
Xeon 2.66
Intel
PassMark
445
MSRP
$337
AVG Price
$10
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 Xeon 2.66 is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 2015-01-01. It is based on the Prestonia (2002) architecture. It features 1 cores and 1 threads. Max frequency: 2.66 GHz. L3 cache: 0 kB. L2 cache: 512 kB. Built on 130 nm process technology. Socket: PGA604. Thermal design power (TDP): 89 Watt. Passmark benchmark score: 445 points. Launch price was $800.
Value Upgrade Path
This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Xeon 2.66 is positioned at rank #1028 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 Xeon 2.66
FPS Benchmarks
Predicted performance for Xeon 2.66 across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.

Path of Exile 2

Counter-Strike 2

League of Legends
Technical Analysis
Detailed breakdown of Xeon 2.66 specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The Xeon 2.66 is a 1-core / 1-thread processor based on the Prestonia (2002) architecture, manufactured on a 130 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 2.66 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 0 kB of L3 cache, plus 512 kB of L2 cache and 16 kB of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 445, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.
| Specification | Xeon 2.66 |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 1C / 1T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 2.66 GHz |
| ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design | Prestonia (2002) |
| Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient | 130 nm |
| L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores | 0 kB |
| L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data | 512 kB |
| L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache | 16 kB |
| Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor | 217 mm2 |
| Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities | 55 million |
| 64-bit Support | No |
| Windows 11 Compatible | No |
| PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score | 445 |
Memory & Platform
The Xeon 2.66 fits into the PGA604 socket and supports PCIe 2.0.
| Specification | Xeon 2.66 |
|---|---|
| TypeDesktop or Laptop processor | server |
| SocketMotherboard socket required | PGA604 |
| PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth | PCIe 2.0 |
| Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers | 2 |
Power & Cooling
The Xeon 2.66 has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 89 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed.
| Specification | Xeon 2.66 |
|---|---|
| TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload | 89 Watt |
Value Analysis
At an average price of $10 (MSRP: $337), the Xeon 2.66 delivers 45 PassMark points per dollar. It currently holds Rank #1028 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #3422 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | Xeon 2.66 |
|---|---|
| MSRPManufacturer's Suggested Retail Price | $337 |
| Avg Price (30d)Average market price over the last 30 days | $10 |
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $800 |
| Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking | #1028 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #3422 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 2015-01-01 |
| Release Year | 2002 |
| DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD) | Intel |
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Our Recommendation for Xeon 2.66
Suggested pairings based on performance balance
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High-End (Max Performance) (12)












Popular Comparisons
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