Xeon E5530
CPU·Budget

Xeon E5530

Intel

PassMark

2,739

30 March 2009 (16 years ago)
80 Watt
Gainestown (2009−2010)

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 E5530 is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 30 March 2009 (16 years ago). It is based on the Gainestown (2009−2010) architecture. It features 4 cores and 8 threads. Base frequency is 2.4 GHz, with boost up to 2.66 GHz. L3 cache: 8 MB (total). L2 cache: 256 kB (per core). Built on 45 nm process technology. Socket: LGA1366. Thermal design power (TDP): 80 Watt. Memory support: DDR3. Passmark benchmark score: 2,739 points. Launch price was $340.

Value Upgrade Path

This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Xeon E5530 is positioned at rank #754 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 E5530

#1
Xeon Platinum 8454H
MSRP: $6540|Avg: N/A
15170%
#6
Xeon Gold 6240R
MSRP: $2444|Avg: N/A
2864%
#10
Xeon 6337P
MSRP: $60|Avg: $5
2545%
#15
EPYC 9174F
MSRP: $194|Avg: $30
1966%
#435
Xeon Gold 6354
MSRP: $2878|Avg: $2898
100%
#436
Xeon Gold 5218T
MSRP: $1572|Avg: $1349
99%
#437
Xeon 6960P
MSRP: $9625|Avg: $9625
99%
#438
EPYC 9555
MSRP: $9826|Avg: $7973
99%
#439
Xeon Gold 6338
MSRP: $2990|Avg: $1604
98%
#440
Xeon Gold 6538N
MSRP: $3351|Avg: $170
98%
#441
EPYC 7F52
MSRP: $3100|Avg: $1826
97%
#442
EPYC 7542
MSRP: $3400|Avg: $899
97%
#443
EPYC 9655
MSRP: $11852|Avg: $11852
96%
#754
Xeon E5530
MSRP: N/A|Avg: N/A
100%
#758
Xeon E3-1281 v3
MSRP: $555|Avg: $636
100%
#768
Xeon E3-1270L v4
MSRP: $581|Avg: $636
96%
Based on actual market prices and performance synthetic scores.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of Xeon E5530 specifications and capabilities.

Processing Power

The Xeon E5530 is a 4-core / 8-thread processor based on the Gainestown (2009−2010) architecture, manufactured on a 45 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 2.66 GHz from a base frequency of 2.4 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 8 MB (total) of L3 cache, plus 256 kB (per core) of L2 cache and 64 kB (per core) of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 2,739, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.

SpecificationXeon E5530
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units4C / 8T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost2.66 GHz
Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency2.4 GHz
ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture designGainestown (2009−2010)
Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient45 nm
L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores8 MB (total)
L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data256 kB (per core)
L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache64 kB (per core)
Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor263 mm2
Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities731 million
Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax)76 °C
64-bit SupportYes
Windows 11 CompatibleNo
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score2,739
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Memory & Platform

The Xeon E5530 fits into the LGA1366 socket and supports PCIe 2.0. It supports DDR3 memory.

SpecificationXeon E5530
TypeDesktop or Laptop processorserver
SocketMotherboard socket requiredLGA1366
PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidthPCIe 2.0
RAM TypeSupported memory standardDDR3
Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers2
🌡️

Power & Cooling

The Xeon E5530 has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 80 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed.

SpecificationXeon E5530
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload80 Watt
Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax)76 °C
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Value Analysis

It currently holds Rank #754 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #2314 out of all indexed processors.

SpecificationXeon E5530
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch$340
Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking#754
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking#2314
Release DateLaunch date30 March 2009 (16 years ago)
Release Year2009
DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD)Intel
ManufacturerFabrication foundry (e.g. TSMC)Intel

Our Recommendation for Xeon E5530

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