Performance comparison: which is faster?
Core i3-3240 (Intel, 2012) and Core 2 Quad Q9650 (Intel, 2008) 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: i3-3240 is about 8.6% faster
The sockets differ (LGA1155 / LGA775), 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 | i3-3240 | 2 Quad Q9650 |
|---|---|---|
| Performance Score | 3,800 | 3,500 |
| Generation | 3rd Gen | Core 2 |
| Socket | LGA1155 | LGA775 |
| Release Year | 2012 | 2008 |
| Type | Desktop | Desktop |
| Compatible GPU Example | GeForce GTX 950 | GeForce GTX 480 |
| If You Want To... | Recommended |
|---|---|
| Prioritize maximum speed for heavy work or a high-end GPU | i3-3240 |
| Upgrade while reusing the current motherboard | Choose the CPU matching your motherboard socket |
| Prioritize value and adequate performance | 2 Quad Q9650 (the lower model is often sufficient) |
i3-3240 is about 8.6% higher by score (i3-3240: 3800 points / 2 Quad Q9650: 3500 points). For gaming, the GPU tier usually matters more than a few percent of CPU difference. For CPU-heavy work such as video editing and streaming, choose the faster CPU.
i3-3240 is 3rd Gen, while 2 Quad Q9650 is Core 2.The sockets differ (LGA1155 / LGA775), so switching requires a motherboard replacement.
Using our CPU:GPU = 0.9:1 guideline, GeForce GTX 950 pairs well with i3-3240 and GeForce GTX 480 pairs well with 2 Quad Q9650. If either GPU is too strong or too weak, one part holds the other back.
