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 P8700 is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 1 January 2009 (16 years ago). It is based on the Penryn (2008−2011) architecture. It features 2 cores and 2 threads. Base frequency is 2.53 GHz, with boost up to 2.53 GHz. L3 cache: 3 MB L2 Cache. L2 cache: 3 MB. Built on 45 nm process technology. Socket: PGA478. Thermal design power (TDP): 25 Watt. Passmark benchmark score: 2,805 points. Launch price was $209.

Value Upgrade Path

This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Core 2 Duo P8700 is positioned at rank #140 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 Core 2 Duo P8700

#36

Core i5-11500B

MSRP: $185|Avg: $185

99%

#128

Atom x5-Z8300

MSRP: $20|Avg: N/A

314%

#129

Atom Z3735G

MSRP: $17|Avg: N/A

309%

#130

Core i5-480M

MSRP: $81|Avg: $77

284%

#131

Core i5-460M

MSRP: $80|Avg: $129

283%

#132

Core i5-2540M

MSRP: $266|Avg: $10

280%

#134

Core i5-450M

MSRP: $32|Avg: $31

270%

#135

Core i3-380M

MSRP: $49|Avg: $25

259%

#136

Core i5-430M

MSRP: N/A|Avg: $33

259%

#137

Core 2 Duo T6600

MSRP: N/A|Avg: $4

252%

#140

Core 2 Duo P8700

MSRP: $241|Avg: $85

100%

#147

Atom N2800

MSRP: $47|Avg: $3

98%

Based on actual market prices and performance synthetic scores.

FPS Benchmarks

Predicted performance for Core 2 Duo P8700 across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of Core 2 Duo P8700 specifications and capabilities.

⚡

Processing Power

The Core 2 Duo P8700 is a 2-core / 2-thread processor based on the Penryn (2008−2011) architecture, manufactured on a 45 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 2.53 GHz from a base frequency of 2.53 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 3 MB L2 Cache of L3 cache, plus 3 MB of L2 cache. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 2,805, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.

Specification	Core 2 Duo P8700
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units	2C / 2T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost	2.53 GHz
Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency	2.53 GHz
ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design	Penryn (2008−2011)
Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient	45 nm
L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores	3 MB L2 Cache
L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data	3 MB
Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor	107 mm2
Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities	410 Million
Bus SpeedData bus frequency	1066 MHz
Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax)	105 °C
64-bit Support	Yes
Windows 11 Compatible	No
Core Voltage Range	1V - 1.25V
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score	2,805

🧠

Memory & Platform

The Core 2 Duo P8700 fits into the PGA478 socket and supports PCIe 1.1 with 0 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. Integrated graphics: None — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.

Specification	Core 2 Duo P8700
TypeDesktop or Laptop processor	Laptop
SeriesProduct family	Intel Core 2 Duo
SocketMotherboard socket required	PGA478
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	1066
Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory	8
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	GM45,GS45,PM45

🔧

Advanced Features

Virtualization: true — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads). Its primary market competitor is the Turion II Ultra M600.

Specification	Core 2 Duo P8700
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	Turion II Ultra M600

🌡️

Power & Cooling

The Core 2 Duo P8700 has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 25 Watt — 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	Core 2 Duo P8700
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload	25 Watt
Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax)	105 °C
Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the box	false
Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solution	Laptop Integrated

💰

Value Analysis

At an average price of $85 (MSRP: $241), the Core 2 Duo P8700 delivers 33 PassMark points per dollar. It currently holds Rank #140 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #3088 out of all indexed processors.

Specification	Core 2 Duo P8700
MSRPManufacturer's Suggested Retail Price	$241
Avg Price (30d)Average market price over the last 30 days	$85
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch	$209
Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking	#140
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking	#3088
Release DateLaunch date	1 January 2009 (16 years ago)
Release Year	2009
DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD)	Intel