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 X3 N870 is manufactured by AMD. It was released in 2009-01-01. It is based on the Champlain (2010−2011) architecture. It features 3 cores and 3 threads. Max frequency: 2.3 GHz. L2 cache: 1.5 MB. Built on 45 nm process technology. Socket: S1g4. Thermal design power (TDP): 1.5 MB. Memory support: DDR3. Passmark benchmark score: 2,145 points. Launch price was $149.

Value Upgrade Path

This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Phenom II X3 N870 is positioned at rank #250 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 X3 N870

#238

Atom x5-Z8300

MSRP: $20|Avg: N/A

410%

#239

Atom Z3735G

MSRP: $17|Avg: N/A

404%

#240

Core i5-480M

MSRP: $81|Avg: $77

371%

#241

Core i5-460M

MSRP: $80|Avg: $129

370%

#242

Core i5-2540M

MSRP: $266|Avg: $10

366%

#244

Core i5-450M

MSRP: $32|Avg: $31

354%

#245

Core i3-380M

MSRP: $49|Avg: $25

339%

#246

Core i5-430M

MSRP: N/A|Avg: $33

338%

#247

Core 2 Duo T6600

MSRP: N/A|Avg: $4

329%

#250

Phenom II X3 N870

MSRP: N/A|Avg: N/A

100%

Based on actual market prices and performance synthetic scores.

FPS Benchmarks

Predicted performance for Phenom II X3 N870 across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of Phenom II X3 N870 specifications and capabilities.

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Processing Power

The Phenom II X3 N870 is a 3-core / 3-thread processor based on the Champlain (2010−2011) architecture, manufactured on a 45 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 2.3 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 2,145, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.

Specification	Phenom II X3 N870
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units	3C / 3T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost	2.3 GHz
ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design	Champlain (2010−2011)
Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient	45 nm
L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data	1.5 MB
L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache	384 kB
Bus SpeedData bus frequency	3600 MHz
64-bit Support	Yes
Windows 11 Compatible	No
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score	2,145

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Memory & Platform

The Phenom II X3 N870 fits into the S1g4 socket and supports PCIe 2.0. It supports DDR3 memory.

Specification	Phenom II X3 N870
TypeDesktop or Laptop processor	Laptop
SeriesProduct family	3x AMD Phenom II
SocketMotherboard socket required	S1g4
PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth	PCIe 2.0
RAM TypeSupported memory standard	DDR3

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Power & Cooling

The Phenom II X3 N870 has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 1.5 MB — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed.

Specification	Phenom II X3 N870
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload	1.5 MB

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Value Analysis

It currently holds Rank #250 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #2714 out of all indexed processors.

Specification	Phenom II X3 N870
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch	$149
Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking	#250
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking	#2714
Release DateLaunch date	2009-01-01
Release Year	2010
DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD)	AMD