CPU·Budget
Core 2 Duo T9600
Intel
PassMark
1,087
15 July 2008 (17 years ago)
35 Watt
Penryn (2008−2011)
Performance Spectrum - CPU
About PassMark
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 T9600 is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 15 July 2008 (17 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. Built on 45 nm process technology. Socket: PGA478. Thermal design power (TDP): 35 Watt. Passmark benchmark score: 1,087 points. Launch price was $316.
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.
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 T9600 across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.
Counter-Strike 2
1080p
low27 FPS
medium27 FPS
high27 FPS
ultra27 FPS
1440p
low27 FPS
medium27 FPS
high27 FPS
ultra27 FPS
4k
low27 FPS
medium27 FPS
high27 FPS
ultra27 FPS
Hearts of Iron IV
1080p
low27 FPS
medium27 FPS
high27 FPS
ultra27 FPS
1440p
low27 FPS
medium27 FPS
high27 FPS
ultra27 FPS
4k
low27 FPS
medium27 FPS
high27 FPS
ultra27 FPS
Honkai: Star Rail
1080p
low27 FPS
medium27 FPS
high27 FPS
ultra27 FPS
1440p
low27 FPS
medium27 FPS
high27 FPS
ultra27 FPS
4k
low27 FPS
medium27 FPS
high27 FPS
ultra27 FPS
League of Legends
1080p
low27 FPS
medium27 FPS
high27 FPS
ultra27 FPS
1440p
low27 FPS
medium27 FPS
high27 FPS
ultra27 FPS
4k
low27 FPS
medium27 FPS
high27 FPS
ultra27 FPS
Left 4 Dead 2
1080p
low27 FPS
medium27 FPS
high27 FPS
ultra27 FPS
1440p
low27 FPS
medium27 FPS
high27 FPS
ultra27 FPS
4k
low27 FPS
medium27 FPS
high27 FPS
ultra27 FPS
Marvel Rivals
1080p
low27 FPS
medium27 FPS
high27 FPS
ultra27 FPS
1440p
low27 FPS
medium27 FPS
high27 FPS
ultra27 FPS
4k
low27 FPS
medium27 FPS
high27 FPS
ultra27 FPS
Path of Exile 2
1080p
low27 FPS
medium27 FPS
high27 FPS
ultra27 FPS
1440p
low27 FPS
medium27 FPS
high27 FPS
ultra27 FPS
4k
low27 FPS
medium27 FPS
high27 FPS
ultra27 FPS
Phasmophobia
1080p
low27 FPS
medium27 FPS
high27 FPS
ultra27 FPS
1440p
low27 FPS
medium27 FPS
high27 FPS
ultra27 FPS
4k
low27 FPS
medium27 FPS
high27 FPS
ultra24 FPS
Rust
1080p
low27 FPS
medium27 FPS
high27 FPS
ultra27 FPS
1440p
low27 FPS
medium27 FPS
high27 FPS
ultra27 FPS
4k
low27 FPS
medium27 FPS
high26 FPS
ultra19 FPS
Stardew Valley
1080p
low27 FPS
medium27 FPS
high27 FPS
ultra27 FPS
1440p
low27 FPS
medium27 FPS
high27 FPS
ultra27 FPS
4k
low27 FPS
medium27 FPS
high27 FPS
ultra27 FPS
Technical Analysis
Detailed breakdown of Core 2 Duo T9600 specifications and capabilities.
⚡
Processing Power
The Core 2 Duo T9600 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 of L2 cache. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 1,087, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.
| Specification | Core 2 Duo T9600 |
|---|---|
| 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 |
| 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 | 1.05V-1.2125V |
| PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score | 1,087 |
🧠
Memory & Platform
The Core 2 Duo T9600 fits into the PGA478 socket and supports PCIe 1.1.
| Specification | Core 2 Duo T9600 |
|---|---|
| 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 |
🌡️
Power & Cooling
The Core 2 Duo T9600 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.
| Specification | Core 2 Duo T9600 |
|---|---|
| TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload | 35 Watt |
| Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax) | 105 °C |
💰
Value Analysis
Performance ranking position: #3019 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | Core 2 Duo T9600 |
|---|---|
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $316 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #3019 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 15 July 2008 (17 years ago) |
| Release Year | 2008 |
| 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
General Information
7 specs
| Type | Laptop |
| Series | Intel Core 2 Duo |
| Designer | Intel |
| Launch Price | $316 |
| Release Date | 15 July 2008 (17 years ago) |
| Architecture Codename | Penryn (2008−2011) |
| Performance Ranking Position | 3019 |
Technical Specifications
14 specs
Technical Specifications
14 specs
| Cores | 2 |
| Threads | 2 |
| Die Size | 107 mm2 |
| L2 Cache | 6 MB |
| L3 Cache | 6 MB L2 Cache |
| Bus Speed | 1066 MHz |
| Max Frequency | 2.8 GHz |
| 64-Bit Support | + |
| Base Frequency | 2.8 GHz |
| Transistor Count | 410 Million |
| Process Technology | 45 nm |
| Allowed Core Voltage | 1.05V-1.2125V |
| Max Core Temperature | 105 °C |
| Windows 11 Compatible | - |
Compatibility
3 specs
Compatibility
3 specs
| Socket | PGA478 |
| PCIe Generation | PCIe 1.1 |
| Power Consumption (TDP) | 35 Watt |
Similar Performance
Processors with benchmark scores closest to the current hardware, grouped by manufacturer.
Intel (12)
Core i3-4010YPassmark: 1,358
2 Cores4 ThrdMax: 1.3 GHz2013
Pentium G630Passmark: 1,354
2 Cores2 ThrdMax: 2.7 GHz2011
Core i3-2332MPassmark: 1,353
2 Cores4 ThrdMax: 2.2 GHz2011
Celeron 4205UPassmark: 1,350
2 Cores2 ThrdMax: 1.8 GHz2019
Core i3-L13G4Passmark: 1,349
5 Cores5 ThrdMax: 2.8 GHz2020
Pentium 3560MPassmark: 1,345
2 Cores2 ThrdMax: 2.4 GHz2014
Celeron 3865UPassmark: 1,343
2 Cores2 ThrdMax: 1.8 GHz2017
Processor N50Passmark: 1,339
2 Cores2 ThrdMax: 3.4 GHz2023
Pentium Dual Core T4500Passmark: 1,336
2 Cores2 ThrdMax: 2.3 GHz2010
Core 2 Duo U7700Passmark: 1,335
2 Cores2 ThrdMax: 1.33 GHz2006
Celeron G1610TPassmark: 1,333
2 Cores2 ThrdMax: 2.3 GHz2012
Celeron N2840Passmark: 1,331
2 Cores2 ThrdMax: 2.58 GHz2014
AMD (12)
Athlon II X2 280Passmark: 1,355
2 Cores2 ThrdMax: 3.6 GHz2013
Phenom X4 9100ePassmark: 1,353
4 Cores4 ThrdMax: 1.8 GHz2008
A8-4555MPassmark: 1,341
4 Cores4 ThrdMax: 2.4 GHz2012
Turion 64 X2 TL-58Passmark: 1,339
2 Cores2 ThrdMax: 1.9 GHz2007
A6-9225Passmark: 1,334
2 Cores2 ThrdMax: 3.1 GHz2018
Athlon II X2 270Passmark: 1,333
2 Cores2 ThrdMax: 3.4 GHz2011
Athlon X2 340Passmark: 1,333
2 Cores2 ThrdMax: 3.6 GHz2012
Athlon II X3 405ePassmark: 1,331
3 Cores3 ThrdMax: 2.3 GHz2009
Athlon Neo X2 L335Passmark: 1,331
2 Cores2 ThrdMax: 1.6 GHz2009
A4-5050Passmark: 1,328
4 Cores4 ThrdMax: 1.5 GHz2014
A4-6300BPassmark: 1,328
2 Cores2 ThrdMax: 3.9 GHz2013
Turion 64 X2 TL-52Passmark: 1,324
2 Cores2 ThrdMax: 1.6 GHz2006
Our Recommendation for Core 2 Duo T9600
Suggested pairings based on performance balance
Minimum (Avoid Bottleneck) (12)
Quadro T1000 Max-QG3D Mark: 5,000
4 GBCore: 765 MHz2019
Radeon R9 M295X Mac EditionG3D Mark: 5,000
2 GBCore: 850 MHz2014
QuadroG3D Mark: 5,000
2 GBCore: 135 MHz1999
Radeon HD 7970M CrossfireG3D Mark: 5,000
2 GBCore: 850 MHz2012
Quadro T1000 (móvel)G3D Mark: 5,000
4 GBCore: 1395 MHz2019
M1 8-Core GPUG3D Mark: 5,000
2 GBCore: 1278 MHz2020
GeForce GTX 460 OEMG3D Mark: 5,000
2 GBCore: 650 MHz2010
GeForce GTX 1630G3D Mark: 4,992
4 GBCore: 1740 MHz2022
Radeon R9 M395G3D Mark: 4,934
2 GBCore: 834 MHz2015
RTXA5000-8QG3D Mark: 4,916
2 GBCore: 1170 MHz2021
FirePro S9050G3D Mark: 4,901
4 GBCore: 900 MHz2014
CMP 30HXG3D Mark: 4,892
2 GBCore: 1530 MHz2021
Recommended (Balanced) (12)
GeForce GTX 1070 with Max-Q DesignG3D Mark: 9,842
8 GBCore: 1215 MHz2017
GeForce GTX 1060 3GBG3D Mark: 9,815
3 GBCore: 1506 MHz2016
Arc A730MG3D Mark: 9,808
12 GBCore: 1100 MHz2022
Radeon 8040SG3D Mark: 9,756
4 GBCore: 1295 MHz2025
Radeon R9 Fury + Fury XG3D Mark: 9,741
4 GB2015
Radeon RX 6550MG3D Mark: 9,705
4 GBCore: 2000 MHz2023
GeForce RTX 2060 with Max-Q DesignG3D Mark: 9,674
6 GBCore: 975 MHz2020
GeForce GTX 970G3D Mark: 9,640
4 GBCore: 1050 MHz2014
Radeon RX 6500 XTG3D Mark: 9,603
4 GBCore: 2610 MHz2022
GRID P40-2QG3D Mark: 9,581
4 GBCore: 557 MHz2015
Radeon RX Vega Ryzen 5 5600GTG3D Mark: 9,558
Shared System RAM2020
Radeon R9 FuryG3D Mark: 9,521
4 GB2015
High-End (Max Performance) (12)
Radeon Pro W6800XG3D Mark: 18,000
32 GBCore: 1800 MHz2021
Radeon 8060SG3D Mark: 17,989
noneCore: 1295 MHz2025
Quadro RTX 6000G3D Mark: 17,887
24 GBCore: 1440 MHz2018
GeForce GTX 1070 SLIG3D Mark: 17,790
8 GBCore: 1506 MHz2016
GeForce GTX 1070 SLI (móvel)G3D Mark: 17,790
8 GBCore: 1443 MHz2016
GeForce RTX 3070 Ti Laptop GPUG3D Mark: 17,621
8 GBCore: 1575 MHz2021
GeForce RTX 3070 Ti MobileG3D Mark: 17,621
8 GBCore: 915 MHz2022
Radeon Pro W5700XG3D Mark: 17,591
16 GBCore: 1243 MHz2019
Radeon Pro W6900XG3D Mark: 17,413
32 GBCore: 1825 MHz2021
GeForce RTX 4060 Laptop GPUG3D Mark: 17,400
8 GBCore: 2310 MHz2023
GeForce RTX 5060 Laptop GPUG3D Mark: 17,374
8 GBCore: 2407 MHz2025
Radeon RX 6850M XTG3D Mark: 17,350
12 GBCore: 2321 MHz2022
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Compare Core 2 Duo T9600
See how this CPU stacks up against similar alternatives
Better Alternatives (8)
2 Cores2 ThrdMax: 2.8 GHz2008
VS
2 Cores4 ThrdMax: 0.27 GHz2010
2 Cores2 ThrdMax: 2.8 GHz2008
VS
2 Cores2 ThrdMax: 2.6 GHz2010
2 Cores2 ThrdMax: 2.8 GHz2008
VS
2 Cores2 ThrdMax: 2.4 GHz2009
2 Cores2 ThrdMax: 2.8 GHz2008
VS
2 Cores2 ThrdMax: 1.7 GHz2015
2 Cores2 ThrdMax: 2.8 GHz2008
VS
2 Cores4 ThrdMax: 2.13 GHz2010
2 Cores2 ThrdMax: 2.8 GHz2008
VS
2 Cores2 ThrdMax: 1.6 GHz2013
2 Cores2 ThrdMax: 2.8 GHz2008
VS
2 Cores2 ThrdMax: 2.66 GHz2009
2 Cores2 ThrdMax: 2.8 GHz2008
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2 Cores2 ThrdMax: 2.3 GHz2012
Similar or Lower Performance (8)
2 Cores2 ThrdMax: 2.8 GHz2008
VS
2 Cores2 ThrdMax: 0.27 GHz2010
2 Cores2 ThrdMax: 2.8 GHz2008
VS
2 Cores2 ThrdMax: 2.5 GHz2010
2 Cores2 ThrdMax: 2.8 GHz2008
VS
2 Cores2 ThrdMax: 1.1 GHz2013
2 Cores2 ThrdMax: 2.8 GHz2008
VS
3 Cores3 ThrdMax: 1.9 GHz2008
2 Cores2 ThrdMax: 2.8 GHz2008
VS
4 Cores4 ThrdMax: 1.6 GHz2014
2 Cores2 ThrdMax: 2.8 GHz2008
VS
2 Cores2 ThrdMax: 3 GHz2009
2 Cores2 ThrdMax: 2.8 GHz2008
VS
2 Cores2 ThrdMax: 2.7 GHz2009
2 Cores2 ThrdMax: 2.8 GHz2008
VS
2 Cores2 ThrdMax: 1.9 GHz2013
