Atom C3538
Intel
PassMark
1,910
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 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. The Atom C3538 is positioned at rank #389 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 Atom C3538
FPS Benchmarks
Predicted performance for Atom C3538 across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.
Path of Exile 2
Counter-Strike 2
League of Legends
Valorant
Technical Analysis
Detailed breakdown of Atom C3538 specifications and capabilities.
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 |
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) |
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 |
Value Analysis
It currently holds Rank #389 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #2621 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | Atom C3538 |
|---|---|
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $75 |
| Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking | #389 |
| 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 |
Similar Performance
Processors with benchmark scores closest to the current hardware, grouped by manufacturer.
Intel (12)
AMD (12)
Our Recommendation for Atom C3538
Suggested pairings based on performance balance
Minimum (Avoid Bottleneck) (12)
Recommended (Balanced) (12)
High-End (Max Performance) (12)
Popular Comparisons
Compare Atom C3538 with other popular CPUs
Compare Atom C3538
See how this CPU stacks up against similar alternatives
Better Alternatives (8)
Similar or Lower Performance (8)
