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 Z520 is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 2 April 2008 (17 years ago). It is based on the Silverthorne (2008−2010) architecture. It features 1 cores and 2 threads. Base frequency is 1.33 GHz, with boost up to 0.03 GHz. L3 cache: 0 kB. L2 cache: 512 kB. Built on 45 nm process technology. Socket: PBGA441. Thermal design power (TDP): 2 Watt. Passmark benchmark score: 215 points. Launch price was $65.

Value Upgrade Path

This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Atom Z520 is positioned at rank #523 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 Z520

#167

Core Ultra 7 258V

MSRP: $450|Avg: $400

98%

#511

Atom x5-Z8300

MSRP: $20|Avg: N/A

682%

#512

Atom Z3735G

MSRP: $17|Avg: N/A

672%

#513

Core i5-480M

MSRP: $81|Avg: $77

617%

#514

Core i5-460M

MSRP: $80|Avg: $129

614%

#515

Core i5-2540M

MSRP: $266|Avg: $10

609%

#517

Core i5-450M

MSRP: $32|Avg: $31

588%

#518

Core i3-380M

MSRP: $49|Avg: $25

564%

#519

Core i5-430M

MSRP: N/A|Avg: $33

563%

#520

Core 2 Duo T6600

MSRP: N/A|Avg: $4

548%

#523

Atom Z520

MSRP: N/A|Avg: N/A

100%

Based on actual market prices and performance synthetic scores.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of Atom Z520 specifications and capabilities.

⚡

Processing Power

The Atom Z520 is a 1-core / 2-thread processor based on the Silverthorne (2008−2010) architecture, manufactured on a 45 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 0.03 GHz from a base frequency of 1.33 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 215, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.

Specification	Atom Z520
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units	1C / 2T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost	0.03 GHz
Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency	1.33 GHz
ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design	Silverthorne (2008−2010)
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	24.18 mm2
Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities	47 Million
Bus SpeedData bus frequency	533.33 MT/s
Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax)	90 °C
64-bit Support	No
Windows 11 Compatible	No
Core Voltage Range	0.75-1.1V
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score	215

🧠

Memory & Platform

The Atom Z520 fits into the PBGA441 socket and supports PCIe 2.0 with 0 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage.

Specification	Atom Z520
TypeDesktop or Laptop processor	Laptop
SeriesProduct family	Intel Atom
SocketMotherboard socket required	PBGA441
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 US15W
Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers	1 (Uniprocessor)

🔧

Advanced Features

The Atom Z520 is primarily designed for Mobile. Virtualization: VT-x — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads).

Specification	Atom Z520
Primary Use CaseIntended workload category	Mobile
OverclockingWhether CPU clock can be manually increased	🔒 Locked
AVX-512Advanced vector instructions for AI/ML workloads	❌ Not Supported
VirtualizationHardware-assisted virtualization technology	VT-x

🌡️

Power & Cooling

The Atom Z520 has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 2 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed.

Specification	Atom Z520
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload	2 Watt
Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax)	90 °C

💰

Value Analysis

It currently holds Rank #523 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #3684 out of all indexed processors.

Specification	Atom Z520
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch	$65
Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking	#523
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking	#3684
Release DateLaunch date	2 April 2008 (17 years ago)
Release Year	2008
DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD)	Intel