Intel Core i3-2105 socket: LGA 1155
The Intel Core i3-2105 uses the LGA 1155 socket. It is a 65 W dual core Sandy Bridge desktop part at 3.1 GHz with HD Graphics 3000.
- Socket
- LGA 1155
- Launched
- May 2011
- Cores and threads
- 2 and 4
- Base power
- 65 W
- Codename
- Sandy Bridge
- Segment
- Desktop
- Family
- Intel Core i3
- Clocks
- 3.1 GHz
Intel Core i3-2105 specifications
| Cores | 2 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 4 |
| Core architecture | Sandy Bridge cores on 32 nm |
| Clocks | 3.1 GHz (no turbo) |
| Cache | 3 MB Intel Smart Cache (L3) |
| Processor base power (TDP) | 65 W |
| Manufacturing process | 32 nm |
| Memory support | DDR3-1066 and 1333, two channels, up to 32 GB |
| PCI Express | 16 lanes from the CPU, PCIe 2.0 |
| Integrated graphics | Intel HD Graphics 3000 (850 MHz to 1100 MHz) |
| Multiplier | Locked |
| Package | FCLGA1155 (37.5 × 37.5 mm) |
Motherboard and chipset compatibility
Intel Core i3-2105 needs a motherboard with a LGA 1155 socket. The table shows which chipset series accept it.
| Series | Chipsets | Support |
|---|---|---|
| 7 series | Z77, Z75, H77, B75, Q77, Q75 | Works out of the box |
| 6 series: H61, H67, P67, Z68 | Z68, P67, H67, H61 | Works out of the box |
| 6 series business: B65, Q65, Q67 | Q67, Q65, B65 | Works out of the box |
Board makers publish a CPU support list for every model. Check it for your exact board before buying. Chipset details for LGA 1155.
LGA 1155 at a glance
| Type | LGA, 1,155 contacts |
|---|---|
| Package size | 37.5 × 37.5 mm |
| Introduced | January 2011 |
| Memory | DDR3 |
| Cooler mounting holes | 75 × 75 mm |
What the Core i3-2105 is
Intel Core i3-2105 is a dual core Sandy Bridge desktop processor that Intel released in May 2011 for towers with stronger integrated graphics. It runs at a fixed 3.1 GHz with no turbo and includes Hyper-Threading, so 2 cores give 4 threads. Cache is 3 MB Intel Smart Cache. Power is 65 W on a 32 nm process.
The 2105 matches the 2100 and 2102 on CPU clocks. The difference sits in the graphics block, where HD Graphics 3000 replaces HD Graphics 2000. Video playback and dual displays benefit most.
Graphics are Intel HD Graphics 3000 at 850 MHz to 1100 MHz. The block runs office monitors at native resolution. The How to find your CPU socket type guide helps confirm the LGA package from the tower model.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The Core i3-2105 fits LGA 1155 in FCLGA1155 form. All 6 series and 7 series boards boot Sandy parts directly. H61 and B75 cover office builds, while Z68 and Z77 add tuning for K chips that this locked dual does not need.
BIOS support is rarely an issue for Sandy duals. Confirm the board lists the 2105 string, then install with stock cooling.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
Memory support is DDR3-1066 and 1333, two channels, up to 32 GB. A matched 2 by 4 GB kit suits most 2105 towers. ECC is not supported.
PCI Express is 16 lanes from the CPU at PCIe 2.0. The slot can take a basic card for extra outputs.
Cooling is the standard 65 W heatsink on 75 × 75 mm spacing. Replacement coolers for this pattern remain easy to find.
Upgrade paths
On LGA 1155 the 2105 can move to the i3-2125 for higher clocks with a similar graphics block, or to a Core i5 for quad cores. Storage and DDR3 carry over. A same clock HD2000 reference is Intel Core i3-2100.
A move to a DDR4 board such as LGA 1200 needs a new board and RAM. Keep the 2105 tower for lab use.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Intel Core i3-2105 use?
It uses LGA 1155. Both 6 series and 7 series boards boot it directly.
How is the Core i3-2105 different from the i3-2100?
The 2105 uses HD Graphics 3000. The 2100 uses HD Graphics 2000. CPU clocks match.
What memory does the Core i3-2105 use?
DDR3-1066 and 1333, two channels, up to 32 GB.
Does the Core i3-2105 have Hyper-Threading?
Yes. Two cores give 4 threads.
Sources and verification
- Intel Core i3 Desktop Comparison Chart (Intel, i3-2105 Q2-11 3.1 GHz HD3000 850 to 1100)
- 2nd Gen Core Desktop Datasheet Vol 1 (Intel, i3-2105 Sandy Bridge LGA1155)
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .