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 SP9400 is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 20 August 2008 (17 years ago). It is based on the Penryn (2008−2011) architecture. It features 2 cores and 2 threads. Base frequency is 2.4 GHz, with boost up to 2.4 GHz. L3 cache: 6 MB L2 Cache. L2 cache: 6 MB. Built on 45 nm process technology. Socket: BGA956. Thermal design power (TDP): 25 Watt. Passmark benchmark score: 2,083 points. Launch price was $284.

Value Upgrade Path

This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Core 2 Duo SP9400 is positioned at rank #631 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 SP9400

#187

Core Ultra 9 288V

MSRP: $600|Avg: $600

97%

#188

Core i7-10870H

MSRP: $417|Avg: N/A

97%

#619

Atom x5-Z8300

MSRP: $20|Avg: N/A

845%

#620

Atom Z3735G

MSRP: $17|Avg: N/A

833%

#621

Core i5-480M

MSRP: $81|Avg: $77

764%

#622

Core i5-460M

MSRP: $80|Avg: $129

761%

#623

Core i5-2540M

MSRP: $266|Avg: $10

754%

#625

Core i5-450M

MSRP: $32|Avg: $31

728%

#626

Core i3-380M

MSRP: $49|Avg: $25

698%

#627

Core i5-430M

MSRP: N/A|Avg: $33

697%

#628

Core 2 Duo T6600

MSRP: N/A|Avg: $4

678%

#631

Core 2 Duo SP9400

MSRP: N/A|Avg: N/A

100%

#638

Celeron Dual-Core T1400

MSRP: $80|Avg: $10

98%

Based on actual market prices and performance synthetic scores.

FPS Benchmarks

Predicted performance for Core 2 Duo SP9400 across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of Core 2 Duo SP9400 specifications and capabilities.

⚡

Processing Power

The Core 2 Duo SP9400 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 2.4 GHz from a base frequency of 2.4 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 of L2 cache. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 2,083, 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 340, while multi-core reaches 600.

Specification	Core 2 Duo SP9400
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units	2C / 2T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost	2.4 GHz
Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency	2.4 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
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
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score	2,083
Geekbench 6 SingleSingle-core performance — most relevant for gaming	340
Geekbench 6 MultiMulti-core parallel workload performance	600

🧠

Memory & Platform

The Core 2 Duo SP9400 fits into the BGA956 socket and supports PCIe 1.1. Integrated graphics: GMA X4500HD — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.

Specification	Core 2 Duo SP9400
TypeDesktop or Laptop processor	Laptop
SeriesProduct family	Intel Core 2 Duo
SocketMotherboard socket required	BGA956
PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth	PCIe 1.1
Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency	DDR3-1066
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	GMA X4500HD
Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPU	GS45

🔧

Advanced Features

The Core 2 Duo SP9400 is primarily designed for Budget. Virtualization: VT-x — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads). Its primary market competitor is the Athlon II X2 245e.

Specification	Core 2 Duo SP9400
Primary Use CaseIntended workload category	Budget
OverclockingWhether CPU clock can be manually increased	🔒 Locked
AVX-512Advanced vector instructions for AI/ML workloads	❌ Not Supported
VirtualizationHardware-assisted virtualization technology	VT-x
Direct CompetitorMarket equivalent from rival manufacturer	Athlon II X2 245e

🌡️

Power & Cooling

The Core 2 Duo SP9400 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. No stock cooler is included — you will need to purchase an aftermarket cooler separately. Recommended cooling: Tower 120mm.

Specification	Core 2 Duo SP9400
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	No
Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solution	Tower 120mm

💰

Value Analysis

It currently holds Rank #631 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #3129 out of all indexed processors.

Specification	Core 2 Duo SP9400
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch	$284
Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking	#631
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking	#3129
Release DateLaunch date	20 August 2008 (17 years ago)
Release Year	2008
DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD)	Intel