The Intel Core i3-8121U is a power efficient entry-level dual-core processor for laptops. It is the first 10nm CPU from Intel and based on the new Cannon-Lake architecture. It offers 2 processor cores clocked at 2.2 (base) to 3.1 GHz (boost) and no integrated graphics card (therefore 2+0 setup according to Intel). Furthermore, a DDR4-2400 / LPDDR4/x-2400 memory controller (dual-channel, max. 41.6 GB/s, max. 32 GB) is integrated in the SoC.
First benchmarks show a similar performance to the higher clocked Intel Core i3-8130U (2.2 - 3.4 GHz, Kaby Lake, 14nm) and therefore in the entry level for laptops.
The CPU was introduced in the Lenovo IdeaPad-15ICN with a dedicated AMD Radeon RX 540 GPU and also in the Crimson Canyon NUC (also with a dedicated AMD GPU).
| Codename | Cannon-Lake |
| Series | Intel Core i3 |
| Clock Rate | 2200 - 3100 MHz |
| Level 1 Cache | 128 KB |
| Level 2 Cache | 512 KB |
| Level 3 Cache | 4 MB |
| Number of Cores / Threads | 2 / 4 |
| Power Consumption (TDP = Thermal Design Power) | 15 Watt |
| Manufacturing Technology | 10 nm |
| Max. Temperature | 105 °C |
| Features | AVX2, SSE4.2, DDR4-2400 / LPDDR4/x-2400 Memory Controller |
| 64 Bit | 64 Bit support |
| Architecture | x86 |
| Announcement Date | 05/16/2018 |
| Product Link (external) | ark.intel.com |
- Average benchmark values
Lenovo IdeaPad 330-15ICN: AMD Radeon RX 540, 15.60", 2 kg
External Review » Lenovo IdeaPad 330-15ICN
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