CPU Comparison
Intel Core i7-3517UE vs Intel Core i7-8700T
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i7-3517UE is a specialized ultra-low voltage mobile processor launched in June 2012 as part of the Ivy Bridge family. The 'UE' suffix denotes its focus on embedded and ultra-thin systems, operating at a 17-watt TDP. Built on Intel's 22nm process, it features 2 cores and 4 threads. The processor runs at a base clock of 1.7 GHz and can boost up to 2.8 GHz. It includes 4MB of L3 cache and supports dual-channel DDR3 memory. A standout feature of the 3517UE is its support for ECC (Error-Correcting Code) memory, making it suitable for small-scale servers, industrial PCs, and critical embedded systems where data integrity is paramount. While its dual-core design limits multi-threaded performance, its combination of low power consumption, ECC support, and Intel HD Graphics 4000 makes it a versatile chip for specialized industrial applications rather than consumer laptops.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
Slow for modern office tasks but okay for basic embedded UI.
Handles heavy office workloads and multitasking smoothly.
Gaming
Not intended for gaming.
Good gaming performance when paired with a mid-range GPU.
Virtualization
Capable of running one light VM, but limited by 2 cores.
Excellent for running multiple light VMs.
Efficiency
17W TDP was efficient in 2012, but outdated now.
One of the most efficient hexa-core desktop chips of its era.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- No AI hardware
- No dedicated AI hardware
- CPU inference is decent due to 12 threads
Content Creation
Gaming
- Not intended for gaming
- HD 4000 is too weak for modern titles
- Best paired with GTX 1660 or RTX 3060 class GPUs
- Low base clock won't bottleneck as much due to high turbo
- Great for SFF gaming
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- ECC memory support
- 17W TDP for fanless designs
- VT-x and VT-d virtualization
- HD 4000 graphics
Cons
- Only 2 cores
- Very slow for modern tasks
- No Windows 11 support
- Soldered to motherboard
Pros
- Extremely low 35W TDP
- 6 cores and 12 threads
- High 4.0 GHz turbo boost
- Great for passive cooling
Cons
- Locked multiplier
- Lower base clock
- Hard to find retail
- 14nm process is outdated
Competitors & Alternatives
Intel Core i7-3517UE
- AMD Embedded G-T40NRival
Embedded
- Intel Core i7-2655LERival
Embedded
- Intel Core i5-3517UERival
Embedded
- AMD Embedded R-464LRival
Embedded
- Intel Atom E3827Rival
Embedded
- Intel Core i7-4600UEAlt
Successor with better performance and efficiency.
Modern embedded alternative with 6 cores.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen Embedded V1605BAlt
Modern embedded alternative with Vega graphics.
Quad-core alternative with ECC support.
Compare head-to-head- Intel Atom C3758Alt
Modern low-power embedded alternative.
Intel Core i7-8700T
- AMD Ryzen 5 2600ERival
Low Power Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-8670TRival
Low Power Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 7 2700ERival
Low Power Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-8500TRival
Low Power Desktop
- Intel Core i7-9700TRival
Low Power Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 5 5600GEAlt
Much newer and more efficient.
- Intel Core i5-10400TAlt
Similar performance, newer generation.
If you have the cooling for 65W, it's much faster.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 5 4600GAlt
Better integrated graphics and IPC.
Our Verdict on Each
A reliable 2012 embedded chip with ECC support, but too slow for modern consumer workloads.
Best for: If you are considering the Intel Core i7-3517UE, you are likely maintaining an older industrial PC or a specialized embedded system. This processor should not be sought for consumer use, as its dual-core design is severely outdated for modern multitasking and productivity workloads. It is only recommended if you need to keep a specific legacy system running that requires a direct replacement part with ECC memory support. Avoid using this CPU for general web browsing or modern office work, as its performance is too low and inefficient. It is best utilized in its original context: low-power, always-on embedded systems where stability is paramount. For any new industrial builds, modern embedded processors offer vastly superior performance, security, and power efficiency.
Read the full reviewAn outstanding 35W processor that doesn't compromise on core count, perfect for silent builds requiring strong multi-threaded capability.
Best for: Building a Small Form Factor (SFF) PC for silent operation.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Intel Core i7-3517UE or Intel Core i7-8700T?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Intel Core i7-8700T comes out ahead with a score of 8.2/10. That said, the best choice depends on your workload — check the spec and performance breakdown above for gaming, productivity and efficiency differences.
Which is faster for gaming, Intel Core i7-3517UE or Intel Core i7-8700T?
For gaming, the Intel Core i7-8700T leads with a gaming performance score of 65/100 among Intel Core i7-3517UE and Intel Core i7-8700T.
Which uses less power?
The Intel Core i7-3517UE has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Intel Core i7-3517UE (17 W), Intel Core i7-8700T (35 W).
Do Intel Core i7-3517UE and Intel Core i7-8700T use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Intel Core i7-3517UE: Intel BGA 1023, Intel Core i7-8700T: Intel Socket 1151), so each needs a compatible motherboard.
Which has more cores?
The Intel Core i7-8700T has the most cores. Core counts: Intel Core i7-3517UE (2 cores), Intel Core i7-8700T (6 cores).
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Intel Core i7-8700T posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Intel Core i7-8700T (13,500). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.