Core i3-10100 vs Core i3-12100

The short answer

On paper, the Core i3-12100 is the stronger processor, ahead of the Core i3-10100 in 4 of the specs we compare (the Core i3-10100 leads in 0).

• The Core i3-12100 is 2 generations newer (12th gen, launched Q1'22) than the Core i3-10100 (10th gen, Q2'20). The newer chip uses a newer core design that generally gets more work done per clock, so clock speeds alone understate the gap.
• Both have 4 cores and 8 threads.
• The Core i3-12100 has 12 MB of cache versus 6 MB.
• They use different sockets (FCLGA1200 vs FCLGA1700), so each needs its own motherboard: you can't swap one into the other's board.
• The Core i3-12100 supports DDR5 as well as DDR4 memory (depending on the motherboard); the Core i3-10100 is limited to DDR4.
• The Core i3-12100 is rated at 60 W base power versus 65 W, so it's easier to cool and suits smaller cases.

This verdict is generated from official specifications only. We haven't benchmarked these processors, so it doesn't measure real-world speed in games or apps; check independent benchmarks for your specific use.