
Xeon L5430
Intel
PassMark
2,260
MSRP
$390
AVG Price
$380
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 L5430 is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 8 September 2008 (17 years ago). It is based on the Harpertown (2007−2008) architecture. It features 4 cores and 4 threads. Base frequency is 2.66 GHz, with boost up to 0.67 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: 2,260 points. Launch price was $562.
Value Upgrade Path
This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Xeon L5430 is positioned at rank #972 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 L5430
FPS Benchmarks
Predicted performance for Xeon L5430 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 L5430 specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The Xeon L5430 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 0.67 GHz from a base frequency of 2.66 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 2,260, placing it in the Entry Level performance tier as a Legacy generation product.
| Specification | Xeon L5430 |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 4C / 4T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 0.67 GHz |
| Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency | 2.66 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 | 2,260 |
Memory & Platform
The Xeon L5430 fits into the LGA771 socket and supports PCIe 2.0. It supports DDR2, DDR3 Depends on motherboard memory.
| Specification | Xeon L5430 |
|---|---|
| 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 L5430 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 L5430 |
|---|---|
| TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload | 50 Watt |
Value Analysis
At an average price of $380 (MSRP: $390), the Xeon L5430 delivers 6 PassMark points per dollar. It currently holds Rank #972 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #2480 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | Xeon L5430 |
|---|---|
| MSRPManufacturer's Suggested Retail Price | $390 |
| Avg Price (30d)Average market price over the last 30 days | $380 |
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $562 |
| Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking | #972 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #2480 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 8 September 2008 (17 years ago) |
| Release Year | 2008 |
| DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD) | Intel |
| ManufacturerFabrication foundry (e.g. TSMC) | Intel |
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