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 Q9650 is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 2008-01-01. It is based on the Yorkfield (2007−2009) architecture. It features 4 cores and 4 threads. Base frequency is 3 GHz, with boost up to 3 GHz. L3 cache: 0 kB. L2 cache: 6 MB (total). Built on 45 nm process technology. Socket: LGA775. Thermal design power (TDP): 95 Watt. Memory support: DDR1, DDR2, DDR3. Passmark benchmark score: 2,508 points. Launch price was $249.

Value Upgrade Path

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MSRP is the manufacturer's suggested retail price.•
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Performance Per Dollar

Based on actual market prices and performance synthetic scores.

FPS Benchmarks

Predicted performance for Core 2 Quad Q9650 across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of Core 2 Quad Q9650 specifications and capabilities.

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Processing Power

The Core 2 Quad Q9650 is a 4-core / 4-thread processor based on the Yorkfield (2007−2009) architecture, manufactured on a 45 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 3 GHz from a base frequency of 3 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 0 kB of L3 cache, plus 6 MB (total) of L2 cache and 64 kB (per core) of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 2,508, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.

Specification	Core 2 Quad Q9650
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units	4C / 4T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost	3 GHz
Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency	3 GHz
ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design	Yorkfield (2007−2009)
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	6 MB (total)
L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache	64 kB (per core)
Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor	2x 107 mm2
Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities	820 million
Bus SpeedData bus frequency	1333 MHz
Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax)	71 °C
64-bit Support	Yes
Windows 11 Compatible	No
Core Voltage Range	0.85V-1.3625V
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score	2,508

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Memory & Platform

The Core 2 Quad Q9650 fits into the LGA775 socket and supports PCIe 1.1. It supports DDR1, DDR2, DDR3 memory.

Specification	Core 2 Quad Q9650
TypeDesktop or Laptop processor	desktop
SocketMotherboard socket required	LGA775
PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth	PCIe 1.1
RAM TypeSupported memory standard	DDR1, DDR2, DDR3
Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers	1

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Power & Cooling

The Core 2 Quad Q9650 has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 95 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed.

Specification	Core 2 Quad Q9650
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload	95 Watt
Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax)	71 °C

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Value Analysis

Performance ranking position: #2388 out of all indexed processors.

Specification	Core 2 Quad Q9650
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch	$249
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking	#2388
Release DateLaunch date	2008-01-01
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.

4 categories

General Information

6 specs

Type	desktop
Designer	Intel
Launch Price	$249
Release Date	2008-01-01
Architecture Codename	Yorkfield (2007−2009)
Performance Ranking Position	2388

Technical Specifications

15 specs

Cores	4
Threads	4
Die Size	2x 107 mm2
L1 Cache	64 kB (per core)
L2 Cache	6 MB (total)
L3 Cache	0 kB
Bus Speed	1333 MHz
Max Frequency	3 GHz
64-Bit Support	+
Base Frequency	3 GHz
Transistor Count	820 million
Process Technology	45 nm
Allowed Core Voltage	0.85V-1.3625V
Max Core Temperature	71 °C
Windows 11 Compatible	-