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
» Mobile CPU Comparison
Comparison of all mobile CPU series
» Mobile Processors - Benchmarklist
Benchmarklist of all known CPUs that are used in laptops (desktop and laptop CPUs)
Top 10 Laptops
Multimedia, Budget Multimedia, Gaming, Budget Gaming, Lightweight Gaming, Business, Budget Office, Workstation, Subnotebooks, Ultrabooks, Chromebooks
under 300 USD/Euros, under 500 USD/Euros, 1,000 USD/Euros, for University Students, Best Displays
Top 10 Smartphones
Smartphones, Phablets, ≤6-inch, Camera Smartphones
Add as a preferred