CPU Comparison
Core i7-3612QM vs Core i7-3615QM
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i7-3612QM is a high-performance mobile processor launched in April 2012 as part of the Ivy Bridge lineup. This 22nm quad-core CPU features Hyper-Threading, allowing it to process 8 threads concurrently. It operates at a base frequency of 2.1 GHz and boosts up to 3.1 GHz. The key differentiator of this SKU is its 35W TDP, significantly lower than the standard 45W found on the i7-3610QM, making it ideal for thinner gaming laptops and portable workstations. The processor is available in both Socket G2 (rPGA988B) and BGA 1224 formats. 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 i7-3612QM offered an excellent compromise for users who wanted quad-core multi-threaded performance without the extreme heat and battery drain of higher-wattage mobile chips.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- Lower 35W TDP for thinner designs
- Solid quad-core multi-threading
- Available in socketed design for upgrades
- Good balance of power and efficiency
Cons
- Low 2.1 GHz base clock
- Uses obsolete DDR3 memory
- Lacks official Windows 11 support
- HD 4000 graphics are weak
Pros
- Solid quad-core multi-threading
- Enabled thinner laptop designs
- Good base clock for mobile
- Supports VT-d for virtualization
Cons
- 45W TDP requires robust cooling
- Soldered to motherboard (BGA)
- Uses obsolete DDR3 memory
- HD 4000 graphics are weak for modern gaming
Competitors & Alternatives
Core i7-3612QM
- AMD A10-4600MRival
High-Performance Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-2675QMRival
High-Performance Mobile
- Intel Core i7-3610QMRival
High-Performance Mobile
- Intel Core i7-3615QMRival
High-Performance Mobile
- AMD A8-4500MRival
Mainstream Mobile
Slightly faster refresh of the same low-power chip.
Compare head-to-head
Core i7-3615QM
- AMD A10-4600MRival
High-Performance Mobile
- Intel Core i7-3610QMRival
High-Performance Mobile
- Intel Core i7-2720QMRival
High-Performance Mobile
- Intel Core i7-3612QMRival
High-Performance Mobile
- AMD A8-4500MRival
Mainstream Mobile
Slightly faster refresh of the same BGA chip.
Compare head-to-head
Our Verdict on Each
A great low-power quad-core mobile CPU for 2012, offering excellent efficiency, but its lower clocks limit single-threaded performance.
Best for: Upgrading an old Socket G2 laptop for cheap
Read the full reviewA solid mobile quad-core CPU that powered premium laptops. Still capable for basic tasks, but its soldered design limits upgrades.
Best for: Purchasing a used 2012 MacBook Pro
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Core i7-3612QM or Core i7-3615QM?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Core i7-3615QM comes out ahead with a score of 7.5/10. That said, the best choice depends on your workload — check the spec and performance breakdown above for gaming, productivity and efficiency differences.
Which uses less power?
The Core i7-3612QM has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Core i7-3612QM (35 W), Core i7-3615QM (45 W).
Do Core i7-3612QM and Core i7-3615QM use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Core i7-3612QM: Socket G2 (988B) / BGA 1224, Core i7-3615QM: BGA 1224), so each needs a compatible motherboard.