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 N280 is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 1 February 2009 (16 years ago). It is based on the DiamondVille (2008−2009) architecture. It features 1 cores and 2 threads. Base frequency is 1.66 GHz, with boost up to 0.07 GHz. L3 cache: 0 kB. L2 cache: 512 kB. Built on 45 nm process technology. Socket: PBGA437. Thermal design power (TDP): 2.5 Watt. Passmark benchmark score: 285 points. Launch price was $69.

Value Upgrade Path

This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Atom N280 is positioned at rank #367 in our cost-efficiency ranking, representing a Lower cost-benefit for your build. 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 Atom N280

#111

Ryzen 5 PRO 5675U

MSRP: N/A|Avg: $180

100%

#355

Atom x5-Z8300

MSRP: $20|Avg: N/A

515%

#356

Atom Z3735G

MSRP: $17|Avg: N/A

507%

#357

Core i5-480M

MSRP: $81|Avg: $77

466%

#358

Core i5-460M

MSRP: $80|Avg: $129

464%

#359

Core i5-2540M

MSRP: $266|Avg: $10

459%

#361

Core i5-450M

MSRP: $32|Avg: $31

444%

#362

Core i3-380M

MSRP: $49|Avg: $25

425%

#363

Core i5-430M

MSRP: N/A|Avg: $33

425%

#364

Core 2 Duo T6600

MSRP: N/A|Avg: $4

413%

#367

Atom N280

MSRP: N/A|Avg: N/A

100%

#375

Pentium Dual Core T3200

MSRP: $64|Avg: $5

99%

Based on actual market prices and performance synthetic scores.

FPS Benchmarks

Predicted performance for Atom N280 across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of Atom N280 specifications and capabilities.

⚡

Processing Power

The Atom N280 is a 1-core / 2-thread processor based on the DiamondVille (2008−2009) architecture, manufactured on a 45 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 0.07 GHz from a base frequency of 1.66 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 0 kB of L3 cache, plus 512 kB of L2 cache and 56 kB of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 285, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.

Specification	Atom N280
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units	1C / 2T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost	0.07 GHz
Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency	1.66 GHz
ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design	DiamondVille (2008−2009)
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	512 kB
L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache	56 kB
Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor	25.9638 mm2
Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities	47 Million
Bus SpeedData bus frequency	666.66 MT/s
Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax)	90 °C
64-bit Support	No
Windows 11 Compatible	No
Core Voltage Range	0.9V-1.1625V
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score	285

🧠

Memory & Platform

The Atom N280 fits into the PBGA437 socket and supports PCIe 2.0 with 0 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage.

Specification	Atom N280
TypeDesktop or Laptop processor	Laptop
SeriesProduct family	Intel Atom
SocketMotherboard socket required	PBGA437
PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth	PCIe 2.0
PCIe LanesTotal available lanes for GPUs, NVMe drives, and expansion	0
Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency	DDR2-533
Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory	2 GB
RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel	1
ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruption	No
Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processor	No
Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPU	Intel PBGA437
Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers	1 (Uniprocessor)

🌡️

Power & Cooling

The Atom N280 has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 2.5 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed.

Specification	Atom N280
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload	2.5 Watt
Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax)	90 °C

💰

Value Analysis

It currently holds Rank #367 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #3666 out of all indexed processors.

Specification	Atom N280
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch	$69
Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking	#367
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking	#3666
Release DateLaunch date	1 February 2009 (16 years ago)
Release Year	2009
DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD)	Intel