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 E5-2603 v4 is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 20 June 2016 (9 years ago). It is based on the Broadwell (2015−2019) architecture. It features 6 cores and 6 threads. Base frequency is 1.7 GHz, with boost up to 1.7 GHz. L3 cache: 15 MB. L2 cache: 1.5 MB. Built on 14 nm process technology. Socket: LGA2011. Thermal design power (TDP): 85 Watt. Memory support: DDR4-1600, DDR4-1866. Passmark benchmark score: 4,517 points. Launch price was $213.

Value Upgrade Path

This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Xeon E5-2603 v4 is positioned at rank #589 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 E5-2603 v4

Xeon Platinum 8454H

MSRP: $6540|Avg: N/A

9200%

Xeon Gold 6240R

MSRP: $2444|Avg: N/A

1737%

#10

Xeon 6337P

MSRP: $60|Avg: $5

1543%

#15

EPYC 9174F

MSRP: $194|Avg: $30

1192%

#354

EPYC 7502P

MSRP: $2300|Avg: $1299

99%

#355

Xeon w7-3455

MSRP: $2489|Avg: $2625

98%

#356

EPYC 9334

MSRP: $2990|Avg: $1810

97%

#357

Xeon w9-3575X

MSRP: $3789|Avg: $675

96%

#358

Xeon w7-3465X

MSRP: $2889|Avg: $468

96%

#359

Xeon Gold 6530

MSRP: $2128|Avg: $1846

96%

#359

EPYC 9354

MSRP: $3420|Avg: $2498

96%

#361

Xeon Silver 4114

MSRP: $612|Avg: $30

95%

#589

Xeon E5-2603 v4

MSRP: N/A|Avg: N/A

100%

#590

Xeon W-2125

MSRP: $444|Avg: $42

100%

#592

EPYC 7261

MSRP: $501|Avg: $8

98%

#594

Xeon E5-1620 v2

MSRP: $294|Avg: $50

98%

Based on actual market prices and performance synthetic scores.

FPS Benchmarks

Predicted performance for Xeon E5-2603 v4 across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of Xeon E5-2603 v4 specifications and capabilities.

⚡

Processing Power

The Xeon E5-2603 v4 is a 6-core / 6-thread processor based on the Broadwell (2015−2019) architecture, manufactured on a 14 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 1.7 GHz from a base frequency of 1.7 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 15 MB of L3 cache, plus 1.5 MB of L2 cache. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 4,517, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.

Specification	Xeon E5-2603 v4
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units	6C / 6T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost	1.7 GHz
Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency	1.7 GHz
ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design	Broadwell (2015−2019)
Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient	14 nm
L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores	15 MB
L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data	1.5 MB
Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor	246.24 mm2
Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities	3200 Million
Bus SpeedData bus frequency	2 × 6.4 GT/s
Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax)	73 °C
64-bit Support	Yes
Windows 11 Compatible	No
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score	4,517

🧠

Memory & Platform

The Xeon E5-2603 v4 fits into the LGA2011 socket and supports PCIe 3.0. It supports DDR4-1600, DDR4-1866 memory.

Specification	Xeon E5-2603 v4
TypeDesktop or Laptop processor	server
SeriesProduct family	Intel Xeon E5
SocketMotherboard socket required	LGA2011
PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth	PCIe 3.0
RAM TypeSupported memory standard	DDR4-1600, DDR4-1866
Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers	2 (Multiprocessor)

🌡️

Power & Cooling

The Xeon E5-2603 v4 has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 85 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed.

Specification	Xeon E5-2603 v4
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload	85 Watt
Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax)	73 °C

💰

Value Analysis

It currently holds Rank #589 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #1937 out of all indexed processors.

Specification	Xeon E5-2603 v4
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch	$213
Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking	#589
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking	#1937
Release DateLaunch date	20 June 2016 (9 years ago)
Release Year	2016
DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD)	Intel