Celeron N3050
Intel
PassMark
1,099
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 N3050 is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 1 April 2015 (10 years ago). It is based on the Braswell (2015−2016) architecture. It features 2 cores and 2 threads. Base frequency is 1.6 GHz, with boost up to 2.16 GHz. L3 cache: 0 kB. L2 cache: 1 MB. Built on 14 nm process technology. Socket: FCBGA1170. Thermal design power (TDP): 6 Watt. Memory support: DDR3. Passmark benchmark score: 1,099 points. Launch price was $107.
Value Upgrade Path
This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Celeron N3050 is positioned at rank #744 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 N3050
FPS Benchmarks
Predicted performance for Celeron N3050 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 Celeron N3050 specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The Celeron N3050 is a 2-core / 2-thread processor based on the Braswell (2015−2016) architecture, manufactured on a 14 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 2.16 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 1 MB of L2 cache. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 1,099, 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 221, while multi-core reaches 440.
| Specification | Celeron N3050 |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 2C / 2T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 2.16 GHz |
| Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency | 1.6 GHz |
| ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design | Braswell (2015−2016) |
| 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 | 1 MB |
| Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax) | 90 °C |
| 64-bit Support | Yes |
| Windows 11 Compatible | No |
| PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score | 1,099 |
| Geekbench 6 SingleSingle-core performance — most relevant for gaming | 221 |
| Geekbench 6 MultiMulti-core parallel workload performance | 440 |
Memory & Platform
The Celeron N3050 fits into the FCBGA1170 socket and supports PCIe 3.0 with 4 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR3 memory at speeds up to DDR3L-1600 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 8 GB across 2 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). Integrated graphics: Intel HD Graphics (Braswell) — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.
| Specification | Celeron N3050 |
|---|---|
| TypeDesktop or Laptop processor | Laptop |
| SeriesProduct family | Intel Celeron |
| SocketMotherboard socket required | FCBGA1170 |
| PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth | PCIe 3.0 |
| PCIe LanesTotal available lanes for GPUs, NVMe drives, and expansion | 4 |
| RAM TypeSupported memory standard | DDR3 |
| Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency | DDR3L-1600 |
| Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory | 8 GB |
| RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel | 2 |
| ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruption | No |
| Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processor | Intel HD Graphics (Braswell) |
| Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPU | Braswell SoC |
| Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers | 1 (Uniprocessor) |
Advanced Features
The Celeron N3050 is primarily designed for Netbook. Virtualization: VT-x / EPT — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads). Its primary market competitor is the AMD E2-7110.
| Specification | Celeron N3050 |
|---|---|
| Primary Use CaseIntended workload category | Netbook |
| OverclockingWhether CPU clock can be manually increased | 🔒 Locked |
| AVX-512Advanced vector instructions for AI/ML workloads | ❌ Not Supported |
| VirtualizationHardware-assisted virtualization technology | VT-x / EPT |
| Direct CompetitorMarket equivalent from rival manufacturer | AMD E2-7110 |
Power & Cooling
The Celeron N3050 has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 6 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: Passive.
| Specification | Celeron N3050 |
|---|---|
| TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload | 6 Watt |
| Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax) | 90 °C |
| Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the box | No |
| Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solution | Passive |
Value Analysis
It currently holds Rank #744 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #3320 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | Celeron N3050 |
|---|---|
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $107 |
| Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking | #744 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #3320 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 1 April 2015 (10 years ago) |
| Release Year | 2015 |
| DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD) | Intel |
Similar Performance
Processors with benchmark scores closest to the current hardware, grouped by manufacturer.
Intel (12)
AMD (12)
Our Recommendation for Celeron N3050
Suggested pairings based on performance balance
Minimum (Avoid Bottleneck) (12)
Recommended (Balanced) (12)
High-End (Max Performance) (12)
Popular Comparisons
Compare Celeron N3050 with other popular CPUs
Compare Celeron N3050
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