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 P9700 is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 2 June 2009 (16 years ago). It is based on the Penryn (2008−2011) architecture. It features 2 cores and 2 threads. Base frequency is 2.8 GHz, with boost up to 2.8 GHz. L3 cache: 6 MB L2 Cache. L2 cache: 6 MB (total). Built on 45 nm process technology. Socket: PGA478. Thermal design power (TDP): 28 Watt. Memory support: DDR2, DDR3. Passmark benchmark score: 1,178 points. Launch price was $348.

Value Upgrade Path

This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Core 2 Duo P9700 is positioned at rank #564 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 P9700

#176

Core i9-13900HK

MSRP: $697|Avg: N/A

99%

#178

Core i7-1360P

MSRP: $480|Avg: $280

98%

#179

Core i7-1260P

MSRP: $432|Avg: $432

98%

#552

Atom x5-Z8300

MSRP: $20|Avg: N/A

747%

#553

Atom Z3735G

MSRP: $17|Avg: N/A

736%

#554

Core i5-480M

MSRP: $81|Avg: $77

676%

#555

Core i5-460M

MSRP: $80|Avg: $129

673%

#556

Core i5-2540M

MSRP: $266|Avg: $10

667%

#558

Core i5-450M

MSRP: $32|Avg: $31

644%

#559

Core i3-380M

MSRP: $49|Avg: $25

617%

#560

Core i5-430M

MSRP: N/A|Avg: $33

616%

#561

Core 2 Duo T6600

MSRP: N/A|Avg: $4

600%

#564

Core 2 Duo P9700

MSRP: N/A|Avg: N/A

100%

#572

A10-9600P

MSRP: $128|Avg: $50

99%

Based on actual market prices and performance synthetic scores.

FPS Benchmarks

Predicted performance for Core 2 Duo P9700 across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of Core 2 Duo P9700 specifications and capabilities.

⚡

Processing Power

The Core 2 Duo P9700 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 2.8 GHz from a base frequency of 2.8 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 6 MB L2 Cache of L3 cache, plus 6 MB (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 1,178, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.

Specification	Core 2 Duo P9700
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units	2C / 2T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost	2.8 GHz
Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency	2.8 GHz
ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design	Penryn (2008−2011)
Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient	45 nm
L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores	6 MB L2 Cache
L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data	6 MB (total)
L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache	64 kB (per core)
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	1.012V-1.175V
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score	1,178

🧠

Memory & Platform

The Core 2 Duo P9700 fits into the PGA478 socket and supports PCIe 1.1. It supports DDR2, DDR3 memory.

Specification	Core 2 Duo P9700
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
RAM TypeSupported memory standard	DDR2, DDR3
Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers	1

🌡️

Power & Cooling

The Core 2 Duo P9700 has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 28 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed.

Specification	Core 2 Duo P9700
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload	28 Watt
Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax)	105 °C

💰

Value Analysis

It currently holds Rank #564 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #2961 out of all indexed processors.

Specification	Core 2 Duo P9700
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch	$348
Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking	#564
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking	#2961
Release DateLaunch date	2 June 2009 (16 years ago)
Release Year	2009
DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD)	Intel
ManufacturerFabrication foundry (e.g. TSMC)	Intel