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 Processor N97 is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 3 January 2023 (2 years ago). It is based on the Alder Lake-N (2023) architecture. It features 4 cores and 4 threads. Base frequency is 2 GHz, with boost up to 3.6 GHz. L3 cache: 6 MB (total). L2 cache: 2 MB (total). Built on 10 nm process technology. Socket: FCBGA1264. Thermal design power (TDP): + 6 MB. Memory support: DDR4, DDR5 4800 MHz Single-channel. Passmark benchmark score: 5,445 points. Launch price was $149.

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.

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

Performance Per Dollar

Based on actual market prices and performance synthetic scores.

FPS Benchmarks

Predicted performance for Processor N97 across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of Processor N97 specifications and capabilities.

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Processing Power

The Processor N97 is a 4-core / 4-thread processor based on the Alder Lake-N (2023) architecture, manufactured on a 10 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 3.6 GHz from a base frequency of 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 2 MB (total) of L2 cache and 96 kB (per core) of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 5,445, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Recent generation product.

Specification	Processor N97
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units	4C / 4T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost	3.6 GHz
Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency	2 GHz
ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design	Alder Lake-N (2023)
Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient	10 nm
L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores	6 MB (total)
L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data	2 MB (total)
L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache	96 kB (per core)
Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax)	105 °C
64-bit Support	Yes
Windows 11 Compatible	Yes
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score	5,445

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Memory & Platform

The Processor N97 fits into the FCBGA1264 socket and supports PCIe 5.0. It supports DDR4, DDR5 4800 MHz Single-channel memory.

Specification	Processor N97
TypeDesktop or Laptop processor	Laptop
SocketMotherboard socket required	FCBGA1264
PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth	PCIe 5.0
RAM TypeSupported memory standard	DDR4, DDR5 4800 MHz Single-channel
Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers	1

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Power & Cooling

The Processor N97 has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of + 6 MB — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed.

Specification	Processor N97
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload	+ 6 MB
Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax)	105 °C

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Value Analysis

Performance ranking position: #1795 out of all indexed processors.

Specification	Processor N97
MSRPManufacturer's Suggested Retail Price	$0
Avg Price (30d)Average market price over the last 30 days	$0
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch	$149
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking	#1795
Release DateLaunch date	3 January 2023 (2 years ago)
Release Year	2023
DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD)	Intel
ManufacturerFabrication foundry (e.g. TSMC)	Intel