
Ryzen 5 2500X
AMD
PassMark
9,388
MSRP
$159
AVG Price
$80
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 Ryzen 5 2500X is manufactured by AMD. It was released in 1 October 2018 (7 years ago). It is based on the Zen+ (2018−2019) architecture. It features 4 cores and 8 threads. Base frequency is 3.6 GHz, with boost up to 4 GHz. L3 cache: 16 MB (total). L2 cache: 512K (per core). Built on 12 nm process technology. Socket: AM4. Thermal design power (TDP): 65 Watt. Memory support: DDR4 Dual-channel. Passmark benchmark score: 9,388 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.
Avg price is the current average price collected from markets across the web.
Performance Per Dollar Ryzen 5 2500X
FPS Benchmarks
Predicted performance for Ryzen 5 2500X 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 Ryzen 5 2500X specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The Ryzen 5 2500X is a 4-core / 8-thread processor based on the Zen+ (2018−2019) architecture, manufactured on a 12 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 4 GHz from a base frequency of 3.6 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 16 MB (total) of L3 cache, plus 512K (per core) of L2 cache and 96K (per core) of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 9,388, placing it in the Budget performance tier as a Legacy generation product.
| Specification | Ryzen 5 2500X |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 4C / 8T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 4 GHz |
| Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency | 3.6 GHz |
| ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design | Zen+ (2018−2019) |
| Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient | 12 nm |
| L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores | 16 MB (total) |
| L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data | 512K (per core) |
| L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache | 96K (per core) |
| Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor | 192 mm2 |
| Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities | 4,800 million |
| Bus SpeedData bus frequency | 4 × 8 GT/s |
| 64-bit Support | Yes |
| Windows 11 Compatible | Yes |
| Unlocked MultiplierWhether the CPU can be overclocked | Yes (Overclockable) |
| PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score | 9,388 |
Memory & Platform
The Ryzen 5 2500X fits into the AM4 socket and supports PCIe 3.0. It supports DDR4 Dual-channel memory.
| Specification | Ryzen 5 2500X |
|---|---|
| TypeDesktop or Laptop processor | desktop |
| SeriesProduct family | AMD Ryzen 5 |
| SocketMotherboard socket required | AM4 |
| PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth | PCIe 3.0 |
| RAM TypeSupported memory standard | DDR4 Dual-channel |
| Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers | 1 (Uniprocessor) |
Power & Cooling
The Ryzen 5 2500X has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 65 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed.
| Specification | Ryzen 5 2500X |
|---|---|
| TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload | 65 Watt |
Value Analysis
At an average price of $80 (MSRP: $159), the Ryzen 5 2500X delivers 117 PassMark points per dollar. Performance ranking position: #1344 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | Ryzen 5 2500X |
|---|---|
| MSRPManufacturer's Suggested Retail Price | $159 |
| Avg Price (30d)Average market price over the last 30 days | $80 |
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $149 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #1344 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 1 October 2018 (7 years ago) |
| Release Year | 2018 |
| DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD) | AMD |
| ManufacturerFabrication foundry (e.g. TSMC) | GlobalFoundries |
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