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 Atom C3538 is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 15 August 2017 (8 years ago). It is based on the Goldmont (2016−2017) architecture. It features 4 cores and 4 threads. Base frequency is 2.1 GHz, with boost up to 2.1 GHz. L3 cache: 8 MB. L2 cache: 8 MB. Built on 14 nm process technology. Socket: FCBGA1310. Thermal design power (TDP): 15 Watt. Memory support: DDR4: 2133. Passmark benchmark score: 1,910 points. Launch price was $75.

Value Upgrade Path

This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. Components placed above yours deliver better value for money.

MSRP is the manufacturer's suggested retail price.•
Avg price is the current average price collected from markets across the web.

Performance Per Dollar

Based on actual market prices and performance synthetic scores.

FPS Benchmarks

Predicted performance for Atom C3538 across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of Atom C3538 specifications and capabilities.

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Processing Power

The Atom C3538 is a 4-core / 4-thread processor based on the Goldmont (2016−2017) architecture, manufactured on a 14 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 2.1 GHz from a base frequency of 2.1 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 8 MB of L3 cache, plus 8 MB of L2 cache and 224 kB of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 1,910, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.

Specification	Atom C3538
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units	4C / 4T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost	2.1 GHz
Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency	2.1 GHz
ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design	Goldmont (2016−2017)
Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient	14 nm
L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores	8 MB
L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data	8 MB
L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache	224 kB
Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax)	87 °C
64-bit Support	Yes
Windows 11 Compatible	No
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score	1,910

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Memory & Platform

The Atom C3538 fits into the FCBGA1310 socket and supports PCIe 3.0 with 12 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR4: 2133 memory at speeds up to DDR4-2133 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 256 GB across 2 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). It supports ECC memory, providing error-correcting capabilities — essential for mission-critical workloads and servers.

Specification	Atom C3538
TypeDesktop or Laptop processor	server
SeriesProduct family	Intel Atom
SocketMotherboard socket required	FCBGA1310
PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth	PCIe 3.0
PCIe LanesTotal available lanes for GPUs, NVMe drives, and expansion	12
RAM TypeSupported memory standard	DDR4: 2133
Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency	DDR4-2133
Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory	256 GB
RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel	2
ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruption	Yes
Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processor	No
Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPU	Intel FCBGA1310
Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers	1 (Uniprocessor)

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Power & Cooling

The Atom C3538 has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 15 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed.

Specification	Atom C3538
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload	15 Watt
Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax)	87 °C

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Value Analysis

Performance ranking position: #2621 out of all indexed processors.

Specification	Atom C3538
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch	$75
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking	#2621
Release DateLaunch date	15 August 2017 (8 years ago)
Release Year	2017
DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD)	Intel

Specifications Reference

Raw spec sheet for quick lookup. The analysis cards above explain what these fields mean in practice.

4 categories

General Information

7 specs

Type	server
Series	Intel Atom
Designer	Intel
Launch Price	$75
Release Date	15 August 2017 (8 years ago)
Architecture Codename	Goldmont (2016−2017)
Performance Ranking Position	2621

Technical Specifications

12 specs

Cores	4
Threads	4
L1 Cache	224 kB
L2 Cache	8 MB
L3 Cache	8 MB
Multiplier	21
Max Frequency	2.1 GHz
64-Bit Support	+
Base Frequency	2.1 GHz
Process Technology	14 nm
Max Core Temperature	87 °C
Windows 11 Compatible	-