
Atom x5-E3940
Intel
PassMark
1,816
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 x5-E3940 is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 30 August 2014 (11 years ago). It is based on the Apollo Lake (2014−2016) architecture. It features 4 cores and 4 threads. Base frequency is 1.6 GHz, with boost up to 1.8 GHz. L3 cache: 0 kB. L2 cache: 2 MB (total). Built on 14 nm process technology. Socket: FCBGA1296. Thermal design power (TDP): 10 Watt. Memory support: DDR3-1866. Passmark benchmark score: 1,816 points. Launch price was $69.
Value Upgrade Path
This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Atom x5-E3940 is positioned at rank #337 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 x5-E3940
FPS Benchmarks
Predicted performance for Atom x5-E3940 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 x5-E3940 specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The Atom x5-E3940 is a 4-core / 4-thread processor based on the Apollo Lake (2014−2016) architecture, manufactured on a 14 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 1.8 GHz from a base frequency of 1.6 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 (total) of L2 cache and 56K (per core) of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 1,816, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.
| Specification | Atom x5-E3940 |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 4C / 4T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 1.8 GHz |
| Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency | 1.6 GHz |
| ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design | Apollo Lake (2014−2016) |
| Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient | 14 nm |
| L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores | 0 kB |
| L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data | 2 MB (total) |
| L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache | 56K (per core) |
| 64-bit Support | Yes |
| Windows 11 Compatible | No |
| PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score | 1,816 |
Memory & Platform
The Atom x5-E3940 fits into the FCBGA1296 socket and supports PCIe 3.0 with 6 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR3-1866 memory at speeds up to DDR3L-1866 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 8 GB across 2 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). It supports ECC memory, providing error-correcting capabilities — essential for mission-critical workloads and servers. Integrated graphics: Intel HD Graphics 500 — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.
| Specification | Atom x5-E3940 |
|---|---|
| TypeDesktop or Laptop processor | Laptop |
| SeriesProduct family | 5x Intel Atom |
| SocketMotherboard socket required | FCBGA1296 |
| PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth | PCIe 3.0 |
| PCIe LanesTotal available lanes for GPUs, NVMe drives, and expansion | 6 |
| RAM TypeSupported memory standard | DDR3-1866 |
| Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency | DDR3L-1866 |
| Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory | 8 GB |
| RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel | 2 |
| ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruption | Yes |
| Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processor | Intel HD Graphics 500 |
| Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPU | Intel FCBGA1296 |
| Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers | 1 (Uniprocessor) |
Power & Cooling
The Atom x5-E3940 has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 10 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed.
| Specification | Atom x5-E3940 |
|---|---|
| TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload | 10 Watt |
Value Analysis
It currently holds Rank #337 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #2666 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | Atom x5-E3940 |
|---|---|
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $69 |
| Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking | #337 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #2666 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 30 August 2014 (11 years ago) |
| Release Year | 2014 |
| DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD) | Intel |
| ManufacturerFabrication foundry (e.g. TSMC) | Intel |
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