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 Extreme QX9300 is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 2008-01-01. It is based on the Penryn (2008−2011) architecture. It features 4 cores and 4 threads. Base frequency is 2.53 GHz, with boost up to 2.53 GHz. L3 cache: 0 kB. L2 cache: 12 MB. Built on 45 nm process technology. Socket: PGA478. Thermal design power (TDP): 45 Watt. Passmark benchmark score: 1,805 points. Launch price was $249.

Value Upgrade Path

This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Core 2 Extreme QX9300 is positioned at rank #924 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 Extreme QX9300

#912

Atom x5-Z8300

MSRP: $20|Avg: N/A

1625%

#913

Atom Z3735G

MSRP: $17|Avg: N/A

1602%

#914

Core i5-480M

MSRP: $81|Avg: $77

1470%

#915

Core i5-460M

MSRP: $80|Avg: $129

1464%

#916

Core i5-2540M

MSRP: $266|Avg: $10

1450%

#918

Core i5-450M

MSRP: $32|Avg: $31

1401%

#919

Core i3-380M

MSRP: $49|Avg: $25

1343%

#920

Core i5-430M

MSRP: N/A|Avg: $33

1341%

#921

Core 2 Duo T6600

MSRP: N/A|Avg: $4

1305%

#924

Core 2 Extreme QX9300

MSRP: N/A|Avg: N/A

100%

#928

A8-6410

MSRP: $100|Avg: $40

98%

#933

Athlon X2 L310

MSRP: $100|Avg: $20

97%

#939

FX-7600P

MSRP: $150|Avg: $45

94%

Based on actual market prices and performance synthetic scores.

FPS Benchmarks

Predicted performance for Core 2 Extreme QX9300 across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of Core 2 Extreme QX9300 specifications and capabilities.

⚡

Processing Power

The Core 2 Extreme QX9300 is a 4-core / 4-thread processor based on the Penryn (2008−2011) architecture, manufactured on a 45 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 2.53 GHz from a base frequency of 2.53 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 0 kB of L3 cache, plus 12 MB of L2 cache and 64 kB of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 1,805, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.

Specification	Core 2 Extreme QX9300
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units	4C / 4T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost	2.53 GHz
Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency	2.53 GHz
ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design	Penryn (2008−2011)
Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient	45 nm
L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores	0 kB
L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data	12 MB
L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache	64 kB
Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor	2x 107 mm2
Bus SpeedData bus frequency	1066 MHz
Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax)	100 °C
64-bit Support	Yes
Windows 11 Compatible	No
Unlocked MultiplierWhether the CPU can be overclocked	Yes (Overclockable)
Core Voltage Range	1.05V-1.175V
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score	1,805

🧠

Memory & Platform

The Core 2 Extreme QX9300 fits into the PGA478 socket and supports PCIe 1.1.

Specification	Core 2 Extreme QX9300
TypeDesktop or Laptop processor	Laptop
SeriesProduct family	Core 2 Extreme
SocketMotherboard socket required	PGA478
PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth	PCIe 1.1
Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers	2

🌡️

Power & Cooling

The Core 2 Extreme QX9300 has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 45 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed.

Specification	Core 2 Extreme QX9300
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload	45 Watt
Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax)	100 °C

💰

Value Analysis

It currently holds Rank #924 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #2671 out of all indexed processors.

Specification	Core 2 Extreme QX9300
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch	$249
Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking	#924
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking	#2671
Release DateLaunch date	2008-01-01
Release Year	2008
DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD)	Intel