Core 2 Duo E8500
Intel
PassMark
1,297
MSRP
$26
AVG Price
$26
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 Core 2 Duo E8500 is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 2008-01-01. It is based on the Wolfdale (2008−2010) architecture. It features 2 cores and 2 threads. Base frequency is 3.16 GHz, with boost up to 3.17 GHz. L3 cache: 0 kB. L2 cache: 6 MB (total). Built on 45 nm process technology. Socket: LGA775. Thermal design power (TDP): 65 Watt. Memory support: DDR1, DDR2, DDR3. Passmark benchmark score: 1,297 points. Launch price was $249.
Value Upgrade Path
This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. 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 Core 2 Duo E8500
FPS Benchmarks
Predicted performance for Core 2 Duo E8500 across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.
ARC Raiders
Counter-Strike 2
Dead by Daylight
Deadlock
Delta Force
Garry's Mod
League of Legends
Left 4 Dead 2
Path of Exile 2
Phasmophobia
Technical Analysis
Detailed breakdown of Core 2 Duo E8500 specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The Core 2 Duo E8500 is a 2-core / 2-thread processor based on the Wolfdale (2008−2010) architecture, manufactured on a 45 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 3.17 GHz from a base frequency of 3.16 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 0 kB of L3 cache, plus 6 MB (total) of L2 cache and 64 kB of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 1,297, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.
| Specification | Core 2 Duo E8500 |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 2C / 2T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 3.17 GHz |
| Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency | 3.16 GHz |
| ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design | Wolfdale (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 | 6 MB (total) |
| L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache | 64 kB |
| Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor | 107 mm2 |
| Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities | 410 million |
| Bus SpeedData bus frequency | 1333 MHz |
| 64-bit Support | Yes |
| Windows 11 Compatible | No |
| Core Voltage Range | 0.85V-1.3625V |
| PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score | 1,297 |
Memory & Platform
The Core 2 Duo E8500 fits into the LGA775 socket and supports PCIe 1.1 with 16 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR1, DDR2, DDR3 memory at speeds up to 1333 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 16 across 2 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). Integrated graphics: None — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.
| Specification | Core 2 Duo E8500 |
|---|---|
| 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 | 16 |
| RAM TypeSupported memory standard | DDR1, DDR2, DDR3 |
| Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency | 1333 |
| Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory | 16 |
| 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 | P35,G31,G33,P45 |
| Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers | 1 |
Advanced Features
Virtualization: true — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads). Its primary market competitor is the Phenom II X2 550.
| Specification | Core 2 Duo E8500 |
|---|---|
| OverclockingWhether CPU clock can be manually increased | 🔒 Locked |
| AVX-512Advanced vector instructions for AI/ML workloads | ❌ Not Supported |
| VirtualizationHardware-assisted virtualization technology | true |
| Direct CompetitorMarket equivalent from rival manufacturer | Phenom II X2 550 |
Power & Cooling
The Core 2 Duo E8500 has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 65 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed. It ships with the true stock cooler. Recommended cooling: Stock Cooler.
| Specification | Core 2 Duo E8500 |
|---|---|
| TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload | 65 Watt |
| Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the box | true |
| Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solution | Stock Cooler |
Value Analysis
At an average price of $26, the Core 2 Duo E8500 delivers 50 PassMark points per dollar. Performance ranking position: #2890 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | Core 2 Duo E8500 |
|---|---|
| MSRPManufacturer's Suggested Retail Price | $26 |
| Avg Price (30d)Average market price over the last 30 days | $26 |
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $249 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #2890 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 2008-01-01 |
| Release Year | 2008 |
| DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD) | Intel |
Specifications Reference
Raw spec sheet for quick lookup. The analysis cards above explain what these fields mean in practice.
4 categories
General Information
6 specs
General Information
6 specs
| Type | desktop |
| Designer | Intel |
| Launch Price | $249 |
| Release Date | 2008-01-01 |
| Architecture Codename | Wolfdale (2008−2010) |
| Performance Ranking Position | 2890 |
Technical Specifications
15 specs
Technical Specifications
15 specs
| Cores | 2 |
| Threads | 2 |
| Die Size | 107 mm2 |
| L1 Cache | 64 kB |
| L2 Cache | 6 MB (total) |
| L3 Cache | 0 kB |
| Bus Speed | 1333 MHz |
| Max Frequency | 3.17 GHz |
| 64-Bit Support | + |
| Base Frequency | 3.16 GHz |
| Transistor Count | 410 million |
| Process Technology | 45 nm |
| Allowed Core Voltage | 0.85V-1.3625V |
| Windows 11 Compatible | - |
| Max Case Temperature (TCase) | 72 °C |
Compatibility
4 specs
Compatibility
4 specs
| Socket | LGA775 |
| PCIe Generation | PCIe 1.1 |
| Power Consumption (TDP) | 65 Watt |
| Max Processors In Config | 1 |
Memory
1 spec
Memory
1 spec
| RAM Types | DDR1, DDR2, DDR3 |
Similar Performance
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Our Recommendation for Core 2 Duo E8500
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Minimum (Avoid Bottleneck) (12)
Recommended (Balanced) (12)
High-End (Max Performance) (12)
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