Athlon II X2 245
AMD
PassMark
1,134
MSRP
$66
AVG Price
$15
Performance Spectrum - CPU
About PassMark
PassMark CPU Mark evaluates processor speed through complex mathematical computations. It provides a reliable metric to compare multi-core performance, where higher scores indicate faster processing for multitasking, gaming, and heavy workloads.
Overview
The Athlon II X2 245 is manufactured by AMD. It was released in 23 July 2009 (16 years ago). It is based on the Regor (2009−2013) architecture. It features 2 cores and 2 threads. Base frequency is 2.9 GHz, with boost up to 2.9 GHz. L3 cache: 0 kB. L2 cache: 2 MB. Built on 45 nm process technology. Socket: AM3. Thermal design power (TDP): 65 Watt. Memory support: DDR3. Passmark benchmark score: 1,134 points. Launch price was $35.
Value Upgrade Path
This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Athlon II X2 245 is positioned at rank #862 in our cost-efficiency ranking, representing a Lower cost-benefit for your build. Components placed above yours deliver better value for money.
Avg price is the current average price collected from markets across the web.
Performance Per Dollar Athlon II X2 245
Technical Analysis
Detailed breakdown of Athlon II X2 245 specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The Athlon II X2 245 is a 2-core / 2-thread processor based on the Regor (2009−2013) architecture, manufactured on a 45 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 2.9 GHz from a base frequency of 2.9 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 0 kB of L3 cache, plus 2 MB of L2 cache and 256 kB of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 1,134, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.
| Specification | Athlon II X2 245 |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 2C / 2T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 2.9 GHz |
| Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency | 2.9 GHz |
| ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design | Regor (2009−2013) |
| Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient | 45 nm |
| L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores | 0 kB |
| L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data | 2 MB |
| L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache | 256 kB |
| Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor | 117 mm2 |
| Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities | 410 million |
| 64-bit Support | Yes |
| Windows 11 Compatible | No |
| PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score | 1,134 |
Memory & Platform
The Athlon II X2 245 fits into the AM3 socket and supports PCIe 2.0 with 0 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR3 memory at speeds up to 1333 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 16 across 2 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). Integrated graphics: None — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.
| Specification | Athlon II X2 245 |
|---|---|
| TypeDesktop or Laptop processor | desktop |
| SocketMotherboard socket required | AM3 |
| PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth | PCIe 2.0 |
| PCIe LanesTotal available lanes for GPUs, NVMe drives, and expansion | 0 |
| RAM TypeSupported memory standard | DDR3 |
| Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency | 1333 |
| Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory | 16 |
| RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel | 2 |
| ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruption | No |
| Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processor | None |
| Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPU | AM2+,AM3 |
| Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers | 1 |
Advanced Features
Virtualization: true — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads). Its primary market competitor is the Pentium E5500.
| Specification | Athlon II X2 245 |
|---|---|
| OverclockingWhether CPU clock can be manually increased | 🔒 Locked |
| AVX-512Advanced vector instructions for AI/ML workloads | ❌ Not Supported |
| VirtualizationHardware-assisted virtualization technology | true |
| Direct CompetitorMarket equivalent from rival manufacturer | Pentium E5500 |
Power & Cooling
The Athlon II X2 245 has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 65 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed. It ships with the true stock cooler. Recommended cooling: Stock Cooler.
| Specification | Athlon II X2 245 |
|---|---|
| TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload | 65 Watt |
| Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the box | true |
| Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solution | Stock Cooler |
Value Analysis
At an average price of $15 (MSRP: $66), the Athlon II X2 245 delivers 76 PassMark points per dollar. It currently holds Rank #862 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #2997 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | Athlon II X2 245 |
|---|---|
| MSRPManufacturer's Suggested Retail Price | $66 |
| Avg Price (30d)Average market price over the last 30 days | $15 |
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $35 |
| Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking | #862 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #2997 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 23 July 2009 (16 years ago) |
| Release Year | 2009 |
| DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD) | AMD |
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Our Recommendation for Athlon II X2 245
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