| Rating | Where to buy |
 | Amazon.com *Same or similar item |
Intel Core i3-3220 is a 3.3 GHz dual-core processor built with the new 22nm technology and LGA 1155 socket. It features 3MB smart cache and four threads for better performance. Its maximum TDP (Thermal Design Power) is 55 watts. It features Intel HD graphics 2500, which allows watching 3D movies via Blu-ray drive in full 1080p resolution saving you from buying a discrete graphics card. It supports up to 32 GB DDR3-1333/1600 RAM.
Design and Features
Though the i3 3220 has only two cores but having built with the newest technologies, it outperforms even some Core i7 and many Core i5 processors from earlier generations. It is very energy efficient when compared to its AMD counterpart. Its maximum TDP is 55 watts, as previously told. This doesn’t only ensure lower electricity consumption but also guarantees lower heat and quieter fan.
Performance
We tested Intel Core i3-3220 on Asus P8-H61 M LX motherboard. It is already an outdated motherboard but it supported up to 3rd generation Intel processors. To make the motherboard support Core i3 3220, we had to upgrade its BIOS. Most of the outdated motherboards for 2nd-gen Intel processors would support Core i3 3220. You just need to check the motherboard manufacturer’s site and see if it is supported. You may also have to upgrade your motherboard BIOS (which is simple and safe if carried out properly. It will hardly take five minutes but can save you from buying another motherboard.)
Our computer included 8GB DDR3 1333 RAM, Sapphire HD 7770 graphics card, and a 2 TB WD Hard Drive. We installed Windows 7 on one Hard Drive and Windows 8 on the other. The processor got 7.3 on Windows experience. We installed software such as Adobe CS5 and games such as NFS Rivals, Darksiders 2, Dead Space 3, Battlefield 3.
Intel Core i3-3220 processor ran all the games and software seamlessly. We got a frame rate of 60 fps or up even when the games were set at maximum details in full HD resolution. While gaming, we even ran Fraps in the background so to video record the gaming. Still, the framerate didn’t drop any lower than 45 fps. Core temperature didn’t rise above 55 degrees centigrade. And the fan was quiet the whole time.
| Pros | Cons |
| Core i3 3220 is an affordable processor that offers excellent performance and reliability. It is capable of running high-end games and software. Lower power consumption, quiet fan. Compatible with older motherboards. | N/A |
If you are thinking about building a custom gaming computer at an affordable price, or if you are just looking to upgrade your computer at lower cost but in the same time you do not want to compromise with the gaming or multitasking performance, then Intel Core i3-3220 should be the processor you buy. It fast enough, reliable, energy efficient and affordable. We highly recommend this processor. You might also want to read our post on Best CPUs in different price ranges.
Specifications
*Processor model: Intel Core i3-3220
*Core count: 2
*Clock speed: 3.3 GHz
*Intel smart cache: 3 MB
*Memory bandwidth: 25.6 GB/s
*Socket: LGA1155