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 T5500 is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 2008-01-01. It is based on the Merom (2006−2008) architecture. It features 2 cores and 2 threads. Base frequency is 1.66 GHz, with boost up to 1.66 GHz. L3 cache: 0 kB. L2 cache: 2 MB. Built on 65 nm process technology. Socket: PGA478. Thermal design power (TDP): 34 Watt. Passmark benchmark score: 1,660 points. Launch price was $249.

Value Upgrade Path

This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Core 2 Duo T5500 is positioned at rank #386 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 T5500

#119

Ryzen 7 PRO 250

MSRP: $400|Avg: $380

98%

#374

Atom x5-Z8300

MSRP: $20|Avg: N/A

530%

#375

Atom Z3735G

MSRP: $17|Avg: N/A

523%

#376

Core i5-480M

MSRP: $81|Avg: $77

480%

#377

Core i5-460M

MSRP: $80|Avg: $129

477%

#378

Core i5-2540M

MSRP: $266|Avg: $10

473%

#380

Core i5-450M

MSRP: $32|Avg: $31

457%

#381

Core i3-380M

MSRP: $49|Avg: $25

438%

#382

Core i5-430M

MSRP: N/A|Avg: $33

437%

#383

Core 2 Duo T6600

MSRP: N/A|Avg: $4

426%

#386

Core 2 Duo T5500

MSRP: N/A|Avg: N/A

100%

#391

Core i5-1145GRE

MSRP: $362|Avg: N/A

99%

Based on actual market prices and performance synthetic scores.

FPS Benchmarks

Predicted performance for Core 2 Duo T5500 across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of Core 2 Duo T5500 specifications and capabilities.

⚡

Processing Power

The Core 2 Duo T5500 is a 2-core / 2-thread processor based on the Merom (2006−2008) architecture, manufactured on a 65 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 1.66 GHz from a base frequency of 1.66 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 0 kB of L3 cache, plus 2 MB of L2 cache and 64 kB of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 1,660, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.

Specification	Core 2 Duo T5500
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units	2C / 2T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost	1.66 GHz
Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency	1.66 GHz
ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design	Merom (2006−2008)
Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient	65 nm
L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores	0 kB
L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data	2 MB
L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache	64 kB
Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor	143 mm2
Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities	291 Million
Bus SpeedData bus frequency	667 MHz
Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax)	100 °C
64-bit Support	Yes
Windows 11 Compatible	No
Core Voltage Range	1.0375V-1.3V
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score	1,660

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Memory & Platform

The Core 2 Duo T5500 fits into the PGA478 socket and supports PCIe 1.1.

Specification	Core 2 Duo T5500
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
Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers	1

🌡️

Power & Cooling

The Core 2 Duo T5500 has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 34 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed.

Specification	Core 2 Duo T5500
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload	34 Watt
Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax)	100 °C

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Value Analysis

It currently holds Rank #386 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #3336 out of all indexed processors.

Specification	Core 2 Duo T5500
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch	$249
Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking	#386
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking	#3336
Release DateLaunch date	2008-01-01
Release Year	2007
DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD)	Intel