Performance comparison: which is faster?
Core i3-2120 (Intel, 2011) and Pentium G3258 (Intel, 2014) are compared here. Compare not only scores, but also whether the motherboard can be reused and which GPU class is balanced with each CPU.
Overall performance: nearly equal
The sockets differ (LGA1155 / LGA1150), so switching requires a motherboard replacement. For games, performance balance with the GPU (guideline CPU:GPU = 0.9:1) matters more than CPU speed alone.
Relative performance score (higher is faster). Actual speed varies by workload, cooling, and memory configuration.
| Item | i3-2120 | Pentium G3258 |
|---|---|---|
| Performance Score | 3,200 | 3,200 |
| Generation | 2nd Gen | Pentium |
| Socket | LGA1155 | LGA1150 |
| Release Year | 2011 | 2014 |
| Type | Desktop | Desktop |
| Compatible GPU Example | Radeon HD 7850 | Radeon HD 7850 |
| If You Want To... | Recommended |
|---|---|
| Prioritize maximum speed for heavy work or a high-end GPU | i3-2120 |
| Upgrade while reusing the current motherboard | Choose the CPU matching your motherboard socket |
| Prioritize value and adequate performance | i3-2120 (the lower model is often sufficient) |
Their scores are nearly identical (i3-2120: 3200 points / Pentium G3258: 3200 points). Choose the less expensive option or the one that fits your current motherboard.
i3-2120 is 2nd Gen, while Pentium G3258 is Pentium.The sockets differ (LGA1155 / LGA1150), so switching requires a motherboard replacement.
Using our CPU:GPU = 0.9:1 guideline, Radeon HD 7850 pairs well with i3-2120 and Radeon HD 7850 pairs well with Pentium G3258. If either GPU is too strong or too weak, one part holds the other back.
