Core 2 Quad Q9650
Intel
PassMark
2,508
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 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
This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Core 2 Quad Q9650 is positioned at rank #244 in our cost-efficiency ranking, representing a Lower cost-benefit for your build. Components placed above yours deliver better value for money.
Avg price is the current average price collected from markets across the web.
Performance Per Dollar Core 2 Quad Q9650
FPS Benchmarks
Predicted performance for Core 2 Quad Q9650 across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.
Path of Exile 2
Counter-Strike 2
League of Legends
Valorant
Technical Analysis
Detailed breakdown of Core 2 Quad Q9650 specifications and capabilities.
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 |
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 |
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 |
Value Analysis
It currently holds Rank #244 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #2388 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | Core 2 Quad Q9650 |
|---|---|
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $249 |
| Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking | #244 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #2388 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 2008-01-01 |
| Release Year | 2008 |
| DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD) | Intel |
Similar Performance
Processors with benchmark scores closest to the current hardware, grouped by manufacturer.
Intel (12)
AMD (12)
Our Recommendation for Core 2 Quad Q9650
Suggested pairings based on performance balance
Minimum (Avoid Bottleneck) (12)
Recommended (Balanced) (12)
High-End (Max Performance) (12)
Popular Comparisons
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