single-threaded tasks.
Conclusion: The G2130 wins in the budget segment for tasks where single-threaded speed is essential.
8. Assembly Tips
- SSD is a must: Kingston A400 240GB ($30) will speed up the system.
- Graphics Card: If gaming is needed, add a used GTX 1050 Ti ($50-$70).
- Cooling: The standard cooler is sufficient, but for quiet operation, consider Arctic Alpine 11 ($15).
- BIOS: Update the motherboard firmware for compatibility.
Warning: Avoid investing in an expensive graphics card — the processor will become a "bottleneck."
9. Final Conclusion: Who Is the G2130 Suitable For?
This processor is relevant for:
- Budget Builds: If you want to build a PC for $100-$150.
- Office PCs: For text work, spreadsheets, and video calls.
- Retro Enthusiasts: Building systems on older platforms.
Why in 2025?
The G2130 is a compromise between price and performance for low-demand tasks. However, it is not suitable for modern gaming, video editing, or AI work.
Alternative: If the budget allows, consider the Intel Pentium Gold G7400 ($70) — support for DDR4, PCIe 5.0, and better performance.
This article is relevant as of April 2025. Prices are indicated for new components, if they are available on the market.
Basic
CPU Specifications
Memory Specifications
GPU Specifications
Miscellaneous
Benchmarks
Compared to Other CPU
Share in social media
Or Link To Us
<a href="https://cputronic.com/index.php/cpu/intel-pentium-g2130" target="_blank">Intel Pentium G2130</a>