Intel Core i3-3250 vs Intel Core i3-4030U

The Intel Core i3-3250 (Ivy Bridge S) is a 22 nm desktop processor for entry-level systems, equipped with PCIe 2.0, 3 MB Level 3 Cache, and Intel HD Graphics 2500 (26 GB/s memory bandwidth).

The Intel Core i3-4030U (Haswell U) is a 22 nm mobile processor for energy-efficient notebooks. It also features 3 MB Level 3 Cache and the more powerful Intel HD Graphics 4400 (26 GB/s memory bandwidth).

In benchmarks, the Intel Core i3-3250 shows slightly higher single- and multi-core performance. However, these differences are less than 10 percent and are hardly noticeable in daily use. For gaming, the Intel Core i3-4030U offers better base performance due to its Intel HD Graphics 4400.

The graphics performance of the Intel Core i3-3250 is lower. As a U-series processor, the Intel Core i3-4030U is significantly more energy-efficient and optimized for mobile use. The Intel Core i3-3250, as a desktop CPU, has higher power consumption. Both are older models, whose value today lies in the used market.

The Intel Core i3-3250 is suitable for desktop systems that require stable CPU performance. The Intel Core i3-4030U is ideal for mobile devices where low power consumption and better integrated graphics are a priority.