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 Phenom II X2 N640 is manufactured by AMD. It was released in 2009-01-01. It is based on the Champlain (2010−2011) architecture. It features 2 cores and 2 threads. Max frequency: 2.9 GHz. L2 cache: 2 MB. Built on 45 nm process technology. Socket: S1. Thermal design power (TDP): 2 MB. Memory support: DDR3. Passmark benchmark score: 1,505 points. Launch price was $149.

Value Upgrade Path

This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Phenom II X2 N640 is positioned at rank #977 in our cost-efficiency ranking, representing a Lower cost-benefit for your build. Components placed above yours deliver better value for money.

MSRP is the manufacturer's suggested retail price.•
Avg price is the current average price collected from markets across the web.

Performance Per Dollar Phenom II X2 N640

#965

Atom x5-Z8300

MSRP: $20|Avg: N/A

1950%

#966

Atom Z3735G

MSRP: $17|Avg: N/A

1921%

#967

Core i5-480M

MSRP: $81|Avg: $77

1763%

#968

Core i5-460M

MSRP: $80|Avg: $129

1755%

#969

Core i5-2540M

MSRP: $266|Avg: $10

1739%

#971

Core i5-450M

MSRP: $32|Avg: $31

1680%

#972

Core i3-380M

MSRP: $49|Avg: $25

1611%

#973

Core i5-430M

MSRP: N/A|Avg: $33

1608%

#974

Core 2 Duo T6600

MSRP: N/A|Avg: $4

1565%

#977

Phenom II X2 N640

MSRP: $100|Avg: $55

100%

#978

A10-8700P

MSRP: $150|Avg: $40

100%

#982

Athlon II Neo K125

MSRP: $100|Avg: $100

99%

#986

Pro A8-8600B

MSRP: $150|Avg: $25

98%

#991

Pentium 8500

MSRP: $200|Avg: $200

96%

#992

A6-8500P

MSRP: $100|Avg: $16

96%

Based on actual market prices and performance synthetic scores.

FPS Benchmarks

Predicted performance for Phenom II X2 N640 across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of Phenom II X2 N640 specifications and capabilities.

⚡

Processing Power

The Phenom II X2 N640 is a 2-core / 2-thread processor based on the Champlain (2010−2011) architecture, manufactured on a 45 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 2.9 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 1,505, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product. Geekbench 6 single-core (the most relevant metric for gaming FPS) records 300, while multi-core reaches 422.

Specification	Phenom II X2 N640
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units	2C / 2T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost	2.9 GHz
ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design	Champlain (2010−2011)
Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient	45 nm
L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data	2 MB
L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache	256 kB
Bus SpeedData bus frequency	3600 MHz
64-bit Support	Yes
Windows 11 Compatible	No
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score	1,505
Geekbench 6 SingleSingle-core performance — most relevant for gaming	300
Geekbench 6 MultiMulti-core parallel workload performance	422

🧠

Memory & Platform

The Phenom II X2 N640 fits into the S1 socket and supports PCIe 2.0 with 16 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR3 memory at speeds up to DDR3-1333 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 8 GB across 2 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). Integrated graphics: None — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.

Specification	Phenom II X2 N640
TypeDesktop or Laptop processor	Laptop
SeriesProduct family	2x AMD Phenom II
SocketMotherboard socket required	S1
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	DDR3-1333
Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory	8 GB
RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel	2
ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruption	No
Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processor	None
Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPU	RS880M

🔧

Advanced Features

The Phenom II X2 N640 is primarily designed for Legacy Laptop. Virtualization: AMD-V — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads).

Specification	Phenom II X2 N640
Primary Use CaseIntended workload category	Legacy Laptop
OverclockingWhether CPU clock can be manually increased	🔒 Locked
AVX-512Advanced vector instructions for AI/ML workloads	❌ Not Supported
VirtualizationHardware-assisted virtualization technology	AMD-V

🌡️

Power & Cooling

The Phenom II X2 N640 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. No stock cooler is included — you will need to purchase an aftermarket cooler separately. Recommended cooling: Laptop Cooling.

Specification	Phenom II X2 N640
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload	2 MB
Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the box	None
Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solution	Laptop Cooling

💰

Value Analysis

At an average price of $55 (MSRP: $100), the Phenom II X2 N640 delivers 27 PassMark points per dollar. It currently holds Rank #977 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #2825 out of all indexed processors.

Specification	Phenom II X2 N640
MSRPManufacturer's Suggested Retail Price	$100
Avg Price (30d)Average market price over the last 30 days	$55
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch	$149
Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking	#977
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking	#2825
Release DateLaunch date	2009-01-01
Release Year	2010
DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD)	AMD