Core i7-2960XM
Intel
PassMark
4,709
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 i7-2960XM is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 4 September 2011 (14 years ago). It is based on the Sandy Bridge (2011−2013) architecture. It features 4 cores and 8 threads. Base frequency is 2.7 GHz, with boost up to 3.7 GHz. L3 cache: 8 MB (total). L2 cache: 256K (per core). Built on 32 nm process technology. Socket: PGA988. Thermal design power (TDP): 55 Watt. Memory support: DDR3. Passmark benchmark score: 4,709 points. Launch price was $1,096.
Value Upgrade Path
This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. 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
FPS Benchmarks
Predicted performance for Core i7-2960XM across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.
ARC Raiders
Counter-Strike 2
Elden Ring
Fortnite
Genshin Impact
League of Legends
Minecraft
Palworld
Path of Exile 2
Roblox
Technical Analysis
Detailed breakdown of Core i7-2960XM specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The Core i7-2960XM is a 4-core / 8-thread processor based on the Sandy Bridge (2011−2013) architecture, manufactured on a 32 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 3.7 GHz from a base frequency of 2.7 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 8 MB (total) of L3 cache, plus 256K (per core) of L2 cache and 64K (per core) of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 4,709, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.
| Specification | Core i7-2960XM |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 4C / 8T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 3.7 GHz |
| Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency | 2.7 GHz |
| ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design | Sandy Bridge (2011−2013) |
| Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient | 32 nm |
| L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores | 8 MB (total) |
| L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data | 256K (per core) |
| L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache | 64K (per core) |
| Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor | 216 mm2 |
| Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities | 1,160 million |
| Bus SpeedData bus frequency | 5 GT/s |
| Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax) | 100 °C |
| 64-bit Support | Yes |
| Windows 11 Compatible | No |
| Unlocked MultiplierWhether the CPU can be overclocked | Yes (Overclockable) |
| PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score | 4,709 |
Memory & Platform
The Core i7-2960XM fits into the PGA988 socket and supports PCIe 2.0 with 16 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR3 memory at speeds up to 1600 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 32 across 2 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). Integrated graphics: Intel HD Graphics 3000 — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.
| Specification | Core i7-2960XM |
|---|---|
| TypeDesktop or Laptop processor | Laptop |
| SeriesProduct family | Intel Core i7 |
| 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 |
| Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency | 1600 |
| Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory | 32 |
| 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 3000 |
| Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPU | HM65,HM67,QM67,QS67 |
| Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers | 1 |
Advanced Features
It features an unlocked multiplier, allowing enthusiasts to overclock beyond stock frequencies for additional performance. Virtualization: true — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads). Its primary market competitor is the Core i7-2820QM.
| Specification | Core i7-2960XM |
|---|---|
| OverclockingWhether CPU clock can be manually increased | ✅ Unlocked |
| AVX-512Advanced vector instructions for AI/ML workloads | ❌ Not Supported |
| VirtualizationHardware-assisted virtualization technology | true |
| Direct CompetitorMarket equivalent from rival manufacturer | Core i7-2820QM |
Power & Cooling
The Core i7-2960XM has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 55 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 i7-2960XM |
|---|---|
| TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload | 55 Watt |
| Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax) | 100 °C |
| Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the box | false |
| Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solution | Laptop Integrated |
Value Analysis
Performance ranking position: #1909 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | Core i7-2960XM |
|---|---|
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $1,096 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #1909 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 4 September 2011 (14 years ago) |
| Release Year | 2011 |
| DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD) | Intel |
| ManufacturerFabrication foundry (e.g. TSMC) | Intel |
Specifications Reference
Raw spec sheet for quick lookup. The analysis cards above explain what these fields mean in practice.
4 categories
General Information
8 specs
General Information
8 specs
| Type | Laptop |
| Series | Intel Core i7 |
| Designer | Intel |
| Launch Price | $1,096 |
| Manufacturer | Intel |
| Release Date | 4 September 2011 (14 years ago) |
| Architecture Codename | Sandy Bridge (2011−2013) |
| Performance Ranking Position | 1909 |
Technical Specifications
15 specs
Technical Specifications
15 specs
| Cores | 4 |
| Threads | 8 |
| Die Size | 216 mm2 |
| L1 Cache | 64K (per core) |
| L2 Cache | 256K (per core) |
| L3 Cache | 8 MB (total) |
| Bus Speed | 5 GT/s |
| Max Frequency | 3.7 GHz |
| 64-Bit Support | + |
| Base Frequency | 2.7 GHz |
| Transistor Count | 1,160 million |
| Process Technology | 32 nm |
| Unlocked Multiplier | + |
| Max Core Temperature | 100 °C |
| Windows 11 Compatible | - |
Compatibility
4 specs
Compatibility
4 specs
| Socket | PGA988 |
| PCIe Generation | PCIe 2.0 |
| Power Consumption (TDP) | 55 Watt |
| Max Processors In Config | 1 |
Memory
4 specs
Memory
4 specs
| RAM Types | DDR3 |
| Memory Channels | 2 |
| Memory Bandwidth | 25.6 GB/s |
| Max Memory Capacity | 32 GB |
Similar Performance
Processors with benchmark scores closest to the current hardware, grouped by manufacturer.
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Our Recommendation for Core i7-2960XM
Suggested pairings based on performance balance
Minimum (Avoid Bottleneck) (12)
Recommended (Balanced) (12)
High-End (Max Performance) (12)
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