Opteron 6278
AMD
PassMark
13,733
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 6278 is manufactured by AMD. It was released in 1 May 2012 (13 years ago). It is based on the Interlagos (2011−2012) architecture. It features 16 cores and 16 threads. Base frequency is 2.4 GHz, with boost up to 3.3 GHz. L3 cache: 8 MB (total). L2 cache: 2 MB (per module). Built on 32 nm process technology. Socket: G34. Thermal design power (TDP): 115 Watt. Memory support: DDR3. Passmark benchmark score: 13,733 points. Launch price was $988.
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 Opteron 6278
FPS Benchmarks
Predicted performance for Opteron 6278 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 6278 specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The Opteron 6278 is a 16-core / 16-thread processor based on the Interlagos (2011−2012) architecture, manufactured on a 32 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 3.3 GHz from a base frequency of 2.4 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 8 MB (total) of L3 cache, plus 2 MB (per module) of L2 cache and 768 kB of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 13,733, placing it in the Budget performance tier as a Legacy generation product.
| Specification | Opteron 6278 |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 16C / 16T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 3.3 GHz |
| Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency | 2.4 GHz |
| ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design | Interlagos (2011−2012) |
| 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 | 2 MB (per module) |
| L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache | 768 kB |
| Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor | 2x 315 mm2 |
| Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities | 2,400 million |
| 64-bit Support | Yes |
| Windows 11 Compatible | No |
| PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score | 13,733 |
Memory & Platform
The Opteron 6278 fits into the G34 socket and supports PCIe 2.0. It supports DDR3 memory.
| Specification | Opteron 6278 |
|---|---|
| TypeDesktop or Laptop processor | server |
| SocketMotherboard socket required | G34 |
| 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 | 4 |
Power & Cooling
The Opteron 6278 has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 115 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed.
| Specification | Opteron 6278 |
|---|---|
| TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload | 115 Watt |
Value Analysis
Performance ranking position: #1086 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | Opteron 6278 |
|---|---|
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $988 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #1086 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 1 May 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 6278
Suggested pairings based on performance balance
Minimum (Avoid Bottleneck) (12)
Recommended (Balanced) (12)
High-End (Max Performance) (12)
Popular Comparisons
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