Core i7-990X
Intel
PassMark
7,135
MSRP
$999
AVG Price
$225
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 i7-990X is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 24 February 2011 (14 years ago). It is based on the Gulftown (2010−2011) architecture. It features 6 cores and 12 threads. Base frequency is 3.46 GHz, with boost up to 3.73 GHz. L3 cache: 12 MB (total). L2 cache: 256 kB (per core). Built on 32 nm process technology. Socket: LGA1366. Thermal design power (TDP): 130 Watt. Memory support: DDR3. Passmark benchmark score: 7,135 points. Launch price was $1,104.
Value Upgrade Path
This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Core i7-990X is positioned at rank #1046 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 i7-990X
FPS Benchmarks
Predicted performance for Core i7-990X 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 i7-990X specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The Core i7-990X is a 6-core / 12-thread processor based on the Gulftown (2010−2011) architecture, manufactured on a 32 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 3.73 GHz from a base frequency of 3.46 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 12 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 7,135, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.
| Specification | Core i7-990X |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 6C / 12T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 3.73 GHz |
| Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency | 3.46 GHz |
| ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design | Gulftown (2010−2011) |
| Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient | 32 nm |
| L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores | 12 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 | 239 mm2 |
| Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities | 1,170 million |
| Bus SpeedData bus frequency | 6.4 GT/s |
| Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax) | 68 °C |
| 64-bit Support | Yes |
| Windows 11 Compatible | No |
| Unlocked MultiplierWhether the CPU can be overclocked | Yes (Overclockable) |
| PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score | 7,135 |
Memory & Platform
The Core i7-990X fits into the LGA1366 socket and supports PCIe 2.0. It supports DDR3 memory.
| Specification | Core i7-990X |
|---|---|
| TypeDesktop or Laptop processor | desktop |
| SocketMotherboard socket required | LGA1366 |
| PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth | PCIe 2.0 |
| RAM TypeSupported memory standard | DDR3 |
| Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers | 1 |
Power & Cooling
The Core i7-990X has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 130 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed.
| Specification | Core i7-990X |
|---|---|
| TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload | 130 Watt |
| Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax) | 68 °C |
Value Analysis
At an average price of $225 (MSRP: $999), the Core i7-990X delivers 32 PassMark points per dollar. It currently holds Rank #1046 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #1565 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | Core i7-990X |
|---|---|
| MSRPManufacturer's Suggested Retail Price | $999 |
| Avg Price (30d)Average market price over the last 30 days | $225 |
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $1,104 |
| Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking | #1046 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #1565 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 24 February 2011 (14 years ago) |
| Release Year | 2011 |
| DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD) | Intel |
| ManufacturerFabrication foundry (e.g. TSMC) | Intel |
Similar Performance
Processors with benchmark scores closest to the current hardware, grouped by manufacturer.
Intel (12)
AMD (12)
Our Recommendation for Core i7-990X
Suggested pairings based on performance balance
Minimum (Avoid Bottleneck) (12)
Recommended (Balanced) (12)
High-End (Max Performance) (12)
Popular Comparisons
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