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 E5-1603 is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 2015-01-01. It features 4 cores and 4 threads. Base frequency: 2.8 GHz. L3 cache: 10 MB. Built on 32 nm process technology. Socket: LGA2011. Thermal design power (TDP): 130 Watt. Memory support: DDR3-800, DDR3-1066. Passmark benchmark score: 3,482 points. Launch price was $800.

Value Upgrade Path

This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Xeon E5-1603 is positioned at rank #655 in our cost-efficiency ranking, representing a Lower cost-benefit for your build. 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 Xeon E5-1603

Xeon Platinum 8454H

MSRP: $6540|Avg: N/A

11937%

Xeon Gold 6240R

MSRP: $2444|Avg: N/A

2254%

#10

Xeon 6337P

MSRP: $60|Avg: $5

2002%

#15

EPYC 9174F

MSRP: $194|Avg: $30

1547%

#386

Xeon w9-3475X

MSRP: $3739|Avg: $3930

100%

#388

EPYC 9254

MSRP: $3761|Avg: $1099

98%

#389

Xeon Gold 5220R

MSRP: $1780|Avg: $1015

98%

#390

EPYC 9555P

MSRP: $7983|Avg: $6130

97%

#391

Xeon Gold 5218

MSRP: $1273|Avg: $500

97%

#392

EPYC 9374F

MSRP: $4850|Avg: $3466

97%

#393

Xeon Gold 6448Y

MSRP: $3583|Avg: N/A

97%

#394

EPYC 9454

MSRP: $5225|Avg: $576

97%

#655

Xeon E5-1603

MSRP: N/A|Avg: N/A

100%

#669

Xeon E5645

MSRP: $294|Avg: N/A

97%

#670

Xeon X5672

MSRP: $300|Avg: $44

96%

Based on actual market prices and performance synthetic scores.

FPS Benchmarks

Predicted performance for Xeon E5-1603 across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of Xeon E5-1603 specifications and capabilities.

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Processing Power

The Xeon E5-1603 is a 4-core / 4-thread processor, manufactured on a 32 nm process node. It carries 10 MB of L3 cache. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 3,482, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.

Specification	Xeon E5-1603
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units	4C / 4T
Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency	2.8 GHz
Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient	32 nm
L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores	10 MB
Bus SpeedData bus frequency	0 GT/s
Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax)	64 °C
64-bit Support	Yes
Windows 11 Compatible	No
Core Voltage Range	0.6V - 1.35V
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score	3,482

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Memory & Platform

The Xeon E5-1603 fits into the LGA2011 socket and supports PCIe 2.0. It supports DDR3-800, DDR3-1066 memory.

Specification	Xeon E5-1603
TypeDesktop or Laptop processor	server
SocketMotherboard socket required	LGA2011
PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth	PCIe 2.0
RAM TypeSupported memory standard	DDR3-800, DDR3-1066
Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers	1

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Power & Cooling

The Xeon E5-1603 has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 130 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed.

Specification	Xeon E5-1603
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload	130 Watt
Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax)	64 °C

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Value Analysis

It currently holds Rank #655 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #2120 out of all indexed processors.

Specification	Xeon E5-1603
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch	$800
Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking	#655
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking	#2120
Release DateLaunch date	2015-01-01
Release Year	2012
DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD)	Intel