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 Z550 is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 8 April 2009 (16 years ago). It is based on the Silverthorne (2008−2010) architecture. It features 1 cores and 2 threads. Base frequency is 2 GHz, with boost up to 2 GHz. L3 cache: 0 kB. L2 cache: 512 kB (per core). Built on 45 nm process technology. Socket: PBGA441. Thermal design power (TDP): 2.4 Watt. Memory support: unknown. Passmark benchmark score: 375 points. Launch price was $69.

Value Upgrade Path

This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Atom Z550 is positioned at rank #592 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 Z550

#184

Core Ultra 7 266V

MSRP: $520|Avg: $520

99%

#580

Atom x5-Z8300

MSRP: $20|Avg: N/A

782%

#581

Atom Z3735G

MSRP: $17|Avg: N/A

771%

#582

Core i5-480M

MSRP: $81|Avg: $77

708%

#583

Core i5-460M

MSRP: $80|Avg: $129

705%

#584

Core i5-2540M

MSRP: $266|Avg: $10

698%

#586

Core i5-450M

MSRP: $32|Avg: $31

674%

#587

Core i3-380M

MSRP: $49|Avg: $25

646%

#588

Core i5-430M

MSRP: N/A|Avg: $33

645%

#589

Core 2 Duo T6600

MSRP: N/A|Avg: $4

628%

#592

Atom Z550

MSRP: N/A|Avg: N/A

100%

Based on actual market prices and performance synthetic scores.

FPS Benchmarks

Predicted performance for Atom Z550 across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of Atom Z550 specifications and capabilities.

⚡

Processing Power

The Atom Z550 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 2 GHz from a base frequency of 2 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 (per core) of L2 cache and 56 kB (per core) of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 375, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.

Specification	Atom Z550
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units	1C / 2T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost	2 GHz
Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency	2 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 (per core)
L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache	56 kB (per core)
Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor	26 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
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score	375

🧠

Memory & Platform

The Atom Z550 fits into the PBGA441 socket and supports PCIe 2.0 with 0 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports unknown memory at speeds up to DDR2-533 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 2 GB across 1 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth).

Specification	Atom Z550
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
RAM TypeSupported memory standard	unknown
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)

🌡️

Power & Cooling

The Atom Z550 has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 2.4 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed.

Specification	Atom Z550
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload	2.4 Watt
Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax)	90 °C

💰

Value Analysis

It currently holds Rank #592 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #3462 out of all indexed processors.

Specification	Atom Z550
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch	$69
Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking	#592
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking	#3462
Release DateLaunch date	8 April 2009 (16 years ago)
Release Year	2009
DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD)	Intel
ManufacturerFabrication foundry (e.g. TSMC)	Intel