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 N550 is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 23 August 2010 (15 years ago). It is based on the Pineview (2009−2011) architecture. It features 2 cores and 4 threads. Base frequency is 1.5 GHz, with boost up to 1.5 GHz. L3 cache: 0 kB. L2 cache: 512K (per core). Built on 45 nm process technology. Socket: FCBGA559. Thermal design power (TDP): 8.5 Watt. Memory support: DDR3. Passmark benchmark score: 1,435 points. Launch price was $86.

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 N550 across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of Atom N550 specifications and capabilities.

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Processing Power

The Atom N550 is a 2-core / 4-thread processor based on the Pineview (2009−2011) architecture, manufactured on a 45 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 1.5 GHz from a base frequency of 1.5 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 0 kB of L3 cache, plus 512K (per core) of L2 cache and 64K (per core) of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 1,435, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.

Specification	Atom N550
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units	2C / 4T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost	1.5 GHz
Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency	1.5 GHz
ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design	Pineview (2009−2011)
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	512K (per core)
L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache	64K (per core)
Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor	87 mm2
Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities	176 million
Bus SpeedData bus frequency	666 MHz
64-bit Support	Yes
Windows 11 Compatible	No
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score	1,435

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Memory & Platform

The Atom N550 fits into the FCBGA559 socket and supports PCIe 2.0 with 0 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR3 memory at speeds up to DDR3-667 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 2 GB across 1 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). Integrated graphics: Intel GMA 3150 — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.

Specification	Atom N550
TypeDesktop or Laptop processor	Laptop
SeriesProduct family	Intel Atom
SocketMotherboard socket required	FCBGA559
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	DDR3-667
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	Intel GMA 3150
Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPU	Intel NM10
Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers	1

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Power & Cooling

The Atom N550 has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 8.5 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed.

Specification	Atom N550
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload	8.5 Watt

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Value Analysis

Performance ranking position: #3534 out of all indexed processors.

Specification	Atom N550
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch	$86
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking	#3534
Release DateLaunch date	23 August 2010 (15 years ago)
Release Year	2010
DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD)	Intel
ManufacturerFabrication foundry (e.g. TSMC)	Intel

Specifications Reference

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

4 categories

General Information

8 specs

Type	Laptop
Series	Intel Atom
Designer	Intel
Launch Price	$86
Manufacturer	Intel
Release Date	23 August 2010 (15 years ago)
Architecture Codename	Pineview (2009−2011)
Performance Ranking Position	3534

Technical Specifications

13 specs

Cores	2
Threads	4
Die Size	87 mm2
L1 Cache	64K (per core)
L2 Cache	512K (per core)
L3 Cache	0 kB
Bus Speed	666 MHz
Max Frequency	1.5 GHz
64-Bit Support	+
Base Frequency	1.5 GHz
Transistor Count	176 million
Process Technology	45 nm
Windows 11 Compatible	-