Phenom II X4 B97
AMD
PassMark
2,540
MSRP
$100
AVG Price
$11
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 Phenom II X4 B97 is manufactured by AMD. It was released in 11 May 2010 (15 years ago). It is based on the Deneb (2009−2011) architecture. It features 4 cores and 4 threads. Base frequency is 3.2 GHz, with boost up to 3.2 GHz. L3 cache: 6 MB (total). L2 cache: 512 kB (per core). Built on 45 nm process technology. Socket: AM3. Thermal design power (TDP): 95 Watt. Memory support: DDR3. Passmark benchmark score: 2,540 points. Launch price was $100.
Value Upgrade Path
This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Phenom II X4 B97 is positioned at rank #241 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 Phenom II X4 B97
Technical Analysis
Detailed breakdown of Phenom II X4 B97 specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The Phenom II X4 B97 is a 4-core / 4-thread processor based on the Deneb (2009−2011) architecture, manufactured on a 45 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 3.2 GHz from a base frequency of 3.2 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 6 MB (total) of L3 cache, plus 512 kB (per core) of L2 cache and 128 kB (per core) of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 2,540, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.
| Specification | Phenom II X4 B97 |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 4C / 4T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 3.2 GHz |
| Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency | 3.2 GHz |
| ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design | Deneb (2009−2011) |
| Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient | 45 nm |
| L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores | 6 MB (total) |
| L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data | 512 kB (per core) |
| L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache | 128 kB (per core) |
| Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor | 258 mm2 |
| Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities | 758 million |
| 64-bit Support | Yes |
| Windows 11 Compatible | No |
| PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score | 2,540 |
Memory & Platform
The Phenom II X4 B97 fits into the AM3 socket and supports PCIe 2.0. It supports DDR3 memory.
| Specification | Phenom II X4 B97 |
|---|---|
| TypeDesktop or Laptop processor | desktop |
| 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 Phenom II X4 B97 has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 95 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed.
| Specification | Phenom II X4 B97 |
|---|---|
| TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload | 95 Watt |
Value Analysis
At an average price of $11 (MSRP: $100), the Phenom II X4 B97 delivers 231 PassMark points per dollar. It currently holds Rank #241 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #2380 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | Phenom II X4 B97 |
|---|---|
| MSRPManufacturer's Suggested Retail Price | $100 |
| Avg Price (30d)Average market price over the last 30 days | $11 |
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $100 |
| Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking | #241 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #2380 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 11 May 2010 (15 years ago) |
| Release Year | 2010 |
| DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD) | AMD |
Similar Performance
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Our Recommendation for Phenom II X4 B97
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