Opteron 3280
AMD
PassMark
3,783
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 Opteron 3280 is manufactured by AMD. It was released in 20 March 2012 (13 years ago). It is based on the Zurich (2012) architecture. It features 8 cores and 8 threads. Base frequency is 2.5 GHz, with boost up to 3.5 GHz. L3 cache: 8 MB (total). L2 cache: 8 MB. Built on 32 nm process technology. Socket: AM3+. Thermal design power (TDP): 65 Watt. Memory support: DDR3. Passmark benchmark score: 3,783 points. Launch price was $229.
Value Upgrade Path
This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Opteron 3280 is positioned at rank #93 in our cost-efficiency ranking, representing a Balanced 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 Opteron 3280
FPS Benchmarks
Predicted performance for Opteron 3280 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 Opteron 3280 specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The Opteron 3280 is a 8-core / 8-thread processor based on the Zurich (2012) architecture, manufactured on a 32 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 3.5 GHz from a base frequency of 2.5 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 8 MB (total) of L3 cache, plus 8 MB of L2 cache and 384 kB of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 3,783, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.
| Specification | Opteron 3280 |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 8C / 8T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 3.5 GHz |
| Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency | 2.5 GHz |
| ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design | Zurich (2012) |
| 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 | 8 MB |
| L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache | 384 kB |
| Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor | 315 mm2 |
| Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities | 1,200 million |
| 64-bit Support | Yes |
| PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score | 3,783 |
Memory & Platform
The Opteron 3280 fits into the AM3+ socket and supports PCIe 2.0. It supports DDR3 memory.
| Specification | Opteron 3280 |
|---|---|
| TypeDesktop or Laptop processor | Workstation |
| SocketMotherboard socket required | AM3+ |
| 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 Opteron 3280 has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 65 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed.
| Specification | Opteron 3280 |
|---|---|
| TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload | 65 Watt |
Value Analysis
It currently holds Rank #93 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #2052 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | Opteron 3280 |
|---|---|
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $229 |
| Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking | #93 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #2052 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 20 March 2012 (13 years ago) |
| Release Year | 2012 |
| DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD) | AMD |
| ManufacturerFabrication foundry (e.g. TSMC) | GlobalFoundries |
Similar Performance
Processors with benchmark scores closest to the current hardware, grouped by manufacturer.
Intel (12)
AMD (12)
Our Recommendation for Opteron 3280
Suggested pairings based on performance balance
Minimum (Avoid Bottleneck) (12)
Recommended (Balanced) (12)
High-End (Max Performance) (12)
Popular Comparisons
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Compare Opteron 3280
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