In the table below, we listed all second-generation Core i7 desktop CPU models, which are based on the Sandy Bridge microarchitecture. All models are based on the socket 1155, and the integrated memory controller supports dual-channel architecture with 1,066 MHz or 1,333 MHz DDR3 memories. They also have an integrated PCI Express 2.0 controller, supporting one x16 lane, which can be split into two x8 lanes for accessing two discrete video cards. Communication with the motherboard chipset is done through a DMI bus (2 GB/s in each direction). All models have an integrated DirectX 10.1 video controller running at 850 MHz, with six (HD 2000) or 12 (HD 3000) processing cores.

All second-generation Core i7 desktop CPUs are quad-core processors, supporting Hyper-Threading technology, so the operating system recognizes them as eight-core models, but only half the recognized cores are “real;” the other half are simulated.

TDP stands for Thermal Design Power and indicates the CPU maximum thermal dissipation, i.e., the CPU cooler must be able to dissipate at least this amount of heat.