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 T6500 is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 2008-01-01. It is based on the Penryn (2008−2011) architecture. It features 2 cores and 2 threads. Base frequency is 2.1 GHz, with boost up to 2.1 GHz. L3 cache: 2 MB L2 Cache. L2 cache: 2 MB. Built on 45 nm process technology. Socket: PGA478. Thermal design power (TDP): 35 Watt. Passmark benchmark score: 2,249 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.

MSRP is the manufacturer's suggested retail price.•
Avg price is the current average price collected from markets across the web.

Performance Per Dollar

Based on actual market prices and performance synthetic scores.

FPS Benchmarks

Predicted performance for Core 2 Duo T6500 across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of Core 2 Duo T6500 specifications and capabilities.

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Processing Power

The Core 2 Duo T6500 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 2.1 GHz from a base frequency of 2.1 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 2 MB L2 Cache of L3 cache, plus 2 MB of L2 cache. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 2,249, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.

Specification	Core 2 Duo T6500
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units	2C / 2T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost	2.1 GHz
Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency	2.1 GHz
ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design	Penryn (2008−2011)
Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient	45 nm
L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores	2 MB L2 Cache
L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data	2 MB
Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor	107 mm2
Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities	410 Million
Bus SpeedData bus frequency	800 MHz
Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax)	105 °C
64-bit Support	Yes
Windows 11 Compatible	No
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score	2,249

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Memory & Platform

The Core 2 Duo T6500 fits into the PGA478 socket and supports PCIe 1.1 with 16 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage.

Specification	Core 2 Duo T6500
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	16
Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency	DDR2-800
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	No
Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPU	PM45

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Advanced Features

Virtualization: false — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads).

Specification	Core 2 Duo T6500
OverclockingWhether CPU clock can be manually increased	🔒 Locked
AVX-512Advanced vector instructions for AI/ML workloads	❌ Not Supported
VirtualizationHardware-assisted virtualization technology	false

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Power & Cooling

The Core 2 Duo T6500 has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 35 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: Stock.

Specification	Core 2 Duo T6500
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload	35 Watt
Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax)	105 °C
Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the box	No
Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solution	Stock

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Value Analysis

Performance ranking position: #3208 out of all indexed processors.

Specification	Core 2 Duo T6500
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch	$249
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking	#3208
Release DateLaunch date	2008-01-01
Release Year	2009
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.

3 categories

General Information

7 specs

Type	Laptop
Series	Intel Core 2 Duo
Designer	Intel
Launch Price	$249
Release Date	2008-01-01
Architecture Codename	Penryn (2008−2011)
Performance Ranking Position	3208

Technical Specifications

13 specs

Cores	2
Threads	2
Die Size	107 mm2
L2 Cache	2 MB
L3 Cache	2 MB L2 Cache
Bus Speed	800 MHz
Max Frequency	2.1 GHz
64-Bit Support	+
Base Frequency	2.1 GHz
Transistor Count	410 Million
Process Technology	45 nm
Max Core Temperature	105 °C
Windows 11 Compatible	-