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 L5420 is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 25 March 2008 (17 years ago). It is based on the Harpertown (2007−2008) architecture. It features 4 cores and 4 threads. Base frequency is 2.5 GHz, with boost up to 2.5 GHz. L3 cache: 12 MB L2 Cache. L2 cache: 6 MB (total). Built on 45 nm process technology. Socket: LGA771. Thermal design power (TDP): 50 Watt. Memory support: DDR2, DDR3 Depends on motherboard. Passmark benchmark score: 2,143 points. Launch price was $380.

Value Upgrade Path

This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Xeon L5420 is positioned at rank #847 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 L5420

Xeon Platinum 8454H

MSRP: $6540|Avg: N/A

19386%

Xeon Gold 6240R

MSRP: $2444|Avg: N/A

3660%

#10

Xeon 6337P

MSRP: $60|Avg: $5

3252%

#15

EPYC 9174F

MSRP: $194|Avg: $30

2512%

#478

EPYC 7702

MSRP: $6450|Avg: $2035

100%

#479

EPYC 7763

MSRP: $7890|Avg: $1513

100%

#480

EPYC 9734

MSRP: $9600|Avg: $6598

99%

#481

Xeon Platinum 8160M

MSRP: $5000|Avg: $350

99%

#482

Xeon 6724P

MSRP: $3622|Avg: $3622

98%

#483

EPYC 9634

MSRP: $10304|Avg: $3949

98%

#484

EPYC 7773X

MSRP: $8800|Avg: $8800

97%

#847

Xeon L5420

MSRP: N/A|Avg: N/A

100%

#852

Xeon E5-2407

MSRP: $250|Avg: $25

99%

#857

Xeon 5120

MSRP: $107|Avg: $15

97%

#859

Xeon W3530

MSRP: $294|Avg: $10

97%

#861

Xeon W3520

MSRP: $284|Avg: $15

97%

#862

Xeon E3-1271 v3

MSRP: $727|Avg: $831

96%

Based on actual market prices and performance synthetic scores.

FPS Benchmarks

Predicted performance for Xeon L5420 across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of Xeon L5420 specifications and capabilities.

⚡

Processing Power

The Xeon L5420 is a 4-core / 4-thread processor based on the Harpertown (2007−2008) architecture, manufactured on a 45 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 2.5 GHz from a base frequency of 2.5 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. With a massive 12 MB L2 Cache L3 cache (3D V-Cache technology), this processor has a significant gaming advantage — the large cache drastically reduces memory latency in game engines., plus 6 MB (total) of L2 cache and 64 kB (per core) of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 2,143, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.

Specification	Xeon L5420
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units	4C / 4T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost	2.5 GHz
Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency	2.5 GHz
ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design	Harpertown (2007−2008)
Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient	45 nm
L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores	12 MB L2 Cache
L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data	6 MB (total)
L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache	64 kB (per core)
Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor	2x 107 mm2
Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities	820 million
64-bit Support	Yes
Windows 11 Compatible	No
Core Voltage Range	0.85V-1.35V
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score	2,143

🧠

Memory & Platform

The Xeon L5420 fits into the LGA771 socket and supports PCIe 2.0. It supports DDR2, DDR3 Depends on motherboard memory.

Specification	Xeon L5420
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, DDR3 Depends on motherboard
Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers	2

🌡️

Power & Cooling

The Xeon L5420 has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 50 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed.

Specification	Xeon L5420
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload	50 Watt

💰

Value Analysis

It currently holds Rank #847 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #2531 out of all indexed processors.

Specification	Xeon L5420
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch	$380
Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking	#847
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking	#2531
Release DateLaunch date	25 March 2008 (17 years ago)
Release Year	2008
DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD)	Intel
ManufacturerFabrication foundry (e.g. TSMC)	Intel