The Intel N3350 is a reliable and energy-efficient processor that has carved its niche in the world of entry-level computing. Designed with affordability and functionality in mind, this processor is an integral part of various laptops, mini-PCs, and other compact devices. It offers a balance of performance and power efficiency, making it a popular choice for everyday tasks like web browsing, media streaming, and basic productivity applications.
Powered by Intel’s Apollo Lake architecture, the N3350 brings modern capabilities to low-cost devices. Whether you're a student, a professional on a budget, or someone looking for a secondary device, this processor is well-suited to handle lightweight workloads. Its dual-core design ensures smooth multitasking, while its integrated Intel HD Graphics 500 delivers decent visuals for casual gaming and video playback.
If you’re curious about the full potential of the Intel N3350, this article has you covered. From its technical specifications and performance benchmarks to its real-world applications, we’ll delve into everything you need to know. Plus, we’ll answer common questions and compare it to similar processors, helping you make an informed decision about your next computing purchase.
Table of Contents
- What is the Intel N3350?
- Specifications and Architecture of the Intel N3350
- How Does the Intel N3350 Perform in Everyday Tasks?
- What Are the Key Features of the Intel N3350?
- Intel N3350 vs. Other Processors in Its Class
- Applications and Use Cases for the Intel N3350
- Is the Intel N3350 Suitable for Gaming?
- Power Efficiency and Thermal Management
- Compatibility and Device Integration
- Can the Intel N3350 Handle Multitasking?
- Pros and Cons of the Intel N3350
- Upgradability Options for Systems Using the Intel N3350
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
What is the Intel N3350?
The Intel N3350 is part of Intel’s Apollo Lake series, a family of processors aimed at delivering a cost-effective computing experience. It features a dual-core design with a base clock speed of 1.1 GHz and a turbo boost frequency of up to 2.4 GHz. Released in the second half of 2016, the N3350 was created to cater to budget-friendly laptops, mini-PCs, and embedded systems. Its power efficiency and compact design make it a go-to choice for manufacturers looking to balance performance and affordability.
Unlike its high-end counterparts such as the Intel Core series, the N3350 is designed for basic computing tasks. It’s not intended for heavy workloads or demanding applications, but it excels in scenarios that require low power consumption and adequate performance. The processor also comes with integrated Intel HD Graphics 500, making it capable of handling multimedia tasks like video playback and light gaming.
Intel N3350 Quick Overview
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Architecture | Apollo Lake |
| Cores/Threads | 2 Cores / 2 Threads |
| Base Clock Speed | 1.1 GHz |
| Turbo Boost | Up to 2.4 GHz |
| Cache | 2 MB |
| Integrated Graphics | Intel HD Graphics 500 |
| TDP | 6W |
Specifications and Architecture of the Intel N3350
The Intel N3350 is built on Intel’s 14nm process technology, which is designed to optimize power efficiency and performance. Its Apollo Lake architecture is engineered for entry-level devices, striking a balance between cost and functionality. The processor features two cores and two threads, meaning it can handle basic multitasking but may struggle with high-demand applications.
Key Specifications
- Dual-core processor with a base clock speed of 1.1 GHz
- Turbo Boost frequency of up to 2.4 GHz
- 2 MB of L2 Cache
- Integrated Intel HD Graphics 500
- Thermal Design Power (TDP): 6 watts
- Support for DDR3L/LPDDR3/LPDDR4 memory
One of the standout features of the Intel N3350 is its low TDP of just 6 watts. This makes it highly energy-efficient, ideal for devices that prioritize battery life. Additionally, the processor supports up to 8GB of DDR3L or LPDDR4 memory, providing sufficient headroom for basic multitasking and app usage.
How Does the Intel N3350 Perform in Everyday Tasks?
The Intel N3350 is specifically designed for entry-level tasks, which means it excels in scenarios like web browsing, word processing, and streaming videos. However, it’s not built for performance-intensive applications like video editing or 3D rendering.
Performance Benchmarks
When benchmarked using tools like PassMark and Cinebench, the N3350 scores modestly compared to higher-end processors. Here’s a general performance breakdown:
- Web Browsing: Fast and responsive
- Media Playback: Supports up to 4K video streaming
- Office Applications: Smooth for basic tasks in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
- Gaming: Limited to casual games and older titles
In real-world scenarios, the processor offers sufficient performance for lightweight tasks. Its integrated graphics can handle HD and even 4K video playback, but users may notice some lag when running multiple applications simultaneously.
What Are the Key Features of the Intel N3350?
The Intel N3350 comes packed with several features that make it a versatile choice for budget-friendly devices. Here are some of its standout capabilities:
Energy Efficiency
With a TDP of just 6 watts, the N3350 is one of the most power-efficient processors in its class. This ensures longer battery life for laptops and a cooler operation for mini-PCs and embedded systems.
Integrated Intel HD Graphics 500
The integrated graphics deliver decent performance for media playback and light gaming. It supports DirectX 12 and OpenGL 4.4, offering compatibility with modern software and applications.
Support for Modern Connectivity
The processor supports several modern connectivity options, including USB 3.0, PCIe 2.0, and SATA 6Gb/s, ensuring fast data transfer and storage capabilities.
Intel N3350 vs. Other Processors in Its Class
When compared to other entry-level processors like the AMD A6-9220C or Intel Celeron J3455, the N3350 holds its own in terms of energy efficiency and cost-effectiveness. However, it may lag in raw performance and multitasking capabilities.
For users who prioritize affordability and power efficiency over performance, the N3350 remains a compelling choice. Its integrated graphics and modern architecture make it a standout option for basic computing needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can the Intel N3350 run Windows 11?
No, the Intel N3350 does not meet the minimum requirements for Windows 11. However, it is fully compatible with Windows 10.
2. Is the Intel N3350 good for gaming?
The N3350 is not designed for gaming but can handle casual games and older titles at lower settings.
3. How much RAM does the Intel N3350 support?
The processor supports up to 8GB of DDR3L or LPDDR4 memory.
4. What is the TDP of the Intel N3350?
The Thermal Design Power (TDP) of the N3350 is 6 watts, making it highly energy-efficient.
5. Can I upgrade the Intel N3350?
No, the N3350 is soldered to the motherboard, so it cannot be upgraded.
6. Does the Intel N3350 support 4K video playback?
Yes, the processor’s integrated graphics support 4K video playback.
Conclusion
The Intel N3350 is an excellent choice for entry-level computing devices, offering a balance of performance and power efficiency. While it’s not built for heavy workloads, its energy-efficient design and affordable price point make it ideal for basic tasks like web browsing, media streaming, and office applications. Whether you’re a student, a professional on a budget, or a casual user, the N3350 delivers reliable performance that meets your needs without breaking the bank.
For more information on processors and their applications, visit Intel’s official website.
