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 Quad Q9000 is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 1 January 2009 (16 years ago). It is based on the Penryn (2008−2011) architecture. It features 4 cores and 4 threads. Base frequency is 2 GHz, with boost up to 2 GHz. L3 cache: 6 MB L2 Cache. L2 cache: 6 MB. Built on 45 nm process technology. Socket: PGA478. Thermal design power (TDP): 45 Watt. Passmark benchmark score: 1,597 points. Launch price was $348.

Value Upgrade Path

This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Core 2 Quad Q9000 is positioned at rank #1216 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 Quad Q9000

#1204

Atom x5-Z8300

MSRP: $20|Avg: N/A

6392%

#1205

Atom Z3735G

MSRP: $17|Avg: N/A

6298%

#1206

Core i5-480M

MSRP: $81|Avg: $77

5782%

#1207

Core i5-460M

MSRP: $80|Avg: $129

5756%

#1208

Core i5-2540M

MSRP: $266|Avg: $10

5703%

#1210

Core i5-450M

MSRP: $32|Avg: $31

5508%

#1211

Core i3-380M

MSRP: $49|Avg: $25

5281%

#1212

Core i5-430M

MSRP: N/A|Avg: $33

5272%

#1213

Core 2 Duo T6600

MSRP: N/A|Avg: $4

5131%

#1216

Core 2 Quad Q9000

MSRP: $348|Avg: $15

100%

#1217

Core i5-2537M

MSRP: $250|Avg: N/A

100%

#1218

Core i7-720QM

MSRP: $364|Avg: N/A

99%

#1219

Pentium U5400

MSRP: $289|Avg: $214

97%

#1220

Pentium T2330

MSRP: $150|Avg: $7

97%

#1221

Z-01

MSRP: $50|Avg: $10

94%

#1222

Pentium T2310

MSRP: $150|Avg: $14

91%

#1223

Celeron SU2300

MSRP: $134|Avg: $134

89%

#1224

Core i5-560UM

MSRP: $250|Avg: N/A

88%

#1225

Core i7-660UM

MSRP: $317|Avg: N/A

88%

#1226

C-30

MSRP: $50|Avg: $15

88%

#1228

Core i7-620UM

MSRP: $278|Avg: N/A

85%

#1230

Celeron 570

MSRP: $134|Avg: $15

82%

Based on actual market prices and performance synthetic scores.

FPS Benchmarks

Predicted performance for Core 2 Quad Q9000 across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of Core 2 Quad Q9000 specifications and capabilities.

⚡

Processing Power

The Core 2 Quad Q9000 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 GHz from a base frequency of 2 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 1,597, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.

Specification	Core 2 Quad Q9000
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units	4C / 4T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost	2 GHz
Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency	2 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)	100 °C
64-bit Support	Yes
Windows 11 Compatible	No
Core Voltage Range	1.05V-1.175V
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score	1,597

🧠

Memory & Platform

The Core 2 Quad Q9000 fits into the PGA478 socket and supports PCIe 1.1.

Specification	Core 2 Quad Q9000
TypeDesktop or Laptop processor	Laptop
SeriesProduct family	Intel Core 2 Quad
SocketMotherboard socket required	PGA478
PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth	PCIe 1.1

🌡️

Power & Cooling

The Core 2 Quad Q9000 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 Quad Q9000
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload	45 Watt
Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax)	100 °C

💰

Value Analysis

At an average price of $15 (MSRP: $348), the Core 2 Quad Q9000 delivers 106 PassMark points per dollar. It currently holds Rank #1216 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #2750 out of all indexed processors.

Specification	Core 2 Quad Q9000
MSRPManufacturer's Suggested Retail Price	$348
Avg Price (30d)Average market price over the last 30 days	$15
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch	$348
Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking	#1216
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking	#2750
Release DateLaunch date	1 January 2009 (16 years ago)
Release Year	2009
DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD)	Intel