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 i5-520M is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 7 January 2010 (15 years ago). It is based on the Arrandale (2010−2011) architecture. It features 2 cores and 4 threads. Base frequency is 2.4 GHz, with boost up to 2.93 GHz. L3 cache: 3 MB. L2 cache: 512 kB. Built on 32 nm process technology. Socket: PGA988. Thermal design power (TDP): 35 Watt. Memory support: DDR3-800, DDR3-1066. Passmark benchmark score: 1,727 points. Launch price was $225.

Value Upgrade Path

This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Core i5-520M is positioned at rank #1139 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 i5-520M

#1127

Atom x5-Z8300

MSRP: $20|Avg: N/A

3820%

#1128

Atom Z3735G

MSRP: $17|Avg: N/A

3764%

#1129

Core i5-480M

MSRP: $81|Avg: $77

3456%

#1130

Core i5-460M

MSRP: $80|Avg: $129

3440%

#1131

Core i5-2540M

MSRP: $266|Avg: $10

3409%

#1133

Core i5-450M

MSRP: $32|Avg: $31

3292%

#1134

Core i3-380M

MSRP: $49|Avg: $25

3156%

#1135

Core i5-430M

MSRP: N/A|Avg: $33

3151%

#1136

Core 2 Duo T6600

MSRP: N/A|Avg: $4

3066%

#1139

Core i5-520M

MSRP: $225|Avg: N/A

100%

#1141

Celeron 807

MSRP: $70|Avg: $10

99%

#1142

Pentium B950

MSRP: $134|Avg: $35

99%

#1143

Celeron 220

MSRP: $42|Avg: $42

99%

#1144

Pentium B960

MSRP: $134|Avg: $15

99%

#1146

Pentium 957

MSRP: $134|Avg: $10

99%

#1147

Core 2 Duo SL9400

MSRP: $284|Avg: N/A

98%

#1149

Pentium N3540

MSRP: $161|Avg: $161

98%

#1150

Core i7-3555LE

MSRP: $300|Avg: $280

97%

#1151

Core i3-2377M

MSRP: $250|Avg: N/A

96%

#1152

Core 2 Duo E8435

MSRP: $150|Avg: $74

96%

#1153

Celeron M 723

MSRP: $161|Avg: $161

95%

#1154

Core i7-3517UE

MSRP: $330|Avg: $35

94%

Based on actual market prices and performance synthetic scores.

FPS Benchmarks

Predicted performance for Core i5-520M across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of Core i5-520M specifications and capabilities.

⚡

Processing Power

The Core i5-520M is a 2-core / 4-thread processor based on the Arrandale (2010−2011) architecture, manufactured on a 32 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 2.93 GHz from a base frequency of 2.4 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 3 MB of L3 cache, plus 512 kB of L2 cache and 128 kB of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 1,727, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product. Geekbench 6 single-core (the most relevant metric for gaming FPS) records 360, while multi-core reaches 695.

Specification	Core i5-520M
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units	2C / 4T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost	2.93 GHz
Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency	2.4 GHz
ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design	Arrandale (2010−2011)
Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient	32 nm
L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores	3 MB
L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data	512 kB
L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache	128 kB
Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor	81+114 mm2
Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities	382+177 Million
Bus SpeedData bus frequency	1 × 2.5 GT/s
Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax)	105 °C
64-bit Support	Yes
Windows 11 Compatible	No
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score	1,727
Geekbench 6 SingleSingle-core performance — most relevant for gaming	360
Geekbench 6 MultiMulti-core parallel workload performance	695

🧠

Memory & Platform

The Core i5-520M fits into the PGA988 socket and supports PCIe 2.0 with 16 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR3-800, DDR3-1066 memory at speeds up to 1066 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 8 across 2 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). Integrated graphics: Intel HD Graphics (Ironlake) — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.

Specification	Core i5-520M
TypeDesktop or Laptop processor	Laptop
SeriesProduct family	Intel Core i5
SocketMotherboard socket required	PGA988
PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth	PCIe 2.0
PCIe LanesTotal available lanes for GPUs, NVMe drives, and expansion	16
RAM TypeSupported memory standard	DDR3-800, DDR3-1066
Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency	1066
Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory	8
RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel	2
ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruption	No
Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processor	Intel HD Graphics (Ironlake)
Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPU	HM55,HM57,QM57
Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers	1 (Uniprocessor)

🔧

Advanced Features

Virtualization: true — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads). Its primary market competitor is the AMD Turion II Ultra M660.

Specification	Core i5-520M
OverclockingWhether CPU clock can be manually increased	🔒 Locked
AVX-512Advanced vector instructions for AI/ML workloads	❌ Not Supported
VirtualizationHardware-assisted virtualization technology	true
Direct CompetitorMarket equivalent from rival manufacturer	AMD Turion II Ultra M660

🌡️

Power & Cooling

The Core i5-520M 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. It ships with the false stock cooler. Recommended cooling: Laptop Integrated.

Specification	Core i5-520M
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload	35 Watt
Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax)	105 °C
Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the box	false
Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solution	Laptop Integrated

💰

Value Analysis

At an average price of $225, the Core i5-520M delivers 8 PassMark points per dollar. It currently holds Rank #1139 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #2697 out of all indexed processors.

Specification	Core i5-520M
MSRPManufacturer's Suggested Retail Price	$225
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch	$225
Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking	#1139
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking	#2697
Release DateLaunch date	7 January 2010 (15 years ago)
Release Year	2010
DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD)	Intel