Xeon 5120
Intel
PassMark
1,115
MSRP
$107
AVG Price
$15
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 5120 is manufactured by Intel. It was released in Junho 2006 (19 years ago). It is based on the Woodcrest (2006) architecture. It features 2 cores and 2 threads. Base frequency is 1.86 GHz, with boost up to 1.87 GHz. L3 cache: 0 kB. L2 cache: 4 MB. Built on 65 nm process technology. Socket: LGA771. Thermal design power (TDP): 65 Watt. Memory support: DDR2. Passmark benchmark score: 1,115 points. Launch price was $45.
Value Upgrade Path
This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Xeon 5120 is positioned at rank #857 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 5120
FPS Benchmarks
Predicted performance for Xeon 5120 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 Xeon 5120 specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The Xeon 5120 is a 2-core / 2-thread processor based on the Woodcrest (2006) architecture, manufactured on a 65 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 1.87 GHz from a base frequency of 1.86 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 0 kB of L3 cache, plus 4 MB of L2 cache and 0 kB of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 1,115, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.
| Specification | Xeon 5120 |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 2C / 2T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 1.87 GHz |
| Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency | 1.86 GHz |
| ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design | Woodcrest (2006) |
| Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient | 65 nm |
| L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores | 0 kB |
| L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data | 4 MB |
| L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache | 0 kB |
| Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax) | 65 °C |
| 64-bit Support | Yes |
| Windows 11 Compatible | No |
| Core Voltage Range | B2=1.0V-1.5V, G0=.85V-1.5V |
| PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score | 1,115 |
Memory & Platform
The Xeon 5120 fits into the LGA771 socket and supports PCIe 2.0. It supports DDR2 memory.
| Specification | Xeon 5120 |
|---|---|
| TypeDesktop or Laptop processor | server |
| SocketMotherboard socket required | LGA771 |
| PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth | PCIe 2.0 |
| RAM TypeSupported memory standard | DDR2 |
| Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers | 1 |
Power & Cooling
The Xeon 5120 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 | Xeon 5120 |
|---|---|
| TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload | 65 Watt |
| Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax) | 65 °C |
Value Analysis
At an average price of $15 (MSRP: $107), the Xeon 5120 delivers 74 PassMark points per dollar. It currently holds Rank #857 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #3201 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | Xeon 5120 |
|---|---|
| MSRPManufacturer's Suggested Retail Price | $107 |
| Avg Price (30d)Average market price over the last 30 days | $15 |
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $45 |
| Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking | #857 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #3201 |
| Release DateLaunch date | Junho 2006 (19 years ago) |
| Release Year | 2006 |
| DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD) | Intel |
Similar Performance
Processors with benchmark scores closest to the current hardware, grouped by manufacturer.
Intel (12)
AMD (12)
Our Recommendation for Xeon 5120
Suggested pairings based on performance balance
Minimum (Avoid Bottleneck) (12)
Recommended (Balanced) (12)
High-End (Max Performance) (12)
Popular Comparisons
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