CPU Comparison
Core i7-3610QM vs Core i7-7820HK
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i7-3610QM is a high-performance mobile processor launched in April 2012. Based on the Ivy Bridge architecture, this 22nm quad-core CPU features Hyper-Threading, allowing it to process 8 threads simultaneously. It operates at a base frequency of 2.3 GHz and boosts up to 3.3 GHz, providing excellent multi-threaded performance for gaming and content creation. With a 45W TDP, it is designed for thicker, performance-oriented laptop chassis with robust cooling. The processor utilizes the Socket G2 (rPGA988B), meaning it is socketed and potentially upgradeable. It includes 6MB of L3 cache and supports dual-channel DDR3-1600 memory. The integrated Intel HD Graphics 4000 handles basic display outputs and media decoding. The i7-3610QM became the standard CPU for mid-range to high-end gaming laptops in 2012, offering a perfect balance of core count, clock speed, and thermal manageability for portable computing.
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- Solid quad-core multi-threading
- Socketed design allows upgrades
- Good base clock for mobile
- Supports VT-d for virtualization
Cons
- 45W TDP requires robust cooling
- Uses obsolete DDR3 memory
- Lacks official Windows 11 support
- HD 4000 graphics are weak for modern gaming
Pros
- Unlocked for overclocking
- Full 8MB L3 cache
- Good single-core performance for 2017
- Configurable TDP
Cons
- Only 4 cores
- Overclocking limited by laptop thermals
- Soldered to motherboard
- High power draw reduces battery life
Competitors & Alternatives
Core i7-3610QM
- AMD A10-4600MRival
High-Performance Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-2670QMRival
High-Performance Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-3720QMRival
High-Performance Mobile
- AMD A8-4500MRival
Mainstream Mobile
- Intel Core i7-3520MRival
Mainstream Mobile
Slightly faster refresh of the same chip.
Compare head-to-head- Intel Core i7-3612QMAlt
Lower 35W TDP version for thinner laptops.
Core i7-7820HK
- Intel Core i7-7820HQRival
High-Performance Mobile
- Intel Core i7-7920HQRival
High-Performance Mobile
- Intel Core i7-7700HQRival
High-Performance Mobile
- AMD FX-9830PRival
Mainstream Mobile
- Intel Core i7-6820HKRival
High-Performance Mobile
Next-gen 6-core mobile upgrade.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 7 3750HAlt
Newer alternative with similar performance.
Our Verdict on Each
A legendary mobile quad-core CPU that powered a generation of gaming laptops. Still capable for basic tasks, but shows its age in modern multi-threaded workloads.
Best for: Upgrading an old Socket G2 laptop for cheap
Read the full reviewA unique unlocked mobile CPU that allowed laptop overclocking, though thermal limits heavily restricted how far it could be pushed.
Best for: Buying a used extreme gaming laptop cheaply
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Do Core i7-3610QM and Core i7-7820HK use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Core i7-3610QM: Socket G2 (988B), Core i7-7820HK: Intel BGA 1440), so each needs a compatible motherboard.