Celeron 420
Intel
PassMark
425
MSRP
$39
AVG Price
$15
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 Celeron 420 is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 3 June 2007 (18 years ago). It is based on the Conroe-L (2007−2008) architecture. It features 1 cores and 1 threads. Base frequency is 1.6 GHz, with boost up to 1.6 GHz. L3 cache: 0 kB. L2 cache: 512 kB (total). Built on 65 nm process technology. Socket: LGA775. Thermal design power (TDP): 35 Watt. Memory support: DDR1, DDR2, DDR3. Passmark benchmark score: 425 points. Launch price was $23.
Value Upgrade Path
This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Celeron 420 is positioned at rank #982 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 Celeron 420
Technical Analysis
Detailed breakdown of Celeron 420 specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The Celeron 420 is a 1-core / 1-thread processor based on the Conroe-L (2007−2008) architecture, manufactured on a 65 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 1.6 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 512 kB (total) of L2 cache and 64 kB (per core) of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 425, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.
| Specification | Celeron 420 |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 1C / 1T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 1.6 GHz |
| Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency | 1.6 GHz |
| ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design | Conroe-L (2007−2008) |
| Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient | 65 nm |
| L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores | 0 kB |
| L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data | 512 kB (total) |
| L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache | 64 kB (per core) |
| Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor | 77 mm2 |
| Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities | 105 million |
| 64-bit Support | Yes |
| Windows 11 Compatible | No |
| Core Voltage Range | 1V-1.3375V |
| PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score | 425 |
Memory & Platform
The Celeron 420 fits into the LGA775 socket and supports PCIe 1.1 with 0 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR1, DDR2, DDR3 memory at speeds up to DDR2-800 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 16 GB across 2 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth).
| Specification | Celeron 420 |
|---|---|
| TypeDesktop or Laptop processor | desktop |
| SocketMotherboard socket required | LGA775 |
| PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth | PCIe 1.1 |
| PCIe LanesTotal available lanes for GPUs, NVMe drives, and expansion | 0 |
| RAM TypeSupported memory standard | DDR1, DDR2, DDR3 |
| Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency | DDR2-800 |
| Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory | 16 GB |
| RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel | 2 |
| ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruption | No |
| Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processor | No |
| Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPU | 945,G31,G41 |
| Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers | 1 |
Advanced Features
The Celeron 420 is primarily designed for Budget. Virtualization: No — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads). Its primary market competitor is the Pentium 4 2.80.
| Specification | Celeron 420 |
|---|---|
| Primary Use CaseIntended workload category | Budget |
| OverclockingWhether CPU clock can be manually increased | 🔒 Locked |
| AVX-512Advanced vector instructions for AI/ML workloads | ❌ Not Supported |
| VirtualizationHardware-assisted virtualization technology | No |
| Direct CompetitorMarket equivalent from rival manufacturer | Pentium 4 2.80 |
Power & Cooling
The Celeron 420 has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 35 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 | Celeron 420 |
|---|---|
| TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload | 35 Watt |
| Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the box | No |
| Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solution | Stock |
Value Analysis
At an average price of $15 (MSRP: $39), the Celeron 420 delivers 28 PassMark points per dollar. It currently holds Rank #982 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #3610 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | Celeron 420 |
|---|---|
| MSRPManufacturer's Suggested Retail Price | $39 |
| Avg Price (30d)Average market price over the last 30 days | $15 |
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $23 |
| Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking | #982 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #3610 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 3 June 2007 (18 years ago) |
| Release Year | 2007 |
| DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD) | Intel |
| ManufacturerFabrication foundry (e.g. TSMC) | Intel |
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Our Recommendation for Celeron 420
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Recommended (Balanced) (12)
High-End (Max Performance) (12)
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