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 i5-655K is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 30 May 2010 (15 years ago). It is based on the Clarkdale (2010−2011) architecture. It features 2 cores and 4 threads. Base frequency is 3.2 GHz, with boost up to 3.46 GHz. L3 cache: 4 MB (total). L2 cache: 256 kB (per core). Built on 32 nm process technology. Socket: LGA1156. Thermal design power (TDP): 73 Watt. Memory support: DDR3. Passmark benchmark score: 2,017 points. Launch price was $69.

Value Upgrade Path

This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Core i5-655K is positioned at rank #1004 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 i5-655K

Ryzen 9 7950X

MSRP: $194|Avg: $20

33374%

Core i9-10900T

MSRP: $120|Avg: $5

31535%

Ryzen 3 PRO 4355GE

MSRP: $423|Avg: $5

22897%

Ryzen Threadripper 3960X

MSRP: $1399|Avg: $85

6898%

Ryzen 9 9950X

MSRP: $649|Avg: $129

5464%

Ryzen 5 8400F

MSRP: $303|Avg: $55

4780%

Ryzen 7 PRO 2700

MSRP: $299|Avg: $60

2738%

Ryzen 5 2600X

MSRP: $229|Avg: $55

2702%

Ryzen 3 PRO 5350G

MSRP: $150|Avg: $60

2460%

#10

Core Ultra 5 245KF

MSRP: $294|Avg: $189

2460%

#11

Ryzen 5 5500

MSRP: $159|Avg: $85

2432%

#12

Ryzen 5 3600

MSRP: $199|Avg: $80

2367%

#13

Core i3-9100E

MSRP: $202|Avg: $30

2334%

#14

Core Ultra 5 245K

MSRP: $319|Avg: $200

2324%

#15

Core i3-8300T

MSRP: $138|Avg: $25

2303%

#1004

Core i5-655K

MSRP: $216|Avg: $55

100%

#1005

Celeron 450

MSRP: $53|Avg: $5

100%

#1006

Core 2 Duo E4600

MSRP: $133|Avg: $9.6

99%

#1008

Core i7-870S

MSRP: $300|Avg: $80

99%

#1009

Core 2 Duo E6540

MSRP: $163|Avg: $15

98%

#1010

Celeron 430

MSRP: $49|Avg: $10

98%

#1011

Athlon X2 BE-2300

MSRP: $100|Avg: $80

97%

#1012

Core i7-875K

MSRP: $353|Avg: $175

96%

#1013

Core i5-670

MSRP: $284|Avg: $100

96%

#1014

Core i5-680

MSRP: $294|Avg: $10

95%

#1015

Core 2 Duo E4300

MSRP: $113|Avg: $5

95%

#1017

Core 2 Duo E4500

MSRP: $133|Avg: $10

94%

#1019

Core 2 Duo E7600

MSRP: $133|Avg: $50

93%

Based on actual market prices and performance synthetic scores.

FPS Benchmarks

Predicted performance for Core i5-655K across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of Core i5-655K specifications and capabilities.

⚡

Processing Power

The Core i5-655K is a 2-core / 4-thread processor based on the Clarkdale (2010−2011) architecture, manufactured on a 32 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 3.46 GHz from a base frequency of 3.2 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 4 MB (total) of L3 cache, plus 256 kB (per core) of L2 cache and 64 kB (per core) of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 2,017, 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 560, while multi-core reaches 1,250.

Specification	Core i5-655K
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units	2C / 4T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost	3.46 GHz
Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency	3.2 GHz
ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design	Clarkdale (2010−2011)
Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient	32 nm
L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores	4 MB (total)
L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data	256 kB (per core)
L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache	64 kB (per core)
Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor	81 mm2
Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities	382 million
Bus SpeedData bus frequency	2.5 GT/s
Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax)	73 °C
64-bit Support	Yes
Windows 11 Compatible	No
Unlocked MultiplierWhether the CPU can be overclocked	Yes (Overclockable)
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score	2,017
Geekbench 6 SingleSingle-core performance — most relevant for gaming	560
Geekbench 6 MultiMulti-core parallel workload performance	1,250

🧠

Memory & Platform

The Core i5-655K fits into the LGA1156 socket and supports PCIe 2.0 with 16 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR3 memory at speeds up to DDR3-1333 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 16 GB across 2 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). Integrated graphics: Intel HD Graphics (Westmere) — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.

Specification	Core i5-655K
TypeDesktop or Laptop processor	desktop
SocketMotherboard socket required	LGA1156
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
Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency	DDR3-1333
Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory	16 GB
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 (Westmere)
Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPU	H55,H57,P55
Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers	1

🔧

Advanced Features

The Core i5-655K is primarily designed for Desktop. It features an unlocked multiplier, allowing enthusiasts to overclock beyond stock frequencies for additional performance. Virtualization: VT-x — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads).

Specification	Core i5-655K
Primary Use CaseIntended workload category	Desktop
OverclockingWhether CPU clock can be manually increased	✅ Unlocked
AVX-512Advanced vector instructions for AI/ML workloads	❌ Not Supported
VirtualizationHardware-assisted virtualization technology	VT-x

🌡️

Power & Cooling

The Core i5-655K has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 73 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed. No stock cooler is included — you will need to purchase an aftermarket cooler separately. Recommended cooling: Aftermarket Air.

Specification	Core i5-655K
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload	73 Watt
Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax)	73 °C
Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the box	None
Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solution	Aftermarket Air

💰

Value Analysis

At an average price of $55 (MSRP: $216), the Core i5-655K delivers 37 PassMark points per dollar. It currently holds Rank #1004 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #2580 out of all indexed processors.

Specification	Core i5-655K
MSRPManufacturer's Suggested Retail Price	$216
Avg Price (30d)Average market price over the last 30 days	$55
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch	$69
Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking	#1004
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking	#2580
Release DateLaunch date	30 May 2010 (15 years ago)
Release Year	2010
DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD)	Intel
ManufacturerFabrication foundry (e.g. TSMC)	Intel