Intel Celeron B720 socket: Socket G2
The Intel Celeron B720 uses the Socket G2 socket. It is a socketed 35 W single core Sandy Bridge mobile part at 1.7 GHz.
- Socket
- Socket G2
- Launched
- January 2012
- Cores and threads
- 1 and 1
- Base power
- 35 W
- Codename
- Sandy Bridge
- Segment
- Mobile (socketed)
- Family
- Intel Celeron
- Clocks
- 1.7 GHz
Intel Celeron B720 specifications
| Cores | 1 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 1 |
| Core architecture | Sandy Bridge cores on 32 nm |
| Clocks | 1.7 GHz (no turbo) |
| Cache | 1.5 MB Intel Smart Cache (L3) |
| Processor base power (TDP) | 35 W |
| Manufacturing process | 32 nm |
| Memory support | DDR3-1066 and 1333, two channels, up to 16 GB |
| PCI Express | 16 lanes from the CPU, PCIe 2.0 |
| Integrated graphics | Intel HD Graphics (650 MHz to 1000 MHz) |
| Multiplier | Locked |
| Package | FCPGA988 (37.5 × 37.5 mm) |
Motherboard compatibility
Intel Celeron B720 needs a motherboard with a Socket G2 socket. Chipset by chipset data for this codename is not recorded yet. See the Socket G2 chipset list and the board maker's CPU support list.
Socket G2 at a glance
| Type | rPGA, 988 contacts |
|---|---|
| Package size | 37.5 × 37.5 mm |
| Introduced | January 2011 |
| Memory | DDR3 and DDR3L, two channels, 1066 to 1600 MT/s |
| Cooler mounting holes | Board specific (laptop heatsink) |
What the Celeron B720 is
Intel Celeron B720 is a single core Sandy Bridge mobile processor that Intel released in January 2012 for low cost socketed laptops. It runs at a fixed 1.7 GHz with no turbo and no Hyper-Threading, so 1 core gives 1 thread. Cache is 1.5 MB Intel Smart Cache. Power is rated at 35 W on a 32 nm process.
Graphics are Intel HD Graphics for Sandy Bridge at 650 MHz to 1000 MHz. The block drives the laptop panel and an external monitor for web and office work. The on die controller takes DDR3 SODIMMs at 1066 or 1333 MT/s.
One thread suits single task classroom and web loads of the period. Laptops pair it with HM65 or HM77 class boards, a spinning drive and 2 GB of RAM. The How to find your CPU socket type guide shows how to confirm the socketed package.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The Celeron B720 fits Socket G2 with 988 contacts in FCPGA988 form. Mobile 6 series chipsets such as HM65 and HM67 carry early Sandy boards, while 7 series HM76 and HM77 accept Sandy parts with a shipping BIOS. The board BIOS must list the exact B720 string.
At 35 W the chip fits any Socket G2 thermal design of that class. Board choice turns on screen and ports rather than power. The Socket vs chipset: what decides whether a CPU works guide explains why the maker list decides the result.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
Memory support is DDR3-1066 and 1333, two channels, up to 16 GB. Two SODIMMs allow service to the board maximum, though single thread loads rarely need the full link. ECC is not supported.
PCI Express is 16 lanes from the CPU at PCIe 2.0, split by the board for Wi-Fi, storage and any discrete GPU. Most B720 laptops stay on integrated graphics, since the single core cannot feed a fast card.
Cooling is board specific for 35 W with a single fan. Dust removal restores the fixed 1.7 GHz behavior more reliably than software changes.
Upgrade paths
On Socket G2 the Celeron B720 can move to dual Celeron parts, Pentium duals and Core i3 or i5 M chips where the manual allows access and the BIOS lists the target. Memory and storage carry over in most swaps. A close dual reference is Intel Celeron 1000M on the same socket.
A platform move means a new laptop on a newer BGA package. Keep the old machine for spare duty after wiping the drive.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Intel Celeron B720 use?
It uses Socket G2 in FCPGA988 form with 988 contacts.
How many threads does the Celeron B720 have?
One core with 1 thread at a fixed 1.7 GHz. No Hyper-Threading is present.
What memory does the Celeron B720 use?
DDR3-1066 and 1333, two channels, up to 16 GB.
Can the Celeron B720 be replaced?
Yes, in socketed laptops where the manual allows access and the BIOS lists the model.
Sources and verification
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .