Atom x7-E3950
Intel
PassMark
1,864
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 x7-E3950 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 2 GHz. L3 cache: 0 kB. L2 cache: 2 MB (total). Built on 14 nm process technology. Socket: FCBGA1296. Thermal design power (TDP): 12 Watt. Memory support: DDR3, DDR4. Passmark benchmark score: 1,864 points. Launch price was $57.
Value Upgrade Path
This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Atom x7-E3950 is positioned at rank #480 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 x7-E3950
FPS Benchmarks
Predicted performance for Atom x7-E3950 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 x7-E3950 specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The Atom x7-E3950 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 2 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 1,864, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product. Geekbench 6 single-core (the most relevant metric for gaming FPS) records 245.
| Specification | Atom x7-E3950 |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 4C / 4T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 2 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) |
| Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax) | 110 °C |
| 64-bit Support | Yes |
| Windows 11 Compatible | No |
| PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score | 1,864 |
| Geekbench 6 SingleSingle-core performance — most relevant for gaming | 245 |
Memory & Platform
The Atom x7-E3950 fits into the FCBGA1296 socket and supports PCIe 3.0 with 6 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR3, DDR4 memory at speeds up to LPDDR4-2400 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 8 GB across 4 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). It supports ECC memory, providing error-correcting capabilities — essential for mission-critical workloads and servers. Integrated graphics: HD Graphics 505 — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.
| Specification | Atom x7-E3950 |
|---|---|
| TypeDesktop or Laptop processor | Laptop |
| SeriesProduct family | 7x 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, DDR4 |
| Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency | LPDDR4-2400 |
| Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory | 8 GB |
| RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel | 4 |
| ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruption | Yes |
| Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processor | HD Graphics 505 |
| Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPU | Apollo Lake |
| Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers | 1 (Uniprocessor) |
Advanced Features
Virtualization: VT-x, VT-d — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads).
| Specification | Atom x7-E3950 |
|---|---|
| OverclockingWhether CPU clock can be manually increased | 🔒 Locked |
| AVX-512Advanced vector instructions for AI/ML workloads | ❌ Not Supported |
| VirtualizationHardware-assisted virtualization technology | VT-x, VT-d |
Power & Cooling
The Atom x7-E3950 has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 12 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed. No stock cooler is included — you will need to purchase an aftermarket cooler separately. Recommended cooling: Stock.
| Specification | Atom x7-E3950 |
|---|---|
| TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload | 12 Watt |
| Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax) | 110 °C |
| Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the box | No |
| Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solution | Stock |
Value Analysis
It currently holds Rank #480 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #2647 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | Atom x7-E3950 |
|---|---|
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $57 |
| Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking | #480 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #2647 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 30 August 2014 (11 years ago) |
| Release Year | 2016 |
| DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD) | Intel |
| ManufacturerFabrication foundry (e.g. TSMC) | Intel |
Similar Performance
Processors with benchmark scores closest to the current hardware, grouped by manufacturer.
Intel (12)
AMD (12)
Our Recommendation for Atom x7-E3950
Suggested pairings based on performance balance
Minimum (Avoid Bottleneck) (12)
Recommended (Balanced) (12)
High-End (Max Performance) (12)
Popular Comparisons
Compare Atom x7-E3950 with other popular CPUs
Compare Atom x7-E3950
See how this CPU stacks up against similar alternatives
Better Alternatives (8)
Similar or Lower Performance (8)
