Microsoft SQ1
Microsoft
PassMark
6,039
MSRP
$300
AVG Price
$180
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 Microsoft SQ1 is manufactured by Microsoft. It was released in 2 October 2019 (6 years ago). It is based on the Cortex-A76 / A55 (Kryo 495) (2019) architecture. It features 8 cores and 8 threads. Max frequency: 3 GHz. L3 cache: 2 MB. Built on 7 nm process technology. Thermal design power (TDP): + 2 MB. Passmark benchmark score: 6,039 points. Launch price was $149.
Value Upgrade Path
This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Microsoft SQ1 is positioned at rank #877 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 Microsoft SQ1
FPS Benchmarks
Predicted performance for Microsoft SQ1 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 Microsoft SQ1 specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The Microsoft SQ1 is a 8-core / 8-thread processor based on the Cortex-A76 / A55 (Kryo 495) (2019) architecture, manufactured on a 7 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 3 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 2 MB of L3 cache. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 6,039, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.
| Specification | Microsoft SQ1 |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 8C / 8T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 3 GHz |
| ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design | Cortex-A76 / A55 (Kryo 495) (2019) |
| Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient | 7 nm |
| L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores | 2 MB |
| 64-bit Support | Yes |
| Windows 11 Compatible | No |
| PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score | 6,039 |
Power & Cooling
The Microsoft SQ1 has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of + 2 MB — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed.
| Specification | Microsoft SQ1 |
|---|---|
| TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload | + 2 MB |
Value Analysis
At an average price of $180 (MSRP: $300), the Microsoft SQ1 delivers 34 PassMark points per dollar. It currently holds Rank #877 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #1717 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | Microsoft SQ1 |
|---|---|
| MSRPManufacturer's Suggested Retail Price | $300 |
| Avg Price (30d)Average market price over the last 30 days | $180 |
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $149 |
| Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking | #877 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #1717 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 2 October 2019 (6 years ago) |
| Release Year | 2019 |
| DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD) | Microsoft |
Similar Performance
Processors with benchmark scores closest to the current hardware, grouped by manufacturer.
Intel (12)
AMD (12)
Our Recommendation for Microsoft SQ1
Suggested pairings based on performance balance
Minimum (Avoid Bottleneck) (12)
Recommended (Balanced) (12)
High-End (Max Performance) (12)
Popular Comparisons
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