The 12th Generation Intel® Core™ processor platform marked a significant leap forward with the introduction of the innovative performance hybrid architecture. This groundbreaking design combines two distinct core types on a single chip: Performance-cores (P-cores) and Efficient-cores (E-cores). The advantage of this architecture is the ability to optimize both performance and power efficiency. P-cores are dedicated to handling resource-intensive tasks, while E-cores efficiently manage lighter workloads. However, not every application demands the high processing power provided by P-cores. In response, cost-effective entry-level platforms based on the Gracemont CPU microarchitecture were developed, offering a unique combination of performance, affordability, and low power consumption.
This new generation, formerly known as Alder Lake-N, features a range of processors, including the Intel® Processor N-series, Intel Atom® Processor X Series, and most notably the Intel® Core™ i3 Processor N-series. The primary theme across this collection is power efficiency, with CPUs spanning from 6W to 15W in thermal design power (TDP), corresponding to various processing capacities. These processors cater to a broad spectrum of applications, from the 2-core Intel Atom® x7211E to the robust 8-core Intel® Core™ i3-N305, offering a versatile processor line suitable for powering solutions across different markets.
