Intel Core i3 2120 Review

[TheMonsterMan8]

Today, I am reviewing the Intel Core i3-2120 3.3Ghz Dual-Core Processor. Before I start, I'd like to explain why I am reviewing this instead of my i5-4570. I am reviewing this because I have had this for almost two years, and am much more familiar with it, having done two builds using it. This is in comparison to my i5, which I have only had for a month or two. Once I hit three months, I will definitely review it. Now, let me start.

The i3 2120 is a Sandy Bridge LGA1155 Processor. It is part of the Intel Core series, which are optimized towards gaming, workstations and high-end office machines. I bought this processor for £90, and I have to say that it was a great deal. I paired it with a GTX 560 Ti (which I still have, if you check my signature). It was an AMAZING combo for sub £300. It tanks a decent amount of games, at least on 1280x1024. This processor, then, is great for the budget gaming rig, or the high end office station. It comes with the Intel Stock Cooler, a manual (with a sticker) and itself. It supports 1333Mhz Dual Channel RAM, up to 32GB. I personally would like to see a K series i3, simply to experiment with. This processor also handles rendering from Sony Vegas Pro 12 fairly well, and even better when CUDA assisted.

I recommend this CPU infinitely to someone who needs a budget build.

Thanks for reading, and sorry for rambling! 

[skullbringer]

Nice litte review, dude. I may do something similar with a 5770 as a htpc.

[brownninja97]

Yay 2120 buddies, my i3 is quite amazing, even is extreme games link bf3 or planetside it works very well with my 7870XT, ill do some comparing once i get my FX8320.

[Peacefulwarrior]

I love this i3, but I was starting to get some doubt when I found out the Ivy bridge was being released shortly.  Once I got the little cpu, it was crushing games and holding its own fairly well. I agree that this cpu is perfect for anyone in need of a budget cpu.

[TheMonsterMan8]

Glad to hear y'all liked it. It really is a cracking CPU, probably the only series that I'd go with Sandy Bridge instead of Ivy or even potentially Haswell, just because the power offered by Sandy is a tad more. But yeah, thumbs up for i3's, woop!