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 M 540 is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 2007-01-01. It is based on the Merom (2006−2008) architecture. It features 1 cores and 1 threads. Max frequency: 1.86 GHz. L2 cache: 1 MB. Built on 65 nm process technology. Thermal design power (TDP): 1 MB. Passmark benchmark score: 1,744 points. Launch price was $69.

Value Upgrade Path

This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Celeron M 540 is positioned at rank #873 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 Celeron M 540

#861

Atom x5-Z8300

MSRP: $20|Avg: N/A

1447%

#862

Atom Z3735G

MSRP: $17|Avg: N/A

1426%

#863

Core i5-480M

MSRP: $81|Avg: $77

1309%

#864

Core i5-460M

MSRP: $80|Avg: $129

1303%

#865

Core i5-2540M

MSRP: $266|Avg: $10

1291%

#867

Core i5-450M

MSRP: $32|Avg: $31

1247%

#868

Core i3-380M

MSRP: $49|Avg: $25

1195%

#869

Core i5-430M

MSRP: N/A|Avg: $33

1193%

#870

Core 2 Duo T6600

MSRP: N/A|Avg: $4

1161%

#873

Celeron M 540

MSRP: $86|Avg: $20

100%

#877

Microsoft SQ1

MSRP: $300|Avg: $180

99%

#879

Core i5-6440HQ

MSRP: $250|Avg: N/A

99%

#883

Celeron Dual-Core T1600

MSRP: $150|Avg: $150

99%

#884

Athlon II N330

MSRP: $100|Avg: $50

99%

Based on actual market prices and performance synthetic scores.

FPS Benchmarks

Predicted performance for Celeron M 540 across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of Celeron M 540 specifications and capabilities.

⚡

Processing Power

The Celeron M 540 is a 1-core / 1-thread processor based on the Merom (2006−2008) architecture, manufactured on a 65 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 1.86 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 1,744, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.

Specification	Celeron M 540
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units	1C / 1T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost	1.86 GHz
ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design	Merom (2006−2008)
Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient	65 nm
L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data	1 MB
Bus SpeedData bus frequency	533 MHz
64-bit Support	Yes
Windows 11 Compatible	No
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score	1,744

🧠

Memory & Platform

Integrated graphics: None — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.

Specification	Celeron M 540
TypeDesktop or Laptop processor	Laptop
SeriesProduct family	Celeron M
PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth	PCIe 1.1
PCIe LanesTotal available lanes for GPUs, NVMe drives, and expansion	0
Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency	667
Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory	4
RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel	2
ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruption	No
Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processor	None
Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPU	GL960,GM965

🔧

Advanced Features

Virtualization: false — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads). Its primary market competitor is the Mobile Sempron 3600+.

Specification	Celeron M 540
OverclockingWhether CPU clock can be manually increased	🔒 Locked
AVX-512Advanced vector instructions for AI/ML workloads	❌ Not Supported
VirtualizationHardware-assisted virtualization technology	false
Direct CompetitorMarket equivalent from rival manufacturer	Mobile Sempron 3600+

🌡️

Power & Cooling

The Celeron M 540 has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 1 MB — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed. It ships with the false stock cooler. Recommended cooling: Laptop Integrated.

Specification	Celeron M 540
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload	1 MB
Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the box	false
Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solution	Laptop Integrated

💰

Value Analysis

At an average price of $20 (MSRP: $86), the Celeron M 540 delivers 87 PassMark points per dollar. It currently holds Rank #873 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #3352 out of all indexed processors.

Specification	Celeron M 540
MSRPManufacturer's Suggested Retail Price	$86
Avg Price (30d)Average market price over the last 30 days	$20
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch	$69
Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking	#873
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking	#3352
Release DateLaunch date	2007-01-01
Release Year	2007
DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD)	Intel