CPU Comparison
Core i7-3840QM vs Core i7-3940XM
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i7-3840QM (Socket G2 variant) is a premium mobile processor released in 2012, leveraging the Ivy Bridge architecture. Operating at 2.8 GHz with a turbo boost up to 3.8 GHz, it features 4 cores and 8 threads to handle demanding mobile workloads. This PGA version utilizes the Socket G2 (988B) interface, a departure from the soldered BGA counterpart, allowing for socketed installation in thicker, upgradeable gaming and workstation laptops. Built on a 22nm process, it packs 1.4 billion transistors into a 160 mm² die and maintains a 45W TDP. The processor includes 8MB of L3 cache to accelerate data retrieval. It is equipped with Intel HD Graphics 4000, offering DirectX 11 support and decent graphical fidelity for integrated graphics of its era. This model was highly favored by enthusiasts who preferred the ability to swap out CPUs, a feature becoming increasingly rare in modern laptops. It supports dual-channel DDR3 memory and PCIe 3.0, ensuring solid system responsiveness for 2012-era high-end mobile computing.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
Handles older productivity suites and web browsing fine.
High clocks keep it surprisingly snappy for basic tasks.
Gaming
Adequate for 2012 games, but lacks power for modern AAA titles.
Excellent for 2012 games, can still handle older esports titles.
Virtualization
Good support for light virtualization on the go.
Great for running VMs on the go.
Efficiency
45W TDP was efficient then, but runs hot compared to modern mobile chips.
55W TDP is terrible for battery life.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- No NPU or AI hardware
- Unsupported by modern AI software
- No modern AI support
- Instruction sets outdated
Content Creation
Gaming
- HD 4000 insufficient for modern games
- Pairs well with mobile GTX 600M series
- Good for indie and legacy titles
- Max Ivy Bridge single-core speed
- Needs discrete GPU
- Overclockable for extra headroom
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- Socketed design allows upgrades
- Strong multi-core performance for 2012
- PCIe 3.0 support
- VT-d virtualization support
Cons
- Highly outdated architecture
- Lacks AVX2 support
- 45W TDP is hot for modern laptops
- Weak integrated graphics
Pros
- Unlocked multiplier for extreme overclocking
- Highest Ivy Bridge mobile clocks
- Socketed for upgrades
- Excellent 2012 performance
Cons
- Extremely high 55W TDP
- Runs very hot
- Lacks AVX2
- Massive power draw for mobile
Competitors & Alternatives
Core i7-3840QM
- AMD A10-4600MRival
Mobile
- Intel Core i7-3940XMAlt
Unlocked Extreme Edition for Socket G2.
More budget-friendly Ivy Bridge mobile option.
Compare head-to-head
Core i7-3940XM
- AMD A10-4600MRival
Mobile
- Intel Core i7-3920XMAlt
Slightly slower but essentially the same chip.
The newer Haswell-based Extreme Edition.
Compare head-to-head
Our Verdict on Each
A rare socketed high-end mobile CPU that offered excellent performance and upgrade paths for 2012 laptops, though it is heavily outdated today.
Best for: Upgrading an old Socket G2 laptop.
Read the full reviewA minor but potent refresh of the 3920XM, offering the absolute best Ivy Bridge mobile performance with unlocked overclocking potential.
Best for: Maxing out an old extreme gaming laptop.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Core i7-3840QM or Core i7-3940XM?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Core i7-3940XM 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, Core i7-3840QM or Core i7-3940XM?
For gaming, the Core i7-3940XM leads with a gaming performance score of 66/100 among Core i7-3840QM and Core i7-3940XM.
Which uses less power?
The Core i7-3840QM has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Core i7-3840QM (45 W), Core i7-3940XM (55 W).
Do Core i7-3840QM and Core i7-3940XM use the same socket?
Yes — all of these CPUs use the Intel Socket G2 (988B) socket, so they share compatible motherboards.
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Core i7-3940XM posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Core i7-3840QM (8,100), Core i7-3940XM (9,200). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.