
Xeon E5645
Intel
PassMark
4,942
MSRP
$294
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 E5645 is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 16 March 2010 (15 years ago). It is based on the Westmere-EP (2010−2011) architecture. It features 6 cores and 12 threads. Base frequency is 2.4 GHz, with boost up to 2.67 GHz. L3 cache: 12 MB (total). L2 cache: 256 kB (per core). Built on 32 nm process technology. Socket: LGA1366. Thermal design power (TDP): 80 Watt. Memory support: DDR3. Passmark benchmark score: 4,942 points. Launch price was $294.
Value Upgrade Path
This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Xeon E5645 is positioned at rank #669 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 E5645
FPS Benchmarks
Predicted performance for Xeon E5645 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 E5645 specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The Xeon E5645 is a 6-core / 12-thread processor based on the Westmere-EP (2010−2011) architecture, manufactured on a 32 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 2.67 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 12 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 4,942, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.
| Specification | Xeon E5645 |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 6C / 12T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 2.67 GHz |
| Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency | 2.4 GHz |
| ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design | Westmere-EP (2010−2011) |
| Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient | 32 nm |
| L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores | 12 MB (total) |
| L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data | 256 kB (per core) |
| L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache | 64 kB (per core) |
| Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor | 239 mm2 |
| Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities | 1,170 million |
| Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax) | 76 °C |
| 64-bit Support | Yes |
| Windows 11 Compatible | No |
| PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score | 4,942 |
Memory & Platform
The Xeon E5645 fits into the LGA1366 socket and supports PCIe 5.0 with 0 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR3 memory at speeds up to DDR3-1333 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 288 GB across 3 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). It supports ECC memory, providing error-correcting capabilities — essential for mission-critical workloads and servers.
| Specification | Xeon E5645 |
|---|---|
| TypeDesktop or Laptop processor | server |
| SocketMotherboard socket required | LGA1366 |
| PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth | PCIe 5.0 |
| PCIe LanesTotal available lanes for GPUs, NVMe drives, and expansion | 0 |
| RAM TypeSupported memory standard | DDR3 |
| Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency | DDR3-1333 |
| Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory | 288 GB |
| RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel | 3 |
| ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruption | Yes |
| Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processor | No |
| Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers | 2 |
Advanced Features
The Xeon E5645 is primarily designed for Server. Virtualization: VT-x — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads).
| Specification | Xeon E5645 |
|---|---|
| Primary Use CaseIntended workload category | Server |
| OverclockingWhether CPU clock can be manually increased | 🔒 Locked |
| AVX-512Advanced vector instructions for AI/ML workloads | ❌ Not Supported |
| VirtualizationHardware-assisted virtualization technology | VT-x |
Power & Cooling
The Xeon E5645 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.
| Specification | Xeon E5645 |
|---|---|
| TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload | 80 Watt |
| Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax) | 76 °C |
Value Analysis
At an average price of $294, the Xeon E5645 delivers 17 PassMark points per dollar. It currently holds Rank #669 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #1884 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | Xeon E5645 |
|---|---|
| MSRPManufacturer's Suggested Retail Price | $294 |
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $294 |
| Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking | #669 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #1884 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 16 March 2010 (15 years ago) |
| Release Year | 2010 |
| DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD) | Intel |
| ManufacturerFabrication foundry (e.g. TSMC) | Intel |
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