Intel Pentium 3550M socket: Socket G3
The Intel Pentium 3550M uses the Socket G3 socket. It is a socketed 37 W Haswell M series part in rPGA form for serviceable laptops.
- Socket
- Socket G3
- Launched
- October 2013
- Cores and threads
- 2 and 2
- Base power
- 37 W
- Codename
- Haswell
- Segment
- Mobile (socketed)
- Family
- Intel Pentium
- Clocks
- 2.3 GHz
Intel Pentium 3550M specifications
| Cores | 2 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 2 |
| Core architecture | Haswell cores on 22 nm |
| Clocks | 2.3 GHz (no turbo) |
| Cache | 2 MB Smart Cache |
| Processor base power (TDP) | 37 W |
| Manufacturing process | 22 nm |
| Memory support | DDR3L-1333 and 1600, two channels, up to 32 GB |
| PCI Express | PCIe 3.0, 16 lanes |
| Integrated graphics | Intel HD Graphics (400 MHz to 1100 MHz) |
| Multiplier | Locked |
| Package | FCPGA946 (37.5 × 37.5 mm) |
Motherboard and chipset compatibility
Intel Pentium 3550M needs a motherboard with a Socket G3 socket. The table shows which chipset series accept it.
| Series | Chipsets | Support |
|---|---|---|
| Lynx Point mobile (8 series) | HM87, HM86, QM87 | 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 Socket G3.
Socket G3 at a glance
| Type | rPGA, 946 contacts |
|---|---|
| Package size | 37.5 × 37.5 mm |
| Introduced | June 2013 |
| Memory | DDR3L-1333 and 1600, two channels, up to 32 GB |
| Cooler mounting holes | Board specific (laptop heatsink) |
What the Pentium 3550M is
Intel Pentium 3550M is a dual core Haswell M series part that Intel released in October 2013 for serviceable laptops with socketed boards. It uses the Haswell core design on a 22 nm process, running at 2.3 GHz with no turbo. The cache is 2 MB Smart Cache. Power is 37 W. Graphics come from Intel HD Graphics (400 MHz to 1100 MHz).
The two cores have no Hyper-Threading, so threads equal cores at 2. The graphics block covers office work and video without a separate chip, while gaming bodies pair a discrete GPU over PCIe. The package supports DDR3L SODIMM memory that can be serviced.
At 37 W the Pentium 3550M belongs to the M series socketed group. The fixed 2.3 GHz clock suits everyday multitasking with a single fan. Laptops pair it with SODIMM memory and SATA SSDs. The How to find your CPU socket type guide shows how to confirm the socket before ordering parts.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The Pentium 3550M fits Socket G3, a 946-contact pin grid array with socketed rPGA packaging. The socket also accepts Haswell M, MQ and MX parts, but BIOS support still decides each model. Check the laptop service manual for access steps and the maker CPU support list for the exact model string.
Power and firmware decide service results. The 37 W envelope sizes the heat pipes and fans, and the board BIOS must list the exact Pentium 3550M string. HM87 and HM86 boards pair the mobile SKUs, while QM87 covers workstation bodies. The CPU cooler compatibility by socket guide notes socketed laptop parts use board specific heatsinks.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
Memory support is ddr3l-1333 and 1600, two channels, up to 32 gb. Two SODIMM slots allow service and upgrades to the board maximum. Two matched modules help the graphics block that shares system RAM.
PCI Express is PCIe 3.0 with 16 lanes from the CPU. Boards wire lanes to discrete graphics options, Wi-Fi and SSDs. A mainstream card of the era pairs without waste where the chassis allows.
Cooling uses board specific heat pipes and fans sized for 37 W. Repaste and fan cleaning help sustained clocks more than any setting change.
Upgrade paths
A same socket move on Socket G3 is possible in theory but narrow in practice. The Pentium 3550M can swap for another G3 part where the manual allows access and the BIOS lists the target, for example to a Core i7 MQ part with more cores. The heatsink and power envelope must match.
A platform move means a new laptop. Current Intel mobile lives on newer BGA packages with DDR4 or LPDDR4 and current wireless, which no Socket G3 board can reach. Recycle the old laptop through a proper e waste path once data is wiped.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Intel Pentium 3550M use?
It uses Socket G3, a 946-contact socketed rPGA package.
Can the Pentium 3550M be replaced?
Yes, where the laptop allows access and the BIOS lists the exact model. Check the service manual first.
What memory does the Pentium 3550M use?
DDR3L-1333 and 1600, two channels, up to 32 GB. Two matched SODIMMs help the integrated graphics.
Does the Pentium 3550M have turbo?
No. It runs at a fixed 2.3 GHz clock.
Sources and verification
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .